Review Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal World Duel Carnival (3DS)
Is the first 3DS entry a Dark Hole or a Monster Reborn?
News Sakurai Explains Why Chrom Didn't Make It Into Super Smash Bros. For Wii U And 3DS
"Compared with other characters, he lacks any unique characteristics"
News - July, 2014
Thursday31st Jul 2014
Video The 10 Best Zelda Games As Selected By You
Which will be number one? Find out within...
We recently ran a poll on the site to find out which game you, the Nintendo Life reader, considered to be the very best Legend of Zelda title released so far. The response was staggering, and we're now ready to reveal the results. The video below showcases the top ten picks in reverse order, and should...
Nintendo Download 31st July (North America)
XType, music, Mega Man battles, Steel Empire and more
It's Nintendo Download Update time, North America, and this week serves up a decent number of new games on both Wii U and 3DS, along with a Game Boy Advance Mega Man title. Throw in some discounts and a free demo and there's a decent selection this week, so let's get to it. Missed the European...
News Wii U Reference Discovered In Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare Website
Could we be getting a version after all?
When Activision announced Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, confirmation of a Wii U edition of the game was sadly lacking. While this is the first entry in the series to get a genuine push on next-generation platforms, PS3 and Xbox 360 players will still be able to join the party, albeit with a version...
News One Classic Mega Man Game Is Coming to Wii U Every Week in August
A Mega Man in every North American home
Update: The Capcom Unity blog has now confirmed the titles that will be included in this August promotion (thanks to Ryan Millar for the heads up). The release order is remaining a mystery for now, but the following four games are all coming to the Wii U eShop in the next month. Mega Man 5 (NES)
Review Rabi Laby 3 (3DS eShop)
Return of the Rabi
We would like to formally thank Silver Star Japan for developing Rabi Laby 3 as a 3DS eShop title. Not because this is the most interesting, original, or even fun game that we've ever played, but because the developer decided to circumvent the DSiWare service and release its new game on the current generation of Nintendo's digital...
News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Multiplayer Will Work Across NA and European Versions
Do you take pounds, dollars, or zenny?
Things keep getting better for fans of the Monster Hunter franchise with Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate. The long-awaited addition of networked multiplayer to the 3DS version of the game (a feature that was absent from Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate on 3DS) just got even bigger and badder, as Capcom's Yuri Araujo...
News Hyrule Warriors Nintendo Direct Arriving Next Week
A Link to the future
The recent live stream on Niconico for the upcoming Hyrule Warriors was sadly not fit to burst with new information on the game. Despite the A-list cast of special guests it was a fairly pedestrian affair, re-iterating knowledge already known to most fans who have been following developments. Luckily though, the stream did...
News New Pokémon Stage Has Been Caught in Super Smash Bros. for 3DS
Black & White's time to shine
With its release on 3rd October getting ever closer, more and more fresh details of Super Smash Bros. for 3DS are emerging. As per usual, Masahiro Sakurai is utilising his Pic of the Day on Miiverse to reveal the details. The latest announcement is for another new stage, this time based on an area from DS titles...
News Professor Layton and Phoenix Wright Art Books Coming West from UDON Entertainment
Top-notch finger-pointing for your coffee table
Art direction fanatics who can read this are in for a treat now that UDON Entertainment will be bringing two new art books to English-speaking territories; one for Phoenix Wright's latest "I can't shout OBJECTION! on the bus" screen-tapping epic Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - Dual Destinies and another...
News Collectorvision Announces Justice Beaver for Wii U eShop and Super Nintendo
Not to be confused with trouble-making pop sensation, Justin Bieber
Retro-inspired video games have to be authentic, and the team over at Collectorvision knows this. Since 2008, Collectorvision has been developing, publishing and manufacturing a quality line of new but retro-inspired home-brew releases for classic video game systems of yesteryear...
News Pocket Monsters Invade Arcades In Bandai Namco's Pokémon: Battle Nine
Japan-only, for the time being
We've seen Pokémon arcade games in the past from the likes of Sammy and Takara Tomy, and now Bandai Namco is trying its hand at bringing those famous pocket monsters to amusement centres — in Japan, at least. It has just revealed a promotional trailer for Pokémon: Battle Nine, an arcade title which uses the famous...
News Another Hyrule Warriors Live Stream is Scheduled for Tomorrow
The hype train's reached its platform, but it isn't slowing down
Nintendo and Koei Tecmo really are putting their all into promoting Hyrule Warriors in Japan. This morning we had the Niconico broadcast telling everyone to expect a Hyrule Warriors Nintendo Direct from Nintendo of America next week, and now it's been revealed that there'll be yet...
News The Game Boy is 25 Years Old in North America
Happy Birthday, Old Boy
The Game Boy recently celebrated the 25th anniversary for its release in Japan, a reminder of the enduring legacy of one of Nintendo's greatest creations. Its role in transforming the games industry and popularising portable systems can't be overlooked, not to mention the various franchises and classic games that define it...
Video This Pixel-Powered Chiptune Tale, Pulse Fighter, Shows The Power of Game Boy
This'll pummel your senses
As you may have read earlier today, it's the 25th anniversary of the Game Boy in North America, another welcome landmark for the venerable portable console. This dramatic three-minute tale is perfect for the occasion, as a result. The video, entitled "Pulse Fighter", is the work of m7kenji (visuals) and chiptune artist...
News Michel Ancel Forms New Studio While Continuing Work on Beyond Good & Evil Sequel at Ubisoft
New venture is called Wild Sheep Studio
Iconic game designer Michel Ancel, who most recently led the brilliant Rayman Legends project at Ubisoft, has always come across as a free spirit, destined to seek his own direction away from the corporate priorities of the publishing behemoth. That desire seems to have been partly fulfilled, as he's now...
Play & Win Join the UK Mario Kart 8 Tournament Rematch - Today!
More eShop funds up for grabs
Earlier this week we told you about the second Mario Kart 8 tournament we're running for UK racers. The rematch is all set for today, in which participants have four hours to complete 16 races in a battle for delicious eShop funds. Details are below, so good luck! What:: Once again, this is for UK readers. The top...
News XType Plus Delayed in North America Due to Online Leaderboard Bug
High score table causes system lockups
Update 2: Nintendo of Europe has issued the following statement: Please be informed that the Wii U title "XType Plus" has been temporarily removed from Nintendo eShop due to an issue with online leaderboards which causes a critical error. XType Plus was, however, available for a short time today and if this...
Interview Eclipse Games on Driving for the Podium With Super Toy Cars
Charging off the grid
Super Toy Cars is a recent arrival on the Wii U eShop, satisfying the appetite some will have for even more racing on the system; it's also on PC. It takes a fairly unique approach and includes a track editor, though at launch the experience is offline-only, with online leaderboards on the agenda; the emphasis is on local...
Wednesday30th Jul 2014
Reaction Nintendo's Drop in Momentum Is A Bigger Concern Than Initial Financial Losses
Net sales and 3DS performance are down on last year
Nintendo's Q1 financial results have been announced and, in a continuation of the past couple of years, bring losses for the company. We'll repeat the nitty-gritty before assessing some other key points, yet we should perhaps take the positive spin that Nintendo is maintaining its projections for...
News Looks Like You Can Only Install 300 Games And Apps On Your 3DS
Still enough to keep you busy for a while
We've all experienced the irksome problem of running out of storage space on our 3DS consoles, but it would appear that even the most spacious SD card in the world won't help overcome this issue totally — the hardware seems to have a maximum ceiling of 300 applications. Reddit user Rayquaza3010 received...
News Ocarina Of Time Began Life As A Remake Of Zelda II: The Adventure Of Link
With a focus on samurai swordplay, no less
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is arguably one of the best entries in the entire series, but it might surprise you to learn that it has its origins in a remake of one of the franchise's least popular instalments: Zelda II: The Adventure of Link. Nintendo worked on bringing the game to the Super NES...
Video If You Like Mario Kart 8, Princess Peach and Alternative Rock Music, You'll Love This
Mario Kart TV, a saviour of YouTube
Mario Kart TV, a relatively simple idea of allowing stylish highlight reels with super slow-mo, has become a goldmine of memes and better advertising for Mario Kart 8 than money can buy. The Luigi death stare is so cool that Nintendo even adopted the viral hit for its own advertising in Japan. We had a go at...
News This Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Box Art May Get Its Claws Into You
What a beast
It's possible that you've had your fill of 'serious' news and financial figures today, which is fair enough; this writer has a sore head from looking at figures in the millions and billions, while gazing at the intensely dull layout of financial reports. It all matters, but video games can be fun, let's not forget. So here's some box...
News Nintendo Reports Losses for Q1 of Financial Year, With Variable Hardware Results
Wii U gains over last year, though the 3DS falls away
Back in May this year Nintendo revealed its losses for the last financial year, with the company projecting profits for the following year as it aims to reverse consecutive poor returns. The Q1 results have now been published and they tell a mixed story, with the quest for profits evidently being...
News QOL Trademark Filings Point to Quality of Life Branding Worldwide
Short names rule for Nintendo
While the focus of many Nintendo fans is often on upcoming releases and new game announcements, it's easy to forget that the big N is planning to unveil a brand new platform in 2014 — its QOL (Quality of Life) product. It's still a mystery, yet the company is planning to release its health-driven product in the next...
News Captain Toad Won't Be Tracking Treasure In Europe Until Next Year
North American launch still locked in for Holiday 2014
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker won't be hitting European store shelves until January 2015, Nintendo has revealed. The news was part of the company's Earnings Release for the three months up to June, which includes release dates for forthcoming titles. The game is still confirmed for a "Holiday...
News Mario Kart 8 Sold 2.82 Million Copies In A Single Month
And that doesn't include copies sold after June, either
Nintendo has revealed that its Wii U racer Mario Kart 8 sold 2.82 million copies worldwide during its first month of release. The title launched at the end of May, and by the close of June it had shifted almost three million units all over the globe — an impressive achievement when you...
News Shin Megami Tensei IV Set For September Release In Europe, Pleasingly Low Price Confirmed
A digital gem
It's been a while since North America was treated to the glorious sight of Shin Megami Tensei IV on its store shelves, and now Atlus has finally announced that European countries will be treated to a similar occasion. The RPG in question will not be receiving a physical release, but instead will be arriving as a digital-only download...
Video Sheik Deals Death In Latest Hyrule Warriors Trailer
Wielding the power of the goddesses
For any fan of the Zelda series, Sheik is unforgettable. A mysterious ninja who supplies a semi-deus ex machina role in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Sheik provided one of the best twists in the entire game — and one which meant that all of those uncomfortable feelings Link had during the course of his...
News Satoru Iwata Is Still "Recovering Steadily" With "No Interference" To His Work As President
Investment analysts share gloomy outlook
Earlier this year there was some concern when it was announced that Satoru Iwata would miss E3 for health-related reasons; it was later confirmed that this was due to an operation to remove a bile-duct growth, with the recovery from that surgery forcing Satoru Iwata to miss the company's AGM (Annual General...
News Wii U and 3DS Hardware Sales See Slight Increase in Japan as Yokai Watch 2 Stays on Top
Yoshi's New Island makes chart début in second
It's time again for Media Create chart results from Japan, with Nintendo hoping for good news in both the software and hardware stakes; the 3DS sees a game release that the West has been enjoying since Spring. It should surprise no-one that Level 5's Yokai Watch 2, available in two versions, remains...
News Doodle To Your Heart’s Content in Upcoming Wii U eShop Exclusive, Doodle Dash
Multiplayer doodling, what could possibly go wrong?
Nintendo’s expansion of the eShop library continues with yet another newly authorised developer today announcing a game exclusively for the Wii U. If you like doodling on a sketch pad, Pocket Dragon Games' upcoming title Doodle Dash is one to keep an eye on. Doodle Dash is a multiplayer and...
News The Japanese Console Market Fell in 2013, With Revenues Behind the Mobile Gaming Sector
A 16% fall from 2012 to 2013
It's been a day of financial figures and reflections on Nintendo's latest results, yet a report emerging from Japan demonstrates that conventional gaming systems as a whole are under a heavy strain in the country. This should be no surprise to those that regularly follow the Media Create chart results, with sale numbers...
Video Watch Nintendo Of Europe President Satoru Shibata Sing His Heart Out In Tomodachi Life
Zelda and Animal Crossing are his personal faves, it would seem
Tomodachi Life has become one of Nintendo's surprise hits of 2014, with its commercial performance on both sides of the Atlantic proving to be pretty robust. A large slab of the game's appeal is the way in which you can breathe new life into your Mii characters by getting them to...
News Disney Magical World Waltzes Its Way Onto European 3DS Consoles This October
An old new world
Amidst the success of Tomodachi Life in the UK charts, Disney has announced its hand in the life simulation genre Disney Magical World will be arriving on European shores on the 24th of October this year. The colourful romp is already available in the US and Japan and takes a different approach to simulation than Tomodachi Life and...
News The Next Penelope Boasts Shooting And Racing, And Is Speeding Towards The Wii U eShop In 2015
A mad dash through futuristic Greece
French developer Aurelien Regard has revealed that it is bringing The Next Penelope to the Wii U eShop in early 2015. The game is a curious shooting and racing hybrid which calls to mind Kingdom Grand Prix, a fantastic arcade shooter from the late '90s. It also reminds us a lot of the classic '80s cartoon series...
Tuesday29th Jul 2014
Gallery A Closer Look At 13 amiibo Toys
Prepare your wallets
Nintendo's lining up multiple blockbuster releases for the Holiday season, but the most important will likely be its range of NFC toys — amiibo. Marketing these figures, successfully implementing them in games and securing plenty of shelf space with the biggest retailers represent three major challenges for Nintendo, though...
Review Super Toy Cars (Wii U eShop)
Straight out the toy box
This summer, it could be argued that the demand for a non-realistic racing game on Wii U has well and truly been met, and another kart-style title is perhaps at the bottom of our wish list as a result. However, standing tall in the face of its moustachioed overlords, Eclipse Games has treated the eShop to an extra slice of...
News Multi-Generational Paper Mario Stage Confirmed for Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Flips between Sticker Star and The Thousand-Year Door
With its release approaching quickly, we can expect more Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS news in the coming days and weeks. Masahiro Sakurai has taken the opportunity to share another new stage on the Miiverse Director's Community, and it could be a popular option on the portable. It's...
Video Scientifically Accurate Sonic The Hedgehog Ruins Everything About Sonic The Hedgehog
Tails would NEVER eat Sonic, you fiends
Video games aren't reality. We know that. But sometimes the glaring inaccuracies present in our favourite titles can really hurt when they're highlighted in an effective fashion, which is exactly what Fox's Animation Domination High-Def show does in the latest episode of Scientifically Accurate, which seeks to...
News This Master Arts Metroid Prime 2 Light Suit From First 4 Figures Has Lit Up Our Day
A pricey treat
When it comes to premium collectible Nintendo-themed statues, First 4 Figures has often provided some of the most memorable releases. Its latest product is sure to excite Samus fans, as it's opened pre-orders for the Master Arts Metroid Prime 2 Light Suit. This is from the excellent Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, of course, and will come...
News Bravely Second Shows Off New City and Job Outfits
Magnolia Architecture
After receiving critical acclaim and over one million units sold, Bravely Default set a solid benchmark for JRPGs on 3DS. It’s safe to say that its sequel, Bravely Second, has a tremendous amount to live up to. To please its fans and keep them salivating, Square Enix has revealed information r
News Yet More Hyrule Warriors Details Coming This Week
Set your alarm clocks to HYPE
In the same manner as last week, Niconico will be streaming a live presentation with more details on the Zelda spin-off Hyrule Warriors this Thursday. The tweet shown below, from the game’s official account, details the announcement. Two of Nintendo's Zelda veterans, Shigeru Miyamoto and Eiji Aonuma, will both be...
News Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures 2 Confirmed for October Release Worldwide
Paczilla is a thing
Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures 2 is proof that, despite the fact it may not have been on most radars or enjoyed glowing reviews, the first entry in the game series was a reasonable success. Its role accompanying the CG animated TV show doesn't do it any harm, either. Bandai Namco has now pinned down the sequel's release...
Video Check Out the Full Console Wars Panel From Comic-Con
Representatives from Sega and Nintendo were in attendance
While Nintendo and Sega are now often partners, with exclusive Sonic games on big N systems, in particular, gamers of a certain age or with some awareness of gaming history will know very well that things used to be very different. During the late '80s and '90s the two companies were the core...
News Two Tribes Announces New 2D Shooter, RIVE
Keen to bring it to Wii U
Two Tribes is a download developer best known for its Toki Tori releases, but has also published and ported a wide range of titles to Nintendo hardware, with notable recent examples being the Two Tribes Classics range on the Wii U. After financial problems the company had to reboot and shut down its development business,...
News Giana Sisters Developer Under Fire Over Dieselstormers Name
A different sort of fuel crisis
You’ll most likely know the Germany-based Black Forest Games for its excellent Giana Sisters: Twisted Dreams on the Wii U eShop, but in the run up to its new project — DieselStormers — the developer has come under fire for choosing that particular title. Italian clothing company DIESEL has filed legal...
News Atlus Teases New Game Announcements Plus Brand New IP
Definitely not another Persona, may be "not broccoli"
Late 2014 and early 2015 look to be all about Persona titles at Atlus with Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth, Persona 4: Dancing All Night, and Persona 4: Aerna Ultimax set to release for various platforms in the coming months. However, in an interview with Famitsu Atlus CEO Naoto Hiraoka and...
Play & Win Join The Grid for The UK Mario Kart 8 Tournament Rematch on Thursday
Another £120 eShop credit up for grabs
Just this past weekend we hosted a special UK Mario Kart 8 tournament in which eShop funds were up for grabs over the course of a 6 hour competition. In the end our planned three prizes — totalling £120 of credit — were split between three racers that hit the maximum score; that's quite an achievement...
