News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Demo Codes Now Being Distributed in North America
Four codes per email! Multiplayer! No play limit!
News New Exploit Makes The 3DS Region Free Without The Need For A Flashcard Or Game Cart
All you need is an SD card and an internet connection
Video Does Super Mario Galaxy 2 On Wii U Offer Anything New?
We check out the new digital re-release
News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Free Demo Confirmed Alongside Release Date
The hunt has already begun in Europe
Talking Point The New Nintendo 3DS Could Be a Huge Success, But Its Route to Release Has Been Rocky
A delayed Western arrival and XL-only in the Americas detracts from buzz
News - 2015, Week 03
Sunday18th Jan 2015
News Sonic Boom Gets a Whopping 1GB+ Update in Europe, and Fans Figure Out What it Did
An update not much smaller than Super Mario 3D World's file size
A few days ago Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric received a whopping big update in Europe, and it's still not available - as far as we can see - in North America; it's likely still going through approval and scheduling in the region. This was a game that was widely panned upon release - and...
Poll Nintendo's Year of Adventure on Wii U and 3DS Promises Hundreds of Immersive Gaming Hours
Xenoblade or Legend of Zelda, which is top of your list?
There are plenty of games already confirmed by Nintendo for 2015, covering the Wii U, 3DS and - in one case - the New Nintendo 3DS. We have diverse experiences, from shooting to platforming, level creation to strategy, yet it's in the RPG and Adventure genres that the most hours may be lost...
News A Keen Retro Gamer Has Produced a Handy Virtual Console Controller Compatibility Infographic
Yikes, we really do juggle a lot of control options
The Wii and Wii U have plenty of controllers and combinations on offer, even if on most occasions we can instinctively pick up our pad of choice and get on with playing. With the Wii U and Wii Virtual Consoles, though, there can be quirks that trip people up, one being the fact that the Wii U...
News Official Website for The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D Goes Live
Brimming with information and art
We recently reported on a new trailer showcasing the enhanced gameplay and graphics packed into The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D, but now Nintendo has stepped up its marketing and launched an official website for the long-awaited remake. Most of the information on the website was already announced in the most...
News Resident Evil 4 Was Almost A Very Different Experience
"Let's create a setting that doesn't revolve around science or reason"
Resident Evil 4 is often spoken of as the best entry in Capcom's iconic franchise, blending an over-the-shoulder camera, action and horror in one varied, entertaining experience. Often declared a classic, it's also the reference point when fans bemoan the conceivable falling-away...
Saturday17th Jan 2015
News New Exploit Makes The 3DS Region Free Without The Need For A Flashcard Or Game Cart
All you need is an SD card and an internet connection
A new exploit has emerged which allows the Nintendo 3DS to play games from any region without the need for a flashcard or any software-based exploit. RegionThree merely requires an SD card and access to the internet, and has been tested on the latest version of the 3DS firmware. The catch is...
Talking Point The New Nintendo 3DS Could Be a Huge Success, But Its Route to Release Has Been Rocky
A delayed Western arrival and XL-only in the Americas detracts from buzz
The New Nintendo 3DS now has a release date for both North America and Europe, with 13th February no doubt circled on a number of calendars. It continues Nintendo's trend of sprucing up and revitalising a portable generation with a refreshed system, and there's certainly...
Review 3D After Burner II (3DS eShop)
The need for speed
Classic ports always fare better when handled by a team that approaches the source game's legacy with the utmost respect, and without a hint of hyperbole 3D After Burner II is a truly exceptional retread. Developer M2 has worked wonders with this re-release of Sega's 1987 arcade cabinet, presenting a faithful port that captures...
Interview Exploring Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate With Mr. Ryozo Tsujimoto and Mr. Kaname Fujioka
The West "will be the first" to see various costume collaborations
With Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate arriving in just under a month on 13th February, alongside the New Nintendo 3DS XL and The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D, these are exciting times for portable gamers. Whether upgrading to the new hardware or not, Capcom's latest hunting...
Friday16th Jan 2015
News Hundreds of Limited Edition Majora's Mask New Nintendo 3DS Systems Continue to Flood Onto eBay
Opportunists hog stock once again
It says much for how events have unfolded in recent months that this writer's first thought upon the reveal of a New Nintendo 3DS XL limited edition - with a design from The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D - wasn't "oh my that's gorgeous", but rather "fingers crossed there's enough stock". In the Holiday season...
