News The Legend of Zelda Prototype Cart Sells For $55,000
One third of the Triforce price
Tips Two New Super Mario Bros. 2 Secrets
Don't worry, fun but (relatively) spoiler free
Feature Classic Gaming Typos, Errors and Translations
Conglaturations for reading this
News - August, 2012
Friday31st Aug 2012
Feature The Rik Mayall Nintendo Adverts You Totally Forgot About
What happened when a legend of British comedy and Nintendo collided
Nintendo Life readers over the age of 25 and based in the United Kingdom will no doubt be familar with the comedic talents of Richard Michael "Rik" Mayall. One of the pioneers of 'alternative' British comedy in the '80s, he starred in a whole host of popular TV shows, including The...
Play Mario Kart 7 with Nintendo Life - Today!
Start your engines
Once upon a time Nintendo Life set up Communities in Mario Kart 7, and these rooms were full of happy 3DS owners enjoying some online races. The passage of time was cruel, however, and the official community room became almost empty, with just a few stalwarts keeping it going and some keen racers meeting up via the forums. We've...
News Blitz: Forget The Specs, Wii U Is Getting Developers Excited
UK studio speaks out on Wii U tech specs, and why they're irrelevant
Blitz Game Studios has spoken exclusively to Eurogamer.net about the forthcoming Wii U console, and has addressed some of the irksome issues regarding the technical specifications of the machine. With many Nintendo-hating nay-sayers pointing out that the Wii U is only capable of...
News ZombiU Gets Royally Scary in Buckingham Palace
The guided tours seem to have been cancelled
Ubisoft's ZombiU hype machine is well and truly underway, with some new footage just released after its debut at PAX. It's a title that, in concept and use of the GamePad if nothing else at this stage, has us rather intrigued. The latest video takes place within Buckingham Palace, which is looking a bit...
News Good Lord, The Knit-tendo Entertainment System Actually Exists
We're not pulling the wool over your eyes, honest
When you consider how omnipresent the NES was in North America during the early '90s, it's hardly surprising that a wide range of money-spinning - but ultimately pointless - peripherals were pushed out onto store shelves (Power Glove, we're looking at you). However, the king (or should that be...
News Future Publishing Shutters Nintendo Gamer Magazine
UK closure follows cancellation of Nintendo Power in North America
Future Publishing has confirmed that long-running independent magazine Nintendo Gamer is to close. The UK-based magazine, which had a circulation of just under 8,000 readers, can trace its history back to the SNES era, when it launched as Super Play - a publication which we hold...
News Fractured Soul Confirmed For NA eShop Launch September 13th
Former DS title gets a new lease of life in the 3DS
Australian developer Endgame Studios has confirmed that it is bringing Fractured Soul to the North American 3DS eShop on 13th September. The game, which was originally intended for the DS and has been in development for quite some time, is an action title which utilises both screens of the...
News Mario Warfare Teaser Pokes Fun At Call Of Duty
Tactical Mushroom Action
The advent of YouTube and the emergence of affordable video creation and editing tools has given game fans the world over the opportunity to parody the living daylights out of pretty much anything they like. Beat Down Boogie are masters of this craft, having already scored a sizable satirical hit with Modern War Sear Solid...
News No Cross Words As Picross E Euro eShop Release Is Confirmed
Mark 6th September in your calendar, nonogram fans
Nintendo has confirmed that Picross E will be hitting the European 3DS eShop on 6th September, with a price point of £4.50 / €5.00. The latest in a long line of picture crossword games which can trace its history all the way back to the Game Boy and Super Nintendo, Picross E apparently showcases...
News Heavy Fire: Special Operations 3D Gunning for eShop on 13th September
If you see it, shoot it
If you want to shoot stuff on your 3DS, Teyon has you covered. The publisher has recently brought us the light-hearted Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D, and then a title that caused a bit of debate with Outdoors Unleashed: Africa 3D. But if you've had your fill of shooting cartoon animals and real animals, you can go back to shooting...
News Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 has Wii U in its Sights
ESRB rating says so
Recent weeks and months have brought a mixture of good and bad news for those hoping to see Wii U join in with various big-budget multi-platform titles. Of course, developers face the challenge not just to make adjustments to the Wii U hardware, but also to make use of the Wii U GamePad capabilities. It seems we have one more...
News Pokémon Hits North American Cyber League Summer Showdown
Over $5,000 in prize money up for grabs
Pokémon Black and White has been added to the roster of games at this year's North American Cyber League Summer Showdown, due to take place on Saturday September 8th at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Fort Lee, New Jersey. The tournament has a $10 admission fee (to cover the cost of hiring the venue), with an...
Thursday30th Aug 2012
News Some Wii U Accessories For Your Christmas Stocking
Thanks, Atomic!
If you enjoy playing with plastic swords and shields on the Wii, then you're going to love the Wii U goodies which Atomic Accessories has in store for unsuspecting consumers this coming Christmas. If you're worried about scratching your lovely Wii U GamePad, why not invest in a silicone case? You'll be the envy of all your friends...
Nintendo Download 30th August 2012 (North America)
A sense of speed, nasty viruses and some soon-to-be-endangered animals
If you're a fan of high speed action, cute birds or shooting innocent animals, then you're in luck - this week's North American Nintendo Download is sure to satisfy your desires. eShop: SpeedX 3D (Gamelion, $3.99) — After speeding into the European eShop a while back,...
News GAME: Zelda Majora’s Mask Listing Was Fabricated
Bring on the disappointment
Yesterday, we reported that GAME had listed The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask on its site, before hastily removing it moments later. The story triggered mixed reactions - some readers were happy about the news, while others bemoaned Nintendo's insistence on recycling pas
News We've Got Your Japanese Nintendo Direct Guide Right Here
Your one-stop resource to yesterday's presentation
As you may have gathered from our Nintendo Direct live blog yesterday, we don't speak Japanese. Thankfully, Nintendo Life reader and Japanese resident Jeremy Thain (also known as Tsuchinoko) was kind enough to provide this in-depth guide to the presentation. Enjoy! Jeremy Thain: As it is the end of...
Talking Point The Rules for Violence in Video Games
Are there rules?
Just yesterday we reported that Outdoors Unleashed: Africa 3D arrives in the North American eShop this week, an arcade shooter where the targets are assorted wildlife from the plains of the African continent. We also wrote the following: While your opinions on the merits of game hunting in Africa undoubtedly vary, we're slightly...
News La Mulana European Release Also Confirmed for 20th September
Rejoice, Europe!
Yesterday we confirmed that La Mulana is arriving as a WiiWare download in North America on 20th September, after a long saga of release delays and publishing issues. When Nicalis withdrew earlier in the year, EnjoyUp Games stepped in to help Nigoro release the title outside of Japan, and we suggested that a European version was...
News North America, Game Boy Tennis Is Your New Club Nintendo Reward
New balls, please
Nintendo has given the North American Club Nintendo rewards page a bit of a clean, with Game Boy sports title Tennis being the latest addition to the programme. One of the earliest monochrome Game Boy titles, Tennis isn't quite as amazing as Super Tennis on the SNES, but it's still worth a look if you've got some coins burning a...
News Crazy Kangaroo Hopping To 3DS eShop Real Soon
Struth, mate
Gamelion has announced that its next title, Crazy Kangaroo, is expected to hit the 3DS eShop in the not-too-distant future. The publisher has confirmed that the game - which has previously met with glowing reviews on iOS and Android - has already passed QA at Nintendo America, and all that remains is for a release date to be confirmed...
News Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask To Hit Europe October 26th
150 brand-new puzzles await
Nintendo has confirmed that Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask (also known as Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle) will hit European shores on the 26th October. The latest in the popular Layton series, Miracle Mask will showcase 150 new puzzles, as well as 365 additional puzzles to be distributed via the Nintendo...
News Capcom's Street Fighter Reaches Its Quarter Century
If you played the SNES original, you're officially over the hill
As pointed out by Kotaku, Capcom's seminal Street Fighter series is now 25 years old. The first game - which is also known as Fighting Street and ironically, isn't very good - launched in arcades in 1987. Of course, it was the sequel
Wednesday29th Aug 2012
Rumour Legend Of Zelda: Majora's Mask Coming To 3DS
UPDATED: It was a fake
UPDATE: GAME has confirmed that the screen-grab was a hoax. Read the full story here. Nintendo could be prepping a 3D remake of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, if a listing on UK retailer GAME is to be believed. Spotted by an eagle-eyed shopper, the listing - which has since been removed - went live around 10:00AM...
Watch Japanese Nintendo Direct Live
Now updated with the video to watch at your leisure
Nintendo of Japan will host a new Nintendo Direct presentation today at 8PM JST (around 4AM PST for North American readers, and 12PM BST for those of you in UK). EDIT: Here's the video in full. The presentation will focus on 3DS and Wii. Nothing on Wii U, I'm afraid. The video is expected to...
News Natsume Reveals Harvest Moon: A New Beginning 15th Anniversary Edition
More importantly, it includes a 12-inch cuddly cow
Today Natsume Inc. has announced that a 15th Anniversary Edition of the upcoming 3DS title, Harvest Moon: A New Beginning, will be heading to North America on 6th November. We recently reported that those who pre-order the normal version of the game through GameStop or Natsume's online store will...
You can call me Stu
Welcome to a new regular feature on Nintendo Life: the "Ninterview". Once a month we'll be taking the time to talk to someone who has a special affinity to Nintendo, and our first subject is Stu Brett - who also goes by the moniker Super Famicom Guy. Stu, a 33 year old designer from Scotland, is such a huge fan of Super Famicom...
News La Mulana Adventures Onto North American WiiWare on 20th September
At long last
La Mulana has had a torturous existence on the WiiWare service, arriving in Japan over a year ago but running into problems gaining approval in other regions. Earlier in the year publisher Nicalis pulled out of the project, seemingly due to issues between it and developer Nigoro when trying to resolve problems with DLC content and other...
News Serve Up Some Pixels For Breakfast With The NES Toaster
Full of retro goodness
Digital artist, MyBurningEyes, has recently posted a rather smashing 3D design of an NES Toaster on deviantART.com. Sadly the Nintendo gadget is only a concept, but we're hoping that someone with the necessary skills will spot it and make our dream breakfast machine a reality! And then send us one to try with complimentary...
News Meet The Man Who Brought Nintendo To America
Howard Phillips' amazing journey from warehouse to boardroom
Although it's hard to imagine it now, Nintendo wasn't always a dead cert in North America. Back in the early '80s, before the company had launched the super-successful NES system in the States, it was just one of many Japanese coin-op manufacturers attempting to muscle in on the flagging...
News New Professor Layton Title Confirmed for 3DS
The Professor's final puzzle
During today's Nintendo Direct in Japan, it was confirmed that a new Professor Layton title will arrive on 3DS, in Japan, some time in 2013. Its title is Professor Layton Choubunmei to A no Isan, which roughly translates to Professor Layton and the Remains of an Advanced Civilisation, though we expect a snappier title...