Wednesday30th Jul 2014
News Cooking Mama Will Sizzle up North American Shelves this 16th September
A good day to fry hard
Mama knows you're just being modest when you push your 3DS away and say you're full. She whipped up another helping of culinary cuteness with Cooking Mama 5: Bon Apétit, and North American players can go up for fifths this 16th September. Majesco Entertainment dropped the release date today. Their updated press release...
Tuesday29th Jul 2014
News PDP GameCube-Styled Wired Fight Pad For Wii U and Wii Listed With November Release Date
Officially licensed, so don't sweat it
Before E3 this year, third-party accessory company PDP announced a GameCube-styled Wired Fight Pad that functions as a Wii Classic Controller (plugging into a Wii Remote), making it compatible with games on the last-gen system as well as some on the Wii U — it was clearly being produced with Super Smash Bros...
Monday28th Jul 2014
Hardware Review AtGames Arcade Gamer Portable
Sega's Master System and Game Gear hardware gets cloned
Nintendo may be fiercely protective of its vintage games and retro hardware, but former rival Sega isn't quite so precious about where its former classics end up these days. We've already seen the likes of Sonic, Golden Axe and Streets of Rage migrate to practically every modern format under...
Review Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land (Wii U eShop / GBA)
Full of promise, or just hot air?
Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land is in fact a remake of Kirby's Adventure, Kirby's first outing on the NES from 1993. While it isn't his original adventure (that honour goes to Kirby's Dream Land), it is the first instance in which he was able to use his now classic copy ability. The remake — which originally...
Nintendo Download 31st July (Europe)
XType, Ice Cream heroes, racing, bombing, loads of discounts and more
Monday morning means Nintendo Download Update news for European gamers, as we learn what's coming to the region later this week. It's a packed schedule, with a mix of new titles on both Wii U and 3DS, along with a host of discounts and a new Virtual Console entry. There's lots to...
News Adam West Dusts Off His Bat-Vocals for LEGO Batman 3
Burt Ward else matters?
In true LEGO style, the lightheartedness of LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham has been pushed further yet with an increased character roster and — most importantly — with Adam West joining the cast of well-known stars who will be lending their voices to the game. Veterans of the series will be getting a bit of old-school love...
Review Mega Man 6 (Wii U eShop / NES)
Let battle commence. Awooga!
Arriving on the same day as Mega Man 5 on the Wii U Virtual Console, Capcom has decided to grace us with the final NES entry to wrap up that era of the franchise. Released in 1993, when the SNES was already out and Mega Man X was on the verge of release, Capcom just couldn't let itself say goodbye to the NES and made one...
News Orders Open For Xbox One in China as Nintendo Looks On
Is the big N missing the boat?
Earlier this year China formalised its plans to allow dedicated game consoles to be manufactured and sold in the country, opening the door for conventional systems in a marketplace that had previously consisted of black market goods and legal plug-and-play workarounds; Nintendo has successfully utilised the latter with...
Review Mega Man 5 (Wii U eShop / NES)
Proto Man problems
Over a year ago, the first four Mega Man games were released on Wii U Virtual Console in quick succession. We don't know exactly what took so long for the remainder, but the fifth entry is finally here. As you might expect, Mega Man 5 is quite similar to the four games before it; eight new Robot Masters have appeared, and it's up...
Feature A Week of Super Smash Bros. Wii U and 3DS Screens - Issue Forty Eight
Star Fox! Robin! 3DS menu! More!
After causing quite a stir two weeks ago, the Super Smash Bros. hype was relatively reserved last week, though the 3DS version was particularly prominent in Nintendo's Gaming Lounge broadcast from Comic-Con. On the screenshot front, Masahiro Sakurai continued his fine form on the Director's Room Miiverse community
News Did You Realise Lone Survivor Was Coming to Wii U Later This Year? Well, It Is
Included in the E3 listing
E3 was particularly busy for Nintendo, as the company revealed a number of games for the first time for Wii U — in particular — and 3DS. One that slipped us by was Lone Survivor, which is coming to the Wii U eShop in Q4. In the madness of the event we missed this one in a downloadable release list — it didn't appear...
News Bravely Default Flutters Gracefully Past The One Million Copies Sold Mark
More than half that total sold outside of Japan
Square Enix has revealed that its 3DS JRPG Bravely Default has sold one million copies worldwide across physical and digital distribution systems, with 600,000 of those occurring outside of Japan. The success of the game has had a dramatic effect on Square Enix's future plans; Bravely Default is a...
News Tomodachi Life Sneaks Past Watch Dogs in Single-Format UK Charts, Just Behind Minecraft
3DS title and MK8 outside all-format top 10
With a quiet release schedule and long spell of hot weather, the UK games market endured its second lowest week of unit sales in 2014, and the worst in revenue. Not a great time for retailers, then, and Nintendo has a mix of good and bad news to consider. The positive news comes in the single-format...
News Take Pleasure In The Stupidity Of Your Friends In IQ Test, Coming To The Wii U eShop July 31st
“Have a great time watching your friends fail”
Ninja Pig Studios has announced its latest game IQ Test will be released in the US on July 31st, at a special launch price of $3.99. After this short period the price of the Wii U eShop title will be bumped back up to an MSRP of $4.99. Alongside this announcement was the official trailer reveal,...
News 2014 Pokémon World Championships Live Broadcast Schedule and Details Confirmed
Champions will be crowned between 16-17 August
The Pokémon Company recently joined Nintendo in taking to Twitch for extensive live coverage of a major event, streaming plenty of action from the US National Championships. It wasn't without problems or immune to criticism, but was certainly a step in the right direction; details for the main event's...
News This Majora's Mask Cake is Legendary
Yep, slow news day
When it comes to The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, Nintendo's successfully kept demand for a remake at bay — speculation and iffy-looking shop 'listings' will continue until the end of time, or until a fresh release is announced. In any case, the fanbase for the N64 classic will continue to find ways to honour its status in...
Video Darunia Rolls and Pounds His Way Through Enemies in Hyrule Warriors
Princess Ruto opts for a little more elegance
Hyrule Warriors is now less than two months away, and Koei Tecmo continues to build hype through new character reveals, screenshots and trailers. Last week brought confirmation of Ocarina of Time stages along with Sheik, Darunia and Princess Ruto, and the latest trailer shows the Goron leader in action,...
Sunday27th Jul 2014
Review Glory of Generals (3DS eShop)
Inglorious
The 3DS is no stranger to war games, and CIRCLE Entertainment has been a particularly prolific profiteer, with World Conquerer 3D, European Conquerer 3D and this latest effort, Glory of Generals, all hitting the eShop within the last year. A turn-based strategy game set in World War II, Glory of Generals attempts to stand out from the...
News The Link Outfit and Gear in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is Almost Too Cool
He's even rocking the earring
The upcoming Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, and its predecessor, have had plenty of crossover outfits. One confirmed long ago in Japan that has us particularly excited is the Link outfit and equipment, which promises to add some Legend of Zelda charm to the hunt. The official channel for the upcoming Ultimate release, in...
Feature Ten Wii U and 3DS eShop Games That Are Perfect For Summer
Summer gaming for a little less
Earlier this week we brought you a list of ten Wii U and 3DS games that are perfect for summer, as a starting point to also get community feedback on other favourites for the season. As promised, though, here's a follow-up that's all about eShop titles. These eShop games are all download-only titles, and no Virtual...
News The Mysterious Murasame Castle Set For North American Début on 7th August
See the origin of that Nintendo Land mini-game
The Mysterious Murasame Castle is a Famicom Disk System game from 1986 that's only been known in the West through some cameo appearances and references — most recently through the Takamaru's Ninja Castle game in Nintendo Land. Having recently made its Western début on the European 3DS Virtual Console...
Saturday26th Jul 2014
News You Won't Need To Track Too Much Treasure To Buy Captain Toad
Kmart points to budget price Toad
When we first clapped eyes on Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker we did wonder if it might be a quick spin-off intended only for the Wii U eShop. However, having spent lots of hands on time tracking treasure ourselves with Captain Toad now, we can say our fears were unsubstantiated. This is definitely a fully fleshed...
News NES Remix Titles Coming in Physical Version to North America
A repackaged mix of remixed packages!
Nintendo of America has confirmed that the quirky mash-up challenges of NES Remix and NES Remix 2 will be hitting retail shelves sometime around the holidays. Nintendo announced the offering, currently known as NES Remix Pack, on its Twitter feed during their live event at San Diego Comic Con: [tweet...
News New Pokémon Game Factory Trademark Isn't For A Game, But Its Toys Look Awesome
Lucky Japanese fans
There was potentially a flutter for excitement for eagle-eyed Pokémon fans earlier today, when a trademark for Pokémon Game Factory was spotted; it was filed by Nintendo, Game Freak and Creatures Inc. Its purpose was unclear, and those hoping it was another game in the hugely popular franchise would have been disappointed, as...
Live The Nintendo Gaming Lounge at San Diego Comic-Con
Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and more
It's day three of San Diego Comic-Con, and the second day of Nintendo's live stream coverage of its Gaming Lounge area. Though multiple games are showcased, the focus is on the special Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS tournament— yesterday's winner certainly got into the spirit of the occasion. We can...
Play & Win UK Mario Kart 8 Tournament - Live!
eShop funds up for grabs
Earlier this week we told you about a special Mario Kart 8 tournament we're running for UK racers. The day is here, in which participants have six hours to complete 12 races in a battle for some lovely eShop funds. Details are below, so good luck! What:: Nintendo Life is holding a one-off regional Mario Kart 8 Online...
Live Nintendo Life Plays Mario Kart 8 on Twitch
Aiming for the podium
It's that time again, dear readers, for us to be humiliated by far faster racers by playing Mario Kart 8 live on Twitch. Anthony Dickens and Tom Whitehead will be joining in (12 races) for a tournament we're currently running — with prizes courtesy of Official Nintendo UK Online Store — in the UK. Once we've completed a run...
Friday25th Jul 2014
Feature Where Are The Super Nintendo 3D Classics?
Release these games, the 3DS prints money
The 3DS is a wonderful handheld console and over its short lifespan we've seen 3D remasters of the excellent Ocarina of Time and Star Fox 64. The eShop library has delivered the goods with 3D Classics releases of NES games Excitebike,
News Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS User Interface Shows Off a Wii U Menu
Customisable character sharing the likely function
As is the case relatively often in recent times, Masahiro Sakurai has used his Pic of the Day on a Friday to show something of a slightly higher significance than normal. This time around it's the user interface (UI) from Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, and the focus is on one particular button...
News 3DS System Update 8.1.0-18 is Now Live
Sweet, sweet stability
It's another glorious day, system update fans, as the 3DS (and 2DS) has another download waiting; this is after a bit of eShop and Nintendo Network maintenance in recent days. We're not sure the change will blow any minds, but it sure is stable. Those of you that are system update fanatics know what's coming, but below is the...
Saturday26th Jul 2014
News Twitch is Going to Play Pokémon X on a Modded 3DS
Hold on to your Helix Fossils this 26th July
Twitch's journey through the Pokémon titles has been quite remarkable, catching tons of viewers and somehow nearly indoctrinating them into a crowd-conjured cult. While the original outing received the most attention, Twitchers have been rambling their way through the series and are poised to attack the...
Friday25th Jul 2014
Review Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse (Wii U eShop / NES)
Blood relative
After the success of the original Castlevania title on the NES system, Konami decided to change things up quite a bit for Castlevania II: Simon's Quest. Gone was the straight-ahead platforming action of the original, replaced with a much more rpg-flavored approach that placed more emphasis on item collection and exploration. While...
Review Strike Force Foxx (3DS eShop)
Get to the chopper!
Not to be confused with a certain furry-tailed Nintendo character, Big John Games' Strike Force Foxx is a helicopter rescue game starring humans. Heavily inspired by the 1982 computer game Choplifter, its retro roots show in its simple, action-oriented gameplay and tongue-in-cheek '80s action movie story. There is charm to be...
News One Piece: Super Grand Battle! X Will Cram 85 Different Characters Into Your Humble 3DS
Confirmed for Japanese launch this Winter
The One Piece juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down. We've only just had One Piece: Unlimited World Red here in the west, and Bandai Namco has now announced the next video game adaptation of Eiichiro Oda's famous anime and manga series: One Piece: Super Grand Battle! X. This 3DS offering will feature 85...
News Ace Attorney Trilogy Will Boast Visual and Dialogue Tweaks, $29.99 Price Tag
Any objections?
Capcom has revealed some more details about the forthcoming Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy on the Nintendo 3DS. The collection of games won't be a direct port of the already-available iOS versions, with Capcom stating that graphical changes will be present. The script is also being tinkered with, although it sounds like the...
News Capcom's Mega Man 7 Is Dashing To The Wii U eShop
More Mega Man action
Capcom have been on a roll supporting the Wii U eShop lately, with Mega Man 5, Mega Man 6 and Mega Man Battle Network hitting the store in Europe this week. European ratings agency
News Azure Striker Gunvolt Hitting Japan August 20th, North American Launch Shortly Afterwards
Euro release "being worked out", could have multilingual support
Inti Creates has revealed that Azure Striker Gunvolt will launch in Japan on August 20th, with a North American release coming in the weeks that follow. A European release is also on the cards, with Inti Creates CEO Takuya Aizu telling Silicon
"The game isn't just a simple shooter"
Devil's Third was one of the big shocks of E3 2014. The brainchild of former Team Ninja head Tomonobu Itagaki, it was previously announced for the PS3 and 360 but is now a Wii U exclusive. Speaking to Famitsu, Itagaki has revealed a few more details regarding the game's story, gameplay modes and the process of...
Review Bases Loaded (Wii U eShop / NES)
America’s 8-bit pastime
Is there anything more American than hotdogs and apple pie? Yes. Yes there is. It’s baseball. The answer is baseball. It’s a game that has permeated the American culture and inserted itself firmly into so many of our lives. As such, it comes as no surprise that there are a plethora of video games available based on the...
News Rivyd Announces Kenji: Rise Of A Hero For Wii U eShop, November Launch Expected
Team aiming to create "one of the most difficult games for the Wii U"
Indie studio Rivyd Incorporated has revealed that it is producing a platform title exclusively for the Wii U eShop by the name of Kenji: Rise of a Hero. The title is expected to launch on November 25th, and is being billed as a title for "advance players, or beginners that want...
News Curve Studios Is Bringing Spooky Puzzle Title The Swapper To The Wii U eShop
Space, man
Curve Studios has revealed that it is bringing Facepalm Games' space-puzzle title The Swapper to the Wii U eShop. The game — which is already available on PC and is also coming to the PS3 this August — places you in the shoes of a spaceman exploring a seemingly derelict space station. You are armed with a gun which can create up to...
Events If You're Attending Hyper Japan 2014, Don't Forget To Say Hello
We'll be there at Earl's Court, London for today only
Hyper Japan 2014 — the UK's biggest celebration of all things Nippon — kicks off today at Earl's Court in London, and runs until Sunday. Nintendo is one of the headline partners and will be showing off some of its latest games slap-bang in the middle of the show floor, including Monster...
News Tappingo 2's North American Release Date Is No Longer A Puzzle
It's coming to the 3DS eShop next month
Our very good friend Hugo Smits over at Goodbye Galaxy Games has confirmed that Tappingo 2 will launch on the North Ameircan 3DS eShop on August 28th. The puzzle sequel will retail for $2.99 — the same price as the original Tappingo — and boasts over 100 new puzzles and a zoom mode which makes the larger...
Review Comic Workshop (3DS eShop)
A work of art
Nintendo platforms have never been strangers to art and drawing applications. From Mario Paint on the SNES to 2013's Art Academy: SketchPad for Wii U, there has always been room for artistic pursuits with Nintendo. It should also come as no surprise that the 3DS is already hosting yet another creation tool after the success of Art...
Thursday24th Jul 2014
Talking Point Nintendo Continues to Evolve Its Hype Machine
It's not all about Nintendo Direct any more
Following their introduction in late 2011 and rise to prominence in 2012, Nintendo Direct broadcasts quickly became a primary marketing and awareness tool for Nintendo. In 2013 alone there were 16 broadcasts — counting the E3 equivalent — for the Western market; some were full-blown reveal...
Nintendo Download 24th July (North America)
Fiesta time, toy cars, a Master Reboot, Wooden Sen'SeY and more
It's that time again, North America, for the Nintendo Download details to tempt you into parting from your eShop funds. We have three new titles on the Wii U eShop, an excellent arrival on 3DS eShop, Virtual Console entries on both systems, discounts and more. Let's get to it. Missed...
News NES30 GamePad Brings Old School Control To iOS, Android, Mac, Windows And Wii
Let's party like it's 1985
If you're fed up of using the Wiimote for games like New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Donkey Kong Country Returns, then you might want to take a look at 8Bitdo's new NES30 GamePad controller. A near-perfect replication of the original 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System joypad, this controller brings the concept up to date by...
Review GAIABREAKER (Wii U eShop)
Shoot meh up
Although there are plenty of shoot 'em ups to pick from on the Wii Virtual Console, new games in the genre tend to be quite rare; as a result it's always exciting to see a new addition to a challenging field. Developed by a relatively unknown developer that's only dabbled in mobile phone games before, this particular shoot 'em up is of...
Nostalgia overload with 50 screens
Earlier this week it was revealed that Ocarina of Time was joining Hyrule Warriors with Sheik, Darunia and Princess Ruto, along with stages and other elements to fit in with the game. As has been the case with previous Hyrule Warriors reveals, an initial magazine exclusive has rapidly made way for a deluge of...
Awesome but strange
With the Skylanders series enjoying impressive levels of success over the past few years, publisher Activision is no doubt hoping for more of the same from Skylanders Trap Team. The franchise has often performed well on the Wii, particularly, and Nintendo would love to see the Wii U become one of the top-selling platforms, too...