Preview Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Takes the Series to New Heights
It's got teeth
At times the localisation of the Monster Hunter franchise can be frustrating for dedicated fans in the West; it's a sales phenomenon in Japan and, as a result, there are more frequent releases in the country. Despite this Capcom is to be commended for its increasing commitment to making it a success outside of its homeland - Monster...
Gallery Feast Your Eyes on the Super Mario and Super Smash Bros. Wave 4 amiibo
Bank balances, beware
In the first Nintendo Direct broadcasts of 2015 the amiibo brand played its part, with new figures announced to keep the action going in both Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS, and a fresh range to make an impact in Mario Party 10. Many of the toys will support a wide range of games in different ways, but it's in these two...
Video Nintendo Drops a Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D Gameplay Trailer
Must be viewed within 3 days
In the most recent round of Direct videos, Nintendo was kind enough to to confirm a 13th February release date for the long awaited The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D. A stand-out title in the Zelda series, it's no surprise that the launch of this hotly anticipated sequel is coinciding with that of the New 3DS...
News Wii U Enjoyed Its Best Ever Month of US Sales in December, With Yearly Results Beating 2013
3DS had its best ever month of first-party software sales
We're now heading into the time of reckoning when we learn how Nintendo fared over the festive sales period, and there's a positive start courtesy of the December NPD results - these cover US physical retail sales. On a whole Nintendo is reporting a record month for Wii U, along with strong...
Video See How The New Nintendo 3DS Compares To The Rest Of The 3DS Family
Going hands on with the New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL
With the western launch of the New Nintendo 3DS looming on the horizon like a massive, cuddly monster with its beady eyes on your long-suffering wallet, we thought you might like to see how Nintendo's latest hardware shapes up against older 3DS systems. We've got the New Nintendo 3DS...
News Professional Super Smash Bros. Player Proposes to Girlfriend at Tournament
It's-a-me, Marry-o!
Gaming tournaments often yield some memorable moments, such as amazing feats of skill and underdogs defeating their Goliath counterparts. However, in a Super Smash Bros. for Wii U tournament, Tantalus alleviated the competitive atmosphere by proposing to his girlfriend - an occurrence that also took place at the AGDQ Mischief...
Rumour Could Xenosaga's KOS-MOS Be Appearing In Wii U Exclusive Project Treasure?
Nintendo Direct footage has people talking
Bandai Namco's big news from the recent Nintendo Direct broadcast was that it's working on a free-to-play downloadable title for the Wii U under the tentative title of Project Treasure. The game is being pitched as an action title where 4 players work co-operatively to disarm traps, beat enemies and grab...
News A New Rhythm Heaven Game On Nintendo 3DS Is Music To Our Ears
Will contain 100 mini-games, 70 taken from existing titles
The recent Nintendo Direct broadcast was so packed with content that we can surely be forgiven for missing one or two things from the Japanese event -- one of which is the news that there's going to be a 3DS entry in the popular Rhythm Heaven series. The title is expected to hit Japan this...
First Impressions Taking To The Skies In Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy+
Danger zone
Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy was an enjoyable romp trough the skies in the early days of the 3DS, and its chunky dogfighting proved to be a delightful fit for auto-stereoscopic 3D. What better way to immerse yourself in a virtual world than to feel as if you're soaring over it, right? Bandai Namco is now offering the chance to do...
Review Cake Ninja 3: The Legend Continues (Wii U eShop)
Legendarily mundane
Apparently, ninjas hate cakes, and developer Cypronia has been struggling to produce a decent game based off this assumption since its first attempt on DSiWare back in 2011. With years of experience under its belt and a baked goods massacre to show for it, has the move to Wii U made for a more substantial title? Let's begin by...
Review Best of Solitaire (3DS eShop)
All by myself
Who doesn't love a good old card game? They're enjoyable, relaxing and you can even play them by yourself if you're socially lacking at the time. Best of Solitaire may seem like a tempting purchase if you're a fan of the solo four-suit adventure, but is it worth spending your money on? Best of Solitaire loads up almost instantly after...
News Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire Special Demo Version Now Available on European eShop
Grab that Glalie
Nintendo has already - based on millions of sales worldwide - hit the hardcore demographic for Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, and now seems to be stepping up its efforts with those still on the fence. When popping open our UK 3DS today we had a SpotPass download waiting for us... sort of. European 3DS owners may find a...
Weirdness Stop-Motion Animator Successfully Makes the Power Glove Awesome, and Useful
He's got the power
The Power Glove remains an iconic part of Nintendo history, an accessory that was hugely visible in the NES era and beyond. It promised much with motion controls, and famously failed to deliver. Its visual and cultural appeal at the time can't be denied, however, and to this day we see accessories and mods that keep it alive. One...