News Get In Touch With Your Feminine Side With The Pink 3DS XL
Sink the pink
Nintendo has confirmed the release of a pink and white 3DS XL console. The system was announced during today's Nintendo Direct video. Called the 3DS LL in Japan, the new hardware is due to launch on 27th September, along with the excellently-titled Wagamama Fashion Girls. Admit it - you want one.
News Brain Age: Concentration Training Puts North America to the Test on 3rd December
Concentrate on the date
The latest title in the Brain Age series — which we've been calling Demon Training — has now been available in Japan for a little over a month, but the popularity of the series has made localised versions in other regions an inevitability. North America now has details, with Nintendo of America confirming a release date...
News Rookie Developer Shepherding Mass Effect 3 Onto Wii U
Read it and reap
Mass Effect 3 is possibly one of Wii U's biggest launch window titles, or alternatively the port falls way down the pecking order; it's all down to personal perspective. In any case, and much like Batman Arkham City: Armoured Edition, the Wii U release won't be put together by the original team but handled by an external development...
News Outdoors Unleashed: Africa 3D Hits North American eShop This Week
It's sport, apparently
Teyon has today confirmed that Outdoors Unleashed: Africa 3D arrives in the North American eShop tomorrow, priced at $3.99. It's an arcade shooting game with the goal of bringing the "thrilling excitement of becoming a hunter" to 3DS through 35 missions, with over 30 guns and accessories thrown in for good measure. Of course,...
Thursday30th Aug 2012
News Randy Pitchford Isn't All That Into Motion Controls
...despite his studio doing the Wii version of Samba de Amigo
Gearbox head guy Randy Pitchford has spoken to Gamasutra about the future of the gaming hardware industry, and has revealed that he's not all that bothered about motion control 'gimmicks': Different people make different stabs. Some of these stabs folks make become standards. Most of...
Wednesday29th Aug 2012
News New Documentry Celebrates The World's Unsung Tetris Masters
Block buster
Everyone loves Tetris, right? Everyone from your grandma to Steve Wozniak, in fact! But for some people, the most famous video game ever to emerge from Russia is much more than just a way to waste a few minutes while waiting for the bus - it's a way of life, a challenge which defines and shapes their existence. Tetris lover Robin...
News Escape The Virus: Shoot 'Em Up! Infecting NA DSiWare August 30th
Going viral
Escape The Virus: Shoot 'Em Up! has already made its European debut but publisher Teyon has today confirmed that North American players will be able to download the DSiWare shooter from 30th August. It will cost 200 DSi points. From the horse's mouth: Escape the Virus, an action puzzle series, is back with totally new game-play modes...
Tuesday28th Aug 2012
Review Metal Slug X (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
X hits the spot
While Contra has always been the game by which all run and gun titles have been judged, serious fans of the genre will still flash a wide grin at the mere mention of the Metal Slug series, especially Metal Slug X. There's no denying that Metal Slug 2 had all of the makings of an amazing run and gunner, but the rampant slowdown ended...
News What Not To Do With Your Brand New 3DS XL
Put it in a microwave
If you picked up a Nintendo 3DS XL recently then chances are you're currently treating it like a piece of treasured jewellery, delicately laying it on a soft cushion when it's not in use and generally ensuring no harm comes to it. However, dovetastic - presenter of the YouTube Microwave Show - had no such ideas. He took his...
News Rest Easy, New Characters Are Coming To Smash Bros. 3DS and Wii U
Masahiro Sakurai confirms new additions to roster
Super Smash Bros. supremo Masahiro Sakurai's recent comments regarding the 3DS and Wii U versions of the game have caused a little concern amongst fans. Speaking a few weeks ago about adding more cameos to the game, he said: "Introducing more non-Nintendo characters willy-nilly will lose the focus of...
News Nintendo Champ Puts Coveted Golden Mario Trophy Up For Auction
Got a spare $300,000?
Way back in 1990, Thor Aackerlund saw off all challengers to secure the Nintendo World Championships in the 12-17 category. Now, over twenty years later, he's selling his one of a kind trophy on eBay for an eye-watering $300,000. Just in case you're thinking that figure is a little high, it should also be noted that included...
Nintendo Direct Expect 3DS and Wii Announcements This Week
Nothing for Wii U, though
Nintendo has confirmed the date and time of its next Nintendo Direct presentation in Japan, as well as divulging what goodies will be revealed within. August 29th - this Wednesday, no less - is the magical date, with 8PM JST being the time (around 4AM PST for North American readers, and 12PM BST for those of you in UK)...
Talking Point Challenges for the Future of Nintendo Gaming
Evolving with the industry
Recently we attended the Turing technology festival in Edinburgh, and in particular an event called Gaming@Turing. You know why we attended that one, of course. The focus of the event was to look at the future of gaming from a number of different perspectives, put forward by five experienced speakers from within the...
News Shin Megami Tensei 4 On 3DS Is Looking Mighty Fine
Sneaky peek at the 3DS role-player
A trailer for Atlus' forthcoming 3DS RPG Shin Megami Tensei 4 has broken cover online. The footage comes bundled with Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers, which is due for launch in Japan on the 30th August. The video is mainly animation, but there's a short section at the end (around the 1:30 mark) which appears to...
News Nintendo Taking No Prisoners At PAX Prime
Wii U and 3DS presence, plus bubble-blowing and Kid Icarus multiplayer
Nintendo has confirmed that it is bringing its Wii U and 3DS lineup to this year's PAX Prime, due to take place at Seattle’s Washington State Convention Center from August 31st through to September 2nd. A whole raft of games and events are planned, including a Kid Icarus:...
News Prince of Persia Creator Is Bringing His Karateka Remake To Wii U
Jordan Mechner's martial arts classic is coming to Nintendo's new console
You may have heard of Jordan Mechner. He's the man behind a little game called Prince of Persia, one of the most successful and enduring video game franchises of all time. He also created a title called Karateka in 1984, an action game which involves plenty of martial arts...
News Toki Tori Flying Over To North American 3DS eShop This Week
Feathered friend
Developer Two Tribes has confirmed via its Twitter account that Game Boy Color puzzle platformer Toki Tori will be flapping its way to the 3DS Virtual Console this Thursday (30th August). The game, which was originally released back in 2001, is already available on the European 3DS Virtual Console. Check out our
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Still Grabbing Coins in UK Chart
Top single-format title
Last week there was news of a decent start in the UK for New Super Mario Bros. 2, which came into the all-format charts in second place behind the multi-platform Square Enix title Sleeping Dogs. This week has Mario's latest drop one place to third, behind Sleeping Dogs at number one and new entry Darksiders II. There was a...
News Get Your Feet Wet With This Assassin's Creed III Naval Warfare Footage
High seas havoc
Ubisoft has released footage of Assassin's Creed III which shows off the highly-anticipated naval warfare component of the game. A first for a series where contact with water previously meant instant death for some unlucky assassins, this section of the game looks set to add a bit a variety to proceedings and break up the endless...
Monday27th Aug 2012
News No Sequel From The World Ends With You Teaser
The end of the world?
A week ago we brought you the news that Square Enix had launched a teaser website that strongly suggested a project related to DS title The World Ends With You, which was enough to get some people rather excited about a potential sequel. As the countdown on the site continued a worrying story spread around the web that this was...
Rumour Nintendo to Launch Wii U on 18th November in North America
Oops!
The launch date for Nintendo’s upcoming Wii U console looks set to be 18th November for North America, if rumours are to be believed. During a presentation at the GameStop managers’ conference in Texas the Wii U launch date was leaked by an employee of PDP, who make gaming accessories. PDP’s community manager went into damage control...
Feature 20 Years of Mario Kart
How the time, and kart, flies
Today is yet another Nintendo anniversary, in this case the 20th anniversary of Super Mario Kart's release in Japan. That's 20 years of powering around tracks and making other mascot's driving lives miserable, while infuriating their masters in multiplayer. It's a series with enduring appeal that has evolved into one...
Nintendo Download 30th August 2012 (Europe)
Kirby, Japanese spot the difference and learning English
It's Monday, but we fear that you may be a little disappointed with the Nintendo Download news we bring, European gamers. On the positive side all platforms are covered, but whether any will tempt you into a download is another question entirely. 3DS Virtual Console: Kirby's Star Stacker...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Global Coin Total Surpasses 50 Billion
That's a whole lot of coins collected!
If you live in Europe or North America and have enabled SpotPass on New Super Mario Bros. 2 you should have recently received your first update to let you know how many coins have been collected by Mario fans globally. We reported on this a few days ago when Japanese players got their first update, at that...
Review Successfully Learning English: Year 3 (WiiWare)
Freddy says relax
Certain things are inevitable, such as death, taxes and another Successfully Learning download. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, if you have a young child that could use some extra help with the subject at hand, and Successfully Learning English: Year 3 delivers reliably. It does exactly the same as predecessor Successfully...
Sunday26th Aug 2012
Feature In Defence of Super Mario Sunshine
Do or don't look back into the sun
Ten years ago today, on 26th August 2002, GameCube title Super Mario Sunshine was released in North America to an abundance of critical acclaim, with relatively muted murmuring that it was an unworthy follow-up to Super Mario 64. Gradually over the past decade opinions have grown more divided and gamers have become...
Fun but lacking depth
Abyss is almost an archetypically simple game. There are no modes, power-ups, online features or options, and every face button performs the same action. The premise is correspondingly uncomplicated: as the charmingly named deep-sea submarine “Nep2no”, you'll float through close-quartered underwater stages, avoiding the...
News Pikachu 3DS XL Pre-Orders Prompt Long Lines in Japan
Pika-queue
A little over a week ago we told you about the yellow Pikachu 3DS XL/LL coming to Japan, with the only way to buy one being to pre-order from Pokémon Center stores. As reported by Andriasang, those pre-orders have now opened and attracted plenty of interest. Japanese website Inside Games visited the Tokyo Pokemon Center at 10am for the...
Saturday25th Aug 2012
Feature Classic Gaming Typos, Errors and Translations
Conglaturations for reading this
Earlier this week there was a great deal of chortling at a minor grammatical error in New Super Mario Bros. 2, with the initial Coin Rush notification being the offending screen; many of us actually missed it in our eagerness to play the mode itself. There's also a bit of a grammatical slip-up in the North American...
News Nintendo Plans to Blow Away World Record in Honour of Kirby
Forever blowing bubbles
Celebrating anniversaries can be a tricky business: how do you do it? You can buy a nice cake, a bottle of champagne, or perhaps a nice bunch of flowers. Alternatively, if you're Nintendo celebrating Kirby's 20th anniversary with Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition, you also arrange to try and break the world record for...
Friday24th Aug 2012
Review VectorRacing (3DS eShop)
Lines and lines and lines and lines and lines!
There's an episode of Family Guy in which Peter Griffin attends a production of Uncle Vanya. Partway through the play he stands up, bored out of his mind, and shouts, "for crying out loud, somebody throw a pie!" That's more or less how we felt playing VectorRacing. VectorRacing is the epic tale...