News Nintendo Serves Up Over Four Minutes of Awesomely Detailed Hyrule Warriors Footage
Shows off the cast, enemies, Skulltulas, cuccos and more
Earlier today Hyrule Warriors appeared in a broadcast on Japanese online service Niconico, with recent details and characters shown off in new footage, including just-announced playable stages and characters from Ocarina of Time
News Sonic Boom Release Dates Are Confirmed for Wii U and 3DS
Official box art also released
Though we've known for a good while that the Sonic Boom games would come during Q4 to join an animated show, toy range and comic book series, official release dates have been held back. Sega's now lifted the lid. Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric — developed by Big Red Button — will arrive on the Wii U on 18th November,...
News Details of Bayonetta 2's Online Co-Op "Tag Climax" Mode Emerge
More risk, more reward
While Bayonetta 2 — like its predecessor — looks to be another high-intensity single player action experience, the Wii U exclusive is also set to include some online play through its two-player co-op "Tag Climax" mode. While it may not be integrated a great deal with the single player adventure, it seems like a potential...
News Trine Enchanted Edition Will Be Casting A Spell On The Wii U Later This Year
Uses the Trine 2 game engine
Finnish studio Frozenbyte has revealed that the original Trine will be launching on the Wii U eShop later this year under the title Trine Enchanted Edition. An updated version of the first title which uses the Trine 2 game engine, Enchanted Edition will boast improved visual effects and mid-level saving. You'll also be...
News The Fantasy Life Adventure Begins in Europe on 26th September
Opening movie shows off various character classes
Update: It seems that a North American release date of 24th October was confirmed in early June (thanks Tops), meaning it'll arrive almost a full month earlier in Europe. Original Article: Fantasy Life was a title given extensive coverage during the rolling E3 Nintendo Treehouse broadcast, with a...
Pick up or put down?
Jewel games are kind of a big deal right now. When we aren’t crushing candy we’re swiping crystals and arranging colours into pleasing lines to calm that casual OCD which mobile gaming has begun to inspire. It’s easy to get lost in the swarm of them on 3DS alone, so Gamelion studio’s latest release
News Tomodachi Life Stage Drops Into Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS
Mii buddies will watch you brawl
While the Wii U version of Super Smash Bros. has had a rather neat Star Fox stage revealed this week, Masahiro Sakurai hasn't left out those looking forward to the 3DS iteration. Its new stage for this week is based on Tomodachi Life, set
Review Me & My Pets 3D (3DS eShop)
Pet-thetic
First thing’s first: the pets in Me & My Pets 3D are not yours. You are running a pet hotel, so they belong to others. Second, things are not in 3D as much as a flat, albeit layered, pseudo-3D. Third, the pets do not resemble real pets as much as colourful rocks that have been given GIF animations. For a game that seems to scream...
News Steel Empire Blasting A Path To The North American 3DS eShop Next Week
Teyon handling the localisation, no European release planned for now
We went a bit potty over Steel Empire when it was remastered for the Japanese 3DS eShop at the start of the year. A classic Sega Mega Drive / Genesis shooter from the early '90s, the game was given a makeover for Nintendo's handheld which included new visuals and an improved...
News Gaist Crusher God Is Getting A Beastly Serving Of Monster Hunter 4 Content
Joining the hunt
Gaist Crusher God launches in Japan on September 4th, and Capcom has today announced that the game will get crossover content from Monster Hunter 4. Players will be able to do battle with famous beasts from the popular title, each boasting a revised look so that they fit snugly into the Gaist Crusher world. Characters will also be...
News Wii U Download Developers Preparing to Host a Live Q & A Chat Next Week
All are welcome
As the Wii U eShop continues to attract more developers onto Nintendo hardware, we're sure to see various approaches as studios seek to reach out and communicate directly to their potential audience. Some download developers with content coming to the store are planning an online event to do just that, through a nine hour live chat Q...
Wednesday23rd Jul 2014
Review Siesta Fiesta (3DS eShop)
A breakout hit
When you learn that a title on the 3DS eShop originally began as a concept for a smartphone game, there's an instinct to take a hesitant step back. On the other hand, Siesta Fiesta is proof that this route to the system can be a blessing — if iOS and Android games can be addictive and fun enough to keep millions of consumers amused,...
Feature Ten Wii U and 3DS Games That Are Perfect For Summer
Remember, you don't want sunburn, so play some games
As you may know, we aim to provide interesting feature content on a daily basis here at Nintendo Life, whether through interviews, Soapboxes, Talking Points or more general articles like this that have a catch-all 'Feature' prefix. It's been challenging at Nintendo Life HQ, though, because the...
News Fret Not, Bravely Default's Agnes Oblige Will Return In Bravely Second
We know it's been keeping you up at night
Those of you who played and completed the original Bravely Default may be worrying about whether or not the game's iconic heroine, Agnes Oblige, will be making an appearance in Bravely Second, which is currently in development for the 3DS. Allow us to put those fears to rest, because information just...
News Dragon Quest X All-In-One Retail Package Will Include Wii, Wii U and PC Copies in Japan
Let the package design nightmare begin
Update: It seems that there will still be three distinct SKUs for this 'all-in-one' version, identifiable with Wii U, Wii and PC branding. Each will still, nevertheless, contain copies for all three platforms. Original Article: Square Enix has announced that the upcoming Dragon Quest X 'all-in-one' retail...
News Nintendo Confirms Comic-Con Mario Kart 8 Tournament and Smash Bros. Live Broadcast Details
Nintendo Live on Twitch starts on 25th July
Update: For those in attendance at Comic-Con, there'll also be an opportunity to have Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS brought to you for surprise game time, details in the tweet below. Original Article: Nintendo has big plans for San Diego Comic-Con this week, with a broad selection of demos being...
News Disney Infinity Guardians Of The Galaxy Playset Wii U Visuals "Closer To Xbox 360"
Studio Gobo spills the beans
With today’s Guardians of the Galaxy play-set announcement for Disney Infinity 2.0, Family Gamer TV had the opportunity to visit Studio Gobo and ask them about where the Wii U version of the game would sit in comparison to the Xbox 360 and Xbox One. When asked whether Studio Gobo were covering all the platforms...
Play & Win UK Mario Kart 8 Tournament this Saturday
Points make prizes
We all like to think we’re pretty good at Mario Kart 8, but there is only one way to decide who deserves the top spot of the podium here in the UK – it’s time for a tournament! What:: Nintendo Life will be holding a one-off regional Mario Kart 8 Online Tournament for our UK readers. The top three qualifying players will...
Review Bases Loaded (3DS eShop / NES)
Can this old timer still make contact?
Back in the mid-to-late 80s, when the NES was the dominant force in video games, cyber sporting wasn’t exactly the complex affair that it is now. With modern controllers having about a dozen buttons and joysticks to manage, it’s common for every one of those to be utilized for numerous functions —...
Video This Cool Slow-Mo Mario Kart 8 Japanese TV Advert Even Features Luigi's Death Stare
Embracing the meme
Nintendo clearly knew it had produced a terrific feature — with Mario Kart TV in Mario Kart 8 — right from the off, strongly featuring slow-mo replays in its pre-release Nintendo Direct broadcast; to humorous effect. That said, Ninty may have been surprised when the Luigi 'Death Stare' went viral in a YouTube video, getting...
News Nintendo Stock Value Climbs to Highest Point Since Late February
Moving up
Nintendo's stock value has had a funny year, with a rapid spike and equally sudden decline showing how temperamental the markets can be. Since late January the big N's stock has fluctuated, but the general trend has been upwards. We reported on this in some detail in late May, with the value heading back to stable levels seen throughout...
News Japanese Video Site Niconico Live Streaming Hyrule Warriors Tomorrow
Footage of new characters in action?
We've already had news regarding new additions to the Hyrule Warriors roster, and tomorrow Japanese video sharing site Niconico will be live streaming footage of the game — presumably showing these fresh combatants in action. The event will take place at 9PM Japanese time, which is 1PM if you're based in
Thursday24th Jul 2014
Video Nintendo Minute Heads to Capcom For Release Dates, Comic-Con Swag and a Mega Man Masterclass
Mega Man Battle Network Hits North America on 31st July
The latest episode of Nintendo Minute is a little different from the norm, as our hosts headed down the road on a short trip to Capcom where they caught up with Brett Elston, the man often tasked with revealing details on upcoming games through the Capcom Unity forums. This episode is worth a...
Wednesday23rd Jul 2014
News Nintendo Offering 3DS Life Sim Tomodachi Life For Half Price At Hyper Japan 2014
Another reason to visit the UK-based event
Nintendo is descending on this year's Hyper Japan event in a big way, not only offering attendees the chance to get their hands on forthcoming Nintendo games, but also introducing a Nintendo Store stand where fans can buy 3DS and Wii U software. Today, Nintendo UK has announced that it will be running a...
News PS Vita Owners Can Now Give Their Handheld That Vital Nintendo Feel
Super Famicom case available in Japan
As much as we adore the 3DS, we're not too proud to admit that the PS Vita is a seriously great handheld, despite what its relatively dismal western sales figures suggest. It's home to some amazing big-name releases and indie titles, and if you already own one but don't feel it's Nintendo enough, we've got the...
News Miiverse Update Allows Screenshots As Favourite Posts and Additional Community Info
Share your favourite Communities with the world
The Miiverse platform is continually being updated by Nintendo, with the recent addition of line breaks not necessarily blowing minds, but doing its part to improve the service. We've seen posts support more characters, improvements to the profile layout and options, and more besides. Yet another...
News Yokai Watch 2 Maintains Dominance as Hardware Sales Fall in Japan
Home console sales continue summer decline
In last week's Media Create chart results for Japan, Yokai Watch stormed the charts with 1.3 million sales. A combination of the growing popularity of Level-5's franchise and the decision to release two versions helped it surpass the lifetime sales of its predecessor in just one week. As expected, Yokai...
News Ice Cream Surfer Rides The Waves to the Wii U eShop on 31st July
Here’s the scoop!
A little while back, we told you about a new game from Dolores Entertainment called Ice Cream Surfer, a side-scrolling shoot ‘em up where you play as one of five unique surfers and fight against the evil forces of vegetables to protect the right to eat desserts. It sounds like a suitably wacky experience; for those of you...
Video Atlus Unleashes the Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth Opening Movie
Link a James Bond opening, after a dozen energy drinks
The arrival of Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth later this year on 3DS no doubt has series and RPG fans interested. Hitting North America on 25th November and Europe on 28th November, it's the first Persona game on Nintendo hardware and will blend a new art style with gameplay elements from...
Tuesday22nd Jul 2014
Quite a cast
Just yesterday we reported on the news that a Goron was being teased as a new playable character in Hyrule Warriors. It seems that tease was just the beginning, as a preview from Famitsu on its latest issue is promising details on three new playable characters. As expected, it's the turn of
News Mario Kart 8 Hackers Show More Mods and an Unused 'Track'
Still no plans, as yet, to make methods public
In early July we reported on YouTube channel MrBean35000vr demonstrating that it had hacked a Wii U and Mario Kart 8, showing changes to text within the game, the console's menu and WaraWara Plaza. The hackers made a point in expressing their opposition to 'cheaters' and stated it was working towards...
Talking Point The Wii U eShop is Raising Tough Questions on Quality Control
Accessibility is generally considered wonderful, but has its downsides
In the coming weeks we're going to tackle a tricky issue here at Nintendo Life, in which we look at the direction of the Wii U eShop and ask whether a change in structure is required. In general the store shows excellent support for all download games, providing each and every...
News Latest Wii U System Update Allows Console To Console Data Transfer
You can now navigate the eShop with multiple controllers, too
Wii U system update version 5.1.0 is rolling out to consoles as we speak, and allows owners to port data from one Wii U console to another. Previously, users were required to send their Wii U consoles to Nintendo in order to transfer information — such as your Nintendo Network ID, game...
Hardware Classics Sega Master System
Everyone's favourite underdog
If you're reading this outside of Europe, then there's a very good chance that your perception of the Sega Master System is one of complete and utter failure. The 8-bit system wasn't even close to contesting the might of the NES in North America or the Famicom in Japan; although Sega at that point was a well-known...
News UK Government Effectively Decriminalises Download Piracy, Raising Importance of System Security
Nintendo is still battling hackers of the Wii U and 3DS
The Wii and DS were compromised for a significant period of their lifespan, with the latter being a victim of rampant game piracy with the sale and availability of R4 cards. Though there are always those that make the case for such devices as a means for obtaining backups of games already...
News Star Fox Stage Revealed for Super Smash Bros. on Wii U
Great Fox from Star Fox: Assault
While there's a decent list of stages already confirmed for Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, more are still being drip-fed to the public through Masahiro Sakurai's Pic of the Day posts. The latest entry introduces another popular — yet neglected — franchise as a battle arena. This time we have the...
News Wii U Purchasing Intent Increases By Half In The Wake Of Strong E3 Showing
Another spin on the "Nintendo wins E3" debate
A recent survey commissioned by IHS in partnership with Gamer Network has revealed that Nintendo's strong showing at E3 caused a massive spike in purchasing intent for the Wii U. Around a thousand core gamers were quizzed on various purchase intentions before and after the event. The Wii U began E3 as...
News Donkey Kong, Pac-Man And Q*Bert Cast Alongside Game Of Thrones Star Peter Dinklage In Pixels
Based on the web short of the same name
Remember Pixels? It was a short film made by Patrick Jean back in 2010, and showed New York city being invaded by characters from famous retro games. The short is being turned into a fully-fledged movie helmed by Home Alone and Harry Potter director Chris Columbus and starring Peter Dinklage (Game of...
News Areal Campaign Suspended By Kickstarter
Update: West Games responds
Update: West Games has issued the following statement: Our Kickstarter was suspended without any warning. As per Kickstarter’s policy, we cannot contact them to find out why. Areal is the spiritual successor to STALKER, in terms of our vision for it and in terms of the team that we have (which includes Alexey...
Video Behold The Insane Destructive Power Of Link's Wrecking Ball And Power Glove Combo
More Hyrule Warriors footage to get you excited
As the Japanese launch of Hyrule Warriors draws ever closer we've starting to see a lot more video content pouring out of Koei Tecmo. This latest footage shows Link's Ball & Chain and Power Glove weapon arrangement, the raw power of which is absolutely terrifying. Link is able to use the ball to...
Weirdness The Cyberith Virtualizer Combines Wii Remote Controls, Oculus Rift and a Treadmill
Immersive, or strange?
Virtual Reality is a hot topic at the moment, with Oculus Rift and Sony's Morpheus at the forefront of bringing the concept forward. The mainstream appeal of these devices is yet to be seen, though both have a lot of investment behind them. There are various gadgets and devices trying to tap into the craze, including some...
News Sonic Boom To Be Playable At Comic-Con, "Never-Before-Seen" Sega Games to Feature
Sonic and co appearing at Archie Comics Booth
The upcoming San Diego Comic-Con line-up, for this weekend, continues to hot up. Sega has revealed its hand, and confirmed that there'll be playable demos of both Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric on Wii U and Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal on 3DS. The games — and spin-off as a whole — will be at the Archie...
Video Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call Footage Shows Legacy of Music for First Six Games
Everyone has a favourite track
It may be unlikely to be a multi-million selling smash hit, but we expect some 3DS owners are pretty keen to get their hands on Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call this September. The expanded version of the original will have plenty of new content, bringing the total number of tracks to over 200; that should keep...
Monday21st Jul 2014
News Rare Co-Founder Tim Stamper Is Back In The Games Industry
Listed as a director of UK studio FortuneFish
As any self-respecting Nintendo fan will know, Chris and Tim Stamper are the siblings who formed famous UK studio Rare. Once part of the Nintendo family and responsible for such hits as Donkey Kong Country, GoldenEye 007 and Banjo Kazooie, Rare is now under the wing of Microsoft — and the Stampers have...
News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Release in Japan Sees New Circle Pad Accessory
Vaguely resembles a Wavebird if you squint
Thanks to console accessories manufacturer Hori, the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 3DS XL are about to get even bigger in Japan. To celebrate the upcoming release of Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Hori is releasing the Extended Slide Pad Controller, a grip controller-style accessory that places a second circle pad...
Nintendo Download 24th July (Europe)
A Sen'SeY, Master Reboot, Siesta Fiesta, Mega Man, discounts and more
It's Monday morning, which means it's time for the European Nintendo Download Update, and the latest line-up certainly starts off our week with a bang. There are three promising new titles on the Wii U eShop, an equally tempting and colourful release on the 3DS eShop, three Mega...
News Mario Kart 8 Sales Increase By Nearly a Third in UK, Moves Back Up the Charts
Pokémon Black and White make surprise return
With the Summer well underway — and with the UK currently enduring a heat wave — it's been a quieter week of game sales in the country, with a drop of 14% in revenue for game sales last week. Nintendo has bucked the trend however, with Mario Kart 8 and discounted DS games enjoying terrific weeks in...
An extraordinary run
In the past we've told you about Cosmo Wright, who continually sets new world record completion times for the iconic The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. He's even explained how it's done, in terms of manipulating gaps in the code through increasingly complicated mov
Feature A Week of Super Smash Bros. Wii U and 3DS Screens - Issue Forty Seven
Rayman! New Challengers! Nintencats! More!
Last week was a big one for Super Smash Bros., with plenty of hype surround a live broadcast that revealed Captain Falcon, Lucina and Robin as new challengers. As you would expect, that dominated the week's new screens. Masahiro Sakurai did also move onto other details in his Dire
News Timespinner Looks Like an Awesome Pixel-Based 2D Metroidvania, and It's Coming to 3DS
Serious success on Kickstarter
There are various ingredients required to form a successful Kickstarter campaign, primarily having a good idea. Yet it also pays to show evidence that the game in question is not only real, but is full of potential. Timespinner from Lunar Ray Games hits that sweetspot. Its Kickstarter campaign started with PC / Mac /...