Thursday15th Jan 2015
News Retro City Rampage DX Update Will Bring Dual Stick Aiming Support on New Nintendo 3DS
Even more glorious chaos
We're pretty big fans of Retro City Rampage DX here at Nintendo Life, as its blend of chaotic retro GTA-style action and a whole load of '80s and '90s references come together into a hugely entertaining package. Though excellent on WiiWare, the DX edition on the 3DS eShop is the most feature and content-packed version on...
Friday16th Jan 2015
Feel good about everything
If you need an accessible game that does the virtual equivalent of pinching your cheeks and saying you're awesome for everything you do, then there are far worse options than a Cooking Mama game. Always a friendly experience in which it's hard to fail, it was a huge success in the DS era, particularly. The series is still...
Thursday15th Jan 2015
News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Demo Codes Now Being Distributed in North America
Four codes per email! Multiplayer! No play limit!
One of the major reveals during the Nintendo Direct broadcasts - even if it was subtle in the North American video - was a demo distribution for Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate. Like previous examples - most memorably Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS - it consists of emails to Club Nintendo members with...
Hands On We Check Out The New Nintendo 3DS XL
North America's only New Nintendo 3DS, lest we forget
The New Nintendo 3DS XL is a sleek piece of kit that streamlines many of its predecessor's quirks. Be it changed button placement or new features altogether, it's evident that Nintendo has put a lot of thought into alleviating pain points both obvious and subtle. While we aren't fans of every...
First Impressions We're Really Feeling It With Xenoblade Chronicles 3D
It's Reyn time!
Xenoblade Chronicles was something of a white whale that appeared late in the Wii's lifespan. A Western release was not assured despite critical success in its native Japan, sending fervent American fans into an Operation Rainfall-shaped tizzy to show Nintendo that hey, maybe they should release some games from time to time. Then,...
Nintendo Download 15th January (North America)
3D After Burner II, Super Mario Galaxy 2, tempting discounts and much more
In this rather exciting week there's still time for our traditional Nintendo Download Update fix. This latest offering from Nintendo of America is pretty strong, with a variety of titles on Wii U and 3DS full of potential, in addition to some classics and discounts. Let's get...
News Zelda: Majora's Mask New 3DS Bundles Available For Pre-Order On UK Nintendo Store
Limited Edition Skull Kid statue up for grabs
The Official Nintendo UK online store has been updated with a whole raft of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D bundles, and for fans in that region there's the additional good news that the Skull Kid statue will also be available. You can now pre-order various New Nintendo 3DS systems with a copy of...
News New Nintendo Wii Remotes Come in Bowser and Toad Colours
All Bowser, all the time
Nintendo may, in decades to come, regard the Wii Remote as its greatest controller. While we can argue until the cows come home about the layout of the GameCube controller or the merits of a classic SNES pad, the Wii Remote is a sales phenomenon that has been waved around by hundreds of millions of people. Spanning two...
Poll Which New Nintendo 3DS Will You be Buying?
Time to make a tough decision...
Now that Nintendo has revealed the North American & European launch schedule for the New Nintendo 3DS we wanted to find out what you, the readers, think about the new console and whether you have any questions for us before you decide whether or not to take the plunge and buy a New Nintendo 3DS. We've managed to...
Reaction Nintendo Direct Went Crazy With Reveals, and Was Delightful and Confusing in Equal Measure
Tom Whitehead tries to make sense of 2015's first Nintendo Direct vids
Aside from a few small details that will be saved for a wrap-up article in the very near future, I reckon we've covered most of the important news and reveals from the recent Nintendo Direct broadcasts. It was an absolute bombardment of details, and after quite a few hours and a...
News Nintendo Kicks Off a "Throwback Sale" on the eShop in North America
Six games discounted until 22nd January
Following yesterday's reveal of Wii retail games on the Wii U eShop, plenty will have been tempted courtesy of the reduced prices in launch week. Nintendo of America's gone beyond that to use the first Wii release as an excuse for a "Throwback Sale", with six games discounted following today's update until...
News Nintendo's amiibo Website and Compatibility Chart Has All The Answers
Confusion and fan-made infographics begone! (Mostly)
With the amiibo figures - and upcoming Super Mario wave - becoming increasingly diverse in both the ranges on offer and the games they support, it's very easy to get mixed up in terms of which toy works in which games. Which games need to save data? Does it matter if I have a Smash Bros. Mario...
