Review Xenoblade Chronicles 3D (New Nintendo 3DS)
Massive adventure, smaller screens
Game Boy Color ROM loading also bites the dust
News - March, 2015
Tuesday31st Mar 2015
Rewriting the story
Have you ever wanted to leave it all? Just pack your bags, move to a completely new place and start a brand new life? If you've ever wanted to see what it's like to start fresh, now is your chance with the release of Marvelous' latest farming simulation title, Story of Seasons. As was outlined in our recent review of
News Nintendo Direct Confirmed for 1st April, With Updates on Wii U and 3DS
Not an April Fools - Treehouse broadcast after the Direct
It's been a long wait since the last broadcast on 14th January, but we finally have a date and time for the next Nintendo Direct broadcast. It's happening on 1st April at 3pm Pacific / 6pm Eastern / 11pm UK / midnight CET; no, it's not an April Fools prank! Though there have been major...
Talking Point It's Too Early to Write Off the Wii U Over The Legend of Zelda's Delay
The upcoming Nintendo Direct may show why
The delay of The Legend of Zelda on Wii U was undoubtedly disappointing for fans excited about its original 2015 release, but many reacted with a degree of acceptance - better to wait longer for a classic than have an underwhelming end result was a common refrain. We suggested the delay was perhaps good for...
Reminder This is Your Last Day to Register Products on Club Nintendo
Exception of digital products in Europe and Australia
Update: This is also the last day that you can redeem points for an eShop activation code in the Nintendo Network Premium Promotion. Head to the official site to check your account. (Thanks to KJ85 for the heads up) Original Article: It's time for another reminder, which in this case may...
News Nintendo Begins Takedown Proceedings on Super Mario 64 HD Fan Project
Seems harsh
Late last week we shared a small demo that had been created by a programmer teaching themselves to create 3D platforming in Unity - Super Mario 64 HD. The title actually sounds a little grander than the reality - it's one level re-created practically from scratch, that serves as a fun proof of concept with no intention of continuing the...
News Microsoft Once Had Some Pretty Wild Ideas, Including Making Xbox Free And Buying Nintendo
"Name a bad idea and it was something we had to deal with"
Back when Microsoft was looking at entering the home gaming market and working on the first Xbox console, people within the company had some pretty far out ideas - precious few of which actually came to pass, thankfully. Speaking to Gamesindustry.biz, Oddworld Inhabitants' Lorne Lanning has...
News Atlus USA is Localising Stella Glow on Nintendo 3DS for North American RPG Fans
From the makers of the Luminous Arc series
Atlus is really keeping the ball rolling regarding its localised releases. With the impending releases of Etrian Mystery Dungeon and Etrian Odyssey II Untold: The Fafnir Knight already confirmed, there’s now an additional title - a new IP - to join them. Atlus announced today that it will be bringing...
News You Can Now Create Your Very Own Game & Watch Handheld
Soldering skills required
While some believe that Nintendo's domination of the handheld market started with the Game Boy, it was in fact the Game & Watch series which really kicked things off for the Japanese firm. The brainchild of Gunpei Yokoi - the same man who created the Game Boy - these simple LCD portables sold millions during the '80s...
News Did Atlus USA Just Tease Attack On Titan Localisation News By Scoffing A Hotdog?
Stranger things have happened...
We've long suspected that Attack On Titan: The Last Wings of Mankind could be coming to the west - after all, the game has an Australian age rating now - but we're still waiting on official confirmation that it's happening. It would appear that Atlus USA - the company listed on the Australian rating as the publisher...
Video Something's a Bit Off About this New Trailer for The Great Ace Attorney
I mean, they made Watson a little girl?! (Oh wait, not that)
With The Great Ace Attorney, the next installment in Capcom's Ace Attorney series, slated for a 9 July release in Japan, the company is drumming up hype with a new trailer featuring a bold new design choice. Taking the setting back to Meiji era Japan and throwing Sherlock Holmes and Watson...
News Cancelled ZombiU Sequel Prototype Featured Co-Op and Alternate Routes
An apocalyptic setting, too
While pack-in Nintendo Land and New Super Mario Bros. U were the highest profile launch titles with the Wii U, it was certainly ZombiU that was next in line. An 18-rated, gory survival horror experience that made clever use of the GamePad, it was - despite the inevitable flaws that come with a launch day title - a strong...
News Fresh Legend of Kay Anniversary Screenshots Stalk Into View
HD textures and 60fps action on Wii U this May
According to Amazon, the remastered 2005 PlayStation 2 game Legend of Kay will be winging its way to Europe and North America May 29th - thrilling news for fans in Europe, as its release date was originally listed as
News Bandai Namco Is Opening Up Its Classic IP To Domestic Creators
Update: Bandai Namco speaks, programme only applies to Japan
Update: Bandai Namco has been in touch to clarify some of the information detailed in this news item. The company's official, unedited response is as follows: We would like to provide some clarification pertaining to a recent BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Inc. announcement from our Japan HQ...
News Pac-Man Makes a Playable Appearance in Google Maps
It's already 1st April in Japan and Australia...
April Fools' Day has begun, or at least that's how we're interpreting the latest shenanigans from Google. With 1st April rolling around in some countries, there is now playable Pac-Man embedded into Google Maps, which is certainly a fun way to waste time and get directions all at once. When you head...
Video Extended SteamWorld Heist Gameplay Trailer Shows Off Latest Build
Due from Fall onwards, including Wii U and 3DS
SteamWorld Heist, the anticipated follow up to SteamWorld Dig, has evidently been progressing well in development. Image & Form took a new build of the title to various expos in March, and has today released a fresh trailer to show off the strides its made since its initial reveal in 2014. Very...
News Azure Striker Gunvolt HOME Themes All Making the Move to Europe and Australia
Announcement due 'directly' this week (we added 'directly'...)
To those that suggested the rapid removal of online Azure Striker Gunvolt details in Europe - before a tease of upcoming release details for the region - meant a Nintendo Direct was in the offing, a hat tip is due. There is indeed a Nintendo Dir
Monday30th Mar 2015
Nintendo Download 2nd April (Europe)
Xenoblade Chronicles on New 3DS, KAMI and loads of discounts
Another week begins, and as always we have the Nintendo Download Update for Europe to kick it off. The major arrival this week is the first New Nintendo 3DS exclusive, while there's also a rather zen puzzle experience on the 3DS eShop. There are plenty of discounts to consider too, so...
Gallery These Artistic Recreations of Women Characters Set a Different Tone
Samus, Princess Peach and more given a fresh perspective
With March drawing to a close we also have the end of Women's History Month, in which the role of women in various aspects of society are celebrated and highlighted. We previously shared a somewhat quirky effort at participation from Nintendo of America, highlighting a range of characters that...
News Capcom's Gearing Up For a Major Monster Hunter Event on 31st May
Speculation mode, engaged...
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate finally made its bow outside of Japan on 13th February on 3DS, so attention turns to what's next for the franchise. There's a decent chance that we'll learn more on what's next for the franchise on 30th May, with Capcom running a major "Monster Hunter Hunter's Gathering 2015" in Tokyo. While...
News Head Teachers in the UK Issue Warning to Parents on 18-Rated Games Being Played by Children
Will contact police and social services
While video games have age ratings in a similar manner to films, they're often regarded loosely by many. Most that frequent video game stores have a tale to tell of a parent buying their young child the next Call of Duty or GTA release, seemingly oblivious to the fact there's an age rating at all. Sometimes...
Gallery Splatoon Development Updates Show Off Neat Threads, Guns, Videos and, erm, Paper
Also, Octobombers look ridiculous but sublime
There's been a bit of buzz around Splatoon since our last gallery summary earlier in March, and we were fortunate enough to attend some press events to play more of the upcoming Wii U shooter. We previewed the multiplayer and single player modes and also shared a belief that Splatoon is to shooters what...
News IRONFALL Invasion Hits 300,000 Downloads as Free Update Arrives With Enhancements
Gunning for more players
IRONFALL Invasion, the free-to-play 3DS eShop exclusive from VD-DEV, has achieved an impressive number of downloads since its launch in February. It's been announced that the indie-effort has been downloaded more than 300,000 times worldwide so far; the initial download is free and gives limited access to the single-player...
Big bands
With Club Nintendo in the middle of its farewell run, members are in their final few months in which they can spend their stars and coins. The North American platform has gone big with various rewards and downloadable games, and after a bit of a delay Nintendo of Europe recently got in the act with its own range of download games. We've...
News Latest Pokémon Shuffle Update Comes With a Rayquaza Event
These updates are sure dragon on
Pokémon Shuffle is a lot of things - slightly addictive, annoyingly 2D-only, quite fun and slightly tacky in its micro-transactions, but one thing it's not is lazy. Nintendo and developer Genius Sonority keep serving up weekly events and special announcements, along with consistent software updates that are doing...
Video Did You Know Gaming Delves Into the History of the NES
Hopefully, an SNES video is in the works
For those of you out of the loop, Did You Know Gaming is a fun site dedicated to sharing obscure trivia and facts about video games, both new and old. The site also runs a YouTube channel which gets updated on a fairly frequent basis, featuring videos about particular series, companies, or consoles and...
Video Bask in the Glow of These Live Performances from the Xenoblade Chronicles 3D Soundtrack
Gorgeous
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D has many qualities, such as the scale of the adventure and the well-crafted real-time combat mechanics, yet any list of praise should also reference its music. Sweeping orchestral numbers, low-key yet beautiful piano melodies, its range is vast and contributes a great deal to the experience; this is a game to play...
Review Shanghai Mahjong (3DS eShop)
Meagre Matching
Mahjong's long and prestigious history in the East may be well established, but its presence in the West is far less apparent; to say that Mahjong isn't hugely popular outside of Asia would be somewhat of an understatement. Despite that, the sheer number of Mahjong titles currently found on the 3DS eShop seems to suggest its...
News Mario Party 10 Shows Decent Stamina in Second UK Charts Week
Until the small hours of the morning
While it's not quite on the scale of a 3D Mario, Metroid or Legend of Zelda release, there's clearly a decent audience keen to grab new Mario Party titles when they arrive. The Wii U release of Mario Party 10 seems to be a case-in-point, as it's enjoyed a pretty decent first two weeks in the UK charts. In its...
News Yo-kai Watch Localisation Creeps Closer With Anime Confirmation for Europe
The Level-5 franchise that's a phenomenon in Japan
Level-5 has enjoyed plenty of success as a company, with brands such as Professor Layton and Inazuma Eleven, but Yo-kai Watch has been on another level entirely. Just recently the company announced that the IP has sold over seven million games on the 3DS, 200 million Yo-kai medal toys, 10 million...
News Wii U eShop Exclusive psyscrolr Heading to North America on 2nd April
Looks dramatic
This week will bring another download exclusive to the Wii U eShop in North America, with psyscrolr due in the 2nd April download update. With stylised pixel-based visuals, this is an action platformer that also aims to utilise the GamePad extensively in gameplay. As you can see in the trailer below, this fantasy tale is certainly...
News New Star Wars Rebels Table Announced For Star Wars Pinball
Hopefully, its release date isn’t far, far away
Zen Studios has had a historically spotty release schedule when it comes to its pinball tables on the Wii U. In both Zen Pinball 2 and Star Wars Pinball, tables and packs can usually be expected to arrive either later than all other platforms or not at all. Unfortunately, today’s announcement...
Sunday29th Mar 2015
Feature The Best Pro Wrestling Games That the N64 Has to Offer
We're tapping in, not out.
The thought of a modern pro wrestling game these days is often coupled with an eye-roller. They've become as iterative as most sports games released on an annual basis - such as FIFA and Madden - but certainly have far less to offer than the examples just mentioned. What we're left with is a game that's ever-so-slightly...
Review Dot Arcade (Wii U eShop)
Tripping the light fantastic
Judging games for review brings some challenges. How can a tiny indie game compare with a Nintendo-developed blockbuster? We thought about this a lot when playing James Montagna and Andrew Lim's Dot Arcade, a small, highly focused experience that keeps things simple in the name of fun and longevity. While there's not...
News RCMADIAX Takes to Twitter to Outline New Strategy, Release Changes and Move Away from Wii U
"There is a stigma attached to my name on the Wii U eShop"
Earlier this year RCMADIAX, who published the Wii U eShop's first Nintendo Web Framework game, announced that he was planning to step away from the Wii U. The developer has now taken to Twitter to provide a series of updates that indicate a quicker than expected move away from Nintendo's...
Review Super Destronaut (Wii U eShop)
Nice space ya got there…
Copies of other games are nothing new on the eShop - in more ways than one. If there is classic retro style or a suddenly popular gamefad, you can expect someone to throw their own version of it into the ring as well. Whether it comes off as a respected homage or a cheap cash-in is left to the developer, but Super...
News Crunchyroll Pre-Order Bundle for Etrian Mystery Dungeon Includes Extra Goodies
A lot of nice things
When it comes to pre-order and 'first run' extras, Atlus seem to be top of class on the 3DS. For the standard retail price you typically get a nice art book, a CD, or perhaps even both; all as a reward for being an early adopter. That's also the case with the upcoming Etrian Mystery Dungeon release in North America, but the...
Monday30th Mar 2015
News Shantae Premium 3DS HOME Themes are Hitting North America on 2nd April
The heroine and Rottytops take centre stage
Shantae And The Pirate's Curse has been the latest hit for WayForward, released on both the Wii U and 3DS eShop. The third franchise entry, it featured much of the IP's popular cast and was critically acclaimed. It arrived last October in North America and relatively recently in Europe, but WayForward has...
Saturday28th Mar 2015
Feature Ten Must-Play Games for the Nintendo 3DS
As voted for by you to celebrate four years of the portable
With the 3DS now four years old, and now that the New Nintendo 3DS has brought us another iteration with a whole load of features, we decided it was a good time to take stock of ten definitive experiences on the system. To that end we listed 50 retail games - the eShop will have its own...
Nintendo needs a plan B
There'll be a number of Nintendo fans that, if they feel so inclined, can now say "I told you so". After insisting in December 2014 that The Legend of Zelda for Wii U was on track for a 2015 release, despite bold promises of a sizeable integrated game world and innovative ideas, Eiji Aonuma released a video update stating...
News New Nintendo 3DS Region-Free Exploit Now Tweaked to Work on North American and European Systems
Doesn't support ROMS, and impact will be very limited
Not so long ago we shared the news that hackers had found an exploit to make Japanese New Nintendo 3DS systems region-free; notably the creators ensured that it wouldn't support illegal ROMS or homebrew, but only play legitimate cartridges. It was, ultimately, a niche way for region-free gaming...
News Monster Tale on Its Way to the 3DS eShop in a New 'Ultimate' Version
Improved visuals, gameplay tweaks, stereoscopic 3D
It's easy to forget that, in the DS days, there was a market for a number of 'mid-tier' games at retail - not quite triple-A hits, and not overtly casual sims or brain training games, but enjoyable games nevertheless that were well worth checking out. Monster Tale certainly counts as one of these,...
News Two Tribes’ Toki Tori Remake is Coming to the 3DS eShop
How eggsciting
A brief history on the development of Toki Tori. Toki Tori was a puzzle platformer originally launched on the Game Boy Color back in 2002 as a pseudo-remake of an MSX title called Eggbert, but it didn't sell too well due to being released late in the console's life. In 2008, Toki Tori was ported to Wiiware and was one of the first...
News Xeodrifter Currently Being Prepared for European Release
On its way to Australia and New Zealand, too
Update: Renegade Kid's Jools Watsham has been in touch to clarify that the developer is also submitting Xeodrifter for age ratings and publication in Australia and New Zealand, in addition to Europe. Original Article: Getting a game fully certified for release in Europe isn't, unfortunately, as simple...
Friday27th Mar 2015
News The Legend of Zelda for Wii U No Longer Set for 2015 Release
Priority is to "make it the ultimate and most complete Zelda game"
In a blow to Nintendo fans anticipating The Legend of Zelda for Wii U as one of the biggest releases of 2015, series producer Eiji Aonuma has released a development update stating that a 2015 release is no longer the "number one priority". Though worded carefully, it all but confirms...
Remakes and remasters seem like a win-win for Nintendo
In the past 24 hours (at the time of writing) there has been excitable chatter around a 'leak' for a 3DS version of the GameCube classic Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, considered by some to be the best of the charming RPG series. We'd love to believe it - originally shared on Reddit, a...
Poll Vote For Your Ten Must-Play Games On Nintendo 3DS
The portable is now four years old
Today brings the fourth anniversary of the Nintendo 3DS being released in North America, which is certainly a landmark to celebrate following equivalent dates for Europe and Japan. After a sketchy start the system has become an integral part of the current-day gaming landscape, leading the way as a dedicated...