News It's Almost Time To Bust Some Blocks With Lego Ninjago: Nindroids On Your 3DS
Title launches at the end of the month
While Lego-based franchises such as Lego Batman, Lego The Hobbit and Lego Marvel Super Heroes tend to steal all of the press attention, it's important to remember that the block-building toy line also has its own unique range of video games to fall back on. Lego Ninjago is based on the toys of the same name...
Tuesday22nd Jul 2014
News Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures To Utilise Touch Screen and 3D Effect
Character swapping, stats and info on Wii U and 3DS second screens
Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures has been available on PC for a good while now, yet considering the relevance of Nintendo systems to the YouTube series — which now has a feature movie approaching release — some have been particularly keen to play it on Wii U and 3DS. A recent...
Monday21st Jul 2014
News New Hyrule Warriors Playable Character to be Announced This Week
Rumours and hints point to a Goron
Koei Tecmo is still consistently revealing tantalising new details for Hyrule Warriors in the form of new playable characters, stages and villains. It's the former that arguably raise hype levels the most, as we can all fantasize about crushing hundreds of foes with a variety of iconic characters from the Zelda...
News Ubisoft Confirms Exclusive 3DS Mode for Tetris Ultimate, Along With Online Features
Challenge modes to test Nintendo gamers
There was, unsurprisingly, irritation when it looked like Ubisoft would be bringing Tetris Ultimate to PS4 and Xbox One but not a Nintendo system — it later emerged during E3 that a version is actually coming to 3DS this Autumn / Fall. The company has 'announced' this version somewhat belatedly today, but...
News Areal Passes Kickstarter Goal, Yet More Peculiarities and Questions Remain
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. developers claim support from Vladimir Putin
A while ago we wrote about a Kickstarter campaign from developers (West Games) claiming to be those behind S.T.A.L.K.E.R. and Metro: Last Light, with the Wii U raised as a target. It then all got rather peculiar, as the credentials of the studio were called into question, with much of the...
Video More Mighty No. 9 Footage Arrives to Tempt Us
Including some new scenes
To its credit, Comcept continues to go above and beyond in utilising its Kickstarter page to provide regular updates on Mighty No. 9, which will come to Wii U, 3DS and a host of other platforms in 2015. As part of a regular update it's posted a new video with around two minutes of game footage, a good indication of recent...
News XType Plus Blasting Onto The Wii U eShop on 31st July
Impressive new trailer sets the scene
Earlier this year we drew your attention to XType Plus, an enhanced version of a web shoot 'em up arriving on the Wii U courtesy of the Nintendo Web Framework. It caught the eye by virtue of looking like, on the surface, one of the slickest titles to emerge from Nintendo's accessible development platform...
Matters of Import Opa-Opa Returns In Fantasy Zone II Double
The best port of a port of a remake of a Master System game ever?
Before we start talking about Fantasy Zone II Double, a little history lesson is in order: yay back in 1987 Sega released Fantasy Zone II: The Tears of Opa-Opa on the Master System. This was an all-new home exclusive sequel to the previous year’s arcade hit
News Win a Hometown Story Blue Ember Plushie Signed by Yasuhiro Wada
They're leaving Hometown
Rising Star Games wants to add some adorable to the blue in your Monday by giving away three of Hometown Story's Blue Ember plushies, signed by Yasuhiro Wada. [tweet 491149147299262464] To try getting your hands on one of Hometown Story's cutest characters accessorised with the father of Harvest Moon's very own...
Sunday20th Jul 2014
Review Pop'n TwinBee (Wii U eShop / SNES)
WinBee
It's not particularly well known outside Japan, but for a while TwinBee was one of Konami's main shoot 'em up series. A lot more cutesy than Gradius and the like, its colourful graphics and characters were its biggest appeal. A while back the original TwinBee was remade as a 3D Classic, but now here we have Pop'n Twinbee, one of the few...
News Nintendo of Europe Launching Wii U Virtual Console NES Remix Promotion
Up to 50% off for four weeks
While the Wii U Virtual Console hasn't yet served up all the downloadable treats that we desire, it has thrown up EarthBound and Game Boy Advance games. Nintendo of Europe's keen for you to remember there are a host of NES games, too, and has announced a campaign to encourage you to pick up more of these retro gems...
Monday21st Jul 2014
News Toyota Brings Pokécars to Tokyo Toy Show
They're shinies, but only if you keep them waxed
Pokémon vehicles aren't that new of a thing. Odds are likely you've seen images of a Pikachu Beetle zipping about the Internet. However, Toyota has upped the ante at this year's Tokyo Toy Show by throwing out not only a Pikachu car, but one modeled after Fire-type starter Fennekin as well. Both...
Sunday20th Jul 2014
News SteamWorld Dig May Have a Discount on Wii U For Those With the 3DS Version
Studio is looking into the possibility
A continual complaint for some that own both a Wii U and 3DS is the absence of cross-buy promotions, particularly with Virtual Console games but also with some download titles available on both systems. We have seen recent examples from Nintendo with Pushmo World discounts, and there's been a genuine cross-buy...
Saturday19th Jul 2014
News Check Out the Evolution of Visuals in Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
Mega Evolved from the GBA originals
Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire will arrive in November with a host of new features not possible in the Game Boy Advance originals. There'll be substantial online modes, Super-Secret Bases and a variety of
News Screenshots Disabled in Comic Workshop Miiverse Community
The users aren't happy
Comic Workshop arrived on the 3DS eShop this week and, as the name suggests, provides the opportunity to create and share your own comic creations, making extensive use of the touch screen and 3DS setup. We're in the process of our review but, on the surface at least, it appears to offer a neat tool-set for artistic gamers...
Video Here are Plenty of Awesome Super Mario Bros. 3 Glitches to Try Yourself
Including a particularly tricky but cool way to skip to the end
Whenever gamers argue over which 2D Mario platformer is the best of them all, Super Mario Bros. 3 is normally included in the debate. It pushed the capabilities of the NES and blew a lot of minds when originally released, and still stands up as a terrific title by modern standards. The...
Back in '98 the Treehouse was a team of two
For those that follow Nintendo closely, through its various Direct broadcasts and public events, Bill Trinen has become a familiar and popular figurehead. He may be the Director of Product Marketing at Nintendo of America, a job that saw him nervously watching the time ahead of a meeting while making an...
Friday18th Jul 2014
Poll Which is Your Favourite Super Smash Bros. Challenger So Far?
This week's reveal brought us to 36 in the roster
There's little doubt over what counts as this week's most exciting event, from the perspectives of many Nintendo gamers. The company decided to build hype levels by announcing a special Super Smash Bros. reveal video, and the three minute live broadcast delivered a slickly animated sequence in which...
News Yacht Club Games Gives a Shovel Knight Localisation Update, With Pixel Graphics
Still only at the early stages, sadly
Shovel Knight, from Yacht Club Games, is one of the best titles to arrive on the Wii U and 3DS eShop stores this year — it's a platformer with plenty of loving nods to retro ideas and aesthetics, yet moves beyond mere nostalgia with terrific design and wonderful gameplay. We put it through its paces on both...
Review Anonymous Notes Chapter 4 - From the Abyss (DSiWare)
Four-ev-urrr
The Anonymous Notes series is pretty meta, in a way. For games about eternally slaying monsters in dungeons, they never seem to stop emerging from the eShop themselves. If you’ve been following along with our reviews, it probably won’t surprise you to know that Anonymous Notes Chapter 4 - From the Abyss is very much like Chapter 3,
News This Super Smash Bros. Screen K.O. Shot is a Great Start to the Weekend
It looks awesome in motion
It's Friday, which means many of us can look ahead to a weekend of relaxation and, probably, some games. Sadly the new Super Smash Bros. entries aren't included on our list of games to play, but we can nevertheless get into the weekend spirit with Masahiro Sakurai's latest Miiverse Pic of the Day. This entry is perfect...
News Nintendo of America Launches Camp Miiverse Challenge
Better than Kamp Krusty
It's summertime, so what do you want to do, kids! Play video games indoors, of course, video games that represent outdoor sports. Well, maybe just when it's raining. Of course, some go off to summer camps, where personal hygiene is lost and uncomfortable bunk beds are the norm, which is why those camps are so awesome. As a...
News Violetta: Rhythm & Music Coming To 3DS, Wii and DS, Yet Shimmying Past Wii U
It's a "smash hit television show", we're told
Little Orbit, the masters of licensed games and no doubt literally rolling around in mounds of crisp dollar bills during lunch breaks, is taking another IP and pushing it out as a game. This time it's Disney's Violetta, a "tween telenovela" broadcast in Latin America and Europe, which is coming to 3DS,...
Belgium and Italy set the scene
We can expect Bayonetta 2 to get plenty of attention and marketing from Nintendo ahead of its October arrival, with the Platinum Games exclusive joining Hyrule Warriors as an action game catered to those that prefer quick button taps to cerebral, relaxing experiences. One aspect certainly deserving praise is the...
News Official Nintendo UK Store Adds Cool T-Shirt to Wind Waker HD Hardware Bundle
Or there's the Link Between Worlds 3DS XL with a t-shirt
Update: Nintendo's store is also offering the Link Between Worlds 3DS XL bundle with a retro-styled Zelda t-shirt, for £199.99. Original Article: There are a variety of attractive Wii U hardware bundles doing the rounds at present, with the best surely being the Mario Kart 8 bundle, in...
News Master Reboot to Arrive on the Wii U eShop on 24th July
In both North America and Europe
Throughout this year Wales Interactive has outlined its plans to bring three games to the Wii U, with Gravity Badgers being the first arrival at the end of May. Infinity Runner will be another, which includes 32-player multiplayer, but the next arrival on Nintendo's system will be a title announced at the turn of the...
News Mario Kart 8 Still Competing in Nordic Region Charts, Tomodachi Life Never Has
What's gone wrong for the Mii-sim in the region?
In recent weeks we've been covering the UK charts with, thankfully, some positive results to share. Mario Kart 8 has done reasonably well for Wii U, while Tomodachi Life on 3DS has progressed from a modest start to show impressive momentum, gradually moving up in position. With the recent
News This Pokémon Food Looks Too Good to Eat
Pokénom-nom
Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction — more accurately known as Pokémon XY The Movie - The Cocoon of Destruction & Diancie in Japan — arrives in theatres in the country this weekend, on 19th July. Japan loves Pokémon at the best of times, but with the movie's imminent release there are a variety of special...
News Suica NFC Cards To Finally Be Used, From 22nd July, For eShop Payments in Japan
Here's hoping for Western equivalents
For well over a year now, Nintendo has been stating that it would utilise the NFC capabilities of the Wii U GamePad to support "Suica" cards in Japan. Typically used on public transport — in Japan and around the world in various forms — these swipe cards will allow gamers to quickly pay for a game on the...
News Puzzle & Dragons Z Has Shipped Over 1.5 Million Copies in Japan
Still no solid news on its arrival in the West
There are still some that argue smartphone games don't suit dedicated gaming portables such as the 3DS, and vice-versa; Puzzle & Dragons Z perhaps shows that some titles can succeed in both worlds. A phenomenon on smart devices, this amended version arrived on Nintendo's handheld in Japan late last...
Thursday17th Jul 2014
Guide All You Need to Know on Mario Kart 8 Characters and Kart Customisations
The finer details
Mario Kart 8 is now well-established on the Wii U, shifting plenty of copies and attracting a sizeable and dedicated online audience. Whether trying to beat every Grand Prix with three stars or tackling the increasingly skilful opponents online, securing top spot is not becoming a tricky challenge of fine margins. This is a title...
News Sakurai Explains Why Chrom Didn't Make It Into Super Smash Bros. For Wii U And 3DS
"Compared with other characters, he lacks any unique characteristics"
The recent announcement that Captain Falcon, Lucina and Robin would be joining the cast of Super Smash Bros. on the Wii U and 3DS was both thrilling and somewhat disappointing; although the reveal trailer featured Fire Emblem favourite Chrom — leading
Review The Letter (Wii U eShop)
Return to sender
In The Letter, players take on the role of Michael Kennedy as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of his father. Through a series of hidden letters left by his dad – these are actually labelled “Hidden Letter” despite their pronounced placements in the landscape – Michael receives clues which he follows in his...
Nintendo Download 17th July (North America)
Strike Force Foxx, Mr. Driller 2, making comics and discounts
It's time for the weekly Nintendo Download Update, North America, and this week brings a relatively short list for consideration. The Game Boy Advance library on the Wii U Virtual Console grows again, while we have a mix of helicopter action and comic book production over on the 3DS...
News New Fatal Frame Will Be Spooking The Wii U In Japan This September
Photo finish
Nintendo and Tecmo Koei have lifted the lid on a new Fatal Frame title for the Wii U, which is due to arrive in Japan on 27th September 2014. In a special presentation which featured Nintendo's own Shigeru Miyamoto, the game's Japanese title was revealed to be Zero: Nuregarasu no Miko (Zero: The Black Haired Shrine Maiden). As before,...
Friday18th Jul 2014
News Mario Kart 8 Secures Place as Top-Selling SKU in NPD June Sales, With Hardware Boost for Wii U
Tomodachi Life joins MK8 in overall Top 10
The latest NPD results — which provide data on physical retail sales in the US — have been released, and Nintendo has been confident enough about the outcome to break recent trends and provide a press release update on its position. There are strong numbers for both the Wii U and 3DS. To begin with...
Thursday17th Jul 2014
News Nintendo Dominates List of Top-Selling Games in Japan for 2014
Mario Kart 8 is in fourth place, success for third parties on 3DS
Just this week we've learnt that, in its launch week alone, Yokai Watch 2: Ganso / Honke has become the top-selling game in Japan for 2014 to date, an outstanding achievement for Level 5's dual release. It's also reflective of a year of modest overall sales, but Nintendo has still...
News Dig Your Claws Into The Cat Mario Show On Your 3DS Or Wii U
Child-friendly video now available for free via your Nintendo console
Nintendo of Europe has launched The Cat Mario Show, a new episodic video feature on the 3DS and Wii U eShops aimed at educating and entertaining younger players. The show originally aired in Japan under the title Nyan Nyan Neko Mario Time, and has been dubbed into English...
News Nintendo 'Smashes' Into Comic-Con With Various Games, Tournaments and Events
Smashing
Nintendo has announced its full plans for the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con, with variations of the word Smash unsurprisingly at the core of the message — we'll hazard a guess that it's due to Super Smash Bros. on Wii U and 3DS, and the already-announced 3DS tournament at the event. The company does have
News Disney Planes: Fire & Rescue Flying Exclusively to Nintendo Systems This Fall
That's Wii U, 3DS, Wii AND DS
As we begin to swelter in the summer months, Disney is doing its bit to distract children from wanting more ice cream by bringing Planes: Fire & Rescue to theatres, with screenings kicking off this week in some regions. It's naturally taken the chance to reveal that Disney Planes: Fire & Rescue will also be...
News Archie Announces Sonic Boom Comic Book Series to Accompany Games and Animated Show
And toys, don't forget the toys
Sega is determined to make 2014 the year of Sonic, launching its Sonic Boom spin-off universe with two games — Rise of Lyric on Wii U and Shattered Crystal on 3DS — accompanying a CGI animated series and a range of toys. Ahead of San Diego Comic-Con, Archie Comics has confirmed that there'll also be a comic book...
News Meet LeapTV, The Wii Challenger in 2014
Targeting the 3-8 year old demographic
The Wii was the first home console to successfully bring motion controls to the mainstream market, capturing the attention of consumers and selling over 100 million units. It naturally led to the arrival of motion controlled rivals, whether directly mimicking the Nintendo setup in the form of PlayStation Move...
News Harvest Moon: The Lost Valley Re-Tools Its Item System
Throws in a bag of holding at no extra charge
The ability to raise and lower the land is one of the bigger and more obvious changes seen in Harvest Moon: The Lost Valley, but there are some other tweaks to the farming formula worth noting. In the first of a monthly series of developer diaries, producer Taka Maekawa discusses how the development...
Video Watch Zelda Lay The Smackdown With The Wind Waker In Hyrule Warriors
Getting a second wind
Zelda may be pretty handy with a blade in Hyrule Warriors, but as this latest video attests, she's just as keen to create carnage with the legendary Wind Waker wand. In the trailer below you can watch the traditionally mild-mannered Hylian royal dish out plenty of wind-based punishment on hordes of enemies. Compared to Link's...
Review My Arctic Farm (Wii U eShop)
Feeling frigid
If you read our recent review of BiP Media's pet management sim My Jurassic Farm, you'll know what to expect with its sister release, My Arctic Farm: the exact same experience, but instead of T-rexes and triceratops (triceratopses?) you'll be raising penguins and polar bears. The long-running "My ____ Farm" series began humbly enough...
News Steel Diver: Sub Wars Version 3.0 in Development for August Release
Friend battles, more multiplayer stages, no friendly fire
Steel Diver: Sub Wars was Nintendo's first free-to-play release on the 3DS eShop, offering a limited number of single player missions and online play at no cost; the Premium edition opens up more content, naturally, while additional subs are available separately. It's also a title that's...
Feature Ronimo Games Walks Us Through Swords & Soldiers II
Sheep transformations, hurling meat to heal and more
Swords & Soldiers on WiiWare, and subsequently on the 3DS and Wii U eShop stores, earned fans through its combination of solid real time strategy and bright, colourful humour. Taking a 2D perspective and tasking you with simply researching and deploying units as the battle unfolds, it's an...
Wednesday16th Jul 2014
News Nintendo Goes Download-Only With The 2014 Club Nintendo Elite Rewards
Platinum choices include retail downloads
It's that time once again for the Elite Gifts on Club Nintendo in North America, in which the most loyal gamers in the region get to choose from various rewards after spending a lot of money in the preceding year. Typically these offerings include goodies such as poster sets, CD soundtracks and calendars,...