Feature The Big Nintendo Direct Summary - 14th January 2015
Nintendo went big with New Nintendo 3DS and much more
With 2015 still only just picking up steam, the first Nintendo Direct broadcasts of the year ensured that the big N kicked off a vital 12 months with some style. It delivered some of its longer broadcasts in recent memory, with notable variations between regions, and as a whole kept momentum...
News Retro Studios Launches Twitter Account And Sets Off The Rumour Mill
"Peekaboo"
Everyone is on Twitter these days -- even Her Majesty the Queen of England -- but Metroid Prime and Donkey Kong Country Returns creator Retro Studios has only just jumped on the social media bandwagon. The company kicked off its
News Nintendo of America Issues Non-Statement on the Region Skipping the Smaller New Nintendo 3DS
"Different territories make their own business decisions"
In the general consensus that we've seen online, the latest Nintendo Direct broadcasts went down rather well. Coming in it at over 40 minutes each, they were packed with details; yet, as we acknowledged in our reaction to events, the North American presentation was somewhat overshadowed by...
Review PUZZLEBOX setup (3DS eShop)
Flip the script
It's always refreshing when a game comes along that challenges norms and makes its players rethink the standards of a genre. The modern gaming market is so abundant that even the least common genres are saturated with new titles, making it even more appreciated when something that feels new makes its way onto consoles. As Nintendo...
News Xenoblade Chronicles X Hits Japan on 29th April
Localise with haste, Monolith Soft!
Nintendo's various Direct broadcasts had plenty of good news, and some reassurance for Western fans of Xenoblade Chronicles X came in the form of a new trailer that not only showed off extensive footage, but also reiterated a 2015 release date. It's clear why Nintendo is confident, as the title - simply known as...
News Sega Confirms Global 3DS Release For Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai DX In May
Sing it from the rooftops
Last year, Sega confirmed that it was brining the phenomenally successful 3DS title Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai 2 to the west as Hatsune Miku: Project MIRAI Remix. Yesterday, the company revealed the final launch dates for this game, as well as a slightly revised title: Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai DX. The title will launch...
News Pixel-Rich Action Platformer Adventures Of Pip Is Leaping To The Wii U eShop This May
Backed by over 2,500 people on Kickstarter
Tic Toc Games has confirmed that its platforming title Adventures of Pip will be hitting the Wii U eShop this May. The title was funded using Kickstarter last year and blew past its funding goal by 164 percent, with over 2,500 backers pledging financial support. Adventures of Pip has a rich pixel-heavy...
News Elliot Quest and Blek Bringing More Indie Charm to the Wii U eShop
Gunman Clive 2 pegged for January
In a segment unique to the North American Nintendo Direct, we had a brief look at some upcoming releases for the Wii U and 3DS eShop stores. Some details reiterated what we already knew, including release information for the concluding parts of Moon Chronicles and others, but there were some fresh games to take in...
Wednesday14th Jan 2015
Video Does Super Mario Galaxy 2 On Wii U Offer Anything New?
We check out the new digital re-release
A nice surprise during today's Nintendo Direct webcasts was the announcement of digital re-releases for some of the Wii's best games. The very first game is available right now, and it's a stone-cold classic - Super Mario Galaxy 2! If you've never played this game, now is the best chance you hav
News Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Free Demo Confirmed Alongside Release Date
The hunt has already begun in Europe
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is set to be one of the biggest releases this year without a doubt, and in order to whet appetites as much as possible Nintendo has released codes for a special demo version in Europe and North America. If you're in Europe keep you eyes on your inbox as Nintendo will be sending out...
News New Nintendo 3DS Pre-Orders Emerge at GameStop, Best Buy, EB Games and GAME
Update: Majora's Mask bundle available for pre-order at Best Buy
Update: The Majora's Mask 3D New Nintendo 3DS bundle is now available for pre-order at Best Buy for $199.99 (thanks to Hippoeater for the heads up). Original Article: Since today's Nintendo Direct festivities we've had some requests to keep a beady eye out for New Nintendo 3DS...
News New Nintendo 3DS Release Date Confirmed for 13th February
Majora's Mask and Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate limited editions on the way
During today's Nintendo Direct broadcasts the big N confirmed what was already suspected - the New Nintendo 3DS will launch in Europe and North America on 13th February. There are some key differences in hardware, however. Europe will, as expected, have the same range as Japan...
News Wii Disc Software Heading to the Wii U eShop
Wii have been waiting...
Since the launch of Wii U the only way to play original Wii games was to enter 'Wii mode', which effectively emulated the Wii system menu. Whilst it was great that the Wii U contained this backwards compatibility it's implementation always felt cumbersome and unfinished. However, during today's Nintendo Direct it was...