News Nintendo's Hardware and Related Software Hits 70% Market Share in Japan
The highest in five years
Earlier this week we brought you the news that Nintendo was not only continuing to enjoy a good run with 3DS hardware sales in its homeland, but that the top ten in the software charts were all on Nintendo systems. Chart masters Media Create have now produced some follow-up information that makes even more good reading for...
News Sumo Digital: Wii U "Looks As Good" as HD Platforms
Shares thoughts on GPU and memory
Sumo Digital is the developer of upcoming multi-platform racer Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, a title set to hit later this year on both Wii U and 3DS. Just one week ago comments from a representative of publisher SEGA, related to this title, described the graphical capabilities of Wii U as on par or...
News Nintendo In The Game For Golden Joystick Awards
Your votes can help
It's awards season, once again, with nominations for the 30th Golden Joystick Awards now confirmed and Nintendo games or exclusives featuring in a number of categories. These awards are decided entirely by the public, so if you feel that the big N deserves a chance to win you can have your say. Below are the nominations for...
Talking Point What Games Are You Playing This Weekend? - Issue Six
It's all golden
Despite initially calling this issue number five in this series, when it's clearly number six, we return with another update to share our weekend gaming plans with you. In the past we've quipped about topical sporting events, but there's nothing interesting enough this time around. That's just as well, as rather than sit in our...
News Nicalis Bringing The Fight to eShop With Yatagarasu
Cue custom rock music
Nicalis is one of the most well-known publishers on Nintendo's download services, and has already weighed in on the 3DS eShop with indie classic VVVVVV, which we voted as our favourite eShop game back in June. The developer and publisher is also well known by Nintendo download enthusiasts for producing three separate versions...
News Satoru Iwata: Miiverse is About More Than Competitive Multiplayer
It's a "social graph" for gamers
Since Miiverse was revealed during Nintendo's pre-E3 video presentation, it's become evident that it takes the Mii concept from Wii and expands it to something more than a humorous avatar that's playable in some games. Wii did allow some fun ways of sharing Mii characters and giving them more personality, and 3DS has...
Video See The Brains Behind ZombiU in This Dev Diary
Release due 'this Christmas'
ZombiU is arguably one of the most intriguing Wii U launch titles announced so far, eschewing the bright and colourful approach of certain high-profile rivals and promising dark, frightening survival horror in a zombie-infested London. During E3 it also showed off some clever uses of the Wii U GamePad, by making it a key...
News Crazy Hunter is Announced for DSiWare and is Suitably Bonkers
It's a crocodile using goats to reach hens in the sky
EnjoyUp Games has given us plenty of fun and inexpensive downloads on DSiWare, and has clearly decided to try a concept so wacky that the actual idea is fun on its own. We present to you Crazy Hunter, and crazy seems to be the right word. In summary you play as Dundee the Mad Crocodile, who...
Thursday23rd Aug 2012
Tips New Super Mario Bros. 2 Rainbow Courses
A handy pot of gold
It takes relatively little time to beat the main Worlds in New Super Mario Bros. 2, but it adds many, many hours with unlockable levels, collectibles and secrets to discover. Yesterday we shared two small tips that would allow you to play as Luigi in single player and to keep those hard earned profile stars sparkling. Due to...
Nintendo Download 23rd August 2012 (North America)
Racing, metal slugging and the abyss
We've seen some pretty busy line-ups for the Nintendo Download update in recent times, but it's rather quiet this time around: will it be quality over quantity? Each platform gets one game, and the heady days of discounted downloads are forgotten. Still, let's get to it. eShop: VectorRacing (Arc System Works,...
News Intrepid Programmer Brings Super Mario Bros. to Atari 2600
Harder than it sounds
While many of us enjoy indulging in retro classics on a regular basis, whether experiencing them for the first time or starting a 20th playthrough, there are those with a passion for past generations of systems and games that take the hobby further. Case in point is user Sprybug from atariage.com, who has reproduced World 1-1...
News Dr Hank Chien Breaks His Own Donkey Kong World Record
Just to rub it in
Dr Hank Chien is the current master and world record holder on the original Donkey Kong arcade. Ahead of a Kong Off II event in November, it seems that Dr Kong isn't merely content to enjoy his record and wait to face his rivals, but is actively trying to assert his place at the top of the tree. After extending his world record to...
News The Legend of Zelda is Now 25 in The U.S.
Celebrate with a fake 3DS Zelda image
Yesterday brought a major anniversary for The Legend of Zelda, as it was released in the U.S. on 22nd August 1987, making it another 25th anniversary. Of course, Nintendo has already celebrated the series a great deal with orchestral concerts, a free download of The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary...
Review Crazy Chicken Pirates (DSiWare)
Not crazy enough to work
Recently two games were released via Nintendo’s handheld online services, Crazy Chicken Pirates and Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D, and, as you’ve probably guessed, they’re very similar to one another. By “very similar”, we actually mean that — with the exception of the additional 3D effect and higher resolution of the...
News Kingdom Hearts 3D AR Cards Drop Into Club Nintendo UK
Full of spirit
Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance has been one of the biggest releases on 3DS this year, and made good use of the system's capabilities. One feature was to scan AR cards with the handheld's camera in order to recruit Spirits to your party, with two of these cards included with the game. For those that enjoyed the feature and...
Wednesday22nd Aug 2012
Tips Two New Super Mario Bros. 2 Secrets
Don't worry, fun but (relatively) spoiler free
If you're anything like the members of the Nintendo Life team, you're probably well on your way through New Super Mario Bros. 2, perhaps even beaten it, and are currently scrabbling around levels looking for elusive star coins and secrets. This title may hand out extra lives like they've gone out of...
News Pick Up Keldeo For Free in Pokémon Giveaway
Off to the shops with you
Pokémon Black and White 2 is getting ever closer, and we can expect the hype machine to continue kicking into gear. One tactic seems to be to remind you that you should really still be playing the original Pokémon Black and White, and one way to get you back into the action is to run a legendary 'mon giveaway. Between...
News Nintendo Power Magazine Will End With December Issue
Nintendo issues confirmation
Yesterday we brought you the news that Nintendo Power magazine was set to be shut down, and today Nintendo has confirmed the reports. The short statement clarifies that the magazine will continue until a final issue currently planned for December. We can confirm that the December issue of Nintendo Power magazine will...
News Conker's Bad Fur Day Madness and Vulgarity The Work of "Twisted Genius"
Warning: poo references
Although Nintendo systems are notorious for censoring and toning down adult or vulgar content, there have been various mature games released on its consoles. A recent example, to name just one, is Madworld on Wii, which had enough violence and bad language to keep any mature gaming fan happy. If you want to go back to retro...
News Take a Sneaky Look at The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia
In English, hurrah!
It's been a good month so far for Zelda fans. Not only has the monumental book, The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia, been translated and confirmed for the West next January, but this week we also had the smug satisfaction of knocking off E. L. James' infamous Fifty Shades of Grey from the top spot on amazon.com's best-sellers...
News Satoru Iwata: Demand for Rich Experiences on Handhelds "Not Going to Go Away"
Smartphones provide "different" competition
For Satoru Iwata, there are plenty of priorities and challenges to face. Nintendo is currently preparing to brings its next home console to the market, while also generating and sustaining momentum for 3DS. Both are important, but it's perhaps 3DS, and dedicated handheld gaming as a whole, that has been...
News Nintendo Grabs Lots of Coins in Japanese Charts
1-ups for everyone
Japan is currently enjoying its summer break, which often represents a peak shopping period and, hopefully, plenty of Yen for gaming companies. The chart results for last week have come out rather well for Nintendo, continuing a positive spell of sales for the Kyoto-based company. In terms of software, the entire top ten consists...
News Mario Kart 7 'Fastest Family' Contest is in The Final Straight
The last chance to qualify
In recent weeks we've brought you regular updates on Nintendo UK's Fastest Family competition, which aims to seek out the quickest Mario Kart 7 racers from around the country. Throughout August regional heats have been taking place at HMV stores, with the winners securing a place in the grand final in October; there'll be...
Tuesday21st Aug 2012
News Rare Final Fantasy II NES Cartridge Hits eBay
This one's only $50,000
A little while ago we posted news of a prototype cartridge for The Legend of Zelda on eBay, with the seller pricing it at $150,000 — though ultimately it went for around $55,000. Today brings another NES cartridge with a price tag to make the eyes water; this time it's a copy of Final Fantasy II on NES for $50,000. The...
News Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles Helped to Save NES
In the UK they were heroes, not ninjas
It's a popular perception that NES swept all before it when it was released, dominating sales and 8-bit popular culture in the late 1980s. While that's probably true in North America and Japan, Nintendo's debut home console actually had a slow and rather unsuccessful start in the UK, with distribution via...
News Nintendo Power Magazine Looks Set to Shut Down
Could be the end of an era
Update: The tweet quoted below, from Nintendo Power senior editor Chris Hoffman, has since been deleted, as have a number of others sharing a similar message. As always and as promised in the original article below, we will report any official updates from Nintendo and Future Publishing. Original Article In a surprising...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Worldwide Coin Total Surpasses 36 Billion
May be used to buy 17% of Apple
Those of you that have picked up New Super Mario Bros. 2 have probably also enabled SpotPass, which will be used to contribute your haul to the world coin total. We'd also assume that Nintendo will send regular updates so we can all see how ludicrously high that total gets. While there haven't been any updates as yet...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Retail Downloads Account For 5% of Sales in Japan
Demon Training hits 20%
Nintendo has recently taken its first tentative steps into retail downloads, providing gamers worldwide with the means to download New Super Mario Bros. 2, taking away the need for a box and game cart. In Japan that also extends to Demon Training, the Brain Training follow-up that encourages short bursts of play to help...
News Those Wii U Launch Details Might be Coming in September
About time
Nintendo has taken its time in revealing Wii U information, but the veil of secrecy has to be lifted at some point soon with the console due for release by the end of 2012. Initiate hype mode: we might get all those juicy launch details in a few weeks' time. GamesIndustry International reports that Nintendo of America will be hosting a...
Reaction Nintendo's Steady Start in Retail Downloads
It’s only half of the picture
Earlier today we reported that Satoru Iwata had given loose figures for retail downloads in Japan, which started alongside the launch of 3DS XL on 28th July. Speaking to Wall Street Journal, Iwata-san stated that New Super Mario Bros. 2 retail downloads account for 5% of sales in Nintendo’s homeland, but provided...
News Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney is "Progressing Well"
We won't object
Remember Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright, or perhaps you know it as Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney? It was announced way back in October 2010, and brought fans of both series to a state of giddiness with the very thought of the rookie lawyer and top-hat wearing puzzle master combining forces. Confirmed for Japan, Capcom and...
News Score NES Play Action Football as a US Club Nintendo Reward
Worth a try?
It's that time again — there's a new reward available on the North American Club Nintendo website. NES Play Action Football is the latest treat on offer, giving you the opportunity to relive some 1990 American football glory on Wii Virtual Console. It replaces Fluidity and is available until 2nd September for a reduced rate of 100...
News Bookstore Dream In Final Chapter of DSiWare Approval
eBook support not confirmed
Bookstore Dream for DSiWare was confirmed earlier this year by CIRCLE Entertainment, a simulation game where you get to run your own book store from scratch and develop it into a successful business. The good news for literary-minded gamers who also want to make some sim-cash is that the title has now been approved in...