Review Mario Power Tennis (Wii U eShop / GBA)
Raising a racquet
Originally released on Game Boy Advance in 2005, Mario Power Tennis is unusual in that it takes the tennis simulation genre and embeds it into a role-playing game experience. It’s a combination that works surprisingly well, with the biggest success being a player progression system which allows you to level up your character and...
News Takashi Tezuka: Mario Maker Won't Move Quite Like the Original Mario Bros.
And a 3DS version isn't out of the question
We know that Mario Maker will allow players to craft levels that look akin to the original Super Mario Bros. (among other titles), but will those levels have the same feel of momentum that the NES had? In speaking with Jeremy Parish over at
News Sega Still Considering Its Options For The Wii U Virtual Console
"Sega would like to clarify a statement that was issued over Twitter"
Last week we reported on some comments made by Sega producer Yosuke Okunari on Twitter regarding the company's plans for the Wii U Virtual Console. Sega previously supported the retro gaming service on the original Wii, but has so far failed to update any of its catalogue for...
Optional skimpy clothes are all the rage
One Piece Unlimited World Red is currently available on Wii U and 3DS, and Bandai Namco Europe has now issued details on the latest DLC — this follows on from the free "Red Stands Alone" quest originally issued. The content is apparently live in PAL regions now, with the press release providing the...
News Nintendo of Europe Distributing Tomodachi Life: Welcome Version Through Its Newsletter
You may have mail
Tomodachi Life, to date, seems to be enjoying reasonable sales success on the 3DS. US sales will become clear soon in the upcoming NPD results, but the title has shown solid momentum in markets such as the UK, where it's maintained its performance and gradually moved up the charts. This has no doubt been helped by various...
News Golden Sun: The Lost Age Hitting Japanese Wii U Virtual Console Next Week
Western release should be on the cards
We've already seen the excellent Golden Sun on the Wii U Virtual Console, and next week Japanese players will be getting their hands on the equally brilliant sequel. Golden Sun: The Lost Age was originally released on the Game Boy Advance in Japan in 2002 (and a year later in North America and Europe) and...
Review My Jurassic Farm (Wii U eShop)
Different skin, exact same game
My Jurassic Farm is an exciting concept. Everyone loved Jurassic Park back in the day, right?! It would make a great video game! Sadly, the dino-management genre has been left relatively barren since the wondrous days of DinoPark Tycoon back in 1993. Is BiP Media's My Jurassic Farm the answer? No. No it's not. My...
News Yokai Watch 2 Sells a Whopping 1.3 Million Copies in Launch Week, Boosts 3DS Sales
Wii U sales drop again, but retains top home console spot
The latest Media Create chart results are in for Japan, and they bring an extraordinary début week for Yokai Watch 2, along with a boost in 3DS hardware sales and another dip in the equivalent Wii U figure. To begin with software, Level 5's Yokai Watch 2 — released as separate Ganso and...
News eShop Funds Now Buyable or Giftable via PayPal in UK
No plastic? No problem!
Update: This payment option is also available via the German PayPal site; thanks to those that highlighted this in the comments section. Original article: Digital downloads just got more convenient for UK gamers now that PayPal has been added as a payment option for the Nintendo eShop. PayPal accounts can now be used to...
News Yumi's Odd Odyssey Hooks In Permanent Price Drop In North America
Now just $19.99
Yumi's Odd Odyssey — released under its Japanese name Sayonara UmiharaKawase in Europe — remains one of the most charming titles on the 3DS eShop, a welcome continuation of a franchise seen on systems as diverse as the Super Famicom, DS and PSP, and the first to arrive on Western shores. Its unique combination of platforming and...
Feature A Night At The Theatre With Symphonic Legends
A mixed adventure
On Sunday 13th July the Barbican in London hosted Symphonic Legends, a concert featuring music from The Legend of Zelda. It was performed by the world-class London Symphony Orchestra, with appearances by London Symphony Chorus and the energetic 'classical band', Spark; the arrangements were composed by Jonne Valtonen and Roger...
Video Returning To Rainbow Skies with Fantasy Zone II Double
Twice the fun or double the trouble?
After a brief break with the excellent 3D port of racing classic Outrun, M2 has turned its attention back to shooters with this release of Fantasy Zone II Double in Japan, a neat little compilation of the previously Playstation 2-exclusive System 16 remake of the Master System game Fantasy Zone II: The Tears of...
News Mario Kart 8 Is £29.99 Again At GAME, Today Only in the UK
Don't stall
Not so long ago we pointed you to an enticing one day deal for UK gamers to grab Mario Kart 8 for just £29.99. That was through the GAME online store, and it seems the deal is back for another flash-sale today (16th July), again for one day only. Once again it's the disc version of Mario Kart 8 — which you can grab
News Dahku Creations Bringing Soon Shine to the Wii U eShop
Aiming for mid-August in North America
Dahku Creations, a team of just two, recently made its début on the Wii U eShop with the thoroughly decent platformer Chubbins, and is now returning to the store with Soon Shine. It's set to be a fast-paced puzzle game that's played solely on the GamePad touch screen. The aim is to accumulate high scores...
Tuesday15th Jul 2014
Talking Point Should Nintendo Be Promoting The Wii U GamePad As A Tablet Killer?
Kids love tablets, so why isn't Nintendo shouting about the GamePad?
When Nintendo first lifted the lid on the Wii U and its unique GamePad controller, many within the industry murmured their cautious approval. It all seemed to make so much sense — Apple's iPad had already kickstarted a tablet revolution and second-screen gaming promised big...
Video Mario Kart 8 Isn't The Only New Mario Kart Game You Can Play In 2014
You'll have to leave the house, though
There once was a time when the latest arcade hits were ported to home consoles with great fanfare, but these days most coin-ops are left in their natural habitat. That's been the case with the Mario Kart Arcade GP series, produced in collaboration between Nintendo and Bandai Namco Games. It's a shame, because...
News Sony: PS4 Is "Welcoming Back" Wii Owners Who Skipped PS3 And 360 Last Gen
Remastered PS3 classics are tempting Wii owners, says Sony's Andrew House
Wii owners who decided against buying a PS3 or 360 are flocking to the PS4 in droves, according to Sony Computer Entertainment boss Andrew House. Speaking to Eurogamer at the recent Develop conference in the UK, House echoed recent statements made by Sony Worldwide Studios...
Review Bike Rider DX2: Galaxy (3DS eShop)
Giro della Galaxy
Last year’s Bike Rider DX was a pleasant surprise, bringing auto-scrolling precision platforming to the eShop in a charming, polished, pedal-powered package. Now, fresh from the first game’s world tour, our tireless cyclist returns to take to the stars in this space-themed sequel, Bike Rider DX2: Galaxy. Keeping the same great...
News Here's What Metroid's Samus Aran Would Look Like As A Saturday Morning Cartoon Character
You'll want to hang Wil Overton's awesome art on your wall
Ever wondered what kind of appearance famed bounty hunter Samus Aran would sport if she'd been designed by Hanna-Barbera instead of Nintendo? Allow famed UK artist Wil Overton — formerly of Super Play and Rare fame — to show you. He's produced this amazing piece of artwork which is now...
Review Internal Invasion (Wii U eShop)
Terminal
Imagine a future in which all disease is cured through the aid of tiny nano-bots flowing through your bloodstream. There would be no need for medicine or doctor visits, as all illness would be taken care of internally. It's an incredible proposition that makes for an interesting sci-fi storyline that can be taken in so many directions,...
News Mercedes Reports a Boost in Interest Since Announcing Mario Kart 8 Ad and DLC Deal
Marketing Experts 1 - 0 Jaded Cynics
There were some raised eyebrows when free Mercedes DLC — along with a marketing campaign — was announced for Mario Kart 8 in Japan, and more excitable chatter when that same content was confirmed for the West. Some are indifferent to the whole thing, others are pleased, while there's certainly a contingent...
Video Take a Closer Look At Super-Secret Bases in Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
A place to get away from the grind
One of the various exciting reveals in the past week for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire was Super-Secret Bases, bringing over and greatly expanding — hence the additional "Super" — the feature from the Game Boy Advance originals. These bases will be heavily customisable, of course, and will utilise...
Feature A Week of Super Smash Bros. Wii U and 3DS Screens - Issue Forty Six
Palutena! Patriotic Mario! Pac-Man taunting! More!
Super Smash Bros. has had a busy week so far. Nintendo got the hype started by announcing a new fighter reveal video, and the resulting broadcast brought Captain Falcon, Lucina and Robin into the roster. We've not exactly been short of screens, either, with
News Wii Sports Club Update Arrives, Probably Doesn't Do Much
"Enhancements to improve the user’s experience"
Wii Sports Club has now been released in full as four separate downloads, while it's also now in stores as a retail disc in Europe — that offering arrives in North America on 25th July. The Wii U upgrade to the iconic bundled Wii software may not be enjoying the cultural impact of the original, but...
News Nintendo and Koei Tecmo Hosting Fatal Frame Broadcast on 17th July in Japan
Details of Wii U exclusive on the way
Earlier this year it was announced that a new Fatal Frame / Project Zero title is coming to the Wii U, which is pleasing news for fans of the horror franchise. The series has a slightly patchy release history in the West, however, with Project Zero 2: Wii Edition coming to Europe but not North America, the...
Video Hear The Link To The Past Dark World Theme In a Whole New Banjo Style
It’s dangerous to go alone. Take the mandolin, too
Time-travelling and dimension-hopping hero to video game characters, Ollie Longz, has apparently returned from his little jaunt to The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past’s Dark World with a most interesting artifact. What was originally thought to be an innocuous piece of parchment stuck to the...
News The NES Story Began On This Day 31 Years Ago
We are Family (Computer)
31 years ago today, Nintendo Co., Ltd. released the Famicom console in Japan, an event which would herald the beginning of the firm's wildly successful relationship with home video games. Hitting store shelves at 14,800 Yen (around $145 / £84 / 107 Euros), the system wasn't an instant hit with the Japanese public. Sales...
First Impressions Exploring the Depths of Affordable Space Adventures
A unique challenge
After a first year of struggling momentum, the Wii U eShop library has steadily developed and now has a solid line-up of high-quality games. Some are multiplatform titles, a common reality in this era of game engines such as Unity being widely adopted, and there's also a small batch of experiences unique to the system. A...
News Just Dance 2015 on Wii U To Be Featured in The Nintendo Gaming Lounge During Comic-Con
Take that, Wii version
Nintendo has already confirmed that it'll have a presence at this years San Diego Comic-Con, running from 24th to 27th July. There'll be a Nintendo Gaming Lounge at the Marriott Marquis & Marina located at 333 W. Harbor Drive (adjacent to the San Diego Convention Center), and the big N has already announced a Super Smash...
Video Mario Kart 8 Final Reveals The Top UK Family Racer
Speed demons
After weeks of heats and numerous family competitors, Family Gamer TV whittled the field down to the final four racers in their Mario Kart 8 competition. In a head-to-head final race the families each cheered on their children to complete Toad Harbour ahead of the field. Ben (racing as Mario, top left), Jarvis (racing as Larry, bottom...
News Ninja Pizza Girl Wants Kickstarter Campaign to Deliver
You play as a pizza delivering ninja. Interested yet?
Disparity Games just opened a Kickstarter campaign for its intriguing new platformer, Ninja Pizza Girl, hoping to bring the game to the Wii U eShop should the funding target be me. Drawing inspiration from Sonic the Hedgehog and Mirror's Edge, Gemma the 16-year-old pizza delivering ninja free...
Monday14th Jul 2014
News Best Buy Gearing Up For Enticing Buy One Get One Free 3DS Game Promotion
Starts 20th July, deals on 3DS XL, Wii U Pro Controller and Remotes, too
Now over three years old, the 3DS has amassed an impressive library of games, including plenty developed and/or published by Nintendo. For those still gradually building collections, or perhaps only now jumping into 3DS ownership, there's plenty of choice. Best Buy shoppers in...
News Captain Falcon, Lucina and Robin All Join The Super Smash Bros. Roster
Male and female options for Robin, too
Nintendo has broadcast its quickfire three minute Super Smash Bros. New Fighter Intro Video, during which it revealed three new challengers — one of which is a returning favourite and another with a male and female variation. The headline announcement is likely to be Captain Falcon, the popular figure from...
News New Trailer Shows Cosplay Pikachu & Mega Metagross for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
New artwork, screens and game details to enjoy
The Pokémon Company International has shared a great deal of new detail surrounding the upcoming Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire games coming to the Nintendo 3DS this November. Many of the details revealed today were already previewed in the most recent CoroCoro magazine in Japan, but the...
News Rayman Trophy Revealed For Super Smash Bros. On Wii U And 3DS
Does this mean more Ubisoft on the way later today?
We'll be seeing a new Super Smash Bros. character reveal later today, but that hasn't stopped director Masahiro Sakurai from lifting the lid on another very interesting piece of information: Ubisoft's Rayman will be featured in the game as a trophy. Sakurai dropped the news on Miiverse: In order...
Nintendo Download 17th July (Europe)
EarthBound reduced, shoot 'em up action, GBA Kirby and more
It's Monday morning, which means European gamers can see what treats await in this week's Nintendo Download Update. There are some interesting options, with some new games, another Game Boy Advance title and some particularly enticing discounts. Let's get to the details. Wii U eShop:...
Watch Super Smash Bros. New Fighter Intro Video - Live!
Who will it be?
In a change of approach from previous reveals in Nintendo Direct broadcasts or through simply website updates, Nintendo has been teasing this reveal with a countdown for 4 days. Who will the new Challenger be in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS? [liveblog=watch_super_smash_bros_new_fighter_intro_video_live]#SmashBros...
News AeternoBlade Update Brings Two DLC Options, Including "Super Sexy Bikini"
Yes, really...
Arternoblade is exciting in principle — an action platformer with Metroidvania elements — but is arguably a fairly mediocre experience. In some respects we're fortunate it made it out of Japan at all, nevertheless, as it required crowdfunding to make localisation happen. In any case, developer Corecell Technology hasn't given up...
News These Lucky Kids Got McDonald's Happy Meal Mario Kart Toys Direct From The Brothers Themselves
Envy is a terrible thing
McDonald's has a long tradition of hawking lumps of Nintendo-themed plastic with its Happy Meal range — we still have fond memories of the Super Mario Bros. 3 toys which launched more than twenty years ago. Similar playthings were recently given away in the UK, and in Sou
News Feast Your Eyes On The Official Super Smash Bros. Screens for Robin, Lucina and Captain Falcon
Over 30 images to enjoy
Today, after being given a whole weekend's notice in which to build anticipation, Nintendo revealed Captain Falcon, Lucina and Robin as Challengers in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS. It was a slick three minute video, in which the new character faced off and we also saw two variations of Robin, who can be selected as a...
News Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures Is Leaping To The Wii U And 3DS "Very Soon"
European release confirmed, too
If you're a fan of the Angry Video Game Nerd series then you'll be pleased to know that the interactive spin-off — Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures — is coming to both the Wii U and 3DS "very soon". Developer FreakZone Games revealed the news at SGC 2014 alongside publisher ScrewAttack and then shared the...
News Tekken 7 Revealed At Evo 2014, Platforms Unconfirmed
Powered by Unreal Engine 4
In the past couple of years Nintendo has forged a particularly strong working relationship with Bandai Namco — the latter is heavily involved in the primary development of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS, while also contributing to Mario Kart 8. Unsurprisingly Bandai Namco's also shown support for Nintendo's systems...
Video Fi Shows What She Can Do in This Latest Hyrule Warriors Trailer
Always handy when you can turn into a sword
The roster of playable characters and villains in Hyrule Warriors keeps growing, and last week brought the intriguing reveal of Fi as a playable character, along with plenty of other content derived from The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. Naturally Fi can probably take care of
News Tomodachi Life Climbs UK Charts Yet Again as Mario Kart 8 Stays in the Race
Animal Crossing: New Leaf creeps back into the top 40, too
While gameplay comparisons between Tomodachi Life and Animal Crossing: New Leaf were often made and always a bit wrong, similarities could certainly be identified in their target audience and potential success. As a humorous, rather quirky Mii life-sim, Nintendo no-doubt hopes that it'll be...
News RCMADIAX Is Bringing Super Robo Mouse Exclusively To Wii U
It's not easy being cheesy
Indie developer RCMADIAX has confirmed that its next title is hitting the Wii U eShop as a system exclusive. Super Robo Mouse is set across 20 maze-like stages and tasks the player with guiding the titular android pest through various hazards, including a trio of imposing boss battles. Here's the official rub:...
News Cubit The Hardcore Platformer Robot Update to Add Online Rankings and New Game Mode
Hits Europe on 17th July, possibly within a month for North America
Cubit The Hardcore Platformer Robot has featured in today's European Nintendo Download Update, with a discount and free demo arriving in the region on 17th July. Developer CoderChild has now been in touch to confirm that this is actually part of a promotion accompanying a free...
Sunday13th Jul 2014
Titles like Splatoon offer an alternative
Sony's president of Worldwide Studios Shuhei Yoshida has always had good words to say about Nintendo — he owns not one but two Wii U consoles, after all. He shows no sign of giving up his amiable relationship with the Kyoto firm, and has made some very positive noises in a recent interview with
News Retro-Styled 2D Action Adventure, Midora, Hits Funding Target and Will Come to Wii U and 3DS
Influenced by Legend of Zelda and Secret of Mana
Fans of download games inspired by retro titles should perhaps pay attention to Midora, which has hit its funding target on Kickstarter and will, as a result, eventually arrive on the Wii U and 3DS. With under a day of funding to go the project has raised over $67,000 of its $60,000 target; despite...