Nintendo Direct Watch The First North American Nintendo Direct of 2015 - Live!
Let's get this year started
It's time for Nintendo's latest Direct, which is set to cover a range of upcoming Wii U and 3DS games. There's a lot that could be covered, ranging from Holiday releases, DLC, early 2015 games or even all-new surprises. Join us to follow all the action from the North American broadcast...
News Nintendo Anime Channel Will Bring Free Streamed Shows to 3DS in Europe
Pokémon! Kirby! Inazuma Eleven!
In the early days of the 3DS, Nintendo was keen to push the device as a video multimedia device, with the Nintendo Video channel providing a few short videos every week. That approach fizzled out for a while until Nintendo released the Pikmin Short Movies late last year, and now Nintendo of Europe is following that...
News Nintendo Reveals New Range, Details and Compatibility for amiibo
Smash Bros. wave 4, new range, upcoming 3DS Smash Bros. support and more
With all their current momentum, amiibo figurines were bound to make an appearance during the latest Nintendo Direct - and so they did. The first inclusion of amiibo figures in the Direct was the announcement of Wave 3 figures of the Super Smash Bros. series becoming available...
News Super Smash Bros. Double CD Soundtrack Listing is Revealed in Full
Will 72 tracks be enough?
We know that Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS have - between them - an enormous soundtrack that represents the roster's diverse range of franchises, in addition to the Smash series itself. For those that want to enjoy the music the o
Watch Catch Up With the North American, European and Japanese Nintendo Direct Broadcasts
See Satoru Iwata feel the beat
Nintendo has wrapped up its latest Direct broadcasts, revealing new games, release dates and hardware bundles. There were some notable differences between regions, too, which has certainly kept us on our toes here at Nintendo Life. We'll be providing our usual reaction and Nintendo Direct summary in the coming hours...
Weirdness The Secret History of Princess Zelda
UK supermarket giant reveals startling new information
If you've ever wondered why Ganondorf, the Great King of Evil, has such a vendetta against the kingdom of Hyrule, you may find some clues in this amusing product description for the Princess Zelda amiibo from UK supermarket behemoth Tesco; the bad grammar is all down to the retailer, too. The...
Nintendo Direct Watch The First European Nintendo Direct of 2015 - Live!
Spring goodies are promised
The big N is promising Spring release details for Wii U and 3DS in this Nintendo Direct, with details likely on a host of games and the New Nintendo 3DS; this European broadcast will be hosted by Satoru Iwata and Satoru Shibata. Enjoy!...
News A New Fire Emblem Game Is Marching Towards The 3DS
From the same team behind Fire Emblem: Awakening
During today's Nintendo Direct it was confirmed that the 3DS family of systems is getting a new entry in the beloved Fire Emblem series, created by the same core team at Intelligent Systems which brought us the sublime Fire Emblem: Awakening. An entirely new story is on offer, but this time around...
News Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars Due in March and Will be Cross-Buy on Wii U and 3DS
We tip our hats to Nintendo for that one
In today's Nintendo Direct it was revealed that the title of the upcoming Mario vs DK game will be Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars, and it will be an eShop only download for both Wii U and 3DS. Most interestingly the game will be Nintendo's first cross-buy title - if you buy the Wii U version you'll get...
News Project Treasure Is Bandai Namco's Wii U Exclusive Free-To-Play Co-Op Action Game
4 players working together to claim the loot
Bandai Namco is working on a free-to-play, 4-player co-operative action title for the Wii U eShop. The news came as part of a special segment during the recent Nintendo Direct broadcast where Bandai Namco's Katsuhiro Harada explained the core mechanics of the new game, which has the current working title...
News Pokémon Shuffle is a Match-Three Game With Slightly Worrying Micro-Transactions
It'll be all about the balancing
Today's Nintendo Direct broadcasts were packed with details, and a large percentage of the reveals and footage went down rather well. This humble writer did have his head in his hands at the announcement of Pokémon Shuffle for the 3DS eShop, however, for multiple reasons. For one thing it immediately followed the...
13th February looks increasingly likely
At the time of publication we're less than two hours away from the first Nintendo Direct broadcasts of 2015; rumours and pre-order pages suggest that some details are inevitable, such as those around the New Nintendo 3DS and The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D; a release date of 13th February for both seems...