News Namco Bandai Release New 'Grandpa Danger' Screenshots
Potty mouth
Last month we reported the announcement of a rather odd upcoming Japanese 3DS title, Denjarasu Jii-San Jya. 'Grandpa Danger', as he's known in North America, is a popular Japanese manga strip featured in Coro Coro magazine. In the 3DS adaptation, players will be put in the shoes of Grandpa as he goes on a quest to save his friends who...
News Nintendo UK's 3D Film Contest Approaches Its Finale
Budding film-makers need look no further
Not long ago we brought you news about a competition being run by Nintendo and BFI (British Film Institute), with support from Ridley Scott, to give 3DS owners an opportunity to produce and show a professional 3D production at the 56th BFI London Film Festival in October. With this weekend also bringing a...
Monday20th Aug 2012
Review Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon (3DS eShop / GB)
Not so mystical
Shortly after the original release of the excellent Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon for Nintendo 64, Konami released another game with the same title for the original Game Boy. Tragically, the N64 game has still not been released on Wii Virtual Console, but is this handheld offering a good alternative? This instalment of the Goemon...
Review Real Bout Fatal Fury Special (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Special indeed
Generally speaking, the "special" SNK releases are generally used as an upgrade to iron out kinks found in the previous releases of the game. Real Bout Fatal Fury Special is no exception and actually goes quite a long way at upgrading the previous Real Bout Fatal Fury title, even tossing in a bunch of new goodies for fighting game...
News Namco Bandai Opens Dragon Ball Heroes Official Site
It's official
On Saturday we reported a rumour that Namco Bandai would be be bringing the arcade game Dragon Ball Heroes to the 3DS, in Japan. This has now been confirmed, as Namco Bandai has opened up an official website for the 3DS version — Dragon Ball Heroes: Ultimate Mission. You can check out the website here. While it's currently a little...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Typo Isn't So Golden
More grammatical 'revelaitons'
It can be a pastime of some gamers to chortle at spelling errors or sloppy typos in video games, with many recently enjoying a typo by Capcom in its now infamous Resident Evil Revelaitons packaging for, of course, Revelations. While that version of the packaging became, bizarrely, a collector's item of sorts, it seems...
Nintendo Download 23rd August 2012 (Europe)
DK Jr., mascot golf, puzzles and futuristic baseball
It's another week, and the memories of lazy gaming at the weekend are already drifting away. Still, we have the Nintendo download details for Europe to look over, and it's a rather motley mix of retro titles, puzzles and a super demo for everyone to try. Let's get on with it. 3DS Virtual Console:...
Hands On Learn With Pokemon: Typing Adventure
Gotta type 'em all
On Saturday, Nintendo Life was lucky enough to get a sneaky preview of Nintendo and Genius Sonority's most bizarre upcoming release, Learn With Pokémon: Typing Adventure. The version we demoed was the Japanese version, Battle & Get! Pokémon Typing DS, complete with the Japanese Bluetooth keyboard add-on. The aim of Pokémon...
News WayForward's Shantae Heading To 3DS Virtual Console
(Finally!)
In the July edition of US gaming magazine, Nintendo Power, it has been confirmed that WayForward's classic Game Boy Color title, Shantae, is finally coming to the 3DS Virtual Console. Way back in June 2011, we reported that WayForward was looking into porting the GBC classic to the 3DS VC. It looked like the 3DS port was dead in the...
News Square Enix Teaser Looks Awfully Like The World Ends With You
Don't forget to take a breath
Video games are a funny business, as some titles that don't necessarily achieve record-breaking sales or popular acclaim often become something else: critically-acclaimed titles with a legion of devoted, loving fans. These are often titles that won't necessarily grab the attention of the majority of gamers, but become a...
News Bravely Default: Flying Fairy Japanese Box Art Revealed
Title meaning also uncovered...
The time is nigh for Japanese RPG fans, Bravely Default: Flying Fairy will be fluttering over to the 3DS console on 11th October. Square Enix has now revealed the official and finalised Japanese box art for the game, and incidentally uncovered a reasonably high age rating for an RPG on the 3DS - CERO C (15+). Since...
News The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia Tops Amazon Book Charts
Now that's epic
Last week we were rather delighted to share the news that The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia is on the way to the West, with all 272 pages of its Zelda goodness making its way out of Japan early next year. We know enthusiasts will be interested in this, but the question is whether there'll be enough demand to make it worth the...
Review Escape The Virus: Shoot 'Em Up! (DSiWare)
Not hugely contagious
Escape the Virus: Shoot 'em Up! is a top-down twin stick arcade shooter without the twin sticks. As a tiny bit of friendly bacteria, you zoom about firing out rounds of red and blue pills at an endless onslaught of nasty-looking viruses, shooting in whichever direction you're moving. The viruses always eventually win, so the...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Finishes Second in UK Charts
Letting Sleeping Dogs lie
New Super Mario Bros. 2 hit UK stores last Friday, and today's all-format chart shows the plumber's latest platforming adventure making its debut at number two. While we may instinctively wonder why it didn't make it to number one, that placing actually matches the performance of the original New Super Mario Bros on DS. It...
Sunday19th Aug 2012
Out Now 3DS XL Goes Big in North America
And New Super Mario Bros. 2, of course
It's Sunday, a day of rest and laziness for so many, but perhaps this one has a slightly different meaning for some keen 3DS gamers in North America: it's 3DS XL day. Oh, and New Super Mario Bros. 2 day, as well. 3DS XL graced Europe and Japan in late July, with the North American release seemingly being held...
Saturday18th Aug 2012
News Nintendo Only Plans to Make One 2D Mario Per Platform
Plumber deal
The idea of Mario fatigue has been wafting through the air recently, thanks to New Super Mario Bros. 2 launching on 3DS this weekend as another 2D Mario, New Super Mario Bros. U, is being prepared for release in a few months at Wii U's launch. Nintendo president Satoru Iwata insists that this won't be a regular thing, however —...
Talking Point The Long Suffering Luigi
Green with envy
This week brought some disappointing news for fans of the other mascot brother, the one who wears green and can often be found sitting in the corner, twiddling his thumbs and waiting to get involved. Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon was spooked into 2013 in North America, while European release news is still up in the air. Also in the...
Rumour Dragon Ball Heroes Heading For 3DS
It's over 9000!
There have been reports suggesting that Namco Bandai may be bringing the arcade title, Dragon Ball Heroes, to the 3DS in Japan: it's a Japanese card-based arcade game, originally released in late 2010 and developed by Dimps. The 3DS version will apparently be called Dragon Ball Heroes: Ultimate Mission, and is said to include a...
News Team Ninja Interested in Another Nintendo Collaboration
Another M
Metroid: Other M divided fans of Samus Aran, but Team Ninja wouldn't mind giving the series another go — if Nintendo is up for it, too. At Gamescom, VG247 asked Team Ninja studio head Yosuke Hayashi about the possibility of a sequel. Hayashi expressed an interest in working with the Kyoto company again in the future, in particular...
Friday17th Aug 2012
News Yellow Pikachu Nintendo 3DS XL Coming to Japan
Gotta catch 'em all
Lucky Japanese gamers will soon be able to grab themselves a Pikachu themed Nintendo 3DS XL, which we think looks rather snazzy. The "Pokémon Center Original Nintendo 3DS XL Pikachu Yellow" will be released on 15th September, but only to customers who have preordered from one of the Pokémon Center stores in Sapporo, Tohoku,...
News Iwata: Nintendo Won't Deceive With DLC
Still getting the complete package
Downloadable content has, probably deservedly, earned a bad reputation thanks to some publishers' actions with paid add-ons, so it's quite understandable if you're worried about Nintendo's own upcoming attempts at the model. Try not to get too worked up — Nintendo president Satoru Iwata wants to assure us that...
Review Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D (3DS eShop)
This poultry is paltry
There's a story in Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D, but believe us, you won't need one. The game — whose title reads about as gracefully as magnetic poetry — sees you gunning down chickens for 90 seconds. Then, we guess, you can do it again. If you'd like to. You may not, but the option to play again is about the only option the...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Takes Over GAME Store In London
Wahoo!
If you happened to be around GAME Oxford Street in London today, you may have noticed the increased presence of a certain friendly — and recently gold-hungry — plumber. Don't worry if you missed out, though, as the madness is due to continue tomorrow. Nintendo UK has announced that an exclusive New Super Mario Bros. 2 gaming event will be...
News SEGA Declares Wii U Graphical Capabilities to be "On Par" or Better Than PS3
Steady on now
Update: Following an update to the source article, we have amended the headline to absolutely clarify that sections of this article are referring to Wii U's graphical capabilities, specifically, based on comments made by SEGA Marketing Executive Ben Finch at Gamescom. Original Article The capabilities of Wii U, from the perspective...
Interview Two Tribes - Toki Tori 2
No more flapping around
A little over a week ago Two Tribes released its first trailer for Toki Tori 2, showing off footage of the diminutive feathered hero solving puzzles and using various creatures in the environment to help him on his way. It showed off some nifty gameplay mechanics, while the developer revealed details via its blog of the...
Out Now New Super Mario Bros. 2 Hops Into Europe
Only two more days for you, North America
If you've been living in a cave and cut off from the outside world in recent weeks, then this may be news to you: New Super Mario Bros. 2 is now available in Europe, and graces North American stores in just two days, on 19th August. You all knew that, we hope, but if you didn't then we'd expect you to...
News Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge Brings Series Back to the Hardcore on Wii U
"It's kind of the hardcore fan package of Ninja Gaiden 3"
When Ninja Gaiden 3 arrived on the HD systems, it divided critics due to its attempts to shift the focus of the series towards a mainstream-friendly style, alienating long term fans in the process. Our Ninja Gaiden 3 review on Push Square matched the opinions of some other critics, arguing...
News Abyss Alights To The Surface On 23rd August
But will it cause a splash?
Today, EnjoyUp Games, makers of Gaia's Moon, has announced that Abyss will be swimming to the North American DSi Shop and the 3DS eShop on Thursday 23rd August. Abyss was announced back in June, and since then has been priced at 200 DSi Points and $1.99 in the 3DS eShop. The aim of Abyss is to command a deep sea robot...
Thursday16th Aug 2012
Nintendo Download 16th August 2012 (North America)
Mario, musical DLC and crazy chickens
Another week, another Nintendo Download update, though we do have to sadly inform you that this week's options are rather limited. A certain plumber makes his retail eShop debut at the weekend and in another discounted classic, but apart from that the options are rather slim and chicken-themed. Without further...
News The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia is Coming to the West
Link to the past
Good news — that lovely looking Zelda book that came to Japan earlier this year, The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia, is being released in North America at the start of 2013. Dark Horse Books will be publishing the 272-page hardcover art book, which contains bundles of concept art, the complete history of Hyrule and, of course,...