Watch Super Smash Bros. Melee Evo 2014 Finals - Live!
Time for the winners to step up
Yesterday brought us the knockout stages of Super Smash Bros. Melee at Evo 2014. It now comes down to a final two hours in the tournament finals, at the end of which a champion will have brawled their way to glory. It's all happening from 1:30pm Pacific / 4:30pm Eastern / 9:30pm UK / 10:30am CET until 3:30pm Pacific...
Interview Nifflas Takes Us On An Affordable Space Adventure
Learn more about the collaboration with KnapNok Games and progress so far
The Wii U eShop is gradually expanding its horizons and bringing us more innovative projects. Two developers that typify a creative, in some cases artful approach, are KnapNok Games and Nicklas Nygren, the latter better-known as Nifflas. The former brought us the innovative,...
Saturday12th Jul 2014
Poll Which Is The Best Legend Of Zelda Game?
Hookshot your vote in
The Legend of Zelda is one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises, and has arguably been responsible for some of the best video games ever created. Since the launch of the original game back in 1986, we've seen the series move from 2D to 3D with assured competence, and this year we'll see a crossover release — in the shape of...
News Latest CoroCoro Magazine Scan Shows Mega Diancie in Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
"Mega Evolution Scoop" promised for August
CoroCoro Magazine, so often the source for exciting Pokémon-related news, hasn't failed to disappoint in the latest issue. Focused on Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire, reveals have included Mega Metagross in addition to
Review Adventure Island (Wii U eShop / NES)
Skate and die
Adventure Island started life as the SEGA-produced arcade title Wonder Boy, which itself was ported to several different home consoles and spawned a popular series of sequels with show-stealing box art. NES-owners missed out on the title, and would have to wait until Hudson Soft teamed up with original developer Escape to release a...
News Cave Story 3D to Arrive on 3DS eShop in North America and Europe This Year
Yep, Europe has been specifically mentioned, too
How many copies of Cave Story does it take to fill up an SD card? Just one of each version released so far, probably. Some games are particularly memorable and brilliant, with Cave Story arguably a good example, so multiple releases are somewhat tolerated. On Nintendo systems alone Cave Story's been...
Watch Super Smash Bros. Melee Evo 2014 Knockout Stages - Live!
It's getting serious
Yesterday brought us the pool stages of Super Smash Bros. Melee at Evo 2014. Today there'll be four hours of quarter- and semi-finals as the world's top players battle for a place in the finals. This time around all of the action will be on one channel, taking place between 10am Pacific / 1pm Eastern / 6pm UK / 7pm CET and 2pm...
Play It's The Second Nintendo Life Community GP in Mario Kart 8 - Live!
Hit A on the 2...
Just recently we announced the second Nintendo Life Community GP competition, and it's now open. Mario Kart 8 has been with us for over a month now and players are getting rather good at it, so this is a chance to show just how good you are. This one is a code-based tournament, to give it that community feel, so below are...
News Yo-Kai Watch 2 On Course For A Phenomenal Début Week of Sales in Japan
Set to be first million-seller in Japan this year
Earlier this week we brought you some comments from Level 5's head honcho, Akihiro Hino, outlining the formula for the success of Yo-Kai Watch on 3DS. The first title had a reasonable but modest start in Japan, before the accompanying anime series boosted its popularity and took it beyond one million...
Friday11th Jul 2014
Review One Piece Unlimited World Red (Wii U)
Not unlimited, but not bad
Eiichiro Oda’s anime juggernaut isn't short of games on multiple systems, and quality can be distinctly variable; the unimpressive One Piece: Romance Dawn on 3DS, with its repetitive gameplay and questionable production values, is one at the wrong end of the chain. In that sense it's tough to know what to expect from the...
News New Fighter for Super Smash Bros. to be Revealed on 14th July
There's even a live countdown for an intro video...
Until now Masahiro Sakurai, his team and Nintendo have revealed new challengers for Super Smash Bros. on Wii U and 3DS through a combination of Nintendo Direct broadcasts and sudden updates on the official website. There seems to be a big announcement coming, however, as they've gone so far as to...
News CoroCoro Magazine Shows the Pokédex and More for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
So many forms of Pikachu, and Amie returns
Following the recent CoroCoro reveal of Mega Megagross for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire, more scans from the magazine have emerged with some additional details and images. First of all, above, we have the Game Boy Advance-inspired Pokédex, which has a rather charming aesthetic; also of note is...
News It Doesn't Look Like We'll Be Seing Sega Games On The Wii U Virtual Console Any Time Soon
Sega of Japan's Yosuke Okunari delivers the bad news
Sega has done a fantastic job of servicing 3DS retro-lovers so far with its selection of Game Gear titles and the critically-acclaimed 3D Sega Classics range. However, the company has been curiously reluctant to bring any of its vintage titles to the Wii U eShop — despite the fact that it...
Watch Super Smash Bros. Melee Evo 2014 Pool Matches - Live!
It begins...
Earlier this week we brought you the Evo 2014 schedule, as the Super Smash Bros. Melee tournament will play a prominent role in the event. So much so that it's actually kicking off proceedings on the main channel. Today brings us 12 hours of Melee mayhem, if we're reading the chart correctly, as the pool matches will be completed in...
First Impressions Throwing Down in Shigeru Miyamoto's Mech Maker, Project Giant Robot
A robot riot
At the very end of Nintendo’s Digital Event at this year’s E3, Shigeru Miyamoto made a brief appearance to announce that he’s been hard at work creating new games that use the Wii U’s dual-screen setup in innovative ways. One of these works-in-progress was Project Giant Robot, an experimental venture that lets players build...
News Wii U Version Of Project CARS Drops To The Back Of The Starting Grid
Delayed until 2015
Bandai Namco has confirmed today that the Wii U version of Project CARS won't see the light of day until next year. The Nintendo version was expected to launch alongside the PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One editions in November, but developer Slightly Mad Games has so far shown no footage of the game running on Wii U — although...
Nintendo Direct Watch the 3DS Third Party Games Broadcast from Japan - Live!
Who knows, some may even come to the West
Nintendo Japan is hosting a special Nintendo Direct broadcast focused on third-party games for the 3DS. With the company's track record of helping others localise games, this should be worth a look...
Video Watch Samus, Mario And Link Duke It Out In Super Smash Bros. For The Wii U
The gloves are off
If you read our impressions of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U yesterday then you'll be aware of the fact that it's shaping up to be pretty special indeed. To confirm this a little more, allow us to present some off-screen footage captured at Nintendo UK's recent post-E3 event in London, England. In it, you'll see plenty of cartoon...
Review Hidden Expedition: Titanic (3DS eShop / 3DS)
An exposition on the commodification of human tragedy
On April 15, 1912, a passenger liner carrying no less than 2,000 travelers struck an iceberg and sank to the bottom of the North Atlantic Ocean. Not properly equipped with the necessary amount of lifeboats and other safety equipment, when the ship sank the vast majority of passengers did not...
News Final Fantasy Explorers Is Hitting Japan This Winter
Still no word on a western release, though
It has been confirmed in today's Japan-only Nintendo Direct that Square Enix's new 3DS RPG Final Fantasy Explorers will be hitting Japanese stores in the winter. The four player title is intended as a stepping-stone into the world of RPGs and will boast famous creatures from the history of the esteemed...
News Renegade Kid Open to Another Kickstarter Campaign, Suggests Demand for Moon Chronicles on Wii U
Not in a hurry, though
Renegade Kid is a popular developer and publisher on Nintendo download stores, enjoying particular success with Mutant Mudds on 3DS, also releasing the deluxe version — previously on Wii U — as a free update this week. Its titles often attract plenty of interest from the Nintendo Life community, for example, with the...
News Yokai Watch "In Consideration in a Big Way" For Release in the West
Level 5's Akihiro Hino outlines the formula for success
Yokai Watch — or Yo-kai Watch as the Western trademark has it — has become a major success on 3DS in Japan, giving Level 5 a timely franchise success as other brands (such as Professor Layton) take a back seat. The company's Akihiro Hino has recently spoken to Weekly Famitsu — via Kotaku...
Play Time for Another Nintendo Life Community GP - 12th July
Get ready!
A while ago we had our first NLife Community GP, which allowed us to take each other on in the terrific Mario Kart 8. There's been a lot going on since that last tournament but now there's no excuse; it's time to do it again. So, let's do this. It's a code-based tournament — this is for the community after all — with all the details...
News Nintendo UK Details The 3DS & 2DS "Made For Play" Tour 2014
Climb Bowser’s Castle and meet Mario, Luigi and Pikachu
Nintendo UK has released details on its 3DS & 2DS Made For Play Tour 2014, which will visit five UK cities this summer and give both parents and their children the chance to see the latest games and take part in fun activities. The tour will feature themed sections — such as Mario's...
Thursday10th Jul 2014
Review Wii Sports Club (Wii U)
Wii Sports Club Assemble!
Wii Sports Club began life as a rather interesting eShop initiative by Nintendo, as sports from the original Wii pack-in were gradually released with multiple purchase options — timed passes for a small amount or a permanent pass for fairly standard download price. With the set of five now complete it's hard to say how...
News CoroCoro Magazine Reveals Mega Metagross for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
It's all rather mega and meta
With the summer ahead and a solid four months still remaining before launch, we can expect the hype around Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire on 3DS to ramp up in the coming weeks. We've recently seen a few more details creep out, and a new Mega evolution has now emerged from the latest scans of CoroCoro magazine...
News Charizard Distribution Event for Pokémon X & Y Coming to GAME UK, Includes Mega Stone
Things are heating up
Pokémon X & Y may have been released last October, but it's still a hub for millions of players engaging in online battles and trading pocket monsters. There's also the Trading Card Game, and The Pokémon Company is taking the opportunity to plug its most recent expansion — Pokémon TCG: XY—Flashfire — by offering a...
Interview Pro Smash Competitors Armada & Mew2King on Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
"The game’s graphics are on a completely different level"
With Evo 2014 around the corner, competitive Super Smash Bros. Melee players are gearing up for one of the year's biggest events. Of course, the new Super Smash Bros. for Wii U will potentially become a competitive main
First impressions HD Brawling with Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
Big screen action
At a first glance, you could be forgiven for assuming that Super Smash Bros. for Wii U is simply a HD refresh of Super Smash Bros. Brawl, especially given that the core gameplay concept hasn't evolved a great deal. Nevertheless, underneath its incredibly polished aesthetics and smooth 60 frames per second speed, there’s a wealth...
Nintendo Download 10th July (North America)
ONE PIECE Red x2, Rabi Laby returns, horror on Wii U and more
It's that time again, North American gamers, for more treats in the Nintendo Download Update. After the madness of last week's bonanza, we settle back to a smaller number of choices this time around. There's a retail release on both Wii U and 3DS, the continuation of a thoroughly decent...
News New Official Hyrule Warriors Screens Show Off Fi, Ghirahim, Skyward Sword Stages and More
Over 30 legendary screens
The Hyrule Warriors hype train, increasingly driven by tapping into our nostalgia for the series and its recent games, is still very much on track. Following early Famitsu reports of Fi as a playable character, alongside a host of references from Skyward Sword, official
News Nintendo Announces Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS Tournament at San Diego Comic-Con
Smashing
While Super Smash Bros. for Wii U is hogging a lot of attention, there's the not-insignificant factor of the 3DS version arriving first — it graces North America and Europe on 3rd October. While Nintendo UK will have the portable brawler playable at HYPER JAPAN later this month, Nint
News Nintendo Direct Confirmed For Japan on 11th July
Focused on 3rd Party 3DS Games
Just days ago we outlined key areas and details that can still be revealed in upcoming Nintendo Direct broadcasts this year; there's plenty of ground that the big N can still cover post-E3. Of course, the Nintendo Direct fever is back up and running in Japan already — not only has there already been a Yokai Watch 2...
Video This Retro-Styled Shovel Knight 'VHS' Guide is a Thing of Beauty
Entertaining and helpful
Shovel Knight isn't just a terrific game, but part of its appeal is its ability to prompt nostalgia for the 8-bit era. Its visuals are too sharp and detailed to actually be a game on the NES, yet it represents how we remember that era — with retro rose-tinted eyeballs, in other words. It's that combination of excellent...
Talking Point Nintendo Rewrote the E3 Rulebook With a Focus on Children
Sharing the experience
With their online press conferences and fan events Nintendo has been doing E3 differently for a couple of years now. This year, though, it broke one of the golden rules of show business — never work with children. A Kid’s Corner initiative brought some hand-picked children into E3 to try out the new games and experience...
News Rising Star Games Is Now Ten Years Old
Celebrates with new brush logo and a promise
Hertfordshire-based game publisher Rising Star Games, the “home of Japanese games,” is celebrating its ten-year anniversary. The company’s announcement page features a splashy minute-long montage video and details how Rising Star is celebrating with events and announcements on the tenth of every...
Wednesday9th Jul 2014
Review Bombing Bastards (Wii U eShop)
Da bomb or just a bomb?
Sanuk Games' Bombing Bastards isn't so much a Bomberman clone as it is an evil twin; it's an evil twin that is fun to be around and easy on the eyes, but it's evil nonetheless. Everything from its subversive premise to its ironically cheery visuals add to Bombing Bastards' slightly off-kilter feel, but it's the gameplay that...
Thursday10th Jul 2014
Video Learn How to Pull Off the Newly Discovered Cloud Glitch in Super Mario World
Lakitu won't be happy about this
As if we needed more evidence of the complexities that run beneath many of our favorite games, a code digger by the name of Masterjun3 has unearthed a glitch in Super Mario World that provides the player a Lakitu cloud in the game's item box. The stunt is executable in the Yoshi's Island 2 stage with just a Yoshi, a...
Wednesday9th Jul 2014
News 3DS On Top As Wii U Remains Highest Selling Home Console in Japan
Mario Kart 8 passes half a million physical retail sales
The latest Media Create chart results for Japan are in, and they continue the trends established over recent week in terms of hardware and software. There are certainly yet more positives for Nintendo, albeit against a backdrop of modest overall industry sales in the company's homeland. The...
News This Retro City Rampage Map Should Be Handy If You Get Lost
Well, it looks nice
Retro City Rampage remains one of the most chaotic titles available on Nintendo systems, with the DX version performing well on the 3DS eShop and Vblank Studios' Brian Provinciano recently providing a sales update on the WiiWare version. It's still short of hitting the required sales threshold on the Wii that wil
News Super-Secret Bases Confirmed for Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire
Online features take them to another level
With Secret Bases being a popular feature in Pokémon Ruby & Sapphire, the odds were always good that they'd have a presence in this years 3DS remake / remaster Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire. The Pokémon Company has now confirmed their return, re-naming them "Super-Secret Bases" and...
News The Wii U Version Of Tengami Is Complete, Age Ratings And Lot Check Still Pending
Looking good on paper
The Wii U version of puzzle adventure title Tengami is now complete and ready to be submitted to Nintendo's Lot Check process, according to developer Nyamyam. The news was posted on the studio's official blog: The version is finished (yay!!!) and we are preparing to go into Lotcheck, Nintendo’s certification process that...
News Super Smash Bros. on Both Wii U and 3DS to be Playable at HYPER JAPAN 2014
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, MK8, a peek at amiibo and more
Not too long ago we confirmed that Nintendo will have a booth and events at HYPER JAPAN in London, taking place at Earl's Court in London between 25th and 27th July. Nintendo's now announced what it'll have on show, and it includes the UK début of Super Smash Bros. on Wii U and
Review City Mysteries (3DS eShop)
Globecluttering
Famous world locations are not a bad backdrop for a hidden object game, although the irony of priorities here must be noted. Eiffel Tower? Whatever. We’ve got a bowling pin and a screw to find! City Mysteries takes item-finding to the proud metropolises of New York, Paris, Moscow, and London, stuffing each scene with enough...
News Stand-Alone Kirby Fighters And DeDeDe's Drum Dash Headed To The Japanese 3DS eShop
Both feature new content, both out this month
Those of you wise enough to have purchased the rather excellent Kirby: Triple Deluxe will be aware that the mini-games included with the title — Kirby Fighters and DeDeDe's Drum Dash — are jolly good fun, and stand-out releases in their own right. It would appear that Nintendo agrees, because the...
News If You Want To Follow Super Smash Bros. Melee at Evo 2014, These Are The Details You Need
Jump between streams like a pro
Evo 2014 is just days away, bringing together the best competitive fighting game players from around the world to compete across multiple titles. After a briefly troubled history last year, Super Smash Bros. Melee has long been confirmed for this year's event. Evo will be streamed fully online, and there's so much...
News Miiverse Update Allows You To List Favourite Game Genres and Add Lines To Posts
Because it's mine, I write with lines
Have you ever been writing a post on Miiverse and thought, "darn it, why won't it let me share my message in multiple, perfectly placed lines"? Or perhaps you're wanted to share with the world that you love puzzle games and platformers above all else? If either of those wishes applies to you, then you're in...
First Impressions Breaking Out With Siesta Fiesta on 3DS
We also chat to Stuart Ryall as release details are pinned down
Siesta Fiesta is a title that we've been keen to play here at Nintendo Life, with the title earning a spot in the Spring Edition of our biggest 3DS games of 2014 feature. A title first profiled — seemingly out of nowhere — by the Nintendo of America booth at IndieCade, it promises a...
Parent Trap Rewriting The Family Gaming Script With Pokémon Art Academy
Family Gamer's Andy Robertson gets his crayons out
What most parents think when you say the words “video game” and what gaming families enjoy are two very different things. Far from the shooting and high impact action many mums and dads assume are the driving force behind the hobby, video games actually offer experiences as creative, imaginative...