News Xenoblade Chronicles 3D Launches Exclusively On New Nintendo 3DS This April
Porting duties being handled by US-based Monster Games
Xenoblade Chronicles 3D -- a portable adaptation of the Wii RPG classic -- was announced alongside the New 3DS in Japan last year. The New 3DS launch came and went in that region with no solid news of a release date for the game, but today's Nintendo Direct has confirmed that we'll be getting it...
News Code Name: S.T.E.A.M Gets European Release Date and Fire Emblem Cross-Over amiibo Support
Marth, Ike, Robin and Lucina can join the battle
The first Nintendo Direct broadcasts of 2015 weren't short of details, and one reveal that was among the quirkiest we saw was around upcoming 3DS strategy game Code Name S.T.E.A.M. The Intelligent Systems game was confirmed for amiibo support, which will utilise the New Nintendo 3DS and, in future,...
Tuesday13th Jan 2015
News Nintendo eShop Cards Are 10% Off at Best Buy Today
Buy money for less money!
With Nintendo's Deluxe Digital Promotion now expired, padding your eShop account with a little extra cheddar isn't quite as effortless as it used to be. It might take some bargain hunting to scrape up a few extra bucks, but Best Buy's occasional eShop card sales are a reliable place to start. The cards are Best Buy's Deal...
Wednesday14th Jan 2015
News Splatoon Confirmed for May Release Along With Details on Customisation
Level up with clothes and weapons
Today's Nintendo Direct broadcasts were full of interesting details, and we learned a little more about one of the year's biggest Wii U titles - Splatoon; for starters, it's due to arrive in May in both North America and Europe. Beyond that we saw some footage of the main hub area, known as the 'Plaza'. In a move...
News The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask Begins Its Countdown on 13th February
Japanese Nintendo Direct reveals over 15 minutes of footage
As you may have seen in our post confirming a 13th February release date for the New Nintendo 3DS, it's been announced that The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D will launch on the same day
Video Brand New Xenoblade Chronicles X 'Exploration Trailer' Lands
And it's a beautiful thing
JRPG-starved Wii U fans were today given a further glimpse into the enormous open world of the upcoming Xenoblade Chronicles X, the title currently in development for Wii U by Monolith Soft. Many of the Nintendo Life staff are huge fans of the Wii game, Xenoblade Chronicles, which is currently being ported to the New...
News Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Edition Coming To The West With Puzzle & Dragons Z
Double the fun arriving in May
When Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Edition was announced last week in Japan, many questioned when western players would get the chance to play Puzzle & Dragons Z, the 3DS forerunner which hit Japan a while ago and promptly sold
News Nintendo Confirms New 3DS eShop Shooter IronFall Invasion
Iron't falling just yet
Keen to get their foot in the door of the shooter genre, Nintendo has announced an indie-developer third person shooter for the European 3DS eShop. Not much is currently known about IronFall Invasion, but the developer VD-dev has been posting screenshots of the game since September last year. The game takes heavy inspiration...
News Mario Party 10 Gets It Started With Wii U on 20th March
It's almost time to party
In today's Nintendo Direct broadcast it was revealed that Mario Party 10 will be released on the Wii U on 20th March in both Europe and North America. In addition to the standard Mario Party mode, the game will feature an new "amiibo Party mode", which brings amiibo compatibility to the classic party-game series. Certain...
News New Screenshots for Rock 'N Racing Off Road Speed Into View
Rock and roll
Who remembers Ivan "Ironman" Stewart's Super Off-Road? This was a fun arcade game for three players where you raced burly off-road trucks around dirt tracks from a top-down viewpoint. The game was ported to a variety of platforms, not least the NES and the SNES; sadly we are yet to see a release on the Virtual Console. Spanish eShop...
News Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy + Hits The West In February With amiibo Support In Tow
You can be my wingman any time
Bandai Namco has confirmed that Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy + (try saying that three times as fast) will be leaving the hanger just in time for the New 3DS launch in both North America and Europe. On February 13th the game -- which is an updated of the existing Ace Combat Assault Horizon Legacy -- will be...
News Etrian Mystery Dungeon Finds Its Way to North American Stores on April 7th
Atlus used Hype!
It was confirmed in today's Nintendo Direct that Etrian Mystery Dungeon - Atlus and Spike Chunsoft's upcoming RPG Dungeon-crawling mash-up - will be up for grabs on the 3DS in North America, digitally and physically, on April 7th. For those of you who are collectors and/or eager fans, pre-orders and first run copies will also come...
Tuesday13th Jan 2015
Feature Five Key Reveals We Want in 2015's First Nintendo Direct
New 3DS! Wii U release dates! Reward Scheme!