News Learn With Pokémon: Typing Adventure Taps Into Action on 21st September
European typing woes solved
So you can't type very well, a state of affairs entirely intolerable in the modern day and age, and it's something that has to be resolved promptly. You're also a big fan of Pokémon, and just wish there was a way to improve your typing and indulge your favourite hobby all at once. Well, the dream is a reality, as Learn...
News Disney Epic Mickey 2's Characters Explained
Cast out
It's time for a new Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two trailer, and this time Warren Spector and company have characters on the mind. The video explains the reasoning behind some of the game's cast and their abilities. Good old Oswald the Lucky Rabbit has electrical powers which can be used in puzzles and to stun enemies into...
News New Spy Hunter Trailer Revs Up The Action
Explosions, lots of explosions
The original Spy Hunter game was released in 1983, a simply time when everything was 2D, pixel-based and no-one had enjoyed the pleasure of playing a Nintendo console. Back in May we heard of a reboot from Warner Bros. Interactive, and now we have a new Spy Hunter trailer from Gamescom to show off the action. It has...
Wednesday15th Aug 2012
Feature DS Games We Want on Wii U
Two screens, only much bigger
Seven years and over 150 million sales have passed since Nintendo surprised the world by releasing its dual screen handheld back in 2004, introducing true touch screen gaming to the masses for the first time. The concept proved such a success that Nintendo has now implemented it in its next home console, Wii U, via a...
News 3DS XL Cradle and AC Adaptor Available 24th August
In the UK, that is
3DS XL owners in the UK can now unite for one mighty sigh of relief, as online retailers play.com and amazon.co.uk are both currently advertising the 3DS XL console's charging cradle and AC adaptor as available to purchase from the 24th August, at the sum of £19.99. While separate 3DS AC adaptors have been readily available for...
News eShop Sees Turnaround For Nintendo's Digital Services
Is Nintendo finally entering the digital age?
Earlier this year, we interviewed Trent Oster of Beamdog Studios, who had infamously claimed he would never develop titles for Nintendo again after the issues he came across when using Nintendo's WiiWare service. Since then, Nintendo has improved its gaming download facilities via the 3DS eShop, which...
News Developers Enthusiastic About Wii U's Download Service
The future's bright
Several developers have expressed displeasure at Nintendo's previous digital set ups with WiiWare and DSiWare over the years. While the services certainly had successes — Gaijin Games' BIT.TRIP series and Frontier's LostWinds, to name a couple — a number of problems with them have been cited, from lack of flexibility through...
News Rayman Legends is Exclusive to Wii U
At least for now
A new Rayman Legends trailer has rolled out of Gamescom, and there's an interesting if not entirely unexpected fact at the end — it's a Wii U exclusive. That's slightly at odds with what Ubisoft's Michael Micholic said during E3, when he stated that the publisher was "not really saying it's a Wii U exclusive". Has Nintendo...
News Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate Pushed to 2013
A monstrous development
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow — Mirror of Fate is one of the most intriguing third-party titles confirmed for 3DS, blending 2D and 3D perspectives and facing the challenge of living up to the previous trilogies on GBA and DS. We didn't think there'd be long to wait, with footage shown in the Nintendo 3DS E3 showcase...
Competition Winners Toki Tori - Game Boy Color Giveaway
Drumroll, please...
Last week we ran a competition with our pals at Two Tribes that invited creativity and crazy ideas, and you all delivered. Rather than egg you on — we're sorry — let's get to it. The overall winner gets a sealed copy of Toki Tori for Game Boy Color, a download code for the 3DS Virtual Console version and a Toki Tori t-shirt...
Tuesday14th Aug 2012
Competition New Super Mario Bros. 2 Sparks Coin Rush!
There be gold in them hills!
It's not long until New Super Mario Bros. 2 hits both the digital and retail stores, out on Friday (Aug 17th) Mario's latest adventure is set to be coin-crazy. To celebrate Mario's love for coins Nintendo UK has unveiled "Coin Rush", a competition where, just like in New Super Mario Bros. 2, it’s up to you to collect...
News Whoever said Penélope Cruz, You Were Right!
Unlikely moustache wearer
In the latest of a long line of celebrity tie-ups, Penélope Cruz has joined forces with her sister, fellow actress Mónica Cruz, to star in a new campaign for New Super Mario Bros. 2. Nintendo teased us yesterday with a picture of the star without revealing who it might be. Our readers had lots of good guesses including...
Feature Let's Celebrate Kirby's Spin-Offs
Kirby's had a busy 20 years
Earlier this month, at his apocryphal 20th birthday celebration, we're sure Kirby was able to blow out his candles with trademark gale-force and reflect on what has been, even for a Nintendo character, an astoundingly diverse career. While keeping his day job of walking from left to right and inhaling enemies, Nintendo's...
News Albert Chen - Star Wars: Rogue Squadron II Aimed for "Fantasy Fulfilment"
Would love to see a remake on 3DS
One of the highlights of the GameCube library — a launch title no less — was Star Wars: Rogue Squadron II, a wonderful sequel to the Nintendo 64 original that dazzled with high-end graphics. For fans of the films that wanted to immerse themselves in the action and go all Luke Skywalker, it was an exciting and...
Talking Point Why is Nintendo Not at Gamescom?
Snubbed
One of the biggest gaming events in Europe and Nintendo is nowhere to be seen, but why? Over the years the company has had a somewhat sporadic attendance of events, often speculated within the media: a strength of character and desire to do its own thing, or perhaps it's due to a lack of games to show. This year is important for Nintendo,...
News 3D Classics Excitebike Revs Up as Club Nintendo Reward
It's wheelie rather good
Pull those leather jackets out of the wardrobe, North American Club Nintendo members — you can now get 3D Classics Excitebike as a reward until 26th August. The 3DS eShop game was free to download for a time last year, but if you missed out you can now grab it for 150 of your shiniest reward coins. Ride on over to our 3D...
News There's a Fluidity Sequel Coming to the 3DS eShop
Go with the flow
In case you missed it in yesterday's North American release schedule, or overlooked it in favour of squealing about Paper Mario: Sticker Star, there's a sequel to WiiWare game Fluidity on the way to the 3DS eShop. We don't know much aside the title, Fluidity: Spin Cycle, and a vague release date of the fourth quarter of 2012, but...
News Kid Icarus: Uprising Complete Soundtrack Blasting Into Japan
Imports available, at a hefty price
We suspect that anyone who's played Kid Icarus: Uprising with a pair of good headphones has listened to and enjoyed at least a few of the music tracks. It's possible to listen to snippets of sweeping orchestral music in the game itself, but it's a soundtrack that seems worthy of a serious listen when not...
News New LEGO Lord of the Rings Gamescom Trailer
One game to rule them all
A new LEGO The Lord of the Rings trailer has arisen from the depths of Mordor — or Gamescom in Cologne, as it's formally known — to remind us once more that The Lord of the Rings is indeed getting a much needed LEGO makeover. Yet the question still remains: how on earth will TT Games fit all three films into one game?...
News Pokémon World Championships Results Are In
All hail Trainer Rizzo
After worldwide heats and the occasional unpleasant controversy, the Pokémon World Championships finals have taken place in Hawaii, with a new group of champions securing a prestigious trophy and scholarship prizes. With over 30 countries represented, it was undoubtedly a hard-fought contest, with six division champions...
News Horizon Riders Gets Patched in North America
Ride again
It's not very often that WiiWare games get updated, but Sabarasa has bucked the trend to bring out a patch for its on-rails shooter Horizon Riders. The free update, available now from the North American Wii Shop Channel, adjusts the control scheme so that the avatar can be controlled with the Nunchuk's analogue stick. Previously the...
Monday13th Aug 2012
News Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon Spooked Into 2013 For North America
What are you going to play at Halloween now?
A recent press release from Nintendo of America has revealed that would-be ghostbusters will have to wait until next year to get their grubby mitts on Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon. Here’s the official statement from NoA: Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon will now be available in the first half of 2013 in...
News New Super Mario Bros. 2 Will Cost £39.99 to Download
Coin rush
It's been confirmed by Nintendo UK today that New Super Mario Bros. 2 will cost £39.99 (€50.88) to download when it hits the eShop later this week. As Nintendo's first foray into selling full retail games via its eShop, it's understandable that they have opted to stick to the recommended retail price (RRP) to test the waters. But when...
News Nintendo Confirms Its Holiday Hits in North America
Paper Mario, art, freaky formees and a famous professor
We've already brought you the disappointing news that Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon is pushed back to 2013 in North America, but we do have details on some games that most assuredly are confirmed for 2012. In fact, looking at the schedule suggests that Luigi may have been given a breather so that...
Preview Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon
Cleaner and better
We recently had the chance to sit down with a more recent demo of Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon. With three stages to sweep clean rather than the single one on offer when we played it last year, we got to see just how much work Next Level Games has put into the game since then. The three mansions that we were able to pick this time...
Nintendo Download 16th August 2012 (Europe)
Mario, ninjas and viruses
This week is a landmark one for the Nintendo Download update, with retail titles making their first appearance. 3DS and DSi owners are looked after with new download software, though it's another lonesome week for Wii. Retail Software: New Super Mario Bros. 2 (Nintendo, £39.99) — Mario's latest 2D adventure arrives,...
News Who's New Super Mario Bros. 2's Mystery Celebrity?
Guess who
Nintendo of Europe is having a little fun with the advertising campaign for New Super Mario Bros. 2 before the game is released on Friday. Can you guess which mystery celebrity is wearing Mario's famous moustache? The answers have been flowing in all day on Twitter, but apparently nobody's got it right yet. Frankie Sandford, Emma Watson...
News Guild01 Could be Coming to North America
Join up
Have you been looking forward to Level-5's Guild01, the 3DS collection that gathers together four games from renowned developers? You might be in luck, as some trademarks have been uncovered that suggests it could be on the way to North America. Siliconera has been doing some digging around and discovered trademarks listed for Crimson...
Rumour Wii U European Launch Could be Delayed
Manufacturing problems with the GamePad
At present there are some rumours swirling around the internet about potential launch dates for Wii U, with most agreeing that Nintendo is aiming for early-mid November. That's in North America, but industry sources seem to be suggesting that there may be delays in Europe, with some speculating that it'll...
News Take a Ride in the New Dragon Quest 'Slime Car'
Nissan gets Slimey
Today Japanese automaker, Nissan, has announced its partnership with Square Enix in creating a special Dragon Quest themed car, the Serena S-Hybrid mini van 'Slime Car'. The collaboration was unveiled at the DQ-themed restaurant, Luida's Cafe in Roppongi. If you happen to be a Dragon Quest fanatic, then you might be out of luck...
Sunday12th Aug 2012
Round Table Let's Talk About Super Mario
Get a comfortable seat
We've already unveiled our favourite Super Mario games, but it's a series with plenty of talking points. We're in the middle of the busiest spell of new Super Mario games in the history of the franchise, with two 'New Super Mario Bros.' titles arriving this year, which will mean that three new entries will have arrived within...
Saturday11th Aug 2012
Speed demon
There's always the temptation to be a bit snobbish about games that are ported to traditional consoles from smartphones. Given the enormous success of "casual" experiences on mobiles, many dedicated gamers view even the best titles as vapid, shallow experiences — a perspective which is reinforced by the hordes of clones and rip-offs...