News Japanese 3DS Owners Can Enter Sega's Fantasy Zone Again Next Week
Another Sega 3D Classic inbound
We may not have been blessed with 3D Fantasy Zone here in the west yet, but lucky Japanese players will be able to get their hands on the sequel when it launches on the 3DS eShop next week. 3D Fantasy Zone II will be released on July 16th for 762 yen, including tax. The package includes the arcade version, the Master...
Tuesday8th Jul 2014
Review Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal World Duel Carnival (3DS)
Is the first 3DS entry a Dark Hole or a Monster Reborn?
Konami’s Yu-Gi-Oh series has a long and successful history in digital form, perhaps never more so than on Nintendo hardware – a relationship that stretches all the way back from the original monochrome Game Boy right up to Zexal World Duel Carnival, which is both the first 3DS Yu-Gi-Oh...
News Controversy Arises at U.S. Pokémon Nationals With Regards to Cheating
Former champion's illegal Pokémon creates a stir of internet talk
Illegal pocket monsters are not an uncommon sight at any form of competitive Pokémon. Whether it be Pokémon no longer available or those that possess impossible to obtain statistics, thousands of these illegal Pokémon are caught at competition and their trainers are disqualified...
News Kotaku Says YES to the Wii U - Rejoicing Begins
Invaluable positive press for the system
We don't often reference editorial opinion from major websites as news, but as we're forever seeking silver-linings and positivity for the rather marvellous Wii U, we're going to make an exception. Kotaku, one of the most influential — we're talking top three — gaming sites in the world, has upgraded its...
News 3DS System Update 8.0.0-18 is Now Live
Hold onto your hats, things just got seriously stable
On 7th July the eShop stores were down — worldwide — for around five hours for maintenance, and though plenty of work was undoubtedly done the only notable change from a gamer's perspective was that the music seemed to change. We're not going to lie, it was underwhelming. Fear not though,...
First Impressions Going Portable With Super Smash Bros. for 3DS
Anything but a little ruckus
While much attention remains on a home console version of a certain iconic franchise, it's perhaps worthwhile reminding ourselves that Super Smash Bros. for 3DS is now less than three months away and giving us our first fix in the series since Brawl on Wii — we should pay it more attention. As much as Nintendo is...
News Fi Confirmed For Hyrule Warriors Along With Skyward Sword Costumes For Link And Zelda
Oh, and that ball and chain weapon from Twilight Princess
Japanese magazine Famitsu has confirmed that Fi from The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword will be a playable character in the forthcoming Hyrule Warriors. The publication has also revealed that both Link and Zelda will be able to wear their costumes from Skyward Sword, and that the huge ball...
Review AiRace Xeno (3DS eShop)
Kicking it into Xenogear
The fourth entry in Warsaw studio QubicGames' downloadable AiRace series, AiRace Xeno is a natural progression of last year's AiRace Speed on the 3DS eShop – race three different futuristic aircraft at face-melting speeds through nine tough obstacle-filled tracks and try to beat your high score. It's a stripped-down racing...
Wednesday9th Jul 2014
News EarthBound 20th Anniversary Figures Seeing Release in Japan
The third coolest set of figures you can buy
While the Famicom RPG Mother is celebrating its 25th anniversary (a fact Starmen.net is honoring throughout the month), its Super Famicom/SNES sibling Mother 2, known as EarthBound in the West, is turning the big 2-0 this year in Japan as well. To commemorate two decades of EarthBound, toy company Takara...
Tuesday8th Jul 2014
Feature A Week of Super Smash Bros. Wii U and 3DS Screens - Issue Forty Five
Rosalina! Mega Man! New 3DS stage! More stuff!
Super Smash Bros. is still coming, yes it is. We may be approaching a half century of these features, which is bordering on insanity, but Nintendo keeps assuring us that the games are coming, and that it's not all a mass-hallucination as part an experiment for the mysterious Quality of Life platform...
News British Tabloid The Sun Brands Gaming "As Addictive As Heroin"
"The next level of mental health risk"
UK mainstream newspaper The Sun has launched an investigation which claims that video games are as addictive as the drug heroin. The report has been published in today's edition of the tabloid, and can be read online here behind a pay wall. The feature puts forward brain scans as evidence that violent titles...
News Tomonubu Itagaki Thinks Gamers Will Buy A Wii U Just For Devil’s Third
"I feel that ultimately gamers are the ones who make the future"
Devil's Third isn't your typical Nintendo-published title — it's loaded with guns, swords, gore and lady's bottoms. Given the family-friendly nature of the Wii U, you might assume that creator Tomonubu Itagaki would be a little worried that this new title will struggle to find an...
News Dragon Quest X Is Now Adventuring Onto 3DS
Still no word of an overseas release though
We've lamented before on Square Enix's baffling decision to keep Dragon Quest X a strictly Japan-only affair, and now it appears that fans outside Japan have another format to direct their frustrations at with the announcement that the game will hit Japanese 3DS' on the 4th of September this year. The...
News HullBreach Studios Bringing New RPG, Tomeling, Exclusively to Wii U
SDK Paint given rating and is close to arriving, too
Update: HullBreach Studios has confirmed more details for SDK Paint. Unsurprisingly the GamePad will be the main interface, with support file formats including PNG, JPEG, GIF and MPO. It'll have its own dedicated servers and galleries, and there'll be free and paid DLC — some free DLC will also...
News Learn How To Be a Fighting Game Master With This Free eBook
Focused on Super Street Fighter II Turbo
With the Evo 2014 Championships kicking off this weekend — 11th-13th July — it's possible that you're getting into the fighting game spirit ahead of time. While some happily button mash and spam favourite attacks in titles such as Super Street Fighter II and more modern titles, the prospect of mixing it...
News Aussie Rating Outs Wii U Virtual Console Release Of Capcom's Onimusha Tactics
Game Boy Advance strategy spin-off is getting a second chance
Thanks to a rating on the Australian Board of Classification, we can reveal that Capcom's 2003 Onimusha spin-off Onimusha Tactics is coming to the Wii U Virtual Console. Based on the popular Onimusha series of action titles, this Game Boy Advance release takes place on a grid-based...
News The Zeldathon Adventure Kicks Off This Week To Raise a Whole Lot of Rupees
Link to the Cash
While the majority of us play games simply for entertainment or perhaps because it's our biggest hobby, some groups use that passion to set world records, enter competitions or, in the case of Zeldathon, try and raise a lot of cash for charity. The Zeldathon Adventure kicks off on 10th July and will be the 12th fundraiser from the...
Monday7th Jul 2014
News The Club Nintendo Rewards Are Now Updated for July
Kid Icarus! Metal Torrent! Donkey Kong Jr.! Paper Mario!
It's that time once again, as Club Nintendo in North America updates its rewards with a fresh batch of downloads to consider; retro games are the focus in this month's efforts to separate you from your hard-earned coins. We have a 3D Classic on 3DS, a rather fun DSiWare game and two Virtual...
Review Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Edition (Wii U eShop)
A luchador's life
There have been a few examples, so far, of titles making their way to the Wii U as a 'definitive' version. Few have done so with a name quite as tongue-on-cheek as Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Edition, with the game quite literally yelling the extravagant name at you when loading it up. This version — also on PS4 and Xbox...
Nintendo Download 10th July (Europe)
Pop'n Twinbee, virtual Pokémon Trading Cards and various discounts
It's time to start off the week in the best possible way — the Nintendo Download Update. After what's seemed like a particularly busy few weeks this update slows us down a little, with a smaller selection on offer. We do have a terrific shooters and a Pokémon surprise to...
First Impressions Hyrule Warriors Is Zelda, But Not As We Know It
Button-mashing with the Hero of Time
On paper, Nintendo's decision to ally Zelda with the Dynasty Warriors franchise makes perfect sense; Koei Tecmo's series is incredibly popular in its native Japan and Wii U owners are simply dying for another Hyrule-themed adventure to embark upon. However, almost immediately after the announcement of Hyrule...
News Fancy Pattern Vivillon Now Available as Pokémon Global Trade Station Hits 100 Million Landmark
It's the realest Vivillon
Not too long ago — at the end of May — we told you that a fancy pattern Vivillon was to be distributed following 100 million trades on the Pokémon Global Trade Station, with around ten million more required at that point. That seemed like a long way still to go, but evidently was not: that Vivillon is available now in...
Review European Conqueror 3D (3DS eShop)
Go ahead, mention the war
European Conqueror 3D is a title that might inspire a bit of déjà vu in observant eShop gamers, coming less than a year after the release of CIRCLE’s slightly more ambitious-sounding World Conqueror 3D. Like its predecessor, this is a turn-based strategy game that takes cues from tabletop classics like Risk and Axis...
Download copies come with free original via the eShop, naturally
Nintendo's E3 announcement of Bayonetta 2 including a Wii U-enhanced edition of the original Bayonetta was pleasing; it's terrific news for Nintendo gamers, as those yet to enjoy the original can now enjoy both titles in the correct order, with the original even having new outfits and...
News Four Students Set New Mario Kart Marathon World Record
"As a matter of fact this was an incredibly difficult thing to achieve"
Many of us have had some excessively long gaming sessions, after which we may look back and think "what was I doing?!". They can be fun, though, and there are often teams of people that use gaming marathons to raise money for charity, among other things, taking what is an...
Weirdness 3D-Printed Game Boy-Themed Case Covers Raspberry Pi
Far more sensible than whipped cream
The credit-card sized educational computer Raspberry Pi encourages electronics hobbyists to find interesting and fun ways to extend the machine’s capabilities; to celebrate the Game Boy’s 25th anniversary Adafruit user Noe Ruiz has posted an extensive tutorial on how to build a 3D-printed Game Boy-themed case...
Video Midna's Unique Fighting Style Brings Extra Chaos to Hyrule Warriors
Link is the star again, sort of...
Koei Tecmo has been steadily releasing new videos of Hyrule Warriors to show the various playable characters in action, though curiously has been slow to release its Midna equivalent. It's been a slightly odd omission as the Twilight Princess star was revealed as playable a good time ago. Yet still, we now have...
News Mighty No. 9 Has Another Crowdfunding Campaign, in Addition to Pre-Orders
"For this new funding campaign we are looking to add new content"
Mighty No. 9 caused a lot of buzz when announced in summer 2013, with its Kickstarter campaign proving to be one of the most successful to date. What began with a $900,000 goal rapidly stormed past that target to close on $3,845,170; with PayPal contributions added the total reached...
Review Mysterious Stars: The Singer (DSiWare)
Only connect...
Connect the dots, dot to dot, join the dots...whatever you called it growing up, the odds are pretty good you didn't think the game would be improved by a storyline. That's unfortunate, because that's the one thing Mysterious Stars: The Singer has to differentiate itself from an inexpensive book of similar puzzles. Well, no, that's...
Video Mighty No. 9: The Animated Series Gets A Slick Teaser Trailer
Japanese studio Digital Frontier does the honours
It was confirmed a while back that we could be seeing a Mighty No. 9 live-action movie in the not-too-distant future, but it would appear that Beck and friends could be hitting our screens sooner than expected. Japanese studio Digital Frontier has put together a teaser trailer for a proposed...
News Independent Retailers in the UK Will Be Able to Sell Nintendo Download Games
Retail and download-only eShop cards coming to smaller retailers
It's been said often enough that the eShop platforms will become even more important for Nintendo in the coming months and years, particularly as competition for shelf space and an increasingly download-happy public look for alternatives to physical media. Traditional retail still...
News Retail Promotions Prompt Tomodachi Life to Continue Climb in UK Charts
Life in the old Mii yet
Tomodachi Life made a modest UK chart début when it launched in early June, not exactly shaming itself but struggling to make a significant impact. Since then, however, Nintendo of America has been making positive noises about its performance in its region and, in the UK charts at least, the Mii-sim has not only seen a...
Video Don't Miss The Thrilling Final Episode Of Days Of Our Tomodachi Lives
Dancing! Fighting! Music! Risky stunts!
All good things have to come to an end, and today we bring you the final episode of Days of Our Tomodachi Lives, our epic soap opera made entirely in Tomodachi Life. This week's parting show features the talents of Sarah "Punkie / thehoppypoppy" Walsh, and boasts the usual eclectic mix of fights, music and...
Sunday6th Jul 2014
Talking Point With E3 Long Gone, Nintendo Still Has Plenty to Reveal 'Directly' to Fans
Keep the hype train running
While Nintendo's appearance at E3 — widely regarded as a success — was only a little under a month ago at the time of writing, in modern consumer and internet terms that is an age. Since that time we've had some updates on key releases on the way this Fall, and a lot of focus on the wider picture of eShop games and...
News Hacker Claims to Demonstrate an Exploit to Mod a Wii U System and Mario Kart 8
Utilises a browser-based workaround
The Wii and DS systems suffered from extensive hacking and unauthorised mods, which allowed people to create their own apps and, alternatively, download and use ROMS of games for free. The homebrew scene was one aspect, though accompanying piracy was a substantial problem that impacted software sales and has been...
Video You Really Don't Want To Know What Kids These Days Think Of The Game Boy
"You don't just turn it on and get the app?"
Technology has moved at an incredible pace over the past 25 years. Back in 1989, mobile phones were massive and so expensive that only Wall Street businessmen could afford to own one without having to sell a kidney, and portable gaming was considerably less advanced than it is now. The monochrome Game...
News Vblank Entertainment Provides Sales Threshold Update for Retro City Rampage on WiiWare
"It hasn't made a cent in revenue yet"
Retro City Rampage was one of the last major releases to grace the WiiWare service, an anarchic top-down action title that brings to mind the original GTA titles and has enough '80s and '90s pop culture references to cause a nostalgia overload. It's arrived most recently in a definitive, heavily updated form on...
News New Converse X Super Mario Bros. Shoes Are Stepping Into Japan
Yours for just over $200...
Gamers with a love for all things Nintendo often customise and create their own shoes and clothing to show off that dedication in public, but there are definitively fashionable and expensive options available. These Converse X Super Mario Bros. shoes are a prime example. These aren't the first special editions from...
Feature Watch The Pokémon US National Championships Finals Day - Live!
Time for winners to be crowned
Yesterday we had the first day of live coverage for The Pokémon US National Championships, in which players battled it out in Pokémon X & Y and the Trading Card Game for places in the latter rounds. It all gets serious today, as Trainers compete in three classes not just for glory, but also prizes such as travel...
Saturday5th Jul 2014
News Developer Hints At How Minecraft Could Shape Up On 3DS
One for the optimists
Minecraft and Nintendo — a suitable match that's never actually got together. With Nintendo's systems popular with young gamers and the Mojang game being a phenomenon loved by children — and adults too, of course — it seems like a perfect fit. That's particularly the case with the 3DS and its large userbase, while the Wii...
Video DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jeremy Ellis and The Roots Perform an Awesome Super Mario Bros. Remix
Which DJ wins?
With the recent Independence Day celebrations in the US, there were plenty of events and concerts taking place around the country. One of these was the 2014 Philly Jam, and for those watching there was a bit of a retro Mario treat to enjoy. In the clip below DJ Jazzy Jeff — who most may know as Will Smith's buddy and musical...
Feature The Biggest 3DS Games of 2014 - Summer Edition
Portable delights
We just recently published our updated biggest games coming to the Wii U list, so it's now time to move onto the 3DS. Our Spring edition for the 3DS included plenty of games that have since arrived in stores, and there's also been a significant new reveal following that feature that's hyped fans of pocket monsters. This time...
Review My Aquarium: Seven Oceans (DSiWare)
Fishing for something more
Back in the heyday of the WiiWare service, an application titled My Aquarium was made available to all Wii owners through the digital distribution platform. It was so well received — as is evidenced by our review — that a second version was soon developed, appropriately and unsurprisingly titled My Aquarium 2. Now,...
News Buck Rogers SNES Prototype Materializes
From the 20th and 9/10 Century
Licensing can be a fickle playground for developers. The rights that were secured for a brand may suddenly change or be revoked entirely, calling for a change in plans at any time. More evidence of this fact has arrived in an alleged ROM of a prototype Buck Rogers SNES game made by French developer Loriciel in 1993...
News Nintendo Files Patent for "Eye Tracking" Device to Enable 3D Experiences on 2D Displays
Also proposes enhanced experiences through smell, temperature and light
Nintendo may have submitted some rather peculiar patent applications in the past, but the most recent may have some foundation in reality, indicating a potential move into Virtual Reality for the company. It proposes a wearable device — potentially glasses — that is detected...
Feature Watch The Pokémon US National Championships - Live!
Gotta watch it all
In early June we brought you the news that the Pokémon US National and World Championships were confirmed to be broadcast live on Twitch, giving fans a chance to see the events unfold even if they couldn't attend. The US National championships have now rolled around in Indianapolis, so if you want to watch the action unfold this...
Friday4th Jul 2014
News Pokémon Center Online Store Returning to North America on 6th August
Pokémon merchandise without the need to import
The Pokémon Center stores, a common sight in the Japanese market, will be making the trek across the Atlantic and will launch an online store in North America later this summer. The online store will launch on 6th August and will allow consumers to purchase a variety of merchandise ranging from...
News Those Mario Kart 8 McDonald's Happy Meal Toys Are Now Available in the US
Clap along...
Not too long ago we brought you the news that Mario Kart 8 toys were coming to McDonald's Happy Meals in the US, predicting an early July arrival. Well, they're now available, and looking rather charming. As reported before and as the image above shows, there are seven toys to collect in addition to a Mario visor, and they'll be...
News You May Need This Super Famicom or SNES Game Boy Advance System in Your Life
Deep breath...
Well constructed mods of retro systems are among our favourite things here at Nintendo Life, and we recently featured GameBoyMods.uk's Shaun Jones, who unsurprisingly specialises in modding the original 'brick' system. We also interviewed Matthew "Wiggy" Wiggins of Rose Colored Gaming last year, a company that specialises in gorgeous...