While January 2014 became entwined in fluctuating share prices and worrying financial results, Nintendo has shown its intent to kick off 2015 in a far more positive light. The year's first Nintendo Direct will be broadcast on 14th January at 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK / 3pm CET, confirming a focus...
News Nintendo Direct Confirmed for 14th January, With Focus on Spring Releases
Getting 2015 truly started
As 2015 begins to kick into gear Nintendo seems intent on starting with a bang. While we had to wait until mid-February for the first Nintendo Direct broadcast last year, the company has now confirmed a new broadcast for 14th January. It's not been given a specific title - which suggests one of those packed general...
Rumour Red New Nintendo 3DS XL With 13th February Launch Appears in Marketing Poster
Also suggest a same day release for Majora's Mask 3D and Monster Hunter
We've seen some fun Nintendo Direct and New Nintendo 3DS rumours today, but this one is too irresistible to not share. Just bear in mind that this could be clever photoshopping, but if true the details will certainly cause a storm. It's all in the design; the image below is...
News YouTube Update Spruces Up Wii U App
Scientifically proven to be one million times better (not really)
It's easy to forget that the Wii U has a decent range of entertainment apps to enjoy, and one of the most prominent has now had a facelift in an update. The change is to YouTube, with a slightly new look and - it seems to us - quicker performance. In terms of aesthetic changes,...
Gallery Imagining What Banjo-Kazooie Might Look Like in HD
Bringing a Rare classic up to date
Rare's classic N64 game Banjo-Kazooie is a fan favourite with retro gamers for good reason; even by today's standards this early 3D game is still incredibly charming and fun to play. Still, 1998 is a long time ago, and there is always room for improvement. Enter UK based 3D artist Neil Goodman, who has tasked...
Gallery A Closer Look at the Latest Splatoon Updates
New environments, artwork and details
Late last year Nintendo launched an official Tumblr page for Splatoon, which provides translations of the regular posts made to the Japanese Twitter account for the game. While always light-hearted, they often go beyond mere concept art to provide snippets of interesting information, rather like the...
News Capcom Outlines Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Localisation Challenges
Speeding up the tutorial
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is on the way soon, giving the iconic Capcom franchise another major opportunity to take off in the West. Though it's a sales phenomenon in Japan, it's struggled to create the same level of success elsewhere in the world. Will Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate change that? Time will tell, but with an...
News Atlus Announces Launch Week Discounts for Citizens of Earth
Cross-buy discount also available in Europe
For fans of download RPGs that bring to mind retro classics, we suspect that Citizens of Earth is high on the agenda. Developed by Eden Industries and published by Atlus, this quirky RPG has cited sources of inspiration such as EarthBound during development, and arrives on multiple platforms next week...
Video See Captain Toad's Bonus Stages From Super Mario 3D World
How do they compare to the originals? Find out now
So, now that Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker has delighted Nintendo fans around the globe, we thought it would be high time to take a closer look at some very special bonus levels. Those who have a Super Mario 3D World save file on their Wii U may have already noticed that this unlocks some bonus...
News NF Magazine 2015 Renewals & New Subscriptions Hit Kickstarter
A Nintendo force for good
Following last year's successful campaign, our friends at NF magazine - which was originally called Nintendo Force - have launched a new Kickstarter to offer both returning subscribers and new readers the chance to keep the spiritual successor to Nintendo Power magazine going for yet another year. Here's a bit of...
News Soccer Up Online Kicks Off In North America on 15th January
Question marks over whether it's a sensible soccer purchase
It's taken a little while - and the Major League Soccer season is still a couple of months away - but EnjoyUp Games has now confirmed a North American release date for Soccer Up Online, which is Football Up Online in Europe. It'll arrive in this week's update (15th January) with a price tag...
Monday12th Jan 2015
News New Nintendo 3DS Prices Pop Up in Italy, and They're Not Bad
Pretty similar prices to current models
Now that the whole New Nintendo 3DS Ambassador Promotion in Europe is drawing to an end, it's time to move on from topics such as who's been picked by Club Nintendo, what makes Europe so special and what the flip Nintendo of America was up to when it all went down. Those topics are so ten minutes ago, and now...
Review League of Heroes (3DS eShop)
Leaving out the legends
Ports of mobile games making their way onto Nintendo platforms was once considered disgraceful, but as time passed and the phenomenon became more commonplace the discussion seems to have died off a bit. We like to think that the quality of mobile games has increased over the years, essentially eliminating the idea that cell...