Weirdness Someone's Made a Super Mario 64 HD Demo in Unity
Hopefully Nintendo will leave it be
It's common for budding game developers to utilise Nintendo games as a source of inspiration when learning their craft; the Kyoto company is regarded by many as the finest game creator in the industry, after all. Sometimes these efforts lead to impressive imitations, albeit running the gauntlet of takedown notices...
Breaking out of bundles
The Super Mario series of amiibo toys has, in some cases, been just as hard to find as the Super Smash Bros. run, though gamers in Europe have at least had options with the full range. While the Mario toy has been for sale individually and as part of a Mario Party 10 bundle in PAL territories, in North America this figure has...
New wave of stock in Europe
The stock situation for the rather handsome limited edition Majora's Mask 3D New Nintendo 3DS XL - say that quickly three times - isn't as tricky in the UK and Europe as it is in some area - supply has been particularly low in the US and the broader North America region, for example. Nevertheless, those hoping to grab one...
News New Pokemon Rumble World Web Domain Teases New Brawler
Get ready to rumble
Pokémon is coming back, of course, but it may not just be in the way we all expect. While we eagerly await the announcement of the next mainline game in the monster catching series, a new Pokémon Rumble game may serve to whet the appetites of Pokémon trainers everywhere. A web domain for Pokémon Rumble World has been filed,...
News A New Iwata Asks on Xenoblade Chronicles 3D Recently Went Up
(laughs)
The Iwata Asks series is a quirky little tradition at Nintendo that was started sometime during the last generation of consoles. Each post revolves around Satoru Iwata - the President of Nintendo - interviewing key developers behind various major titles that come to Nintendo consoles. After a year long hiatus, the series came back on with...
News Azure Striker Gunvolt Release Details for Europe Due Next Week, Prompts Nintendo Direct Chatter
Why not, it's Friday!
Azure Striker Gunvolt is taking its sweet time coming to Europe, but that's somewhat understandable with Inti Creates publishing itself and not necessarily having experience of the region's ratings and localisation requirements. As one of the best action games on the 3DS eShop since its arrival in Japan and North America,...
Video What If Super Metroid Was A 3D Classic?
The Last Metroid...Is in 3D!
In our latest series of 3D videos, we've successfully converted a true classic to 3D. You wanted Super Metroid, you got Super Metroid. This phenomenal action exploration game is just calling out for a 3DS remake. Infact, Tom even suggested as much very recently. As always, you'll need to watch this video through the...
Japan Weekly Bravely Second Jobs Revealed and Theatrhythm Dragon Quest Reviewed
Along with a handful of other 3DS and Wii U reviews straight from Japan
Finally — this week's Famitsu has made up for the last couple of disappointing releases when it comes to juicy Nintendo news. While we still haven't heard when Bravely Second: End Layer will make it outside of Japan, that hasn't stopped Famitsu from feeding Japanese gamers...
News Etrian Odyssey Untold 2 Delivers an Artful Launch Edition
Everything an adventurer needs
Fans of the Etrian Odyssey Series will receive a treat with their purchase of Etrian Odyssey 2 Untold: The Fafnir Knight. Those who are lucky enough to pick up the launch edition will receive the official staff book, displaying over 22 pages of art and early character concept art. The book will also include developer...
Video New Rodea The Sky Soldier Trailer Features Plenty of 3DS Footage
The game's best hope of success?
Rodea The Sky Soldier has had a troubled route to release, undergoing a lengthy impasse between developer Prope and Kadokawa Games, in the process shifting from Wii to Wii U and 3DS. It's now nearly out in Japan, however, and is coming to the West later in the year. We've seen plenty of the Wii U version, but it's...
News You Can Pre-Order The Official Splatoon Game Guide On Amazon Now
How to make the perfect mess
A Summer release is right around the corner, and anticipation for Nintendo's inky online shooter Splatoon is at an all-time high. With an ocean of unique mechanics to learn and plenty of content, it's good to know that Prima will be releasing a game guide to help you conquer those slimy octopuses. The 240-page paperback...
Interview Aaron Hamel on Bringing the Mother Original Arranged Soundtrack to the West
We talk about the soundtrack’s history, future projects, and much more
We recently reported on the Kickstarter campaign that has been launched with the goal of giving the Mother Original Arranged Soundtrack a western release. In just four short days the campaign smashed its funding goal and is now well on
Thursday26th Mar 2015
Feature The Legend of Zelda on Wii U - What Do We Know So Far?
What can we expect from the next Zelda adventure?
The Legend of Zelda is due for release on the Wii U this year, provided the game isn't delayed. Yet, Nintendo has released very little on what we can expect from this next adventure. We've taken a look at what footage has been released so far and picked it apart to see if we can find out any new...
Nintendo Download 26th March (North America)
Dot Arcade, LEGO Ninjago, retro Namco goodies, discounts, demos and more
It's that time once again, North American gamers, for details of the Download Update delights heading to the region this week. The Wii U eShop is host to an intriguing Indie effort and some retro Namco goodies, while the 3DS welcomes a retail LEGO Ninjago title and some...
News The Racing Days Are Over For SEGA’s 3DS eShop Drifter, Initial D: Perfect Shift Online
Tofu delivery doesn’t last forever
Although SEGA's Initial D: Perfect Shift Online never drifted our way in the end, the 3DS eShop title based on the long-running manga series still experienced a solid performance in Japan, with more than 500,000 downloads. SEGA has now announced it will end the services for Initial D Perfect Shift Online at the...
Video Using amiibo With Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Toad has never looked cuter!
Last week, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker received an update to make it compatible with the recently-released Toad amiibo figure, and the result is quite a fun little minigame where you must find a tiny Pixel Toad in each of the game's levels. It's strangely addictive and brings new life to the game, which is exactly...
News Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures Looks Set For Wii U on 2nd April
Was originally due back in the past
It's been quite a wait for Nintendo fans of the YouTube trailblazer AVGN, with Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures arriving on PC in 2014 and pegged as being due "very soon" last July. Set for Wii U and 3DS, it will at least apparently utilise the second screen options on both systems. The Wii U version seems to...
News Collector Cases for amiibo Secure Kickstarter Funding
They're just customised plastic, but they work
For collectors and those that enjoy getting a little more out of key Nintendo releases, amiibo have been a revelation. Keeping them safe and in good condition is a challenge though, along with the decision of whether to unbox them, keep them in their packaging or to unpack carefully for the best of both...
Gallery Pikachu's Career-Focused Business Suit is Both Cute and Slightly Sad
When being adorable isn't enough to pay the bills
Until a certain age there's a certain freedom in our choices - the world is there for the taking and anything is possible. Eventually - for most people, if not all - a level of grown-up reality kicks in; bills must be paid, pensions must be considered and following dreams is replaced by chasing...
Weirdness Should Rap Star Iggy Azalea Ever Go To Mars, She'll Be Taking Her Nintendo Handheld
But is she named after the famous Koopaling, that's what we want to know
Australian rapper Iggy Azalea - real name Amethyst Amelia Kelly - is a pretty hot property in the music world right now, despite the fact that she's been referred to as the female Vanilla Ice (sounds like an insult if you ask us). If you need any proof of this, then you should...
Fingers crossed that Nintendo fans can join in
For fans of Bandai Namco and RPGs, the Tales Of - known by many simply as Tales - series likely stands up as a favourite; it all began with Tales of Phantasia on the Super Famicom in Japan, a title that would eventually grace a Nintendo system in the West through a Game Boy Advance re-release. As a...
News Shiny Charizard Distribution Coming to GAME in the UK
This code is on fire
The 3DS generation of main Pokémon titles has, like those that came before on DS, included plenty of distribution events for special 'mon. Many arrive throughout the lifespan of the titles, with X, Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire all benefiting from some treasured extras. Many of these distributions arrive in Japan first, but...
Parent Trap Mario Party amiibo Toys Get Both Genders Battling
Family Gamer's Andy Robertson talks Toys to Life
While my family have well and truly been bitten by the deadly amiibo collecting bug, until now this had been the territory of my two boys rather than my daughter. Although we all play Super Smash Bros. she rarely gets the game out herself. However, the arrival of Mario Party 10 and the related Super...
Review PENTAPUZZLE (Wii U eShop)
PENT-UP PUZZLE
There's nothing inherently wrong with simplicity. When used well, a minimalist approach can be a refreshing way to get back to gaming basics; the recent 50 Pinch Barrage!!, which charmed us with its intuitive and straightforward approach to Pitfall-style platforming, stands as an excellent example of this. However, with the popularity...
News Today Was Reggie Fils-Aime’s 54th Birthday
Let’s hear it for the Regginator
As some of you may have been aware, Reggie Fils-Aime celebrated his 54th birthday today on 25th March, so let's take a moment to remember his best theatrics. Who could forget Reggie’s historical E3 2003 debut? When the then unknown President got up on stage for the first time, he introduced himself to the world...
News Tickets Go On Sale Soon for the Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions Concert Tour
Buy them a day early using a special code
Major franchises that are beloved by Nintendo fans have some of gaming's most iconic soundtracks, and the enduring popularity of the Symphony of the Goddesses tours for The Legend of Zelda demonstrate that live events can be a huge success. It's no surprise, then, that Pokémon will enjoy similar treatment...
News FullBlast Shooting for the Wii U eShop, According to PEGI Rating
Shmup previously on iOS, Android and Ouya
Earlier this week we welcomed the news that twin-stick shooter Tachyon Project is coming to the Wii U, helping fill out a genre that's somewhat under-represented on the home console's eShop. The classic vertical shoot 'em up (shmup) is also largely unfulfilled outside of the Virtual Console, but it seems...
Video Know Absolutely Nothing About Pokémon? Nintendo Family Channel Has Your Back
A handy one-stop guide to a gaming phenomenon
Pokémon has been a part of our gaming lives since 1995 and has sold millions of units across many different Nintendo formats. It has enraptured generations of players and created a merchandising juggernaut which rumbles on relentlessly, even to this day. As hard as it is to believe, not everyone knows...
Wednesday25th Mar 2015
Review Xenoblade Chronicles 3D (New Nintendo 3DS)
Massive adventure, smaller screens
Xenoblade Chronicles on Wii had a slightly messy localisation and release schedule in the West, with North American gamers even victims of a retailer-exclusive distribution. Its arrival late in the Wii lifecycle didn't help its cause, and those troubles on arrival were far from ideal for an RPG that is...
Interview Nintendo and Nd Cube on Bowser, amiibo and the Pure Luck of the Dice in Mario Party 10
Part of the goal are "actions that are overflowing with energy"
Mario Party 10, as the name makes very clear, is just the latest in one of Nintendo's most substantial franchises. Especially frequent on the GameCube, it's evidently achieved a good degree of success and remains a mainstay on Nintendo hardware, with the home console entries being...
News Sony Hardware Takes Charge of Japanese Charts With Flurry of Releases
Work to do for New Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
For over two years the Japanese market has been a fortress for Nintendo, with the 3DS in particular dominating the hardware and software charts. Recent times have brought a dip, however, especially since the release of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D provided a welcome boost in mid-February. In...
"Something you have done on one device can be utilized on another"
Nintendo surprised many observers with its recent - and sudden - announcement of a strategic 'alliance' with DeNA, a company that specialises in back-end systems, e-commerce and smart device games. The headline announcement, along with a number of others, was that Nintendo IP will be...
News Animal Crossing Helped This Artist Get Through Her Chemotherapy Treatment
"The mundanity of it is really comforting"
Chicago artist Krystal DiFronzo was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma - a cancer of the blood - last August. Like all cancer suffers, she had to deal with a lot of worry and heartbreak, but found an unlikely aid in the Nintendo 3DS title Animal Crossing: New Leaf. DiFronzo has created a series - called...
Cute 'n powerful
While Nintendo doesn't always follow through with all of its ideas and concepts, it's maintained momentum with 3DS HOME Themes. New options arrive most weeks and cover a range of franchises and styles, helping us all to add a little extra spice to our portables. The Japanese market does have the best of the releases, naturally, and...
News Minecraft Tribute Cube Creator 3D Shows Off Its Survival Mode
250,000 copies of the demo downloaded since December 2014
Cube Creator 3D is a Minecraft-alike which is coming to the 3DS soon from Big John Games, and the developer has gotten in touch to tell us about the game's Survival Mode. Like Minecraft - from which Cube Creator 3D clearly takes inspiration - the Survival Mode is all about gathering...
News Here’s How the Fate System Works in Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker
Also, feast your eyes on some new screenshots
As a few of you are probably aware, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker - the enhanced remake of Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 - is coming to North American 3DS systems on 5th May. Featuring all of the content of the original game and adding in
News Tachyon Project Blasting to Wii U for Some Twin-Stick Shooting Action
Shoot all of the things
Considering humanity's fondness for destruction, it's surprising that we're not bombarded with more space-based twin-stick shooters on the Wii U. It can be satisfying to destroy alien things with an explosion of pixels and particle effects, yet we're not given enough opportunities to do so. Eclipse Games, which previously...
News We're Over The Moon With This Zelda: Majora's Mask Game Boy
You've met with some awesome paint, haven't you?
We love a good custom paint job of classic gaming hardware here at Nintendo Life Towers, and this Majora's Mask Game Boy is one of the coolest mods we have seen in a while. French artist Oskunk has given this tired old Game Boy a refreshing new lease of life by bringing it bang up to date with a...
News The Nintendo 3DS is Now Four Years Old in Europe
Eur 'avin a laugh
The Nintendo 3DS arrived four years ago today in Europe, strategically released to maximise profits before the end of the financial year that closed on 31st March 2011... erm, we mean strategically released to excite gamers. Its arrival prompted plenty of launch week hype, and by the close of March Nintendo announced that over 3.5...
Weirdness Brave Hunters Can Soon Ride a Monster Hunter Themed Roller Coaster
Mount the Gore Magala in real life!
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate has been out for a little over a month now and has been an undisputed success. One of the key new features that was added in this latest entry to the series is the ability to mount monsters. A well timed leaping strike from above can knock the beast over and enable the hunter to climb...
News Canned Shooter Dune: Ornithopter Assault Could Have Added Spice To The GBA Library
Title was practically finished but fell foul of publisher issues
Frank Herbert's epic fantasy series Dune has inspired some amazing video games - including Dune II: Battle for Arrakis - and should have delivered another riveting experience in the shape of Game Boy Advance shooter Frank Herbert's Dune: Ornithopter Assault. Developed by Soft Brigade...
Video Nintendo Builds Hype for Xenoblade Chronicles 3D With Action Packed Launch Trailer
A little bit spoilerific
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D arrives soon on the New Nintendo 3DS, so fans of the Wii game - or those yet to experience the Monolith Soft RPG - don't have long to wait. It's a substantial undertaking, but is nevertheless hugely rewarding - we're full of praise for it in our Xenoblade Chronicles 3D review. To celebrate the...
Community Interview Give Us Your Affordable Space Adventures Questions for KnapNok Games and Nifflas
What do you want to know?
Affordable Space Adventures is one of our most eagerly anticipated Wii U exclusives of 2015, and the eShop title isn't far away - it arrives on 9th April in Europe and North America. It makes extensive use of the home console's GamePad for dual screen play, and can be tackled alone or in co-op for up to three players...
Tuesday24th Mar 2015
Review Harvest Moon: The Lost Valley (3DS)
Lost, but not missed
The Harvest Moon series has had a bit of a confusing production history, but the good news is that we're here to help you out with the basics. Originally created and developed by the now defunct Victor Entertainment Software until its acquisition in 2003, the Harvest Moon series has since been produced by Marvelous AQL. Though...
News Standard-Sized New Nintendo 3DS Photos Emerge On FCC Website in North America
Files show that Nintendo sought approval for a US release
It's still a sore subject for many North American residents, but tongues have been set wagging today as photos of a decidedly standard-sized New 3DS have been found on the FCC website. Does this mean that a US release for the smaller handheld is finally on the cards? Well, not entirely. The...
News Latest 3DS Update Adds HOME Menu Layouts And Prepares Older Systems For amiibo Support
More stable than ever before!
The latest update for the 3DS has arrived, and it’s arguably one of the most exciting updates so far, enabling users to change and save up to 8 layouts of the HOME Menu with different theme and software icon arrangements, and also adding the anticipated amiibo support for older systems. Below is the official changlog...
Opinion Splatoon Is to Shooters what Mario Kart Is to Racers
Ron and Alex share their thoughts on Nintendo's new IP
Our resident writing aficionado Ron and video guru Alex both got a chance to try their hands at a preview build of Splatoon recently, and despite writing an official preview, they felt they had more to say on a more personal note. We've made them scrawl out a few words to help explain just what...
Taking a look at a genuine piece of gaming history
It's tempting to look back and think of Nintendo and Sega as long-standing rivals, and that was certainly the case during 8-bit and 16-bit era until the shock announcement that Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games was coming to the Wii. However, this wasn't the first time the two companies had...
Video The Minimum Percentages to KO with Jigglypuff's Rest in Smash Bros.
Let the Pink Massacre commence!