Feature Our Favourite Super Mario Games
The impossible list
With New Super Mario Bros. 2 about to hit stores, it's prompted a lot of debate about the Super Mario series as a whole. We decided that we'd take on the list that cannot win, and declare Nintendo Life's favourite Super Mario games. In total, 16 members of staff rated their top 10 Super Mario titles from a list of 14. Only games...
Friday10th Aug 2012
Review The Lost Town - The Jungle (DSiWare)
Lost in translation
It’s rare for a sequel to a well received game to be released with little to nothing in terms of new content. Usually, a sequel calls for a fresh plot which ushers in new characters and gameplay elements to keep the familiar franchise fresh. Sometimes though, a sequel gets released that is essentially just a re-skinning of the...
News EarthBound's Virtual Console No-Show Could Be Down To Sampling Issues
Not music to our ears
Hirokazu Tanaka — better known as "Hip Tanaka" — is something of a legend in Nintendo circles. He was with the company in the very early days, creating the sound effects for games like Donkey Kong, and would later find fame composing soundtracks for classics such as Metroid, Balloon Fight and Wr
News Original Freakyforms to be Removed From European eShop
Oh dear
Earlier today we shared the news that New Art Academy and Freakyforms Deluxe will be retail downloads in Europe, arriving on 17th August alongside New Super Mario Bros. 2. Of course, that meant that there could potentially be two Freakyforms titles in the eShop, with the original download version including less content but coming in at a...
Talking Point What Games Are You Playing This Weekend? - Issue Five
We've had enough of sport
The last time we ran this feature, hype and excitement about the London 2012 Olympics was reaching fever pitch. Now that the Games are finishing for another four years, we've got over how much fun it is to watch athletes do everything we can't and got back to some serious gaming. It's another giddy mix of titles being...
News New Art Academy and Freakyforms Deluxe Confirmed as Retail Downloads
'Many more' on the way
New Super Mario Bros. 2 arrives in Europe on 17th August and will be the first retail download title on 3DS eShop. While this is already underway in Japan and Nintendo of America has revealed details of its distribution, Nintendo of Europe has been relatively quiet on its own plans. In a press release today it's been...
News Maxwell Goes a Bit Mario in Scribblenauts Unlimited
Doesn't have to rescue Princess Peach, thankfully
Scribblenauts Unlimited was one of the most charming reveals at E3 2012, with the good news being that it's coming to both Wii U and 3DS. As a follow-up to the DS titles that focus on the gamer's creativity to make the experience even more fun, we're already cooking up some bizarre scenarios to try...
News Rising Star Games To Publish Zero Escape In PAL Regions
OFLC rating breaks cover
999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors sequel Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward is coming to PAL territories courtesy of Rising Star Games. The news has been confirmed by an OFLC rating, w
News Ridley Scott Wants 3DS Owners To Follow In His Footsteps
Director of Blade Runner is backing new joint venture by Nintendo and the BFI
Nintendo and the British Film Institute (BFI for short) have joined forces to create A Vision in 3D — a ground-breaking initiative to get Nintendo 3DS owners making movies with their consoles, with the central theme being "British Summer 2012". Expect a large proportion...
News Inazuma Eleven Compilation Kicking Off on 3DS
Europe may get it this decade
For European fans of the Inazuma Eleven franchise it's been a slow process to get hold of the first two DS titles, especially considering the fact that Japan is already into a 3DS spin-off series; North American soccer fans have been completely deprived. If you're in Japan, however, there's almost too much crazy...
News Picross E Listing Appears On Euro 3DS eShop
Complete with a gameplay trailer
The fact that Picross E is venturing outside of its native Japan isn't news — we reported on the Australian classification in July — but a listing for the game has now gone live on the European eShop, complete with a gameplay video. You can see for yourself by checking out the "Recent Videos" section of the...
News Crazy Chicken: Pirates Flapping To NA eShop And DSiWare Next Week
Birds of a feather
Teyon has confirmed that point and shoot action title Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D will launch on the North American eShop next week — August 16th, to be exact. The game — which has sold 15 million copies on other formats — will also be available on DSiWare, minus whatever 3D effects the 3DS version possesses. Here's the...
News Abyss Trailer Emerges From The Depths
EnjoyUp's next DSiWare epic gets the video treatment
EnjoyUp Games has released a trailer for its forthcoming DSiWare title, Abyss. The game was announced back in June and involves exploring 3024 Earth for the elusive "Gaia" as the robot Nep2no. You can view the trailer below. It's all looking suitably atmospheric, with a unique art style. Expect...
Thursday9th Aug 2012
News Konami Admits That Castlevania Mirror of Fate Isn't Metroidvania, But It's Going To Be Close
Konami and MercuryStream aiming for plenty of exploration in 3DS instalment
Konami producer Dave Cox has spoken to ONM about the forthcoming Castlevania: Lords of Shadow — Mirror of Fate, and as usual, the term "Metroidvania" has once again reared its ugly head. Cox has stated several times that the new 3
Nintendo Download 9th August 2012 (North America)
Much-reduced Mario, Real Bouts and going Commando
There's quite a heady mixture in this week's North American Nintendo Download report; not only do we have one of the best Mario games at a price so low it's criminal not to own it, but we also have a fine fighting game, a 3D tank simulation and a 2D run-and-gun blaster. Read on for more information!...
Review Touch Battle Tank 3D (3DS eShop)
Bad touch
Good intentions most certainly pave the road to disappointment in Touch Battle Tank 3D. While it's clear that the 70 levels of non-stop blasting are meant to feel like frantic, satisfying plunges into arcade-style madness, it's also clear that the components simply don't come together the way they need to. Touch Battle Tank 3D simply feels...
News Best Buy Gives Strongest Indication Yet That Black Ops 2 Wii U Is Coming
Pre-order tags in-store now
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 coming to Wii U is starting to become gaming's worst-kept secret; although no official confirmation has been made as yet, it's looking very likely that we'll be enjoying Activision's world famous war simulation on our shiny new Wii U consoles at some point in the near future. And that's a...
News Grab a Gold Nunchuk from US Club Nintendo
Get a golden grip
Is that golden Wii Remote you got with The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword feeling a bit lonely? Time to cheer it up with a matching shiny new Nunchuk — if you've got enough coins stocked up on your North American Club Nintendo account. The latest addition to the Club Nintendo rewards catalogue is a Nunchuk worthy of the Hero of...
News Turok Developer Wants To See N64 Versions On Virtual Console
Ex-Iguana dev talks N64 development and the influence of James Bond
Former Acclaim and Iguana Entertainment designer Ryan Tracy wants to see the four N64 Turok games made available on the Virtual Console, but admits that the thorny issue of IP ownership could mean that his desire never comes to pass. Speaking to NotEnoughShaders.com, Tracy also...
News Could The Wii U GamePad Suffer From Latency?
Early hands-on reports suggest so
One of the most impressive aspects of the Wii U's GamePad controller is its ability to stream gameplay directly from the console so you can play on it even when someone else is hogging your television. This facet of the controller could be a massive selling point in homes that boast large families and subsequently...
News Goemon And Ebisumaru Heading To 3DS eShop In Mystical Ninja
Game Boy classic confirmed for European release
Konami's classic Mystical Ninja series is getting a new lease of life this month — in Europe, at least — thanks to the launch of the Game Boy version of the game on the 16th August. Originally released in Japan in 1997 under the title Ganbare Goemon: Kurofune Tō no Nazo (Go Goemon: Mystery of the...
News Toki Tori 2 Trailer Flutters Into View
Wii U exclusive Tokidex confirmed
We've known for a little while that Two Tribes is bringing Toki Tori 2 to Wii U as a download title, and the developer has today released a new trailer and news on one way the GamePad will be used. The trailer shows off some of the puzzles and the use of a stomp move, which can manipulate creatures as items as well...
News Warner Bros. Gets the Party Started With Game Party Champions On Wii U
Spectre of party gaming looks certain to haunt Nintendo's new console
Warner Bros. Games has announced Game Party Champions for Wii U, triggering a flood of negative responses on its Facebook page. "Let's get the shovelware started early," stated one person, while another lamented: "Games like this are why so many people hate the Wii." Developed by...
Wednesday8th Aug 2012
News Sakurai Spills Some Beans On Super Smash Bros. 4
Control methods being explored, more cameos looking unlikely
Super Smash Bros. boss Masahiro Sakurai has spoken to IGN about the fourth installment in the series, revealing that he's keen to avoid unnecessary gimmicks and feels that adding more non-Nintendo characters might be detrimental to the game's focus. "The GameCube controller is not the...
Thursday9th Aug 2012
News Atlus Launches Code of Princess Site, Confirms Release Date
Pre-order bonuses revealed, along with new trailer
Atlus has today confirmed the final release date for its 3DS action RPG Code of Princess. 9th October 2012 is the special date — for North American players, at least, as the European launch has yet to be confirmed. Pre-orders will recieve a rather attractive art book, which also contains a CD with...
Wednesday8th Aug 2012
News Fresh Animal Crossing 3DS Details Emerge
Gardening store confirmed
The latest issue of Famitsu magazine is packed with details relating to the forthcoming 3DS installment of Animal Crossing, including news that the game will showcase a gardening store, thrift outlet and raccoon housing project — the latter being run by everyone's favourite exploitative landowner, Tom Nook. You'll also...
News Actually, New Super Mario Bros. 2 May Not Take 45 Minutes To Download
New fastest time submitted
Yesterday we brought you the harrowing news that it could take upwards of three quarters of an hour to download the digital copy of New Super Mario Bros. 2 on your Nintendo 3DS console. That figure came courtesy of Siliconera, who tested the download using a review code and a US 3DS. Compared to the kind of download times...
News The Wild West Meets Zelda In A Fist Full of Rupees
Amazing Hyrule and Spaghetti Western Mash-Up Hits YouTube
There was a time when YouTube was the sole preserve of low-grade amateur videos and footage of amusing pets performing inane stunts, but with millions of dollars being pumped into original programming on the service, we're starting to see the kind of content which rivals what we're viewing on...
News Nintendo Hypes 'eShop Heroes' in New Trailer
Get a load of that music
Just yesterday we posted a feature arguing that the 3DS eShop deserves big franchises, and that providing a variety of bite-sized download titles with recognisable names or neglected series could be a good thing for the platform. On the flip-side, however, Nintendo has used the store to introduce new characters and IPs to...
News Dragon Quest X Storms to Number One in Japan
3DS and Wii sell big, too
Last week's Japanese charts brought big sales for New Super Mario Bros. 2 and 3DS, with the XL model contributing over 190,000 sales on its own. The good times keep coming for Nintendo in its homeland this week, with the latest results from Enterbrain showing strong performances in both software and hardware. The big...
News Tekken Boss Thinks Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft Should Get Cosy
Tri-Force?