Nintendo Download 15th January (Europe)
Axelay, 3D After Burner II, Demon's Quest and much more
It's another Monday morning, but we won't let that get us down as we have the European Nintendo Download Update to cheer us up. There are new titles to enjoy across Wii U and 3DS, some classics on the Virtual Console and a whole load of tempting discounts. Let's get to it. Wii U eShop: Family...
Reminder Club Nintendo New 3DS Ambassador Promotion Final Invites Sent, Deadline at Midnight
Emails are arriving
The New Nintendo 3DS Ambassador programme has generated a lot of buzz in Europe, with more Club Nintendo members gradually receiving invites as the promotion deadline has loomed. The opportunity to order the special bundle and have early access to the hardware has been tough for many to ignore. Of course, a good number of loyal...
News The Bomber's Notebook Will Be Revamped in The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D
Eiji Aonuma wants you "to enjoy that special sense of achievement"
With its release due relatively soon, we can hopefully expect a lot of information from Nintendo regarding The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D in the coming weeks. Perhaps the big N will give us that Nintendo Direct we all want with a whole load of reveals and details, but in the...
Weirdness Totaka's Song Appears to Have Been Found in Mario Kart 8
Listen carefully
Kazumi Totaka is one of Nintendo's most experienced and talented composers and sound directors, yet that's probably not the reason that many recognise his name. He's better know for Totaka's Song, a simple melody that has been hidden within a whole load of Nintendo games. The first appearance seems to have been in X on Game Boy,...
Gallery A Chance to Admire Some of the Finest Legend of Zelda Cosplay
Hyrulian fashion
If you head along to almost any major gaming or pop-culture expo you'll likely see plenty of cosplay, whether it's the efforts of keen fans or those entering official competitions. Faithfully recreating the look of favourite characters is more than a fun diversion for some, of course, but rather a way of life. At the top level...
Weirdness This Interpretation of Super Smash Bros. 'Lore' Takes a Serious Turn
A tale of growing up and being trapped by fate, or something...
Gaming is a funny hobby, in which the most dedicated can find meaning in the most simplistic and light-hearted of concepts. That's not a bad thing, just a reflection of how much fans really love their favourite franchises and games. The latest video from hugely popular YouTube channel...
News Details of Next Level Games' Cancelled Project, 'Clockwerk', Emerge
Game set in a magical floating clock tower, which was not to be
Canadian development studio Next Level Games is well known for its work on Nintendo games such as Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, Punch-Out!! and Mario Strikers Charged. While the studio is now exclusively developing for Nintendo platforms, that wasn't the case with an intr
Review Mes Comptines (3DS eShop)
Straight Outta Comptines
If you know My First Songs or its sequel on the 3DS, then Mes Comptines (French for “My Rhymes" or “My Nursery Rhymes") will be very familiar territory, even with a language shift. This is the same simplistic rhythm game for small children as its predecessors, and that's really not such a bad thing. Mes Comptines comes...
News Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Edition Was The Result Of A Speculative Pitch From GungHo Online
3DS puzzle title will feature other famous Nintendo characters
Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Edition was announced recently, and looks to combine the popular mobile (and later 3DS) puzzle franchise with Nintendo's most famous character. Speaking with 4Gamer, developer GungHo Online's Daisuke Yamamoto and Kazuki Morishita have revealed that the...
News Bidding Hits $100,000 on Uber-Rare NES Game, Stadium Events
Nintendo are welcome to bid on it if they want it!
We reported a few days ago that a user-rare copy of Stadium Events on the NES had been listed on eBay. While this isn't the most accomplished 8-bit game of all time, it is one of the rarest with a low production run - which was subsequently recalled as it was then rebranded. Only two sealed copies...
The captain and Toadette cling on in 40th place
In the coming days and weeks we'll learn a lot more about Nintendo's sales and performance over the Holiday period, and while there's optimism in some territories the UK charts continue to suggest that the company is struggling in the country. Whether the UK market will be highlighted as a problem area...
Guide Collecting All the Gems in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker - Episode 3
Episode 3: Return of the Toad
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is now available in North America and Europe, adding another excellent title to the Wii U library. In this game the goal for Captain Toad and Toadette isn't simply nabbing the star at the end of each stage, but also picking up three gems hidden throughout each level. These become vital in...
News Awesome Games Done Quick Raises Over $1.5 Million for Charity
Nearly 30,000 donors
Awesome Games Done Quick is a bi-annual week-long event that's rapidly established itself as a highlight within the speedrun community. The most skilful players from around the world gather to tackle records, all while raising impressive amounts of money. The fundraising target for last week's festivities was $1 million, all...
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