In the world of Super Smash Bros., few moves if any are feared more than Jigglypuff's Rest. It is said that getting caught within her split second of impossibly concentrated cuteness is like having every molecule of your being choked and mashed in a loving glomp of death. The soul is lifted to heights of adorable,...
News Game Jam Tasks Developers With Creating A Zelda Title Starring A Female Link
Gender bending in the name of gaming
Remember when Nintendo revealed the Wii U Zelda title at last year's E3, and many people jumped to the conclusion that Link was - y'know - a chick? Despite Nintendo's denials that Hyrule's famous warrior was switching genders for the next big adventure, many fans rightly asked why Link shouldn't be female for at...
Review Navy Commander (3DS eShop)
A piece of ship
Don't be suckered in by the game title - Navy Commander is a take on the classic paper and pencil game Battleship (or board game for all you '80s kids) and there's very little commanding involved. The basic premise is simple, beginning with selecting a grid size from three options: 10x10, 15x15 or 20x20. While the 10x10 size is...
Video Watch the Original Master Sword and Hylian Shield Come to Life
Hyut, hyat, heyyyarrggh!
Man At Arms on YouTube have done a number of different weapons from Nintendo games in the past, but this may be their most impressive challenge yet: Link's Hylian Shield. Traditional shields are naturally very difficult to make, and considering the Hylian Shield was likely designed with a healthy dose of artistic license,...
News 3DS Action Puzzler Pazuru Arrives On The European eShop This Week
Retail and US releases also confirmed
European 3DS owners will be able to enjoy yet another puzzle game on 26th March when developer Moragami launches its eShop and retail title, Pazuru. Published by Joindots (eShop) and PurpleHills (retail), the title will cost €5.99 / €29.99 (retail), with a US release confirmed for a later date. Pazuru...
News Elliot Quest Developer Talks About a 3DS Port
No plans yet, but the desire is there
Several of you have already played Elliot Quest, the new side scrolling adventure game from Ansimuz Games that takes several design and gameplay cues from the likes of Zelda II and Kid Icarus. We awarded it an 8/10 in our review, citing minor performance issues and frustrating pacing as main issues. Whatever way...
Monday23rd Mar 2015
News Iwata: Nintendo NX Will Surprise People And Change Their Video Gaming Lives
"If you only expand upon existing hardware, it's dull"
Last week, Nintendo announced it was working on a new "dedicated" platform by the name of Nintendo NX. Details on the this new system are virtually non-existent at present - and we're unlikely to know more until next year - but Nintendo boss Satoru Iwata has stated that it won't be a simple...
Nintendo Download 26th March (Europe)
Trine, Mega Man, RPGs and discounts galore!
It's time to brighten up Monday mornings in Europe, with the latest Nintendo Download Update having decent odds of achieving that goal. There is a whole smorgasbord of games and discounted goodies to consider, so let's get to it. Wii U eShop: Trine Enchanted Edition (Frozenbyte, €12.99 / £10.99) - Its...
Review Elliot Quest (Wii U eShop)
Quest for glory?
The Nintendo Web Framework has opened the floodgates for indie developers on the Wii U, and while the HTML5-based system is flexible and user-friendly, the games that have been released so far have been mediocre at best and atrocious at worst - until now. Ansimuz Games and PlayEveryWare's Elliot Quest, created with the Impact...
Preview We Take Aim at Splatoon to See if It Offers the Best of Both Worlds
Catching up with Splatoon's solo and multiplayer modes
During past Nintendo Direct presentations, the main focus of Splatoon has undoubtedly been the multiplayer gameplay, leaving many caught off guard when it was announced that Nintendo's upcoming squad-based shooter would feature a single player campaign as well. Not much has been revealed about...
News We Have Shigeru Miyamoto To Thank For The Super Stable 3D Of The New Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo's latest handheld almost shipped without the upgrade
When the New 3DS was first announced, one particular improvement had many fans rubbing their weary eyes in total disbelief. The handheld's signature 3D technology had been greatly improved, allowing for a wider range of viewing angles and a much more stable experience overall. This "Super...
News Nintendo’s Free-To-Play Experiment Pokémon Shuffle Surpasses 2.5 Million Downloads
Promising signs for the micro-transaction eShop title?
Nintendo has dabbled in the free-to-play market for some time now, and their latest attempt testing the micro-transaction based waters, Pokémon Shuffle, may be their most popular creation yet, with a timely announcement that the title has clocked up more than 2.5 million downloads. The...
News Mysterious Murasame Castle's Takamaru Was Considered For Super Smash Bros.
But didn't make the cut (no pun intended)
It's been a pretty awesome week for all Smash Bros. fans, all told. A short video has made its way to our screens with an announcement from Masahiro Sakurai, stating that the new Mewtwo DLC for Smash Bros. Wii U/3DS would be on its way "pretty soon". As always, Nintendo has more surprises for its fans, with...
News Nintendo Boss Satoru Iwata Warns Not To Hold Your Breath For That Netflix Zelda Series
"The article in question is not based on correct information"
Remember that story about Netflix working on a live-action Zelda series? It got people pretty excited - and understandably so, given the popularity of the franchise. However, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has poured a big old bucket of disappointment over the whole venture by pointing...
Surgical strike
Grendel Games has confirmed that its Wii U title Underground will be hitting the North American eShop on April 2nd, following on from the title's European launch in January. In addition to this news, Grendel Games has also confirmed that it will be releasing a special controller for the game. As we mentioned in our 8/10 review,...
News Gunman Clive 2 Developer Talks About a Possible Wii U Port and a Potential Third Entry
“I think I will shake up the formula a bit more”
Gunman Clive was one of those fun little games that had all the right ingredients of a success. A creative and interesting art style, tight gameplay inspired by classic side scroller games such as Mega Man, plenty of replayability, and a cheap price point helped it to stand out from the pack and...
Events Nintendo At The MCM Birmingham Comic Con 2015
A fun-packed festival of popular culture, cosplay and gaming
The MCM Comic Con - the UK's biggest popular culture event - has just finished its tenure at Birmingham's NEC, and we were lucky enough to attend. Packed with memorabilia, merchandise, cosplayers and even some famous faces from the world of film and TV, the event was well attended and a...
News 3D Out Run, 3D Thunder Blade and 3D Fantasy Zone 1 & 2 Classified For Australia
More SEGA 3D Classics are on the way
After a short delay, it appears SEGA’s most recent 3D Classics – 3D Out Run and 3D Fantasy Zone – have now been rated by the Australian Classification Board. The arcade helicopter shooter, 3D Thunder Blade and the sequel to Fantasy Zone,
Sunday22nd Mar 2015
News New Nintendo 3DS Exploit Makes Japanese Systems Region-Free
Only supports legitimate cartridge games
There are certainly some gamers in North America that only plan to pick up a New Nintendo 3DS when the smaller model is available, as only two variations of the XL iteration are currently available in the region. That limited release was a contentious decision from Nintendo of America, with the smaller...
Review Trine Enchanted Edition (Wii U eShop)
First time Trine
The Trine series is a bit of an anachronism on the Wii U. The first game we received, Trine 2: Director's Cut, was not only the sequel, but an expanded version of it. Over two years later we now receive an enhanced edition of the original in Trine Enchanted Edition. Chalk it all up to magical dimensional tiddlywinks if you wish, but...
Review Best of Board Games - Solitaire (3DS eShop)
A lonely man's game
Ever-gracing the flickering computer screens of bored office workers everywhere, Solitaire needs next to no introduction. This card game is as old as your Grandma, and it's probably her favourite as well. Played solo, it's been adapted to feature on pretty much every mobile gadget for over a decade, perfect for whiling away a few...
Saturday21st Mar 2015
News Masahiro Sakurai Reportedly Promises That Mewtwo Super Smash Bros. DLC is Coming "Pretty Soon"
Huzzah!
Though the wait of a few months may have tempered expectations for a while, it's easy to forget that Super Smash Bros. isn't yet complete - the Wii U version is yet to receive Tournies, while Mewtwo DLC is also hotly anticipated. That DLC fighter will be free to those who register both versions on Club Nintendo by 31st May, before later...
News Zelda Lookalike Oceanhorn: Monster Of Uncharted Seas Could Be Sailing To Consoles
Game shares a link with the Sega classic Landstalker, too
Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas is an iOS adventure title which has recently crossed over to PCs, and is clearly influenced by Nintendo's Legend of Zelda - more specifically, the Wind Waker instalment which came to GameCube and - much later - Wii U. With the game branching out to other...
News Planning On Downloading Xenoblade Chronicles 3D? You Might Need A Bigger microSD Card
4GB card that ships with the New 3DS and New 3DS XL isn't big enough
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D is the first game to be made exclusively for the New Nintendo 3DS hardware - as you'll know if you read our interview with Nintendo's Hiro Yamada, the title makes use of the console's enhanced hardware to replicate the epic scale of the Wii original...
Weirdness Watch A Complete Masochist Play Dark Souls With Some Donkey Konga Bongos
A different beat
From Software's Dark Souls is one of gaming's most rewarding - and brutal - experiences. For many, the game - as well as its forerunner Demon's Souls and sequel Dark Souls II - is hard-as-nails when played normally, but there's a small subset of completely insane players who feel it isn't quite punishing enough. Twitch and YouTube...
Live Super Smash Bros. for Wii U Invitational Tournament - MCM Birmingham
Battling at the tech show
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U has been around for a good few months, but it's still very much a go-to game for plenty of Wii U owners. It's a big-draw at expos and events, too, and Nintendo UK is streaming a special Invitational tournament from the massive MCM Comic Con event in Birmingham today. Kicking off at 7am Pacific /...
News Dot Arcade Lights Up the North American Wii U eShop on 26th March
Three FULL COLOR games!
For those of you who may remember, we previously reported on a secret solo project coming from James Montagna, a key Wayforward employee. We now know that the project is called Dot Arcade and will feature three extremely simplistic arcade style games meant to remind gamers of the golden age of arcades. The first game on...
News Elliot Quest Patch Adds Several Additional Control Options and Fixes a Graphical Bug
It’s always nice to have more options
Elliot Quest is a new Metroidvania title on the Wii U eShop developed by Ansimuz Games. The 8-bit adventure sees players controlling a character named Elliot (who bears several similarities to Pit) on his race to find an ancient demon that can cure a curse placed on him that keeps him from dying, and will...
Friday20th Mar 2015
"We hope the players will be satisfied with the outcome"
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D is just around the corner, and has caused a significant stir in the community being the first exclusive title to come to the New Nintendo 3DS. Elusive in its original Wii format, this release will give many the chance to play what was arguably the biggest game on the...
Poll Where Do You Stand On DeNA, Smart Device Games, Nintendo 'Membership' And The Nintendo NX?
Now that the dust has settled
There's been a lot of debate in the past few days around multiple topics that are important in the world of Nintendo. The corporate 'alliance' with DeNA will bring Nintendo brands to smartphone apps, services and - notably - games, while the former will also handle a lot of the dull-but-important infrastructure work on...
News Style Savvy Sequel Lets You Accessorize With Your amiibo Figures
19,000 different types of clothing promised, too
If you're a Style Savvy fan (or New Style Boutique, depending on where you happen to reside) then you'll be glad to hear that Girls Mode 3: Kira Kira Code will soon be out in Japan - on April 16th, 2015 to be exact. In case you've never heard of the name, Girls Mode is the Japanese title for Style...
Weirdness Can A Star Fox Barrel Roll Work In Space?
It seems that Peppy knows what he is talking about
We don't claim to be experts in astrophysics here at Nintendo Life, but clearly some of the manoeuvres in Star Fox 64 3D might be pushing the boundaries of realism. The boffins over at the PBS Space Time YouTube channel have given Peppy's command to "DO A BARREL ROLL" some thought and have deemed...
Rumour Metal Gear Creator Hideo Kojima Is Leaving Konami, But The Series Will Go On
Will part company after finishing MGSV
It is being reported that Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima will be parting company with Konami after the launch of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Tongues started wagging after Konami removed the Kojima Productions name from Metal Gear Solid V press material. Kojima's name was also absent from an updated...
Video Allow These Charming Renditions Of Classic Zelda Tunes To Gently Massage Your Pointy Elf-Ears
A sweeping orchestral arrangement
Here at Nintendo Life we love it when our favourite video game music gets a quality video tribute with costumes, location, cinematography and a musical arrangement to match. Recently we covered Taylor Davis' amazing work and here is someone very much on a similar level of quality. Vocalist Jillian Aversa has...
Japan Weekly Famitsu Discusses Splatoon Weaponry And Gives Details On Style Savvy 3
Two obscure Japanese games are also reviewed
Once again Famitsu has put out a weekly edition light on Nintendo news. It seems both Japan and Western territories are in a lull of significant Nintendo games. However, this edition did give us a bit more information on Splatoon - which is always welcome - and delved into Girls Mode 3 / Style Savvy 3, if...
News Puzzle & Dragons Super Mario Edition Bundle Launching May 22nd
Demo hitting the eShop earlier in the month
Western players won't have too much longer to wait before they can get their hands on some red hot, orb-matching action, as the Puzzle & Dragons Z and Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Bros Edition bundle has been confirmed for a May 22nd release date in North America. This handy double-pack features...
News Mobile Developers Extremely Positive About Nintendo's Move Into The Smart Device Space
"Nintendo will be another titan in the mobile game industry"
While industry analysts might be conflicted about Nintendo's partnership with Japanese mobile firm DeNA - a deal which will see Nintendo's IP finally arrive on smartphones and tablets - the mobile development community has reacted in an extremely positive fashion, seeing the Japanese...
Video What If Street Fighter II Was A 3D Classic?
Yoga Fire!
Once again we bring you a look at what another classic SNES title would be like if it was given the 3D Classics treatment. This time around, we've converted Street Fighter II, the one-on-one fighter that made the genre what it is today. As always, these videos are designed to be enjoyed in 3D using the New Nintendo 3DS's Internet...
News The Wanderer Class and One Month of Free DLC Roam to Etrian Mystery Dungeon
Also, see what the home screen theme looks like!
It’s that time of week again and this week’s update on Etrian Mystery Dungeon is a bit beefier than usual, bringing with it a generous offering to tempt more fans into picking this up when it launches. Atlus has confirmed that until May 5th, all of the DLC will be available for download completely...
Interview Dan Marshall on The Swindle, Cancellation and Its Rebirth
"Here we are thirteen months later and it's expanded"
The Swindle is planned for the Wii U eShop this Summer, and it brings an interesting blend of action, platforming, strategy and humour. With a steampunk aesthetic, procedurally generated levels, its combination of styles and design approaches left us impressed in our first impressions. When...
Thursday19th Mar 2015
News Sega Producer Explains Exactly What Went Wrong With Sonic Boom
"Speed is always a Sonic thing, we didn't focus on that"
Sonic Boom was supposed to be a rebirth for Sega's iconic mascot - a cross-media blitz that would earn the company millions and create a whole new legion of loyal fans. Sadly, it didn't quite turn out that way - while the TV series was - and still is - decent enough, the Wii U and 3DS games...
Nintendo Download 19th March (North America)
Mario Party, Elliot Quest, KLONOA, Fossil Fighters and much more
A little later than normal courtesy of a few Goombas causing havoc with our servers, we have the Nintendo Download update details for North America. This week brings some interesting options across both Wii U and 3DS, with both systems having major retail releases and some anticipated...
News Nintendo NX Will Be About Creating "Fun New Ways To Play"
Reggie Fils-Aime, Satoru Iwata and Shigeru Miyamoto talk NX
Nintendo's "big three" - Reggie Fils-Aime, Satoru Iwata and Shigeru Miyamoto - have been speaking to Time about the company's future hardware platform, Nintendo NX. The system was recently announced alongside a deal with Japanese mobile firm DeNA, and while litt
News eShop Games Added To The European Club Nintendo Store
Rewarding rewards
Club Nintendo shall soon close its doors. This heartbreaking news was announced earlier this year, revealing that Nintendo would close the program to make way for a new rewards system. Following this announcement the company flooded its users with a variety of new rewards, promising more to come leading up to the closure. Today the...
Rising to $15.99 CAD from April 1st
Nintendo's toys-to-life concept has been a roaring success, despite stock shortages and the nefarious actions of re-sellers online. However, if you're in Canada you'll need to dig a little deeper next time you go shopping for that elusive amiibo figure, as Nintendo's office in that territory has decided to raise...
Exclusive Affordable Space Adventures Pricing Confirmed, Aims to Retain Value Of Wii U Exclusive
"We have to earn all our revenue in the eShop"
Affordable Space Adventures, a collaboration between KnapNok Games and Nifflas, is a much anticipated Wii U-exclusive eShop title. It'll utilise the GamePad for both single-player and co-op, with the second screen of the controller being used to control the mechanics of the ship itself - we listed it as...