It's nice to want things. For example, I'm sure many people reading this would love to have a Wii U console sitting under their TV set right now. Or perhaps a brand-new Ferrari on the driveway. Heck, why not wish for your own personal tropical island paradise while you're at it? Go crazy. It's tempting to surmise that Tekken producer...
News Baseball Team Commemorates Vital Win Through The Power of The NES
Celebrating in style
When sports teams score a particularly significant or memorable victory, it's customary for them to celebrate the event with some kind of promotional activity, but The Dunedin Blue Jays have gone one better - they've immortalised one of their proudest moments in 8-bit form. A single-A affiliate of Toronto, The Blue Jays...
News LostWinds Developer Expands In North America
Frontier opens Canadian studio thanks to tax breaks
Frontier Developments — the team behind the WiiWare smash LostWinds and its sequel LostWinds: Winter of the Melodias — has opened its first studio outside of the UK, taking advantage of tax breaks to set up shop in Canada. The new office will be based in Nova Scotia, and will house around 20...
News Meet Founder of WayForward at Free Event on 18th August
Voldi Way returns for 4th Annual Gathering of Video Game Legends
We reported on this excellent event last year, and wouldn't you believe the 4th Annual Gathering of Video Game Legends at Westwood College in Anaheim, CA is almost upon us — which makes this a ripe time to bring it to your attention once again. The event will take place on Saturday,...
Tuesday7th Aug 2012
News Planning To Download New Super Mario Bros. 2? You'll Need About 45 Minutes
Plenty of time to make a hot drink, then
Much has been made of Nintendo's move into digital download retail releases; while this kind of distribution is commonplace on consoles such as the Xbox 360 and PlayStation Vita, Nintendo is only just finding its feet. New Super Mario Bros. 2 is the first Nintendo game to be available digitally and in stores...
News Wii U Box Art Breaks Cover
Possible final design spotted on Amazon
It seems almost childish to get excited about box artwork in this age of digital downloads and on-demand gaming, but we're not going to let that stop us from squealing with delight at the supposed final designs posted up on the Canadian arm of Amazon. Listings for Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed III and
News Wreck-It Ralph Creators On Working With Nintendo And Sega Characters
"Bowser's much bigger than that. He's way bigger than Zangief"
Forthcoming Disney CGI flick Wreck-It Ralph looks like it's going to be a laugh-riot, largely because it features an absolutely obscene number of video game cameos from the likes of Street Fighter, Q*Bert and Pac-Man. A heart-warming tale of a video game villain who yearns to become a...
Talking Point 3DS eShop Deserves Big Franchises
Boosting digital downloads
For many Nintendo gamers, we suspect, the release of New Super Mario Bros. 2 looms large as the highlight of the next gaming month. Even if the game doesn’t innovate the plumber’s series in any major way, the purchasing options do just that. For 3DS owners it’ll no longer be a case of simply picking up a boxed game...
News EA: Wii U Will Have The Best FIFA 13
Nintendo version to offer enhancements over its console rivals
EA producer Matt Prior has told Official Nintendo Magazine that the Wii U edition of FIFA 13 will boast the best visuals out of all of the console editions. Having previously stated that the Nintendo version would be visually superior to its PS3 and Xbox 360 counterparts, Prior elab
News Yes, Scribblenauts Unlimited 3DS Will Have StreetPass
Used to peek at the objects created by other players
The latest issue of Nintendo Power has something of a scoop relating to the 3DS version of Scribblenauts Unlimited — you'll be able to use the console's StreetPass capability to look at the objects created by your fellow players, thereby revealing how to overcome some of the game's trickier...
News Fluidity Is Your New Club Nintendo Reward
Superb puzzle title available for 150 of your shiny coins
The North American Club Nintendo rewards page has been updated yet again, with Bonsai Barber being replaced by the equally excellent Fluidity. Normally retailing for a hefty — but totally justified — 1200 Wii Points, this physics-based puzzler will be available for 150 coins until the...
News Square Enix Takes Quarterly Earnings Hit
Still plenty more hit points left, though
Japanese super-publisher Square Enix has made public its financial results for for the opening quarter of 2012, posting a net loss of 2,077 million yen. The figures — which take in the first three months of the financial year up to June 2012 — are attributed by the company to poor console sales. Dragon...
News Mitchell Corp. Prepping Nagerupu Matrix for Japanese 3DS eShop
Puzz Loop studio is back in the puzzle game
Mitchell Corp. — possibly best known as the creator of Pang, Polarium and Puzz Loop/Magnetica (which has been cloned as Zuma in the past) — is set to launch a new puzzle title on the Japanese 3DS eShop tomorrow (8th August). Called Nagerupu Matrix — which roughly translates as Action Puzzle Matrix...
News Hideo Kojima To Infiltrate Eurogamer Expo Developer Session
UK's largest video game show will also feature every Metal Gear game
Eurogamer has confirmed that legendary game developer Hideo Kojima will be making a special appearance at this year's Eurogamer Expo to deliver a developer session and celebrate 25 years of Tactical Espionage Action. Kojima will be speaking on the opening day of the expo, which is...
Monday6th Aug 2012
Nintendo Download 9th August 2012 (Europe)
High speed action, role-playing adventure and a dose of pool
It's that time again - time to update you on this week's downloadable goodies for all of your relevant Nintendo systems. eShop: SpeedX 3D (Gamelion Studios, £2.70/€3) — 10 million iOS and Android users can't be wrong - can they? Gamelion's fast-paced tunnel racer has proven to be...
News Check Out These Cool Star Fox Facts
Cunning
NASA's Curiosity touched down on Mars today, which in our eyes is a perfectly good excuse to hear some interesting facts about Nintendo's premier space series, Star Fox. Did You Know Gaming? has pulled together some facts that'll make you want to barrel roll. The YouTube clip notes the multiple cancellations that have plagued the franchise,...
News HMV Says You Can Now Preorder the Wii U in Black and White
UK-based chain opens up the order book
Despite the absence of a 100% solid release date, UK entertainment retailer HMV has started advertising preorders for both the black and white Wii U system in its stores. Spotted by an eagle-eyed consumer and reported by GoNintendo, the promotion appears to be live in many stores up and down the United...
Welcome back to the stage of history
Any avid reader of Nintendo Life will know that for the past couple of years we had James Newton installed as editor, which came to an end earlier this month as he swanned off to Nintendo. Starting today we have a new man who will be taking on the role full-time; the undisputed, heavy-weight, retro gamer of the...
News Wii Music Returns to UK All-Format Top 40
Yes, really
After last week's excitement with 3DS XL arriving, and seeing some inevitable bumps in software sales, it's time to survey the scene and see whether the new handheld has brought a sustained boost to Nintendo's UK sales. The answer? Just about. In terms of Nintendo exclusive titles, there are an encouraging five within the top 20 this...
News More Fire Emblem DLC On Its Way To Japan This Month
Downloadable strategy
Fire Emblem Awakening may not be out in the West yet, but its Japanese equivalent — known as Fire Emblem: Kakusei — is about to get its second helping of DLC content. The latest in a long line of turn-based RPGs from Intelligent Systems, Fire Emblem: Kakusei has been a massive commercial hit in its native homeland, which...
News Mysterious Trademark Appears for The Last Ranger
Potential new Nintendo IP on the way?
As many Nintendo critics will delight in telling you, the company rarely seems to indulge in the creation of new franchises these days. Bearing this in mind, the news that Nintendo Europe has trademarked The Last Ranger — a few months after Nintendo of Japan did the same — is quite exciting indeed...
News Harmony of a Hunter: 101% Run Set For November Release
Blasting your speakers soon
Harmony of a Hunter: 101% Run, the fan-produced music album of Metroid music and remixes, is now confirmed for a November release. A follow up to the original Harmony of a Hunter double album, 101% Run will feature music that missed out on the first release as well as brand new tracks. Like its predecessor it'll be...
Saturday4th Aug 2012
Feature Crazy Nintendo Crossovers We'd Like to See
Insanity X Nintendo
As strange crossovers go, Pokémon and Nobunaga's Ambition is right up there. Reactions at Pokémon Conquest's announcement ranged from confused mutterings to gasps of wonder at the possibilities. Yet for all the weirdness, it actually turned out brilliantly – whoever came up with the idea of mixing up an old school strategy...
News Shifting World Shuffles into Europe in September
Black or white
3DS platform puzzler Shifting World is getting a European release in September, courtesy of Rising Star Games. Set in a black and white world, you have to make your way through over 60 levels by switching between 2D and 3D to access different platforms and sink through floors to reach locked off areas. As well as the main adventure...
News The Sword of Hope II Strikes Europe Next Week
Hopefully yours
The Sword of Hope II will arrive on Europe's 3DS Virtual Console next week on 9th August. The Game Boy RPG, which came out on North America's eShop a couple of weeks ago, follows Prince Theo as he tries to retrieve the Sword of Hope, stop an evil spirit and clear his name of murder. All in a day's work. You'll be able to recruit...
News Namco Bandai Hooks a Trophy for Family Fishing Sales
Prize catch
Namco Bandai's Family Fishing — known in North America as Fishing Resort — has proven itself a keeper. The Wii game has surpassed 200,000 shipped units in Japan during its first year, and as a reward Nintendo has sent the team a snazzy trophy. Developed by Yuji Naka's Prope and published by XSEED in North America, Fishing Resort...
Friday3rd Aug 2012
Review Toki Tori (3DS eShop / GBC)
A good egg
Many will be familiar with Toki Tori on WiiWare, released a few years ago and since on several systems; it's been quite the popular game, but not many people are familiar with the original entry in the series. This is understandable, because it was released at the tail end of the Game Boy Color's life cycle back in 2002, but now has a...
Interview Smileboom - Petit Computer
Doing a lot with BASIC
Petit Computer arrived on North American DSiWare in mid-July, and since that time a number of enthusiastic programmers have no doubt been getting accustomed to the BASIC coding language. The app has already had a positive impact in Japan, with an enthusiastic community that has been producing and sharing innovative games on...
News Collect All The Yoshi Colours in Mario Tennis Open
Seven for the price of none
Since Mario Tennis Open was launched Nintendo has been releasing QR codes for a variety of Yoshi characters, each with their own specialities and styles of play. Now that all of the individual codes have been released through various means — and potentially by some cheeky websites — there's a video that compiles all...
News Wii U's Madden NFL 13 is Only Coming Out in North America
Undrafted
If you're a non-North American fan of American football, you might want to fling a coloured flag in EA's direction: the Wii U version of Madden NFL 13 is only being released in North America. Madden NFL 13 on Wii U was officially confirmed last night at EA's Summer Showcase, scheduled for release at the console's launch. However, it was...
News Mobile Publisher Believes Nintendo Ecosystem May 'Fall Apart'
Here we go again
One of the continuing debates that surrounds 3DS at the moment is whether it can truly succeed against the onslaught of mobile gaming, with cheap and free-to-play titles available. Various mobile developers have questioned Nintendo's handheld prospects in recent months as a result, and the latest to hop on board is Neil Young, CEO...