Feature The Biggest Wii U Games of 2014 - Summer Edition
E3 has shaken things up
You should now be fairly familiar with our quarterly tradition of looking at the biggest games coming to the Wii U. Our Spring edition had some games that have since fallen out of a 2014 release, as it was pulled together at a time when 'TBC' was far too common as a release window on Wii U games — alternatively, some...
Super Sonic Puzzle Galaxy
There's been a lot of great eShop content as of late, but not many examples have been in the works for as long as Armillo, which was first announced way back in 2011. Now that it's finally here, were those years in development well spent? In Armillo, you take the role of the titular character, a space armadillo, who is...
Review BrickBlast U! (Wii U eShop)
Bricked
The Wii U's compatibility with tool-sets such as Unity and the Nintendo Web Framework has made the platform accessible to small, independent developers whose games would otherwise not be available on consoles due to high costs and other barriers. While this has made for some wonderful eShop experiences — Ittle Dew and Stick it to the Man...
News 72 Million Kids Are Dying To Get Their Grubby Hands On Smart Toys Like Amiibo
New research bodes well for Nintendo's new "Toys to Life" range
Nintendo may find that the commercial success of its upcoming Amiibo NFC toy range could exceed even the most outlandish of expectations, if new research conducted by Entertainment, media and technology market research firm Interpret is correct. The company recently commissioned a...
Soapbox How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love Tomodachi Life
Still on the fence about Nintendo's life sim? Read on
To me, the allure of Tomodachi Life had always been somewhat mysterious. After the bizarre promo reel shown on Nintendo Direct the title had piqued my interest, but I was hesitant to get on board due to how downright unique the game appeared to be. How could I be sure I’d enjoy a game that is...
Weirdness The Peculiar Questions of a Typical Nintendo AGM
Freebies, frustration and 'interesting' suggestions
This week we brought you some coverage from Nintendo's various comments and assurances given at its 74th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. It's an important event as it enables Nintendo to address concerns and enquiries, and when handled well can help to stabilise those all-important share...
Video This Hyrule Warriors Trailer Shows Off Agitha's Peculiar Moves
If you don't like insects, look away now
Not too long ago Koei Tecmo confirmed, through Famitsu magazine and then its official website, that Agitha from Twilight Princess would be a playable character in Hyrule Warriors; it was an interesting reveal, with subsequent screenshots showing various large bugs being used as part of special moves.
Video Watch Us Gleefully Bust Some Skulls In Hyrule Warriors
So much carnage
Hyrule Warriors is a unique title in that it takes two very popular franchises — Zelda and Dynasty Warriors — and combines them to create a game which should in theory appeal to two very different fanbases. We've got a more detailed hands-on preview going up on the site soon, but in the meantime here's some off-screen footage...
News GAME's One Day Mario Kart 8 Deal, for £29.99, is a Must Buy for UK Racers
Don't delay
Are you a Wii U owner in the UK that still hasn't picked up Mario Kart 8? Perhaps you've seen cheap Wii U system deals and aren't sure whether to take the plunge? This one day deal on the fantastic racer may push you over the edge in either direction. GAME has reduced the disc version of Mario Kart 8 to £29.99 — which you can grab on...
Nintendo Direct Yokai Watch 2 Gets Its Own Broadcast in Japan
Play the 'figure out what's happening' game
Although it's said to be on the way to the West, we're yet to receive firm release details on Yokai Watch, the 3DS title from Level-5 that's enjoying continued success in Japan. That success has certainly been assisted by the accompanying anime series, with the brand as a whole capturing the imagination in...
Thursday3rd Jul 2014
News Nintendo Highlights Hundreds of Developers Working on Games for Wii U and 3DS
The Wii U eShop is strongest in the US
As you may be aware, Nintendo recently hosted The 74th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, in which company management provides presentations to its shareholders and answers a number of questions — Satoru Iwata was unable to attend. The official transcript of that meeting has been published, which...
Nintendo Download 3rd July (North America)
Guacamelee! Armillo! GBA Mario Tennis! WiiWare?! Much more!
It's Nintendo Download Update time, North America, and this week is full of new downloads to try and part you from your funds. Some are highly anticipated on both Wii U and 3DS, while others are rather out of left-field. There's a lot to choose from, so let's stop stalling and get to the...
Review Wii Sports Club: Baseball + Boxing (Wii U eShop)
Swing and a miss
Wii Sports Club has had a rather odd history to date. Released in increments that have been surprisingly spread out, it's attempted to recapture the magic of the Wii bundle title while throwing in Miiverse, MotionPlus controls and GamePad features. Online play has also been a vital inclusion, yet the piecemeal distribution and...
Friday4th Jul 2014
News Shovel Knight Has an Unlockable "Butt Mode"
Sorry, everyone else who wanted to be Game of the Year
In classic retro gaming fashion, Shovel Knight comes with a slew of cheat codes to unlock various perks and quirks. By far the most prominent of these codes has been Butt Mode, which replaces many of the common words in the game (e.g. "Shovel," "Knight," "Magic") with "Butt." Yacht Club Games...
Thursday3rd Jul 2014
Feature Populate Your Copy Of Tomodachi Life With These Famous Faces
Celebs, video game characters and cartoon heroes - they're all here
Because Tomodachi Life uses Nintendo's Mii creation system as basic avatar making tool, it's possible to import a wide range of different characters into the game. With that in mind, we present to you some famous faces to get your party started, including well-known individuals from...
Interview Yoshifumi Hashimoto Tells Us a Story of Seasons and Harvest Moons
Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
As we touched on in our first impressions of Harvest Moon: The Lost Valley, 2014 is looking to be a bumper crop year for farming fans, with Natsume’s upcoming agricultural adventure and XSEED’s Story of Seasons both set to sow the seeds of farming simulation in North American
"We have ideas for Nintendo 3DS which we have not announced yet"
There's little doubt that, among Nintendo's various big-name franchises, The Legend of Zelda is currently one of the most discussed and prominent at the moment. The Legend of Zelda for Wii U was shown for the first time at E3 this year, while Hyrule Warriors is getting closer to its...
Feature Breathing New Life Into The Original Monochrome Game Boy
We speak to GameBoyMods.uk's Shaun Jones about the iconic brick
Despite being one of Nintendo's oldest systems, the humble Game Boy continues to bring joy and entertainment to dedicated players all over the world. We've already spoken to Joe Heaton about the Game Boy and its appeal to chiptune composers, and recently we got the chance to catch up...
Review Squids Odyssey (3DS eShop)
Cephaloportable
It might be said that Squids has come full circle. Starting on mobile platforms, The Game Bakers’ brand extended its tentacles to a console experience with Squids Odyssey on the Wii U, which we’ve reviewed. The same game has now found a home on the 3DS, returning to its portable roots with a few small differences. Squids Odyssey...
News Guess What, The Original Mortal Kombat Cast Had A Reunion
Flawless victory
Mortal Kombat may have gained notorious headlines for its blood and gore, but it's important to remember that it made excellent use of digitised live actors — something which gave it a unique edge in the battle against Capcom's Street Fighter II. Last weekend, some of those very same actors — including Lia Montelongo (Sindel),...
Review ZaciSa's Last Stand (Wii U eShop)
Can hardly stand it
Last year's reveal of the Nintendo Web Framework was a welcome announcement to independent game developers interested in releasing their work on Wii U. The new platform was quiet at first, but in recent months we've seen an increasing number of games releasing on the eShop that were born of this development environment. Opening a...
"We might be able to create new entertainment that dominates the industry"
If you enjoy debating the state of the video game industry with others, you've no doubt had a number of conversations focused on the kinds of games we're seeing in the medium. In some respects we're seeing rapid evolution, with multiple pay models, platforms and input devices...
Review POKER DICE SOLITAIRE FUTURE (Wii U eShop)
No poker face required
POKER DICE SOLITAIRE FUTURE (or PDSF for the remainder of this review) is essentially the digital equivalent to one of those electronic pocket poker games that your parents or grandparents were hooked on during the ‘90s. Designed to be played on the Wii U GamePad, this budget download offers a solitary take on poker to...
Shigeru Miyamoto - "Human beings have an instinctual love of games"
While a number of Nintendo gamers and observers will have reacted to Nintendo's Quality of Life platform announcement earlier this year with curiosity and wondered what it could mean, there was a substantial group that expressed concern. The reasoning was simple — if Nintendo was...
News The Denpa Men Are Going Free-To-Play In Japan
A reaction to low sales in the west?
The next entry in the popular RPG series The Denpa Men will be a free-to-play title. Denpa Ningen no RPG Free! will launch in Japan on July 23rd, and will feature items which can only be obtained by spending real-world cash. Aside from the teaser trailer below and the rather spare website, we don't have any more...
News If Your Free Mutant Mudds 3DS Update Causes Issues, Just Beat the First Ghost Level
Don't panic!
As you may be aware, your 3DS eShop copy of Mutant Mudds now has a free update waiting for installation — this adds the 20 Ghost levels previously included in Mutant Mudds Deluxe on the Wii U; in fact, the update even rebrands your game on the front screen to have that Deluxe title. This is particularly great news in PAL regio
Video Lana Brings Some Deadly Magic to Hyrule Warriors
Check out the Princess Zelda trailer from last week, as a bonus
Nintendo and Tecmo Koei / Koei Tecmo are certainly putting a great deal of effort into building the levels of anticipation for Hyrule Warriors, with regular releases of new trailers, screens and details on new characters; more playable characters are yet to be revealed. A relatively...
Wearing shades indoors, naturally
Unless you're really keen on Japanese rock music, the name Gackt might not mean that much to you, but take it from us — he's a big name in his own country. Gackt — real name Kamui Gakuto — found fame as a member of the band Malice Mizer, and since going it alone has gained the male soloist record for most top...
Wednesday2nd Jul 2014
News Sega Is Bringing Hatsune Miku: Project MIRAI Remix To Western 3DS Consoles In 2015
Music to our ears
Sega has sold 2.5 million Hatsune Miku games in Japan, and the company has today announced that it is bringing the world-famous Vocaloid franchise to the west in the form of Hatsune Miku: Project MIRAI Remix. This 3DS title will actually be an enhanced version of the Japanese release Hatsune Miku: Project MIRAI 2, and will launch...
News One Piece Unlimited World Red Is Getting Some Free DLC In Europe
"Red Stands Alone" quest will be entirely free to download
To mark the arrival of One Piece Unlimited World Red on Wii U and 3DS, Bandai Namco Games has announced that a free DLC quest will be made available. "Red Stands Alone" is the name of the quest itself, and will boast an increased challenge which will test skilled players. We're in the...
First Impressions Getting Our Hands Dirty in Harvest Moon: The Lost Valley
Farm fresh
Since its initial début on the Super Nintendo in 1997, Harvest Moon has blossomed into something of an institution; a non-traditional RPG that swapped swords for shovels, replaced fighting with farming, and let players find true love among the turnips, it captivated with a unique charm, and has been hooking would-be farmers on platforms...
News Nintendo Scoops Three "Best Of E3" Game Critics Awards
The awards are the reward
Nintendo had a pretty solid E3 this year, and this is reflected in the fact that the company has scored three Game Critics Awards in the annual "Best of E3" round-up. Super Smash Bros. for 3DS was branded the Best Handheld / Mobile game, while its Wii U sibling took home the Best Fighting Game award. Rounding off the trio...
News Persona Q Premium Edition Confirmed For November Release In Europe
Comes with music CD, art book and Tarot cards
It has been confirmed that Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth will launch in Europe on 28th November, and it will be bringing a special "Wild Cards" premium edition package with it. The box includes: Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth game Persona Q-themed protective Nintendo 3DS case "Sounds of the...
News Tomodachi Life Demo Hitting The North American 3DS eShop Today
Limit of 20 plays, no Panda suit
Have you picked up Tomodachi Life yet? Just in case you're still on the fence, Nintendo of America is releasing a free demo on the 3DS eShop today which will allow you to get a small taste of what the game is all about. It's pretty much the same deal as the Move-In / Welcome version of the game, but the demo will be...
Video Hands-On With Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker On Wii U
Going for gold
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker was one of the surprises of Nintendo's E3 this year, taking a minor mini-game from Super Mario 3D World and turning it into a fully-fledged release. We got chance to spend some time with the title at Nintendo UK's recent post-E3 event, and found it to be jolly good fun — check out the footage below...
Video Curve's Jonathan Biddle Takes Us Through Stealth Inc 2 On Wii U
Sneaky stuff
Last week, Nintendo UK held a post E3 event in London where the gaming press that didn't make it to LA were able to sample some of the latest games for the Wii U and 3DS. We were in attendance and got a chance to chat with Jonathan Biddle of Curve Studios — the man behind the brilliant Stealth Inc: A Clone in the Dark and its...
News Bandai Namco Picks up Project CARS for Worldwide Distribution
Still lining up in November
The almost unbelievably stunning racer Project CARS has a new teammate in its garage: Bandai Namco Games Europe, who has announced a worldwide distribution agreement with developer Slightly Mad Studios. According to Bandai Namco's press release, the publisher will be involved with distribution of the crowd-funded title...
News Nintendo To Distribute Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate In Europe And Australia
Just like it did with Monster Hunter 3, in fact
Nintendo has confirmed today that it will be handling the publishing duties for Capcom's forthcoming 3DS title Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate. Capcom will remain the publisher of the game, but Nintendo will take control of sales, marketing, PR and distribution throughout European territories and Australia...
Matters of Import Genso Suikoden Card Stories - Konami's Other Trading Card Game
Suikoden 2 on GBA? Sort of
Konami is certainly comfortable with the popular and profitable Trading Card Game genre, their Yu-Gi-Oh series reportedly selling in excess of twenty-two billion cards all over the world since it was first launched. The digital equivalents have always been warmly welcomed on Nintendo hardware too, stretching all the way...
News Power Rangers Super Megaforce Is Morphin' Its Way To 3DS This Fall
After the last game, the only way is up
If you can't get enough of the Power Rangers then you'll be pleased to hear that Bandai Namco is producing another Mighty Morphin' adventure for the Nintendo 3DS, due for release later this year. Following on from Powers Rangers Megaforce, the imaginatively-titled Power Rangers Super Megaforce will see...
News The eShop Is "A Great Place To Be" And Packed With Unique Experiences, Say Curve Studios
Stealth Inc 2 expected to arrive around October
While the Wii U and 3DS eShops may not have the depth of content seen on the likes of the iOS App Store and Android Google Play market, they're still home to some amazing titles which simply cannot be experienced elsewhere — and that is part of the reason why Curve Studios is bringing Stealth Inc 2...
Tuesday1st Jul 2014
News EA Explains Why It's Abandoning Dedicated Handhelds For Smartphones And Tablets
"You have to make some hard calls when you've got only so many people"
EA's support for Nintendo platforms is pretty lacking in general right now, but the 3DS and Wii U aren't the only systems the publisher is turning its back on — it has all but retreated from the dedicated portable console market, instead choosing to put its efforts into the...
Exclusive Getting Into Sync With Dead Pixel Entertainment's Wii U Exclusive First Person Shooter
"The GamePad is a highly flexible piece of equipment"
If you're trying to get the attention of the average Nintendo fan, mentioning Metroid usually has the desired effect. When Dead Pixel Entertainment announced Sync for the Wii U eShop earlier this year, that particular tactic worked wonderfully; of course, the Wii U exclusivity, intriguing...
Feature A Week of Super Smash Bros. Wii U and 3DS Screens - Issue Forty Four
Massive pixels! Outfits! More Mii characters! Other Things!
Super Smash Bros. is still approaching, as we continue to grasp at straws and say that this week will mark the three month mark for the arrival of the 3DS version. How time crawls when Smash is on the way. Masahiro Sakurai and his team are no doubt gearing up and putting in extra hours to...
Review Monkey Pirates (Wii U eShop)
Banana boat
Despite all the doom and gloom that currently — and unfairly — surrounds the Wii U at the moment, it hasn't stopped indie developers from flocking to the system to release their games. Moreover, a good proportion of developers have even designed their games to specifically take advantage of the system; one only has to look at...
Wednesday2nd Jul 2014
News Mother 25th Anniversary Fanfest Teleports in this 5th July
Celebrating the Zero fans have always wanted
Many of us caught the bus with Shigesato Itoi's quirky RPG series through EarthBound, but well before that came his first game, Mother. Also known as EarthBound Zero, Mother was released July 1989 in Japan and, unfortunately, nowhere else officially since. Not one to dismiss a reason to celebrate their...
Tuesday1st Jul 2014
News Iwata's Approval Rating Rises While Miyamoto's Drops Slightly
Small shifts across the board
The results from Nintendo's AGM are in, and as we already know, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata isn't going anywhere — his approval rating has actually risen over the past year by 3 percent. Last year, his rating was 77.26 percent, but this year's figure is a slightly better 80.64 percent. However, this rise was...
Review Plain Video Poker (3DS eShop)
Plain dealer
Here’s a reviewing conundrum: how does one approach a game that is determinedly designed to be average? This is the case with Plain Video Poker, which does away with pretence by using an adjective in its title that’s been reserved more often for yogurt and M&M’s than anything within the hyperbolic games industry. What this...
First Impressions The Thieves And The 1000 Pokémon Steals Its Way Onto 3DS In Japan
But is it Robin Hood or Dick Turpin?
We've taken a look at The Thieves and the 1000 Pokémon before, but now the free eShop title has been released in Japan we can share some more info and screenshots of this delightfully bonkers little game. You start out by picking one of the three initial Pokémon from Pokémon X and Y, and then you basically...
Video Nintendo UK Sets Its Sights Firmly On The Youth Market With New 3DS Advert
Are you made for play?
We'd like to think that Nintendo UK's new advert for its 3DS and 2DS systems is a knee-jerk reaction to the news that UK children are now more likely to game on a tablet than they are on a traditional games console, but we're not sure even the great Ninty can work that quickly. The fresh commercial focuses on the...