News Satoru Iwata And DeNA CEO Isao Moriyasu Discuss Nintendo's Mobile Future
"DeNA attacked Nintendo with a passion, so we were impressed by them"
Following the flurry of Nintendo news from two days ago, a Q&A featuring Nintendo's CEO Satoru Iwata and DeNA's CEO Isao Moriyasu was posted on Nintendo's corporate website, largely discussing the role DeNA and Nintendo will each play when producing mobile games with one...
News Shigeru Miyamoto Sheds Light on His Development Philosophies and More
Question Block
Every Nintendo fan knows about Shigeru Miyamoto and his vital role for the company. The gaming legend is or has been responsible for timeless franchises such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda and Donkey Kong. He has been at the forefront of Nintendo's creative endeavours for years, and a recent interview with TIME shed some...
News Nintendo Share Prices Continue to Climb in Response to DeNA and NX Announcements
Victory lattes all around
In the first day of trading following the announcement of a major partnership with DeNA to - among other things - bring Nintendo IPs to smart devices, the company's share value jumped a massive 21%. This was unsurprising, as a number of investors had been demanding that Nintendo move to smart devices for some time, while...
Wednesday18th Mar 2015
Editorial Nintendo's Heading For a Period of Major Change, and We Can't Fight It
The times, they are a-changin'
Until this week Nintendo's strategy for the future was particularly vague, especially in the area of smart devices. The company's supposed dedicated Mii-based app had been in the works for quite some time and had been due in 2014, but was delayed into this year with talk of finding the right solution for moving onto...
Gallery Nintendo Celebrates Women's History Month In Its Own Unique Way
Tetra, Lucina, Samus Aran and more
If you're not aware, March is Women's History Month, which coincides with International Women's Day on 8th March and aims to promote key contributions from women to history and contemporary society. Nintendo, for its part, sent out a press release recently to highlight some diverse characters from its library that...
Weirdness EB Games Opens Nintendo 'NX' Pre-Orders in Australia
Erm...
When Satoru Iwata teased the Nintendo 'NX' platform for a reveal in 2016, it made headlines and prompted some exciting conversations among Nintendo fans and gamers as a whole. For our part, the manner of its reveal and the code name itself only reinforces our belief that a unified platform is on the way. That's only a relatively educated...
Say goodbye to Chousoku Henkei Gyrozetter: Albatross no Tsubasa
Multimedia franchises are all the rage in Japan these days. The market for brands which straddle video games, toys and anime is huge, and it's little wonder that companies like Nintendo, Sega and Capcom have all tried to crack this lucrative market. Square Enix is another veteran video...
Video New Pixels Movie Trailer Passes One Million Views in Less Than a Day
"It's just a barrel, how bad can it hurt?"
Pixels is set to be a comedy blockbuster this Summer, and has naturally got fans of gaming - particularly those with a fondness for retro - rather excited. With a big-hitting cast - albeit including the marmite-esque Adam Sandler - it'll be heavily publicised by Sony Pictures as the film to see in a few...
News Hyper Light Drifter Might Not Hit Wii U Until 2016, Will Cost You Twenty Bucks
"We don’t want to release a bad game"
Hyper Light Drifter was one of Kickstarter's early success stories, raising $600,000 via crowd-funding back in 2013 - considerably more than the $27,000 that was originally asked for. Billed as a fusion of Zelda and Diablo, the game has already been confirmed for release on the Wii U eShop, but the bad news is...
"We are forming a joint development structure with DeNA"
Following this week's dramatic announcement of Nintendo's partnership with DeNA to greatly expand its move into smart device gaming and services, utilising core IP in the process, there have been plenty of questions around how the partnership will work and how, in practical terms, it'll affect...
News République's Creator Worked On Metal Gear Solid And Halo, And Says The Game Could Come To Wii U
Unity 5-powered adventure may find its way to Nintendo's system
Ryan Payton is a man with a pretty impressive CV. He started his career at Microsoft in Japan before joining Konami and working alongside Hideo Kojima on Metal Gear Solid 4. From there, he became the creator director on Halo 4, and has since gone independent with Camouflaj, his own...
News Please Don't Hate Japan For Getting More Amazing Sega 3DS Themes
Dreamcast and SG-1000 join the ranks
Japan has a wider selection of 3DS themes then the west - that much is a given. However, the gulf between the haves and have-nots is getting a little irksome now - especially as Sega has just released two more awesome themes for Japanese fans to download. The Dreamcast and SG-1000 themes cost 200 Yen a piece and...
Video Nintendo Shows Off More Xenoblade Chronicles 3D Footage
You'll have to really feel it in Japanese, though
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D isn't far away, and it'll be the first game exclusive to the New Nintendo 3DS and XL. Ahead of its April arrival we can expect plenty of marketing and focus on the impressive Monolith Soft RPG, too, which is coming to the portable courtesy of the porting skills of Monster...
News Nintendo's First Smartphone Title Could Launch As Soon As This Year
DeNA Collaboration may make a 2015 debut
Yesterday, Nintendo confirmed that it is working with Japanese mobile company DeNA on games for smart devices like phones and tablets. In a Q&A session which followed the announcement, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata revealed that the first fruits of this arrangement could come as early as this year:...
Video Did You Know That Gunstar Heroes Shipped With A Fruit Roll-Up?
The Sega Channel takes a look at Treasure's first release
Gunstar Heroes is unquestionably one of the greatest games ever to grace Sega's 16-bit Mega Drive / Genesis system. It was also the first title from Treasure, a studio formed by former Konami employees that would find greater fame producing the likes of Radiant Silvergun, Ikaruga and Sin...
Use of IP catalogue "is a major strength"
In 2015 Nintendo will take its first major steps on games for smartphones and tablets, no doubt combining the expertise of partners DeNA and also lessons learned from some eShop experiments, such as free-to-play titles Pokémon Shuffle, Steel Diver: Sub Wars and Rusty's Real Deal Baseball. The first of those...
News Fossil Fighters: Frontier Stomps its Way to North American Stores on 20th March
Nintendo is unearthing this hidden gem
The Fossil Fighters series is one of Nintendo’s much more niche franchises. Bearing some passing resemblance to the popular Pokémon series; the games are centered around exploring environments in search of buried fossils, then reviving the fossils and having the “Vivosaurs” duke it out with other fossil...
DeNA shares, and those of major Nintendo shareholders, also spike
Nintendo's announcement of a major corporate partnership with DeNA to bring its IP to smart devices, along with confirmation of a new customer 'membership' programme and 'NX' hardware being in development, brought a major jump in US-based share prices. The key metric is in the Tokyo...
News DeNA Dreaming of 100 Million Daily Users on Future Nintendo Mobile Downloads
"I don’t think we’re dreaming [about reaching] 100 million DAU"
Much of the focus around Nintendo's announcement of a partnership with DeNA has been on the prospect of the big N's IP appearing on mobile, perhaps overlooking various other aspects. One of these is the perspective of the deal for DeNA itself, and the services the company will offer...
News Pokémon Rumble World Rated By the Australian Classification Board
Get ready to rumble
The Pokémon Rumble series is one of the Pokémon brand’s more successful spin-offs. The whole thing is based around the premise of Pokémon toys coming to life and battling it out in arenas. Real-time beat ‘em up gameplay keeps things fresh and interesting, though the games are admittedly fairly easy. Up till now, there have...
Feature We Catch Up With Four Nindies at EGX Rezzed
Say hi to Image & Form, aPriori Digital, Dreadlocks and Delve Interactive
Last week we headed down to a lovely gaming event by the name of EGX Rezzed, which was held in London's charming Tobacco Dock venue. The event, hosted by our friends at Gamer Network, is a PC and developer-focused show, unlike the more mainstream and larger EGX which takes...
Tuesday17th Mar 2015
Guide Everything We Know So Far About Nintendo's Deal With DeNA, Smart Device Plans and More
We break down the major details and questions
Nintendo has caused surprise and plenty of debate today by announcing a new deal with DeNA, which will focus on a variety of areas. We'll see Nintendo IP on smart devices, a Club Nintendo successor, and Satoru Iwata also re-affirmed Nintendo's focus on its own ga
News Nintendo Working On New 'Dedicated Game Platform' Codenamed 'NX'
But that's probably all we'll know until 2016
Earlier today during the media briefing from Nintendo and DeNA president of Nintendo Mr. Iwata confirmed that their next dedicated hardware platform was in development: As proof that Nintendo maintains strong enthusiasm for the dedicated game system business, let me confirm that Nintendo is currently...
News Nintendo Set To License All IP to Mobile Publisher DeNA
Apps and games (yes, games) coming to smart devices globally
Breaking news this morning is a "Business and Capital Alliance" between Nintendo and fellow Japanese firm DeNA. Nintendo Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7974) and DeNA Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 2432) today entered into a business and capital alliance to develop and operate new game apps for smart devices and...
Talking Point Nintendo's DeNA Plans and Ideas Are Smart, Not a Beginning of the End
This doesn't have to be a 'Sega' moment
Nintendo has lifted the curtain, today, on a major corporate deal that dramatically adjusts its approach to smart devices, and also its future direction as a business. With Nintendo signing a major deal with DeNA to brings major IPs to smart devices, in addition to the partnership being linked to a future...
News Nintendo Teases Cross-Platform Club Nintendo Successor In Conjunction With DeNA
Looking to "create a connection regardless of the device the consumer uses"
Nintendo boss Satoru Iwata has revealed that the company is working on a cross-platform successor to its Club Nintendo membership programme. Speaking during today's Business and Capital Alliance Announcement - where it was announced that Nintendo would be working alongside...
"It left a lasting impression"
It seems that the recent release of The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D has opened a veritable floodgate of memories for Eiji Aonuma, the Zelda series’ producer. He’s partaken in numerous interviews in the wake of the re-release and in each one, more details were unearthed as to how the game came to be what it...
Review Don't Touch Anything Red (Wii U eShop)
Really though, don't touch 'em
Games are not often as straightforward in their titles as Don't Touch Anything Red. This simple infinite-runner style puzzle game is a test of cunning, reflexes, and one's ability to avoid touching red things. Though the premise and presentation are simple, and there's not a lot here, this self-explanatory title is...
Video Nintendo's Four Step Stage Design Is Why You Love Super Mario Games So Much
It's all about Kishōtenketsu, apparently
Ever wondered why Nintendo games - Mario ones in particular - are able to hook you in so effectively? Well wonder no more, as the excellent YouTube channel Game Maker's Toolkit is here to explain exactly why these sublime experiences are so compelling. In the case of Super Mario 3D World, Game Maker's...
Reaction DeNA and Its Games With Disney
A match made in heaven for Nintendo?
With all the chatter around the announcement of the 'Dedicated Game Platform' Codenamed 'NX' in Nintendo and DeNA's recent presentation, we thought it would be a good idea to brush up on our knowledge of Tokyo based DeNA Co., Ltd. to see what they are likely to do with Nintendo's beloved IP on smartphones...
News Games Industry Analysts Somewhat Divided On Nintendo's Partnership With DeNA
"It could be too late to take full advantage of their strengths"
So, Nintendo is finally bringing its enviable IP to smart devices, and the news has been greeted with a mixture of surprise, bemusement and even anger by some quarters of the gaming world. Among analysts the reaction is predictably more measured, with a mostly optimistic tone...
News Nintendo Share Value Spikes Following DeNA and NX Announcements
New highs for the last 12 months
Nintendo's announcement today with DeNA, in which it revealed a new corporate partnership and plans that include bringing its IP to smart device games, brought a fevered reaction among analysts, fans and intrigued observers. The announcement did come after the Japanese stock market had closed for the day, however,...
News Iwata: We Are Challenging Ourselves To Redefine What "Nintendo Platforms" Mean
Aim is to "construct a bridge" between smart devices and games consoles
Today's announcement that Nintendo is working with Japanese mobile giant DeNA on bringing its games to smart devices and its new cross-platform membership programme has sent shock-waves through the games industry, and even Nintendo president Satoru Iwata admits that the move...
Video Here's How Long Mugen Power's New Nintendo 3DS Extended Batteries Last
Power to the people
We recently reviewed Mugen Power's New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL extended batteries, and gave them a thumbs up to anyone who is willing to sacrifice form for longevity. Thanks to their massive capacity the batteries dramatically increase the stamina of your New Nintendo 3DS system, but you don't need to just take our...
News Read The Full English Translation of Nintendo & DeNA's Presentation
All aboard the hype train
Within the last hour Nintendo & DeNA gave a presentation to media in Japan announcing their "Business and Capital Alliance". Whilst the live stream of the briefing did have translation, Nintendo have now published the presentation, in English, on their website. Thank you for attending this briefing at such short...
Video Nintendo of America Unveils Commercial for Mario Party 10 Tie-In With Kids Choice Awards
Have a PAX East Puzzle & Dragons video as a bonus...
It may not be an official Year of Bowser, but March is certainly the Month of Bowser courtesy of Mario Party 10 arriving on Wii U. With the Bowser Mode being an integral part in distinguishing this entry from its many predecessors, it's little surprise that marketing in Japan, Europe and North...
News Iwata: Embracing Smart Devices Has Made Us Even More Passionate About Dedicated Games Consoles
Phones and tablets a "rational way" to bring people to consoles
For some Nintendo fans, today is the day that hell has frozen over - Nintendo has announced that it is bringing its games to smart devices via a partnership with Japanese mobile company DeNA. While some might assume that this move means the firm is turning its back on dedicated...
"Will continue to develop dedicated game titles for our dedicated hardware"
Nintendo has shocked a number of fans and onlookers today with confirmation that it's entered into partnership with DeNA to bring a range of products and games to smart devices. Though Satoru Iwata had suggested this sort of avenue was possible in the past, the sudden...
News Nintendo Doesn't Intend To Be A One-Hit Wonder On Smart Devices
Mobile market is "highly competitive" but Nintendo can "prosper"
Nintendo president Satoru Iwata today revealed that the company is engaging in a strategic alliance with Japanese mobile company DeNA - a move which has predictably set the internet alight. As part of the deal, Nintendo will work with DeNA to bring its vast library of IP to mobile...
Monday16th Mar 2015
Let's get this party started!
It's commonly accepted that partying too hard can be a bad thing. However, that doesn't appear to be a concern for Mario and friends, who since 1998 have appeared in 10 home console Mario Party games and even a few portable outings, too. While Mario's virtual board game gatherings are now a far less common occurrence...
Nintendo Download 19th March (Europe)
Mario Party 10, Tipping Stars with DK, Aria of Sorrow, DLC and more
It's that time again, Nintendo Download fans, with the European update now available for your perusal. We have a dual arrival across both the Wii U and 3DS, classic Castlevania and a new first-party retail release on Wii U, along with some DLC and discounts. Let's get to it. Wii U...
Video Nintendo Star Makes Brief Cameo Appearance in Pixels Movie Teaser
The one that started it all...
Nintendo has recently shared a very short teaser for Sony's upcoming Pixels movie across its social networking accounts, and have asked the audience as to which big N icon they could spot. Looking across all the comments, many seem to think it's Pac-Man due to his obvious appearance towards the end of the snippet...
News Limited Time Lucarionite Competition Opens On Pokémon Shuffle
Top 20,000 get to Mega Evolve their Lucario
A new challenge event has appeared in the 3DS eShop title Pokémon Shuffle that offers the chance to Mega Evolve your Lucario. The event - which runs for the next week and requires Version 1.1.3 of the game - sees you facing off against a Mega Lucario with a single minute on the timer and no HP. The aim...
News This Awesome Star Fox 2 Box Art Shows Us What Could Have Been
We did a barrel roll when we saw this
With an all-new Star Fox game for Wii U on the way later this year, our thoughts sometimes drift back to the good old days of the Super Nintendo. With the critical and commercial success of Star Fox on the SNES, a sequel of some description was inevitable and it seemed that the SNES would be the platform to host...
Review 50 Pinch Barrage!! (3DS eShop)
Pinch me, I'm screaming
A title like 50 Pinch Barrage!! will not inherently conjure up a lot of confidence in most players. Candidly, this reviewer started with a sense of dread upon hearing it, visions of recent lackluster download titles dancing about in the brain. But you know what they say about books and covers and all that: one shouldn't judge...
News Mario Runs From Left To Right Because Our Brains Prefer It That Way
Trust Luigi to pick the wrong direction
Mario - like pretty much every other 2D platform star - runs from left to right. That's just the natural order of things, and has been since the platforming genre began decades ago. However, Mario's direction isn't just a stylistic choice; apparently, our brains prefer left to right movement. Lancaster...
News Nintendo of America to Run a 'Virtual Launch Party' for Mario Party 10 This Week
Seems to mean Twitter comps, not video streams
Mario Party 10 is Nintendo's big retail release in both North America and Europe this week, so we can expect the big N to make a lot of noise ahead of the 20th March arrival. Nintendo of America, for its part, has announced some social networking shenanigans in the form of a 'Virtual Launch Party' on...