News Go for Goal with These FIFA 13 Wii U Shots
Golden boots
FIFA 13 was confirmed for release on Wii U yesterday, and after a brief run out at EA's Summer Showcase here are the first screenshots. They show off several of the new functions, such as lifting the GamePad to take direct control of set pieces, on the fly stat checking and those all-important touch screen management options. Remember:...
News 2K Games: Gamers Need Time to 'See The Beauty' of Wii U
Nintendo is 'an impressive company'
After the limited appearance of Wii U at EA's Summer Showcase, it was another indication that developer support for the system, in some quarters, is still relatively limited. With the console arriving in a matter of months, it seems that a number of companies are adopting a "wait and see" approach, though there is...
Talking Point Another Look at the News - 3rd August
We're on our soapbox
It's been a relatively busy week of Nintendo news, culminating in the EA Summer Showcase that was more of a polite presentation, in terms of Wii U at least. Once again we take a look at some of the news of the past week and give a personal spin, ranging from optimism to shouting from on top of our soapbox, depending on the...
News Square Enix Targets Ten Years of Support for Dragon Quest X
X marks the content
Dragon Quest X has now arrived on Wii in Japan, with a Wii U version also said to be on the way in the future, and publisher Square Enix will no doubt be hoping that the substantial online play will attract a lot of loyal gamers. Any title like this with a focus of online play needs consistent and new content to keep gamers...
News Mario Kart 7 'Fastest Family' Competition Hits The Road
UK contest teams up with HMV
You may have been aware in recent weeks of Nintendo's build up for its Mario Kart 7 Fastest Family contest in the UK, with celebrity Rufus Hound starring in videos to advertise the event. For those interested in entering with their families, the time to put that practice to good use has finally arrived. Nintendo has...
Thursday2nd Aug 2012
Review New Super Mario Bros. 2 (3DS)
Going for gold
At the time of writing, the 2012 London Olympics are in full swing. A global expression of unparalleled sporting excellence, the Games feature hordes of top-class athletes attempting to grab gold glory by taking part in events which are steeped in history and tradition; ultimately, the objective isn’t to be innovative in your...
News The Legend of Zelda Prototype Cart Sells For $55,000
One third of the Triforce price
Earlier this week we told you about a The Legend of Zelda prototype cart for sale on eBay, with the seller establishing a target price of $150,000. A sale has now been made for a handsome sum, but it's ultimately just over a third of that target price. According to examiner.com, $55,000 is a record total for a...
Nintendo Download 2nd August 2012 (North America)
A lost town, solitaire and reduced Mario
This week's North American update has relatively slim pickings, with Wii missing out entirely. There's one title each for eShop and DSiWare, a reduced Mario classic and a couple of videos, so let's look at what we have. eShop: 3D Solitaire (Zen Studios, $2.99) — The title tells you almost everything you...
News The Legend of Zelda Music Makes Olympics Appearance
The Games feature a game
The Legend of Zelda franchise may not have the same raw selling power reserved almost exclusively for Mario, but it still has a significant and passionate worldwide fanbase. One of the defining and iconic parts of the series is its music, and it seems that a Mexican gymnast called Elsa Garcia Rodriguez Blancas is a fan, as...
Competition Toki Tori - Game Boy Color Giveaway
Win a sealed copy of Toki Tori for Game Boy Color
To celebrate the Euro release of the fantastically addictive Toki Tori on 3DS Virtual Console, Two Tribes and Nintendo Life are pleased to offer European, Australian and North American readers the chance to win a sealed copy of the game for Game Boy Color. How to win? All you have to do is answer the...
News Crysis 3 Isn't Coming to Wii U
Crysis city
There's been conflicting information about Crytek's Wii U ambitions for a while, particularly in regards to Crysis 3. The latest word is no: at this time, there aren't any plans to put a version of Crysis 3 on Wii U. Over the last couple of months we've heard that, despite CryEngine 3 running "beautifully" on Wii U, there was no chance...
News Nano Assault EX Blasting Onto 3DS eShop
Based on the retail release
Shin'en Multimedia, a development studio that's already shown plenty of enthusiasm for Nintendo platforms, has confirmed that Nano Assault EX is on the way to the 3DS eShop in both North America and Europe. It's less than a year since Nano Assault arrived as a retail title — though it wasn't released in Europe — and...
News Kid Icarus: Uprising Series 2 AR Cards Flying Into the USA
Limited availability is the pits
European Kid Icarus: Uprising enthusiasts can now buy the title's cards from various retailers due to a distribution deal with Panini. In North America, however, the focus has been on attending specific events to get hold of these AR cards, which bring in-game idols and unlockables as well as satisfying that...
News Mass Effect 3 Set to Launch Alongside Wii U
Ready for takeoff
Don't worry about missing out on any backstory if you jump into the Mass Effect series for the first time on Wii U; Mass Effect 3 will include an interactive mode that fills in the most important parts and lets you make key choices to shape your character. That's better than nothing, right? Speaking at EA's Summer Showcase,...
News Nintendo Wins Judgement in Wii Patent Lawsuit
Talking 'bout a revolution
Nintendo has confirmed that it's seen off yet another patent lawsuit in the U.S., with this one perhaps being the most significant victory so far. A company called Copper Innovations Group, LLC had claimed that both Wii and its controllers had infringed one of its patents, but a U.S. District Court judge dismissed the case...
News Madden NFL 13 Gets Tactical on Wii U
Touchdown
The Wii U version of Madden NFL 13 has been shown off for the first time at EA's Summer Showcase. On top of the Madden features you've come to expect, the American football series will use the GamePad in several unique ways to really kick things off. You'll be able to use the touch screen for play calling and swift tactical changes with...
News EA's Summer Showcase May Feature Wii U
It's today, by the way
We already know that EA is watching Wii U closely and has confirmed FIFA 13 for the system, but is the publisher/developer planning more for Nintendo's new console? We may find out today, as part of EA's Summer Showcase. IGN has stated that Wii U games will feature in the presentation, though the off
News New E.X. Troopers Promo Video Sets The Mood
Release date and limited edition confirmed for Japan
It's been getting teased for a number of months, but Capcom has finally confirmed a Japanese release date for upcoming 3DS Lost Planet spin-off E.X. Troopers: it'll hit stores on 22nd November and the standard version will cost ¥5,990 — just under £50 and a little over $75. Capcom has also...
News FIFA 13 is a Wii U Launch Title
Back of the net
FIFA 13 has been announced as a launch title for Wii U at EA's Summer Showcase. EA hyped up the soccer simulator as the best FIFA on a Nintendo console yet, with the Wii U allowing for a "different experience" to the other platforms. The company thinks that if your dad can use a mobile phone, he should also be able to play FIFA 13...
Wednesday1st Aug 2012
Reaction Age Ratings and Video Games
PEGI takes over and makes under-age selling illegal
It may come as a surprise to those who assumed it was the case, but until 30th July there was no unified, legally binding age rating system for video games in the UK. Unlike so many other products available to buy, the guidelines and ratings in place did not automatically lead to prosecution for...
News This is Why New Little King's Story Isn't on Wii
Royal pardon
Little King's Story remains a firm Wii favourite here at Nintendo Life. After all, how could you not love a game about a tiny king that deals with unemployment by day and bashes in gigantic mushrooms by night? It made us royal blue, then, that a sequel never came to Nintendo's system; in fact, follow up New Little King's Story chose to...
News WWE 13 Won't Wrestle with Wii U
No, absolutely not
We're used to developers and publishers dancing around questions of planned release platforms, when a game will hits stores and so on, so it's refreshing to bring you a recent Twitter exchange between a wrestling game fan and Cory Ledesma, Creative Director for WWE Games at THQ. We know that WWE 13 is coming to Wii, but naturally...
News Catch Pokédex 3D Pro in North America on 8th November
Update: New trailer and Black & White 2 features released
Ahead of its October release, Nintendo has release more details about Pokémon Black and White 2, and also confirmed the release date of the accompanying 3DS eShop app, Pokédex 3D Pro. The new paid Pokédex arrives in North America on 8th November, promising detailed information on more than...
News Check Out This Beautiful Okami Papercraft
Godly beauty
We've seen some impressive game-related art over the years, but surely if two games are ideally suited to artistic recreations they're Okami and Okamiden. Both of these titles were designed to actually look like watercolour paintings in motion, but one set of artistic creations opts for a different approach. The attached image (click...
News Monster Hunter 4 is Now 60% Complete
Legs and bodies done, now for the heads
Just last week a Capcom representative teased Monster Hunter news, but it seems that today we have some more solid information from series producer Ryozo Tsujimoto. Speaking to Weekly Famitsu (as reported by Andriasang), Tsujimoto stated that 3DS title Monster Hunter 4 is about 60% complete, meaning the...
News Matte Red and Matte Blue DSi Models Hit North America This Week
Why wait?
The 3DS XL may have arrived in Europe and Japan merely weeks after it was announced, but it's got nothing on the new Matte Red and Matte Blue DSi systems hitting North America. Set to start hitting stores this week, the colours look remarkably similar to the 3DS XL equivalents, suggesting that Nintendo may have had a bulk discount and...
News Commodore 64 Celebrates 30th Birthday
Birthday wishes still loading
We've seen some big gaming anniversaries in the past year that made some of the Nintendo Life team, and probably a fair share of readers, feel rather old. It's time for another one of these landmarks, as Commodore 64 turns 30 years old. While some may not know much about it, Commodore 64 was a games system that was...
News Columns Coming to 3DS Virtual Console with Local Multiplayer
Link up
The Japanese eShop is getting a Columns-shaped treat soon. The Game Gear version of SEGA's addictive puzzler will join the 3DS Virtual Console line-up on 8th August. It'll also have a function that we've rarely seen so far on 3DS Virtual Console: you'll be able to play in local multiplayer, provided that both users have a copy of the game...
News 3DS Hardware Dominates Japanese Charts
Demon Training has a modest start
We already know that 3DS XL and New Super Mario Bros. 2 have been able to boast of big launch sales in Japan, but we now have access to the full charts for a wider picture. The Enterbrain software figures (via Andriasang), show that six of the top ten games are found on Nintendo systems, though Demon Training only...
News EA is Watching Wii U Closely
Tell us something new
Speaking at EA's first quarter earnings meeting, EA chief operating officer Peter Moore mentioned that the company is "keeping a very close eye" on Wii U. Earlier, FIFA 13 was confirmed for Wii U. IGN reports that Moore noted Wii U's "lackluster response" at E3, but that Nintendo is not a company to take lightly, "as proven by...
News FIFA 13 Confirmed for Wii U
Extensive GamePad controls detailed
As we wait for more big developers and franchises to commit to Wii U, we have one more that we can tick off the list today. FIFA 13 has been confirmed for Nintendo's upcoming console, with no solid release date but a variety of details being shared as part of the announcement in the Official Nintendo Magazine. To...
News JAY Z Named As Executive Producer of NBA 2K13
Oh, he's gonna run this game
If you want to gain some street credibility for your new game, maybe the way to go is to hire a multi-million selling hip-hop star as executive producer: yep, that might do it. It's been confirmed that executive producer of upcoming Wii and Wii U title NBA 2K13 will be rap royalty JAY Z, who's had almost as many hits as...