Video New LEGO Jurassic World Trailer Builds Dinosaur-Sized Hype
Dat music
We won't deny it, there's some serious nostalgia-driven anticipation for LEGO Jurassic World on Wii U and 3DS here in Nintendo Life HQ. Since it was announced that the title will arrive to accompany the new movie - Jurassic World - and cover all four films in one package, there's certainly been plenty of anticipation. It's all been teaser...
Rumour Warner Bros. is Working on Building a LEGO Toys-To-Life Game
Get those wallets ready
The toys-to-life idea introduced in Activision’s Skylanders series is a deviously profitable one. The whole business model is built on the idea of selling video games alongside a range of toys that unlock specific content when scanned into the games after using a certain peripheral. So, in essence one must pay a significant...
News Langrisser Re:Incarnation Tensei Is Hitting Japan This July With Limited Edition Goodies In Tow
"Legend Box" contains figures, CDs and an artbook
We recently reported that the classic strategy series Langrisser - known in the west as Warsong - is getting a new entry for the Nintendo 3DS. That title now has a final name - Langrisser Re:Incarnation Tensei - and a solid release window of
News Prepare Thyself, Azure Striker Gunvolt Will Be Hitting Europe And Australia Very Soon
All age ratings now in order, reports developer Inti Creates
Remember Azure Striker Gunvolt? It came out in North America in August last year, but 3DS owners in Europe (and Down Under) are still patiently waiting for their chance to play the game. The delay may have been a painful one, but according to developer Inti Creates, it's almost over. The...
32 contestants, one winner
Nintendo UK has confirmed that it will be hosting a special Super Smash Bros. Invitational tournament at the MCM Birmingham Comic Con, which takes place this weekend (Saturday 21st March and Sunday 22nd March, to be exact) at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Attendees at the event will be able to watch the...
Retro consoles and games 'coming soon'
Like much in the gaming industry at present, the retail sector is facing continual challenges and a state of flux. For retailers there's the challenge of boosting online sales while keeping bricks-and-mortar stores in business, while the shadow of Amazon looms over gaming-specific brands. UK retailer GAME is...
"There's always something exciting about games on a console"
The Swindle is planned for release on the Wii U eShop this Summer, and it brings an interesting blend of action, platforming, strategy and humour. With a steampunk aesthetic, procedurally generated levels, its combination of styles and design approaches left us impressed in our first...
Sunday15th Mar 2015
Video This Harmless Exploit Will Help You Grab All Those StreetPass Puzzle Pieces
All thanks to those special guest Miis
Occasionally Nintendo sends out special guest StreetPass Mii characters, either representing popular executives like Satoru Iwata and Reggie Fils-Amie, or occasionally lead developers from major releases. Just last week Nintendo also issued an 'Honest Abe' Lincoln Mii to celebrate the arrival of Code Name:...
News First Screens From Banjo-Kazooie Spiritual Successor Are Revealed, Kickstarter Coming In May
Former Rare developers considering amiibo-style NFC figures
Last month we reported on the news that a group of former Rare developers had formed their own company - Playtonic - and were looking to create a "spiritual successor" to the Banjo-Kazooie series. During this week's EGX Rezzed, Playtonic showed off the first screens from the new game -...
Leading industry analyst also sees "signs of hope" for Wii U
We've said this every year since its launch in November 2012, but this truly is an important period for the Wii U. With 2014 delivering improved momentum but still seeing the system lag behind newer rivals PS4 and Xbox One, the aim for 2015 is for momentum to continually improve and to...
Weirdness The Mail on Sunday Still Thinks We're in the Game Boy Era
Nice work
When Nintendo announced the original DS (sometimes know as the "Phat") there was talk that it was a separate pillar of the Nintendo portable business, with the Game Boy to continue. The phenomenal success of the DS family, though, has meant that it's taken the place of the iconic brand, and it's hard to know if we'll ever see a new Game...
Video Mario Party 10's Bowser Party & amiibo Party Modes
Take a look at the new modes in Mario's latest celebration!
Mario Party 10 is upon us, and after so many entries you'd think Nintendo wouldn't have anything more to add to the formula. Enter Bowser Party and amiibo Party, two modes that make the most of some of the Wii U's hardware features to shake up the Mario Party formula. In Bowser Party, one...
Saturday14th Mar 2015
News The Happy Mask Salesman is Teased for a Reappearance in a New Zelda Game
The ride never ends
Nintendo just loves to tease fans in regards to The Legend of Zelda series. Case in point, development of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D was begun in 2011, yet Nintendo opted to not outright inform gamers of this, choosing instead to lead them on by subtle hints in interviews and occasional easter eggs in games. In light...
Talking Point It's Time for a Nintendo Direct to Set the Agenda
With two months since the last broadcast, our bodies are ready
Ever since the broadcasts began, Nintendo Direct has given fans a fix of reveals, footage and talking points about upcoming releases; so when a gap opens up between presentations, there's some nervous twitching. When is the next video coming, and will Satoru Iwata appear in front of any...
Review Sky Kid (Wii U eShop / NES)
Bombs away
Originally an arcade game, the 1986 Namco NES title Sky Kid draws hard battle lines from the start, though exactly who the warring parties are is unclear. This quirky game is iconic of Namco's early days and even earned a song and a cameo in Super Smash Bros. for 3DS and Wii U. The action here is a combination of unforgiving and short,...
News Elliot Quest Has Fresh Release Dates for Both North America and Europe
The adventure begins very soon
Elliot Quest is a Wii U title that's been championed a great deal by Nintendo, identified along with other select games as being a positive example of the content coming to the eShop. That's been quite a coup for developer PlayEveryWare, and it'll see soon whether that buzz will convert to sales success. This...
Video Nintendo Minute Interviews Several Prominent Indies on Their Upcoming Releases
Also, see which one of them is the best at Mario Kart 8
Indies play a vital role in Nintendo's lineup for the Wii U. With major third party developers all but deserting the console, the responsibility to keep gamers engaged on their Wii U in between major Nintendo releases falls to Indie developers. Some may see this as a weakness of the platform,...
Friday13th Mar 2015
Review Metroid: Zero Mission (Wii U eShop / GBA)
From zero to hero
First things first, Metroid: Zero Mission is not a straight remake of the original NES Metroid with GBA quality graphics. It's a complete retelling and retooling of Samus' first 2D space adventure, including remixed areas, new power-ups and over a decade of refinements added to the formula. Nintendo has freshened the experience...
Review Zombie Incident (3DS eShop)
City of the Dead
Throwback platformers are a regular occurence in the video game medium nowadays. As graphics improve in complexity and realism, quirky titles with pixel graphics have become more and more popular as their outdated visuals become increasingly charming. On first impressions, Zombie Incident is a title not dissimilar to the numerous...
News Go The Whole Hog With This Amazing SNES New Nintendo 3DS Skin
You've already got the buttons, why not take it to the next level?
When Nintendo announced the New Nintendo 3DS, the use of SNES-colour face buttons triggered a flood of nostalgia in 30-something players all over the globe. However, for some, just having coloured buttons isn't enough - they require the full SNES treatment. This SNES Edition Decal...
News LEGO The Hobbit DLC Trilogy Expansion No Longer Planned for Release
To never be continued...
LEGO The Hobbit was a peculiar release, as unlike a number of its licensed contemporaries it didn't tell the whole story. Released mid-way through the film trilogy's arrival in cinemas, it covered events for the first two movies only, ending with a 'to be continued' message. The understanding was that DLC would be released...
News Nintendo Australia Confirms Fourth Wave of amiibo Locked in for Late April
More New Nintendo 3DS cover plates also on the way
Following on from the replenishment of amiibo supplies locally last month, Nintendo has today locked in the Australian and New Zealand release of the fourth Super Smash Bros. amiibo wave for 25th April, which aligns with the national commemorative occasion, Anzac Day. This could prove a problem...
Along with a quick look at Stella Glow, the upcoming 3DS RPG
Unlike last week's Famitsu magazine, this week's magazine featured much less information on upcoming Nintendo games. One Famitsu magazine each month serves as a recap magazine for the gaming news of the past month, with some new information peppered throughout. Unfortunately, this means...
News Kaio: King of Pirates, by Keiji Inafune's Comcept, is Officially Cancelled
Publisher Marvelous loses around $3.8 million on project
Kaio: King of Pirates, an adventure game in the works by Keiji Inafune's Comcept development studio, has officially been confirmed as cancelled by publisher Marvelous. That's perhaps no surprise considering the continual delays and silence on the 3DS release, but it's nevertheless still rather...
News Two Tribes Co-Founder Doesn't Think He Would Have Bought His Own Game
"I think we were trying to please everybody"
Toki Tori 2 was one of the Wii U eShop's first big exclusives, a puzzle platformer which built on the previous two games - one on Game Boy Color and the other on WiiWare - to offer one of the console's first big download releases. However, Two Tribes Collin van Ginkel has revealed that sales have been...
News The Nintendo 3DS Was North America's Best-Selling Hardware Platform In February
395,000 units sold, Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D shifts 515,000 copies
Nintendo of America has confirmed that the Nintendo 3DS family was the biggest-selling hardware platform during the month of February, with 395,000 consoles retailed during the period. Predictably, the New Nintendo 3DS was the reason for this surge - it sold 130 percent more...
Parent Trap Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Is Beast-Slaying Brilliance For The Whole Family
Family Gamer's Andy Robertson goes hunting with the youngsters
Keeping gaming healthy in the family isn't an easy task. Children always are inevitably attracted by the allure of more mature experiences. Playground chatter and children
Feature A Night at the Symphony of the Goddesses: Master Quest
We take on the latest tour
Since the introduction of the iconic theme song on the NES in 1986, the body of music that has grown out of the Legend of Zelda series has been nothing short of legendary. Beginning with modest 8-bit sounds and eventually evolving into the sweeping sonatas in modern games, the songs have grown into something much more than...
Gallery The Natives Are Most Definitely Hostile In Cube Life's Survival Mode
Minecraft-inspired Wii U eShop title gets some new screens
Cypronia has kindly sent us some more screens from its forthcoming Wii U title Cube Life: Island Survival, this time focusing on the game's Survival Mode. We've already seen what the game's Creative Mode looks like, but the following screens detail the many dangers that exist within the...
News Mario Kart 8 Misses Out at BAFTA Game Awards, Though Indie Releases Earn the Spotlight
Upcoming Wii U release Never Alone wins Debut award
The BAFTA Game Awards do occasionally celebrate and reward the best of what Nintendo offers, but can also leave us scratching our heads. This year, notably, the Mobile / Handheld category didn't have a single 3DS game, which we certainly found baffling. Nevertheless Mario Kart 8 was nominated in...
Live Watch Wil Wheaton and Nintendo Show Off Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. on Twitch
A Presidential visit
Code Name: S.T.E.A.M is out in North America today, bringing the latest new IP from Intelligent Systems to the 3DS family. Its brand of over-the-shoulder real-time strategy is certainly a fresh approach, and the steampunk alternative history certainly proved a hit with our reviewer. Nintendo of America's scooped some handy...
Reminder Charming New Pokémon 3DS HOME Themes Are Also Live in Europe
Mega Rayquaza, Friends and Hanafuda
Earlier this week we shared videos of three new Pokémon 3DS HOME themes released in Japan, expressing a hope that they'd arrive in the West. They were indeed confirmed in the North American Download Update, but weren't announced in the European equivalent earlier in the week. The good news is that the themes are...
Video The Sovereign Graces Us With its Presence in Etrian Mystery Dungeon
Better show some respect
Here we are, yet again, with another class reveal for Etrian Mystery Dungeon. This week’s character is a cut above the rest, the supreme and slightly snide Sovereign! The Sovereign is a much more forward and prominent figure than other, more support oriented classes such as the Ninja. Although it appears that the...
Thursday12th Mar 2015
Nintendo Download 12th March (North America)
Code Name: S.T.E.A.M., Trine, 3D Out Run, retro F-Zero, discounts and more
It's that time, North American gamers, for the weekly news on the download goodies coming to Wii U and 3DS. This week brings the latest retail offering from Intelligent Systems, retro F-Zero, a much-anticipated Wii U eShop adventure platformer and a stone-cold classic in the...
Review Harvest Moon 3 (3DS eShop / GBC)
Third time's a chore
Completing the trilogy of portable Harvest Moon games in the original series, Natsume released Harvest Moon 3 - a title originally release on the Game Boy Color - on the 3DS Virtual Console. This game expands on the two that came before it, recycling the tropes present in the series and shaping them into what more modern entries...
Video What If Super Mario World Was A 3D Classic?
We make dreams into realities!
Now that the New Nintendo 3DS is here, everyone wants to see SNES games hit the Virtual Console. But why stop there? Why can't we have some 3D Classics based on SNES games? After all, we already have some excellent Mega Drive games, so 16-bit 3D remakes are already a possibility. Using a very painstaking process,...
News Swedish Newspaper Questions The European Release Of Senran Kagura 2: Deep Crimson
"Nintendo has a responsibility to stop products of this kind"
Following the announcement that Senran Kagura 2: Deep Crimson is coming to the west, a columnist in the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet has attacked the game for its objectification of women. Journalist Kersin Alex - who reviews games for the newspaper - has stated that she has issues with...
At least for now
It's fair to say, the recent announcement of TEMBO THE BADASS ELEPHANT for every digital platform but the eShop has outraged Nintendo fans. When the SEGA and Game Freak collaboration was teased last week, we even alluded to the idea that Nintendo systems were in with a chance of receiving this latest title given the close...
Interview Yacht Club Games Talk Drawing in 8-bit and Aspirations for Shovel Knight 64
Game's "success is due to the brilliant designs of the 8-bit generation"
In this short interview Nintendo Life features contributor Alan Lopez caught up with David D'Angelo of Yacht Club Games, who spoke on behalf of the entire Shovel Knight creative team. Shovel Knight is a download-only 8-bit platformer. Alone, these qualifiers hardly separate...
Video Here’s How amiibo Will Work in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Hide ’n’ seek
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker was a perfect example of a “Budget AAA" title done right. For a cheaper price tag than the average Nintendo release, it expanded upon a unique, camera-centric puzzle mechanic with light platformer elements and offered up a creative, surprisingly content-heavy package. We awarded it an 8/10 in our...
News Flashcard Company Announces Initial Support for New Nintendo 3DS
Only supports firmware 9.2 and needs Ocarina of Time 3D retail copy
While flashcards ran rampant in the DS era, the 3DS generation has been protected far more vigorously by Nintendo through firmware updates. There have been numerous exploits and hacks, but users of them have often been driven offline by system updates, reducing their practicality...
Reminder The Hyrule Warriors Boss Pack DLC is Now Available in North America
Ganondorf mayhem
Although it arrived in Europe a couple of weeks ago, Hyrule Warriors fans in North America can now enjoy the latest (and final?) major DLC pack for the action title. Although not mentioned in the North American Nintendo Download Update, the Boss Pack can be bought for $2.99 or comes free if you have a Season Pass. The core...
Video Nintendo Promotes Mario Party 10 in New Adverts Focused on amiibo and Bowser
Doesn't mention the 'find amiibo stock' meta-game
Mario Party 10 is the next big-name retail arrival on Wii U, landing in North America and Europe on 20th March. That 10 in the title should tip you off that this franchise has been consistently popular, and Nintendo's marketing has been actively pitching this - unsurprisingly - to families. Could it...
News The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Speedrun World Record Holder Improves His Time
18 minutes and 5 seconds
Speedrunning remains a particularly fascinating part of gaming culture, with players mastering skills and finding glitches that defy the odds. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is one of our favourites when it comes to speedrunning, as improbable times are continually set courtesy of a skipping glitch early in the game...
News Iron Combat: War in the Air Bringing Mech Battle Mayhem to the 3DS eShop
From Japanese developer Amzy
Teyon is one of the most prolific publishers and developers on the 3DS eShop, and is returning to the store next week in North America with a title from Japan - it's publishing Iron Combat: War in the Air by Amzy, which arrives in North America on 19th March for $6.99. We've reached out to Teyon regarding a European...
News F-Zero: GP Legend Rated For North America Wii U Virtual Console, Arrives This Week
You got boost power!
The Wii U Virtual Console iteration of the GBA title, F-Zero: GP Legend, was already released in Europe earlier this year, and now it's speeding its way towards North America this week, after an official ESRB rating was locked in. The original title released in the west in 2004 took F-Zero on Nintendo's portable device of the...
News Shapes of Gray Set for Spring Release, With Wii U Enhancements on the Way
Arcade Mode, visual improvements and more for the console version
Shapes of Gray arrived on PC last year in its first form, prompting a mix of positive reactions and some criticism. An aesthetically simple game, it places you in 10-second battles within small areas - the developer describes it as "Hotline Miami meets WarioWare". The aim is to give...
News The Man Behind Fluidity And Stealth Inc Discusses Leaving Curve Digital And Future Plans
"I want my future titles to be on everything, and that includes Wii U"
Jonathan "Bidds" Biddle is leaving Curve Digital to head up his own indie studio, called onebitbeyond. Biddle was employed as Curve's Design Director and is the brains behind series such as Fluidity (also known as Hydroventure) And Stealth Inc. This isn't the end of Biddle's...
Wednesday11th Mar 2015
Review Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. (3DS)
Join the steam team
Nintendo is known for its extensive library of beloved characters, most of which appear in multiple titles on a regular basis; so when an internally developed new intellectual property comes along, there's reason to be excited. Code Name: S.T.E.A.M., a third-person shooter/turn-based strategy title by Intelligent Systems - best...
The beautiful journey
Nostalgia is a wonderful thing. For people of a certain age Out Run represents days long past, a wonderful era when arcades reigned supreme and home systems paled in comparison. During this time, many valiant attempts were made to produce a home version of Yu Suzuki's 1986 driving masterpiece. However, the 'Super Scaler'...
Hardware Review 8Bitdo FC30 Pro Controller
We are Family (Computer)
Remember the 8Bitdo NES30 pad we reviewed a while back? It was a likeable take on the whole Bluetooth gaming pad concept which looked and felt like a genuine NES pad from back in the day. The makers of that particular controller are back with a revised unit, and this time it's focused on the NES' Japanese counterpart - the...
News Nintendo's Implementation of Cross-Buy is Surprisingly Generous
Buy one, get many free
Owners of PlayStation consoles and Vita handhelds have long been accustomed to the luxury of cross-buy titles; you buy one version of the game and you get to play on your other devices gratis. That's a good deal and no mistake. It's taken Nintendo a little while to embrace the concept for themselves – presumably because the...
News TEMBO THE BADASS ELEPHANT, The Game Freak and Sega Collaboration, is Sadly Skipping Wii U
Coming to PS4, Xbox One and PC
Last week we shared a tease that was sent out of a Sega and Game Freak collaboration, rather mischievously suggesting it could well be a smart device game, but expressing hope that the connections between the companies with Nintendo would give us decent odds of 3DS or Wii U support. That game has now been revealed as...
Video Mario Kart 8 Hackers Duplicate Items For Racing Mayhem
All offline and not being shared, importantly
Mario Kart 8 is one of the best games on the Wii U, and through its DLC - more of which is due in May - has kept racers busy for many months. It's not entirely avoided the hacking fate of its predecessor on Wii, however, though widespread modding and cheating hasn't been a major problem to date. YouTube...
You spin me right Pround, baby
A Russian artist named El Lissitzky coined the term "Proun" for use as a title to describe his series of abstract paintings, which challenged traditional views on geometry and perspective. Though the exact meaning of the word was never fully explained, his Proun works evolved to fit new mediums, and spanned over half a...
News Here’s Why Axiom Verge is Not Initially Coming to Wii U
Foiled again!
For those of you out of the loop, Axiom Verge is a highly anticipated, upcoming indie title that takes heavy inspiration from Metroid as well as other side-scrolling shooters of the NES era. Axiom Verge is especially notable for being the product of merely one man, an engineer named Tom Happ, who has some light experience in the game...
News Chrono Trigger Turns 20, but is Ultimately Timeless
History has never quite repeated itself
What do you get when you combine the creator of Final Fantasy, the creator of Dragon Quest, and the creator of Dragon Ball? You get arguably one of the best RPGs of all time, and a game that maintains a strong legacy 20 years after its 11 March 1995 release. Chrono Trigger is the brainchild o
News Kirby and the Rainbow Paintbrush to Roll Into Europe on 8th May
A little earlier than expected
Update: Also arrives in Australia and New Zealand on 9th May. Original Article: Kirby and the Rainbow Curse has been out in North America since 20th February, providing Wii U gamers in the region with their first major retail release on the home console of 2015. Until now gamers in Europe were simply told it was...
News Etrian Mystery Dungeon Just Misses Top Spot in Japanese Charts as New 3DS LL Climbs to Second
Wii U sales improve a little
After a dominant début for Dragon Quest Heroes in its first week on PS3 and PS4 in Japan, the latest Media Create results bring a new 3DS release into the reckoning, even if it can't seize top-spot; hardware, meanwhile, remains steady for another week. New in the software charts is Etrian Mystery Dungeon, the crossover...
News All Theatrhythm Dragon Quest DLC Set to be Free
Not bad at all
Square Enix continues to pull out the surprises for its fan base, and with the Theatrhythm Dragon Quest Japanese launch date of March 26th almost upon us, the surprises are not waning. Square Enix has delighted Japanese fans with free 3DS HOME themes already, and if you haven't heard today is the release of the Theatrhythm Dragon...
News Nintendo Unleashes Three More Pokémon 3DS HOME Themes in Japan
Another World themes, too
3DS HOME Themes keep arriving on Nintendo's portable, with the Japanese market being inundated with the most regular new arrivals. As a way of spicing up our systems and getting us ready for some gaming, these Themes have been a welcome arrival on the portable. Nintendo's certainly keen to show off its biggest brands, too,...
News Nintendo Australia Calling On Aussie Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Players For A Community Hunt
Announced for Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne
It’s been all quiet on the Nintendo front so far this year in Australia, nothing particularly big has been announced just yet, but we’re sure Nintendo Australia’s Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate gathering will be the first of many community-driven events held. To celebrate the release of Monster Hunter 4...
News Australian Government Set to Trial New Classification Tool for Digital Games
A possible step in the right direction
Despite the introduction of an official R18+ rating in 2013, Australia's classification system for videogames still faces many challenges moving forward. Working with the Australian Classification Board (ACB) has often been problematic for many developers and publishers, with prolonged localisations often...
Tuesday10th Mar 2015
Madness
GameStop has plenty of standard New Nintendo 3DS models in stock, it seems, at least on its website. There are options to buy the hardware alone, or bundles for those ready to spend a little more cash. It seems that the retailer also had a handful of the treasured Majora's Mask limited edition systems left, however, so naturally put them up...
Remake Request Super Metroid 3D on Nintendo 3DS
If Nintendo needs an easy win for a portable Metroid, here it is
In this revived series of features we'll look at games we feel merit remakes and remasters, either to celebrate their impact or to bring them to a new audience. The Metroid franchise is in an odd state of limbo, which we certainly hope will be resolved with an announcement of some...
Will you be man enough to pre-order the "Happy Boobs" Limited Edition?
Marvelous Europe is bringing the Tamsoft fighting game Senran Kagura 2: Deep Crimson to Europe and Australia this summer. Following on from the events of Senran Kagura Burst, this sequel will be distributed both digitally and physically in Europe, with Marvelous offering a range...
Gallery This Custom Mario Party N64 is a Sight for Sore Eyes
The analogue joysticks will still burn your palms, though
Mario Party 10 isn't far away, arriving in the West - along with the Super Mario amiibo range - on 20th March. Its minigames have come a long way from the days of destroying Nintendo 64 analogue sticks; waggle, pointing and gyroscopic movement and aiming are now more common. For some it's a...
Weirdness Nintendo Aims to Make Today Mario Day
Unfortunately we'll be writing about Metroid
Today is Mario Day, apparently. March 10, Mar10 - geddit! After cracking its collective knuckles and preparing to amuse us all, Nintendo is promoting today as Mario Day across its social networks. It is an excuse for fans to tweet nice things about the famous mascot, however, so that's fine by us. If...
News Nintendo to Host Super Smash Bros. for Wii U Tournaments in Japan, but for amiibo Only
Leave your pads at home...
Starting this Saturday (14th March), Nintendo is holding a series of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U tournaments across Japan, with the first wave of matches being held in video game and toy stores in the Chiba prefecture, Osaka, and Ibaraki prefecture. However, Nintendo has thrown a spanner in the works, for these...
News Splatoon eShop Listing Continues Speculation of amiibo Support
Kudos for a dramatically filmed Vine
Late last week we shared a rumour that Splatoon will have its own range of amiibo, with listings from a South African retailer emerging to that effect. We used the rumour tag along with a few buckets of salt, but it was fun to consider how amiibo could be used in the title. A fan keen to see amiibo support for...
Review Kung-Fu Heroes (Wii U eShop / NES)
Everybody was kung fu fighting
Kung-Fu Heroes is a charming looking title for the NES released in the US in 1988 - the comical martial arts game was originally launched as an arcade title in 1984, and was then ported to the NES in 1986 by Culture Brain (formerly known as Nihon Game). The NES adaptation is the second entry in the Super Chinese series...
Video Fan Manages to Port F-Zero to the Mega Drive
Can you handle this blast processing?
Who could forget the great console war of the early '90s? After a several year period of having an iron fist clamped firmly around the console industry, Nintendo finally had to go on the defensive when Sega became the new kid on the block with the Sega Mega Drive. Promising a far superior experience to the SNES...
Weirdness Sega Classic Arcade Machines Could Be Reproduced in LEGO Form
Now there is a good idea!
It might say Nintendo Life above the entrance to our magnificent office, but it's no secret that we're also massive Sega fans too. Well, the Sega of yesteryear... if you know what we mean! Sega has been busy reliving its glorious past and working with M2 lately on excellent 3DS ports of After Burner II, Out Run (out this...
News SteamWorld Heist's Capers Face a Delay
But some screenshots have been swiped for your viewing pleasure
SteamWorld Heist developer Image & Form Games have returned from their showings at PAX East and GDC and are quite pleased with their game's reception, if their latest blog update is any indication. Unfortunately, fans will need to take the good news with a dash of patience, as the...
News Sega Is Bringing Imageepoch’s RPG Stella Glow To The Japanese 3DS This June
Official site also launches
Sega has confirmed the release date for Imageepoch's (Luminous Arc) latest RPG Stella Glow in Japan. The game - which was announced last year - is hitting stores on June 4th and will cost 5,990 Yen. Coming from the same team that created Time and Eternity and Last Ranker, Stella Glow has a strong focus on music - the...
News Kickstarter Project Aims to Fund a Vinyl Album Release of the Mother Soundtrack
Music to our ears
Video game soundtrack releases are always interesting pieces to be added to any avid fan’s collection. Be it something like the Super Mario Galaxy soundtrack or, more recently, the Super Smash Bros. soundtrack, these always serve as bearers of some of the best tunes to grace gamers ears. More often than not, these things are...
No news on a European release
For those of you that aren't fans, the Etrian Odyssey series is an old school, dungeon-crawling RPG that tasks players with exploring vast mazes from a first person perspective. This series is refreshing for placing players in relatively open environments, such as oceans or jungles, as opposed to the typically...
"Before we launched on PC, we had fairly high hopes for Life of Pixel"
Late last year developer Super Icon Ltd re-affirmed that Life of Pixel is coming to the Wii U eShop. That was great news for fans of platformers and retro systems - this game has the neat hook of each level looking like it's from a different retro system, including Nintendo...
Video Tap Your Toes To Fresh Footage From Hatsune Miku: Project MIRAI Remix
Releasing on 3DS worldwide this May
Sega has released a new video showing off Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai DX, a 3DS music title which is arriving worldwide this May. The game includes 40 songs and has 110 costumes to unlock, including Hatsune Miku Halloween version, Miku Magical Snow version and Miku Snow Bell version. Sega has already confirmed...
Monday9th Mar 2015
Feature Feature: Why We're Still Playing... Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate After Dozens of Hours
Tom Whitehead on why he can't let go...
This is a series of features that'll focus on games that we keep playing again and again, either over an unhealthy number of hours or those that keep getting return visits long after they first graced our systems. It's not uncommon, if you're fortunate enough to review a major retail game, to be 'done' with...
Nintendo Download 12th March (Europe)
Punch-Out!!, Metroid: Zero Mission, 3D Out Run and much more
It's time to brighten up Monday mornings in Europe, with the latest Nintendo Download Update having decent odds of achieving that goal. We have a mix of strong Wii, Indie and Game Boy Advance titles on the Wii U, an exciting retro remaster on 3DS and a whole load of discounts from...
News These 3D Printed New Nintendo 3DS Cover Plates Are Perfect for a Custom Look
About the cost of posh fish and chips
While it seems to be the case that the New Nintendo 3DS XL is the stronger seller in territories with both that and the smaller model on offer, those with the standard option have clearly been keen on the cover plates. Special edition cover plates - called Kisekae in Japan - often see pre-orders sell out rapidly...
News New Nintendo 3DS XL Charging Cradle Goes Up for Sale on Official Store in North America
"Charging made easy", apparently
Charging cradles are nice, and oddly in demand with Nintendo portable systems. Previous limited stock of coloured charging cradles for the original 3DS XL prompted virtual online stampedes to rival those generated by eBay scalpers when Nintendo puts 'limited edition' in a product description. They may just be a...
News Modder Makes Chrom Playable in Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Just because...
We recall a character reveal for the latest Super Smash Bros. titles last year that caused some confusion, as a brief appearance of Chrom and a dodgy live feed made some - including this writer - mistake him for a 'new challenger'. He wasn't of course, but was rather just part of Robin's Final Smash move - one of the lead characters...
News Freedom Planet Bringing Its Brand of Sonic-Style Action to Wii U
Beating Sonic at his own game
Indie developer Stephen DiDuro announced via tweet today that his team at GalaxyTrail are bringing the Sonic-esque 2D platformer Freedom Planet to Wii U. This is great news for Nintendo fans who haven't yet gotten a chance to experience the adventures of the blazingly fast Sash Lilac and friends. The game's website...
Not at all sketchy
OlliOlli, as we've said before, isn't really a skateboarding game. The aesthetic provides a lovely minimalist visual style to navigate the tiny pixel skateboarder through, but there's no open world to explore and experiment in, nor is it filled with free-form choices. Mechanically rock-solid, OlliOlli is a 2D on-rails experience...
News Koei Tecmo Says Hyrule Warriors Has Breathed New Life into the Series
Akihiro Suzuki says collaboration brought "second wind" to Warriors
According to Koei Tecmo producer Akihiro Suzuki, collaborations on the Warriors series — including last year's sensationally popular Hyrule Warriors — have reinvigorated the franchise. Suzuki expresses an understanding that, prior to the use of collaborations, many people had...
Weirdness British Children's TV Channel Gets Its Nintendo History Somewhat Mixed Up
Has popular YouTuber TheDiamondMinecart mixed up his Mario games?
We're all for educating the younger generation here at Nintendo Life. Nintendo itself has been around for longer than everyone on the face of the planet, and no matter how knowledgeable you think you are, there's a good chance you don't know everything about the Japanese firm...
News Capcom Had Two Game Boy Color Versions Of Dino Crisis In Development, But Cancelled Both
Everybody walk the dinosaur
Back in the 32-bit era, the world's biggest handheld was unquestionably the Game Boy, and its updated variant, the Game Boy Color. Any title which was big on domestic systems invariably received a scaled-down port on Nintendo's all-conquering mobile console, with varying degrees of success. Capcom was no stranger to this...
News Pokémon Shuffle Updated Once Again, Adds a Special Kyogre Challenge
There's a Jewel up for grabs, too
Regardless of where you stand on the free-to-play Pokémon Shuffle, it's serving up plenty of updates and regular challenges to keep players interested; the latest update takes it to version 1.1.2 and adds an iconic 'mon as a new challenge. The addition is Kyogre, most recently seen in 3DS remaster Pokémon Alpha...
Video This Rap Perfectly Sums Up The Roller-Coaster Ride That Is amiibo Collecting
The pain is real
Nintendo's amiibo toys have been a real hit with consumers, but issues with stock have thrown up some proper headaches for fans. Demand for figures has been incredible - in many cases outstripping available stock - and some of the more collectable ones are now fetching insane prices online. A great many of you reading this right...
Review Flying Dragon: The Secret Scroll (Wii U eShop / NES)
There’s not much fight in this one
Culture Brain's Hiryū no Ken fighting series dates back to the 1985 arcade release, Shanghai Kid. The 1987 NES title, Flying Dragon: The Secret Scroll – exclusive to Japan and the US (1989) – took the original concept and expanded on it, as well as paving the way for future entries in the franchise. This...
Review Best of Arcade Games - Bubble Buster (3DS eShop)
Bubble Burster
Anyone used to scrolling through the recent reviews section of Nintendo Life should be familiar with the name Bigben Interactive. Best of Arcade Games - Bubble Buster is the latest in a series of puzzlers, card games and arcade greats to be released by the developer, in an attempt to give these classics a "definitive" version on the...
Video Enjoy Some Competitive Pokémon Action From the US Regionals
It's a serious business
Later this year World Champion players will be crowned for Pokémon, both in the latest games and the Trading Card Game. Though we're sure the latter is marvellous fun, we're typically more drawn to Pocket Monster shenanigans on the 3DS here are Nintendo Life. The route to the World finals is lengthy, of course, with...
In a pinch
50 Pinch Barrage!! is coming to the North American 3DS eShop this week, and it's bringing with it some truly deadly situations. Boasting a simplistic visual style but some incredibly epic situations, 50 Pinch Barrage!! is all about cheating death by the skin of your teeth. The hook is that you're offered no hints or help in the game -...
Sunday8th Mar 2015
News First Passcode Released for Pokémon Shuffle
Megagift
Perhaps you've been tapping around the menus in Pokémon Shuffle, maybe while waiting for that clock to tick agonizingly down, second by second, so you can get another shot at that Espeon because you need it but hey no it's not like you're addicted or anything haha that would just be totally ridiculous ahahahaha! Anyway, you might have...
News Next Level Games Employee Suggests He's Working on a Wii U Title, Then Stealth Edits the Post
You cannot hide on the internet
It's no secret that Next Level Games, though it's an independent company, is currently committed exclusively to Nintendo projects - that was stated in early 2014, and nothing since has suggested any change. We'd like to think it's an ambitious project, too, as little has been heard from the company since Luigi's...
Mario Kart 8 for $33, too
While Nintendo of America is yet to offer an online store as substantial as in the UK, its rather low key store does nevertheless occasionally offer great deals on refurbished goodies. At the moment Wii U fans in North America have some decent options, including a few select games. A notable option is a 32GB Black Wii U...
Gallery Splatoon Development Updates Show Off Fashion, Octolings and Guns
Some short videos are even inked in
Arriving in May, Splatoon is one of our most-anticipated Wii U games in the coming months, even if we're still awaiting a final release date - with single player, local multiplayer and online multiplayer all included, it should offer plenty of content along with its quirky approach to third-person arena shooting...
We're stoked
OlliOlli isn't really a skateboarding game. The skateboard aesthetic provides a lovely minimalist visual style to navigate the tiny pixel skateboarder through, but there's no open world to explore and experiment in, nor is it filled with free-form choices. Mechanically rock-solid, OlliOlli is a 2D on-rails experience with meticulously...
News A Cowboy's Tale from Nexis Games Rides to the Wii U eShop in 2016
We added the apostrophe
When one gets right down to it, there aren't a lot of notable Wild West-themed games currently, on any platform; it's a rather puzzling omission. In an industry that's absolutely obsessed at the moment with open world adventure games, one must wonder why more developers don't follow in the footsteps of titles such as Red Dead...
Saturday7th Mar 2015
Poll Which 2015 Nintendo Blockbusters Should Have amiibo Support?
A welcome extra or occasional option?
Since the launch of the first 'wave' alongside Super Smash Bros. for Wii U in November 2014, Nintendo's wasted little time in promoting and expanding amiibo. Continual waves have continued to take us towards coverage of the full cast in the brawling title, while an upcoming Super Mario range will accompany Mario...
Video Even the Glitches in Super Mario Galaxy Are Awesome
Makes us want to play it again
Super Mario Galaxy, in the opinion of this humble writer and we suspect a number of other gamers, is one of the best games ever produced; it's certainly near the top of the class in platformers, at least. Whether you regard it as Mario platforming perfection or not it does, nevertheless, have its share of glitches...
News Full Details Emerge on Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker Launch Edition
Quite the package
It's been relatively under the radar, but Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker, arguably one of the most long winded names of any game to be released in North America in recent memory, is due for a release on the Nintendo 3DS rather soon. Initially pinned down for quarter one this year, the anticipated RPG has been...
Nintendo Minute debates Super Metroid vs Metroid Prime, too
Nintendo has some major releases landing at the moment in North America, with Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars out this week on Wii U and 3DS, and Code Name S.T.E.A.M. on the way as a 3DS retail arrival in the coming week. Naturally Nintendo of America is using YouTube to promote these...
Event Join Us At Our Summer Nintendo Life Gaming Night
Games, competitions and a film premiere in Cambridge, UK
We'd be delighted if you join us for an evening of Nintendo-related fun and frolics in our first Nintendo Life Gaming Night this year, which will be held at the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge, UK on 25th July. There'll be a chance to play all of Nintendo's classic consoles such as...
Friday6th Mar 2015
Reminder The Free Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate DLC for March is Here, and an Awesome Video Shows it Off
Much more than a Link outfit on offer
In case you missed the announcement last weekend, or simply allowed it to slip from your mind - the free March DLC for Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is now live in Europe and North America. Far from being a small cosmetic set of content, it offers up a whole load of quests at various levels that'll unlock all sorts...
Feature A Summary of the Xenoblade Chronicles X Battle Presentation
Full video and details on combat skills, customization and party members
Nintendo and Developer Monolift Soft have made it their goal to show Japanese gamers just about everything Xenoblade Chronicles X has to offer through 30 minute online presentations; it's an admirable endeavour, even if there are no English subtitles. The last video took a look...
Rumour South African Retailer Lists Greninja, Jigglypuff and Splatoon amiibo for May Release
Prepare a bucket of salt
It's pretty obvious that Nintendo's keen to make the most of amiibo, through including NFC support in the New Nintendo 3DS and lining up a host of figures for future arrivals in stores. With that in mind a rumour started by a South African retailer listing is plausible, albeit we urge caution due to the somewhat random...
News Free-To-Play Puzzler Pokémon Shuffle Gets Updated To Version 1.1.1
Gotta patch 'em all
Free-to-play 3DS eShop title Pokémon Shuffle has just been updated to version 1.1.1. The update requires you to redownload the game - that's a 686 block download - and "Check In" again to access the Event stages. The patch is listed as supplying necessary bug fixes, and without it you can't Check In, access Event stages or...
Live Watch Nintendo and Monolith Soft's Second Presentation of Xenoblade Chronicles X - Live!
Live coverage as the battle mechanics are shown off
Xenoblade Chronicles X isn't far away in Japan, and in the West plenty of fans are no doubt eagerly awaiting its arrival this year. This second presentation on the game from Japan will focus on Battle mechanics and what it takes to survive on Mira...
News Nintendo Confirms Wil Wheaton as Voice Actor for Abraham Lincoln in Code Name S.T.E.A.M.
From Ensign to President
Nintendo doesn't often hire celebrities to be voice actors in its games - in fact, fully voiced dialogue simply isn't particularly common in the big N's titles. Kid Icarus: Uprising was a recent exception, along with the likes of Metroid: Other M, but we're normally just treated to occasional catch phrases and gibberish...
Japan Weekly Famitsu Outlines More Details on Splatoon's 'Hero' Mode and More
Etrian Mystery Dungeon details, quirky Japanese games, reviews and more
Can't wait to hear more about games like Splatoon and Etrian Mystery Dungeon? As Japan's primary gaming magazine, Famitsu receives exclusive previews and reviews of Nintendo games well before the same coverage sees the light of the day elsewhere in the world. The 4th March...
News Fan Discovers StarTropics Music Tracks that Were Broken and Unnoticed for 25 Years
No, he didn't dip anything in water
Remember StarTropics? No? Well, it was a much beloved Nintendo game from the glory days of the NES. Playing something like a tropical spin on The Legend of Zelda, it followed the adventure of a kid named Mike Jones as he scoured an island in search of his lost archaeologist uncle. It was a very charming adventure,...
Review GravBlocks+ (Wii U eShop)
Try to keep up (and down, left, and right)
Falling block puzzlers aren't necessarily a rare experience these days. What isn't commonplace, however, is such a puzzler that throws a twist on the formula that enhances and refreshes the experience. GravBlocks+ (itself an enhanced version of the Android game GravBlocks) tries its hand at mixing up the...
News Once Bitten, Twice Dead Coming to Wii U
Can you survive the Zomblockalypse?
Open worlds are great and all, but you gotta make sure to clean them out once in a while. These things will just start crawling with zombies if you're not careful. Austraila-based developer Dark Day Interactive has announced Once Bitten, Twice Dead, a horror survival title set in a fallen world of undead...
News Short Fan Film is Set to Chronicle the Final Battle Between Link and Ganondorf
You paid for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it
Recently, there have been fairly believable rumours that there is a live-action Zelda series in the making for Netflix. Only time will tell if this show becomes a reality, but it appears that in the meantime fans are taking it upon themselves to fulfil that need for a cinematic...
News 3D Out Run Developers Talk Over Bringing Classic Racing Back to the 3DS
Back on the road
Sega is putting the rubber to the road again with Out Run coming to the Nintendo 3DS. The arcade title was originally released in 1986 featuring an arcade cabinet that had the appearance of the game's slick sports car; it's the third in the 3D remaster project's second series and the eleventh overall. In an interview with Sega Blog,...
"Europe is a unique opportunity"
BLOK DROP X Twisted Fusion developer RCMADIAX has taken to Twitter to report that European sales of the game have surpassed expectations, with the title being downloaded almost twice as many times on its day of launch than it did in North America. Launching a game in Europe isn't as easy as it is in North America,...
Video The Ninja Class Sneaks into Etrian Mystery Dungeon
Hopefully, the Inverse Law of Ninja Strength holds true
It's been about a week and sure enough, we have another new character class for Etrian Mystery Dungeon. The Ninja is the newest addition to the gradually growing character class list. The Ninja appears to be a speedy class, getting in close and dealing lots of quick, low-damage blows to...
Thursday5th Mar 2015
Review Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars (Wii U eShop)
We tip our hats to you
Despite Mario and Donkey Kong largely getting along with one another these days, there's still the ancestral drive to kidnap women in red dresses burning in DK's DNA, and so we get the Mario vs. Donkey Kong series. The latest entry, Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars has ditched the different 3D perspective of the previous...
News Harmonix Explains Why Rock Band 4 Isn’t Coming to Wii U, But Doesn't Rule it Out
Bringing on the heartbreak
As some of you may be aware, Harmonix has announced that the Rock Band franchise will be making a comeback this year with the fourth numbered entry. The rhythm based franchise sees players bashing away on various expensive peripherals that resemble instruments popular to typical rock bands, covering a massive variety of...
Review Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars (3DS eShop)
Tipping the balance
The differences between the 3DS and Wii U versions of Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars are few and far between, but the 3DS version does feature some differences of note. You can read our thoughts on the Wii U version of the game here. The 3DS version takes full advantage of the SpotPass and StreetPass functionality of the...
News Fans Are Translating Dragon Quest VII On 3DS Because Square Enix Won't
Taking matters into their own hands
Square Enix is asleep at the wheel - it isn't bringing amazing JRPGs like the 3DS update of Dragon Quest VII to the west. The company has previously stated that it is unsure there's enough demand in North America and Europe to justify the cost of localising the title, while the Wii U title Dragon Quest X is...
Feature Ten Upcoming Nindie eShop Games to Watch on Wii U and 3DS
And more besides...
The Wii U and 3DS eShop stores have become notable improvements on their Wii and DSi predecessors, and a range of familiar and new download developers have pitched up with their wares in recent times. The last couple of years in particular have brought some fantastic games, and as Nintendo's GDC announcement made clear there's...
Nintendo Download 5th March (North America)
Mario vs. Donkey Kong and OlliOlli x2, Proun+ and much more
It's time for more Nintendo Download Update treats, North American gamers, and this week brings the region its first cross-buy options on Nintendo's systems. We have Mario toys puzzling their way through levels and some rad pixelated skateboarding across Wii U and 3DS, while there are also...
News Nintendo of America Teams Up With Best Buy For New Nintendo 3DS XL Hands On Events This Weekend
Get an Eiji Aonuma Mii and StreetPass goodies, too
Following its launch on 13th February, the New Nintendo 3DS XL is heading into that post-hype period of sales, when Nintendo's focus shifts away from exciting dedicated fans to winning over those on the fence. The April arrival of system-exclusive Xenoblade Chronicles 3D will play a major role,...
News Official Nintendo UK Store Sends New Nintendo 3DS Owners the Wrong Legend of Zelda Cover Plates
Consternation all around
Not long ago UK New Nintendo 3DS owners were keen to grab the rather handsome cover plates for The Legend of Zelda from the official Nintendo UK store, with pre-orders rapidly selling out. As you can see in the images below they come in two varieties - a Majora's Mask 3D design and a more generic (but still lovely) Triforce...
Yacht Club Games "keeping an eye out" for Nintendo possibilities
Remember when Shovel Knight was a Nintendo console exclusive? Nice, wasn't it? Those days are long past now, with developer Yacht Club Games confirming that the faux-retro platformer is headed to both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. To rub a bit more salt into the wound, it was confirmed...
News Speedrunner Conquers Super Mario 64 in World Record Time, With No Stars
You don't need any stars to be a star
The rules of Super Mario 64 are well known. Jump, flip, and swim through treacherous levels to collect the shimmering power star at the end; speedrunners take this premise to the extreme. They collect all 120 power stars in as fast a time as possible, using precise jumps and taking advantage of various glitches...
Paper play
We don't all claim to be linguists or experts on Japanese language or culture here at Nintendo Life, but being the dedicated journalists that we are, we're always willing to do a bit of research. It turns out that origami, the art of paper folding, has a very interesting linguistic background. When broken down, "ori" means to fold or...
News Final Fantasy Creator Hironobu Sakaguchi Really Doesn't Like Direct Sequels
"I hate them"
Hironobu Sakaguchi is the man who made Square Enix's Final Fantasy series, arguably one of the most popular video game franchises of all time. Under his guidance, the series experienced many best-selling instalments across the NES, SNES and PlayStation, but never a direct sequel - all of the adventures were brand new, with entirely...
News Eiji Aonuma Talks About his Journey to Becoming The Legend of Zelda’s Producer
Everybody has to start somewhere
It's always interesting when a game developer reminisces and talks a bit about his or her roots. This industry moves so fast that it can sometimes be easy to lose sight of the fact that it's powered by the hard work of real people. Though breaking into game development may seem like a daunting and intimidating...
News Nintendo Executive Discusses the eShop, Indies, and Their Relationship With Nintendo
"There's so much talent that's coming out of it"
It's no secret that Indie games play a much larger role in the lineup and promotion of Nintendo's consoles than they have ever before, with a number of triple-A third party companies being largely inactive on Wii U. Indeed, Nintendo has come a long way from the days of the DSiware and Wiiware...
Video Watch As A Gaggle Of Oldies Are Exposed To The Joys Of Mario Kart 8
"I'd prefer Poker"
Mario Kart 8 is a game with almost universal appeal, effortlessly able to transcend the boundaries of gender, race and - as the video below proves - age. Yup, the world-famous React YouTube channel has taken a group of old people, parked them in front of a Wii U playing a copy of Nintendo's famous racing title and shoved...
News Curve Digital is Bringing the Eye-Catching Four Sided Fantasy to Wii U in 2016
Playing with perceptions
During this week's GDC 2015 event Nintendo unveiled a host of upcoming eShop games on Wii U and 3DS, reminding us all that its policies in supporting download developers - Nindies - are continuing to bring notable rewards. Those titles shown off are all coming this year, but Curve Digital (also at GDC) has announced a title...
Feature Punching Robots (In 3D!) With The Virtual Boy's Teleroboxer
Even Rocky couldn't handle these metallic brutes
Once more, we dip into the red and black-hued land of the Virtual Boy, with yet another 3D video for your enjoyment! Do you like Punch-Out!!? Silly question, of course you do. Well, what if it was in 3D and had robots? Teleroboxer makes this dream a reality. Watch as we duck, dip, dive duck and...
Review Pong Pong Candy (3DS eShop)
Hard candy
The puzzle genre has been represented quite well on the eShop, with plenty of addictive and clever titles eating up hours and hours of playtime. The sheer volume, however, means that in order to stand out a new release has to have some kind of special hook to grab players, be it personality, gameplay mechanics, or some other defining...
Wednesday4th Mar 2015
News Copyright Owner of 'Trollface' Image Explains Role in Getting Meme Run Taken Down
Unclear whether the runner will live to troll another day
Meme Run is certainly a title that's prompted plenty of debate since it arrived on the Wii U in North America, and the latest twist in its brief history came yesterday when it was taken down from the eShop. Little information came from developer Ninja Pig Studios, though it updated its...
News Nintendo Announces Fresh Release Details on a Host of Exciting eShop Games
Shantae: Risky's Revenge - Director's Cut! BOXBOY! Dates! Surprises!
We're big advocates of the Wii U and 3DS eShop stores here at Nintendo Life, and both have delivered some fantastic games in recent times. Nintendo of America has now issued fresh details on a range of new titles on the way, with some truly exciting news to keep download fans busy...
News First Run Wii U Copies of Rodea the Sky Soldier Will Include the Wii Version in Western Release
Two birds with one stone
It's rather hard to believe, but Rodea the Sky Soldier is finally on the home stretch to getting released. The previously vaporware game from Yuji Naka, of Sonic the Hedgehog and NiGHTS fame, is set to release sometime this Fall after a touch and go development cycle of over three years. Based around the concept of flying,...
"Preorders are just a part of the Mario amiibo Gold Edition story"
The Super Mario amiibo Gold Edition has been the latest desirable Nintendo product to sell out rapidly online, with pre-orders disappearing almost as fast as they appeared. That may have led some in North America that want the limited edition amiibo to give up or consider over-priced...
Create a platform exciting enough to match its Indie games
In recent weeks Satoru Iwata addressed shareholders in an Investor Briefing Q & A, tackling a range of issues around Nintendo's business. An issue that came up was the "digitalization" that we're seeing, with more and more gamers opting to download their games, and also seeking new ways...
News Game Freak and Sega Tease a Collaboration, with a Reveal Due on 11th March
Be prepared for it to be a smartphone game
When Nintendo fans hear the developer name Game Freak, they likely think of Pokémon; yet while that iconic brand is under the ownership of Nintendo, Game Freak itself is an independent company. Its continual focus is undoubtedly on the next mainline 'mon title, but the studio has also worked on other...
News New Nintendo 3DS Undone by Dragon Quest Heroes and PS4 in Japanese Charts
Can't win 'em all
Nintendo's enjoyed plenty of dominance in the Media Create Japanese charts in recent years, but major releases on rival systems have seen it lose out in recent weeks. The big N will no doubt be considering the cost of key franchises being released elsewhere, as Sony enjoys a week on top. To start with software, the major story is...
You've got to spend those stars on something
Update 2: This soundtrack is now back on Club Nintendo in Europe, so act fast! Update: It seems that a lot of Club Nintendo members in Europe are desperate to spend their stars, as this soundtrack has disappeared again - supply not quite meeting demand, we suspect. Original Article: The end of Club...
News Indie Developers Praise Nintendo's Policies and "Wave the Banner" for the eShop
2015 could be hugely exciting on the stores
With GDC 2015 (Game Developers Conference) in full swing, Nintendo has taken the opportunity to pitch an exciting and extensive line-up of eShop games that are coming to both Wii U and 3DS this year. Its announcements included new games, release dates for others and information on GamePad features for some...
Review Best of Board Games - Chess (3DS eShop)
The King is dead
When you even mention the term "board game" to someone, chances are that the timeless classic chess will be one of the first examples that springs to mind. Beyond the family fun of Monopoly, Scrabble, and Operation, there's a real intellectual bite to chess that has cemented its reputation as the grandmaster. Bigben Interactive has...
Video Many Crates Were Harmed in the Making of This Little Mac KO Punch Video
Ain't no boxes high enough
It's obvious you don't want to be on the receiving end of Little Mac's KO punch in Super Smash Bros., but not everyone has had a chance to see how determined the glove can be to hit its mark. Probably because not everyone creates scenarios as ridiculous as this. YouTube account Master0fHyrule took to training mode in the...
News This Adorable Shovel Knight Plush Will Dig Its Way Into Your Heart
We dig it
We love Shovel Knight here at Nintendo Life, and as you can imagine the news that our favourite spade-carrying medieval hero is getting turned into a soft toy generated a massive amount of hype in the office. Available for pre-order now from WeLoveFine.com, the plush is around 10-inches tall and comes with a shovel which can be positioned...
News Retro-Bit Is Releasing A Super Mario Edition Of Its RetroDuo Console
Dubbed "Mascot Edition", for obvious legal reasons
The Retro-Bit RetroDuo clone console may have been surpassed by Hyperkin's Retron 5 and the Super Retro Trio, but it's still a neat little system which allows you to play your old Nintendo games without having to have multiple consoles conne
News Aperion Cyberstorm is Blasting Its Way to the Wii U eShop Soon
Pew pew pew
The Wii U eShop continues to surprise with indie games which are distinctly different from those you find at retail. UK based developer aPriori Digital is the latest challenger to take a punt on the Nintendo store with its upcoming 5 player twin-stick shooter Aperion Cyberstorm, which is developed in Unity. The 5th player will use the...
News Thor Aackerlund Set To Celebrate The 25th Anniversary Of The 1990 Nintendo World Championships
"The true birth of eSports started here"
A quarter of the century ago Nintendo held the first round of the 1990 Nintendo World Championships in Texas, and this weekend there will be a special event to mark this anniversary. Taking place across two days - March 7th and 8th - at the newly-opened store Freaks and Geeks in Denton, Texas, the event will...
News Theatrhythm Dragon Quest Demo Coming To Japanese 3DS Next Week
Two epic tracks to sample
Square Enix has revealed that a demo for Theatrhythm Dragon Quest will be hitting the Japanese 3DS eShop next week - March 11th, to be precise. Two songs will be playable in the demo - "Adventure" from Dragon Quest III (field stage) and Dragon Quest V's battle theme. A sequel to Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy and Theatrhythm...
Tuesday3rd Mar 2015
Game Boy Color ROM loading also bites the dust
In the past couple of months there have been a series of hacks that have utilised an exploit in the 3DS Web Browser; the New Nintendo 3DS has been excluded due to it having a different browser app. The exploit was used for multiple applications, such as loading Pokémon into the latest releases or even...
News Meme Run Disappears from the Wii U eShop
Miiverse community page also taken down
Meme Run was a peculiar arrival in 2014, generating controversy over its style and enjoying sales success against a backdrop of heavy criticism. Despite being loaded with memes, obviously, it was even tweeted and promoted by Nintendo of America when it was released. Due to the nature of the game being packed...
News Yacht Club Games Announces Free Shovel Knight: Plague of Shadows DLC Expansion
Plague Knight seizes the spotlight
It's doubtless that many of you have probably already played Shovel Knight, the old-school indie smash hit. Inspired by series such as Mega Man, Castlevania, and The Legend of Zelda, this was a classic styled game done right. Featuring vibrant pixel art, a stellar soundtrack, loot, collectibles, and that good old...
News 3DS System Update, 9.5.0-23, Goes Live and Brings Unprecedented Stability
Almost too stable
3DS system updates are a regular occurrence, but as we've figured out in the past they often have goals other than bringing shiny new features to gamers. They deliver 'stability', meaning that your portable is so stable that it's - well - almost too much to handle. System update 9.5.0-23 is here and it has the following -...
Weirdness Fan Creates Custom amiibo of Sonic Characters
They're comin' at the speed of sound...
It really doesn't seem like the custom amiibo hype train will put on the brakes anytime soon, with new figures and high demand still prominent. Fans have also gone from giving the existing Nintendo NFC figures a total paint job, to creating their own using toys of both actual Smash Bros. characters and others...
Weirdness An amiibo Fan is Living the Dream With This Goku Figure
Dragon Ball is the talk of the town
Dragon Ball is a hot topic right now, with the recent release of Dragon Ball XenoVerse being much-discussed over on our sister-site Push Square, with high interest and sales being accompanied by some inevitable issues with online servers. When you take a hugely popular franchise and mash-up a range of its...
News WayForward to Celebrate 25th Anniversary With eShop Discounts
Mighty and Shantae sales on the way
WayForward celebrates it 25th Anniversary this year; the company has established a reputation for high-class first-party games such as the Mighty and Shantae IPs, and has also produced some excellent licensed titles. It's got quite a track record. The company will likely be celebrating the landmark for much of...
News Nintendo's 1993 Style Guide Proves That Everything Revolves Around Princess Peach
Mario will also "accept anyone at face value", apparently
Style guides exist so that companies can ensure their treasured characters are used consistently through various forms of media - be it video games, TV shows, comic books or cheap lunch boxes produced in far-eastern sweatshops - and Nintendo is no stranger to this process. This...
Hardware Classics Sega Mega CD
Mega Seedy
The rise and fall of Sega Enterprises is a classic tale of hard-won success being scuppered by a bewildering lack of focus and an incredible degree of overconfidence. The company scored an almost impossible victory by bloodying the nose of the all-powerful Nintendo in the early '90s and was arguably the first console maker to bring an...
News New amiibo Stock for Villager, Captain Falcon and Little Mac Heading to Japan in May
Reacting to demand
In Nintendo's recent Investor Q & A it was emphasized that, in addition to amiibo cards coming this year, particularly popular figures would have additional manufacturing runs in an attempt to meet demand. Just this week Nintendo of America announced more Marth stock on the way, and now Nintendo has confirmed a few key toys...
Review Gardening Mama 2: Forest Friends (3DS)
Wilted beyond saving
The 'Mama' series is renowned for being a huge success on the more casual side of the gaming market, most famously for the Cooking Mama series which doesn't actually involve preparing the titular character for consumption. It's inevitable then that Mama would take additional avenues in her quest for motion-controlled dominance,...
News Unity 5 Development Engine Launches, Includes Wii U Support
A step up for Indies using the toolset
GDC 2015 (Game Developers Conference) is well underway, and Unity took the opportunity to launch its latest major version at the event. Unity 5 was unveiled, which provides new tools to produce stronger visuals, in addition to enhanced analytics and features along with an ongoing free version for those learning...
News Nintendo Unleashes Commercials and Minigame Videos for Mario Party 10
Let's get it started...
The arrival of Mario Party 10 on 20th March is the end-result of one of this generation's inevitabilities; the fact we're onto number ten says all we need to know about how prolific this series has been on Nintendo's home consoles since the Nintendo 64 days. We may not all clamour to pick these titles up when they arrive, but...
News Viewtiful Joe Figure is Ready for His Close-up
First in First 4 Figures' Capcom All-Stars line
We haven't seen Viewtiful Joe a whole heck of a lot since the GameCube days, but if the cry of "Henshin a go-go, baby!" still burns in your heart, First 4 Figures has something for you. The game figure producer announced via Facebook that Capcom's blazing red hero will arrive as the first in its new...
News Gone Home Console Versions Are "Not Actively in Development Any Longer"
Publishing deal with Majesco currently off
Gone Home was critically acclaimed when it arrived on PC in 2013, widely praised for its narrative in particular; there was unsurprisingly some buzz last year, too, when a Nintendo Unity presentation announced the game for Wii U. Nintendo's home console has hosted some excellent Indie efforts, and this...
Video Nintendo Shows Off Monado Teamwork in Xenoblade Chronicles 3D
Gazing into the future
There's potential for Xenoblade Chronicles 3D to introduce Monolith Soft's impressive RPG to a new audience, though admittedly its exclusivity to the New Nintendo 3DS may limit its sales impact in the same way as its relatively late (Western) arrival on Wii. For fans of the genre or those seeking a sizeable adventure, it's...
Monday2nd Mar 2015
Review Adventure Bar Story (3DS eShop)
Will battle for food
Adventure Bar Story sees players taking on two seemingly disparate roles: a chef/restaurant manager and a monster-slaying adventurer. Though these two sound like they would make a questionable mix, the result is actually quite charming and addicting; the ultimate challenge for this quirky RPG is to satisfy the appetite of...
Weirdness eBay Trolls amiibo Fans With Gold Mario Tweet
Unbelievably stupid and from the official account
It's old news, at the moment, that whenever Nintendo announces a limited edition product the following will happen - online pre-orders will sell out in minutes, and scalpers will sell the goods (often pre-orders, not the actual product) on eBay. It's an unescapable reality at present, though we did...
News Japanese Xenoblade Chronicles X Video Presentation Coming On Friday
Battles will be the focus
Xenoblade Chronicles X is hitting the Wii U in Japan this April, and to build up a little more hype Nintendo is running a Japanese video broadcast on Friday. The video will focus on the game's battle system, which is shaping up to be even more inventive as the one seen in the Wii original - and its recent New Nintendo 3DS...
Review Pokémon Shuffle (3DS eShop)
Hoenn Hustle
Pokémon have been puzzling ever since the Johto days, when Pokémon Puzzle Challenge married the block-flipping gameplay of Panel de Pon with Game Freak's charming, collectable characters. It's a formula that's stuck, with Denpa Men developer Genius Sonority heading up the most recent series of Poké-puzzle combinations, including...
News Mario Kart 8 DLC Still Set for May as Online eShop Purchases are Offered in Japan
Mario Kart.tv now linking to an eShop portal
Nintendo's taken notable strides in recent times with its online services and the eShop, particularly in the area of improving convenience for those buying download games when away from their console. In North America it's now possible to buy a decent collection of games via the company's official website...
Nintendo Download 5th March (Europe)
OlliOlli, Proun+, BLOK DROP X TWISTED FUSION, Retro newcomers and more
Another week begins, and Nintendo of Europe has served up its Download Update details with some promising releases on the way. We have some rad cross-buy for Wii U and 3DS gamers, mash-ups, retro games making their first appearances in Europe and much more. Let's get to it. Wii...
News Eiji Aonuma Discusses Idea Origins for The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
Want to know where Termina got its name?
The excitement around the recent release of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D is still burning bright. Falling right in with this, Nintendo Dream - a Japanese, Nintendo Power-like magazine - published an interview with Eiji Aonuma about Majora's Mask 3D in this month's issue. They start off with a rather...
News Interplay Is Remastering Cult SNES Brawler ClayFighter
And its sequels, apparently
Veteran publisher Interplay has announced plans to remaster the amusing 16-bit title ClayFighter - and its sequels - for a new audience. The original ClayFighter was released on the SNES in 1993 - arguably the height of Street Fighter II's popularity - and gave the one-on-one brawler a humorous slant. It was later ported...
Review Pac-Attack (Wii U eShop / SNES)
When worlds collide
Originally a multi-platform release in 1993, Pac-Attack – otherwise known as Pac-Panic – was derived from Namco's arcade game released in the previous year, Cosmo Gang the Puzzle. On first glance, Pac-Attack may appear to be an average run-of-the-mill puzzle game with one of the prominent videogame characters of the time...
Site News A New Readership Survey Has Appeared
Would you mind if we asked you a few questions?
We don't take it for granted that nearly 100,000 people visit Nintendo Life every day, yet you probably know a lot more about us than we know about you. Therefore our partners at Gamer Network have put together a readership survey so we can get to know our audience a little better. Nintendo Life is...
News More Marth amiibo Stock Heading to North America in Late April
Count the days
Nintendo's well aware of the stock issues with some amiibo figures, even if it's not actually able to resolve some of the problems affected the toys' availability in stores. We expect amiibo in card-form later this year, and some key figures will get additional runs of stock to meet demand, though we suspect it'll be difficult for the...
News Trine 3: The Artifacts of Power Announced for a 2015 Release
PC confirmed and consoles TBA
Trine 2: Director's Cut was a launch day eShop release on the Wii U in November 2012, and remains as one of the highest-selling downloads on the store. Frozenbyte's beautiful platformer certainly made an impact, and Nintendo fans are still awaiting the remake of the original - Trine Enchanted Edition - which is...
News We Have World War II To Thank For This Insanely Detailed Hand-Written Dragon Quest V Guide
Grandson uncovers incredibly in-depth tome
World War II was a pretty dire business, costing the lives of countless millions all over the globe. However, if there's one thing we can thank this catastrophic international conflict for, it's possibly the most awesome fan-written guide to Dragon Quest V ever seen. A fellow in Japan has recently...
First Impressions Contemplating the Long Con in The Swindle
Steampunk hijinks
The Swindle is primarily the work of Dan Marshall and some close colleagues through Size Five Games, but due to the efforts of UK publisher Curve Digital has rapidly changed up from being another intriguing PC release to plotting a multi-platform arrival. The inclusion of the Wii U eShop is promising, as this is shaping up to be a...
News Pokémon Shuffle Hits One Million Downloads
Is anyone buying Jewels, though?
Pokémon Shuffle is Nintendo's most notable attempt to-date at utilising microtransactions - unlike previous free-to-play downloads it doesn't unlock content for fixed amounts, but uses an in-game economy that encourages you to pay-to-play on a continual basis. It's had a mixed response, and our early reaction was...
Sunday1st Mar 2015
News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Free DLC, Including Link Equipment, Due 6th March
It begins...
For those diving into Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate as their first major entry in the series, they may be surprised by the sheer volume of free DLC that is offered. Capcom typically provides a host of quests, items and assorted goodies in the months that follow release, and the latest entry on 3DS will include some fairly wacky crossover...
Feature Five Remastered Games We'd Love to Play on the New Nintendo 3DS and XL
GameCube and Wii titles that could make the cut
Just recently we published a list of five Nintendo 64 games we'd love to play on 3DS, inspired by the recent arrival of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D and its remastered predecessors, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D and Star Fox 64 3D
Video This Recreation of The Legend of Zelda in Minecraft is Something to Behold
Legendary
The absence of Minecraft on Nintendo systems will likely be looked back upon as a major 'what-if' in years to come. It's arrived on practically every other gaming platform, and various other attempts at the genre have since been announced by Indie studios aiming to fill a gap. While you can keep major releases from Nintendo fans, you...
Review Mappy-Land (Wii U eShop / NES)
Cats vs. Mouse
Mappy, a plucky mouse detective, is one of many arcade game mascots lost to time, having only starred in a few games over the years. While the character has guest-starred in various Namco games over the years (and makes a clever cameo in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS), the biggest role Mappy's had is in a web series from the...
