Rumour Nintendo Switch Release Date and Key Games Outlined
If you don't want to potentially know, don't look
Guide The Top Nintendo Black Friday 2016 Deals in the US
Grab yourself a bargain!
News - November, 2016
Wednesday30th Nov 2016
Guide Getting To Grips With EV Training In Pokémon Sun And Moon
Worth the effort
Next week is the 2016 European International Championships at the ExCel in London, and many people are still getting to grips with the new system for training and even the new Pokémon in Sun and Moon. While Individual Values haven't changed much - beyond Hyper Training, anyway - how you get Effort Values has altered from Pokémon X...
Review Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS (3DS)
Super Mini Maker
Though it never had much of a chance of matching its predecessor in sales, the 3DS has nevertheless proven to be a valuable hardware hit for Nintendo. Its solid sales have not only defied many gloomy early expectations, but has ensured that it's been a strong platform for vital franchises, from sure-fire hits like the Pokémon main...
News The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Has a Lovely Official Website
We'll Link to it
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is expected to be one of the hottest releases on 2017, heading to both the Wii U and Nintendo Switch. Just ahead of the game getting new footage shown off at The Game Awards, Nintendo
News Nintendo UK Promises More NES Classic Mini Stock Before Santa Arrives
Ho Ho Hope there's more than 10 this time
The NES Classic Mini has been a hot ticket this festive season, with demand far outstripping supply all over the world. If you're in the UK and still want to get one before Christmas, then you might want to keep your eye on the Official Nintendo UK store. More stock is promised in December according
News EA Reconfirms That A "Major Game" Is In Development For Nintendo Switch
"We're huge fans. We have a relationship that goes many decades back"
EA's on-off relationship with Nintendo has become so epic that it could be turned into a Hollywood romance, but the pair appear to be at the stage of exchanging furtive glances across the room at the moment, with the massive American publisher indicating that while it is...
Rumour Pokémon GO December Update Might Be A Gen 2 Monster Mash
100 new beasts on the way?
Pokémon GO has seen a few changes of late, with the "nearby" tracking system getting an overhaul, monsters being rebalanced and even the elusive Ditto arriving in the game, but if rumours are to be believed December could have somet
News 8Bitdo Is Bringing A Wireless Controller Option To The NES Classic Mini
$39.99, and it ships before Christmas
Fed up of the stupidly short controller cable on the NES Classic Mini? Fear not, because peripheral maker 8bitdo has confirmed today that it is bringing its own wireless control option to the NES Classic Mini. 8Bitdo has already performed the same trick with the standard
News The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth+ Won't Be Coming to Wii U
However, the Switch is a good possibility
For the past year or so, The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth has been in something of a "will it, won't it" status on the Wii U. Though a port was initially unlikely, rumours began circulating that it would indeed be happening, and a confirmation came in April. However, this confirmation mentioned that the port...
News Nintendo Making "Great Effort" To Support Third Parties On Switch, Claims Take-Two Boss
"We're very optimistic on the Switch"
The Nintendo Switch arrives early next year but aside from a special preview event, we've had little in the way of solid news regarding the games we'll be playing on it come March 2017. Not only has Nintendo been coy about what it's working on, it appears to have forbidden third-party publishers from sharing...
News Pokémon Sun and Moon Have Delivered the Biggest Ever Nintendo Game Launch in Europe
Over 1.5 million copies in week one
It's been clear over recent days that Pokémon Sun and Moon have been a significant success, shifting millions of copies and even setting a Nintendo record in the UK. Nintendo of Europe has now confirmed that it's the biggest ever Nintendo game launch in the region. NoE has said the following in a press release:...
News Composer Koji Kondo Talks Super Mario And Zelda In Freshly Translated 2001 Interview
"The jumping sound was even used on a TV quiz show"
Some of Nintendo's most iconic tunes were created by Koji Kondo, making the Japanese composer one of the most listened-to artists in the world - even if people don't necessarily know his name. A 2001 interview with Kondo - taken from Game Maestro Vol. 3 - has been freshly translated into English...
Video Catch Up With the Latest Story Trailer for Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King
As narrated by a mustachioed mystic
Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King isn't far away, due to arrive in North America and Europe on 20th January. Following the excellent Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past, its remastered form on 3DS will offer new features and content; these extras are confirmed to include two more playa
News More Tickets on the Way for Defenders of the Triforce 'Real Escape' Experience
Hey Listen!
For fans of the Zelda universe that were unfortunate not to purchase tickets to the recently announced Zelda-themed escape room / experience in the US, you may be in luck. SCRAP, the company behind the idea, has revealed that additional dates and times will become available soon. With initial sales selling out quicker than a glass of Lon...
News Pokémon Sun and Moon Help Keep the 3DS on Top in Japan
Getting close to two million physical retail sales
It's the middle of the week, which means that the Media Create Japanese chart results are here to show us what's hot and what's not in Nintendo's home country. Unsurprisingly Pokémon Sun and Moon remain in top spot, holding off a number of new releases across various platforms. It's close to 2...
News The Pokémon Sun and Moon Soundtrack is Beginning to Roll Out on iTunes Globally
Keep your eyes peeled
While the titular Pocket Monsters may be the stars of the Pokémon franchise, the music has certainly been a nice plus in the games. Many a classic track has been crafted over the years, and the Pokémon Sun and Moon soundtrack fits in well with this lineage. For those of you that would be interested in listening to the...
Video Take an Extended Look at the Quirkiness of Miitopia
Health boosts with a salt shaker, rescuing faces, and more
In early November Nintendo broadcast a Miitopia Direct in Japan, which lifted the lid on the quirky Mii-centric RPG adventure on 3DS. With various tropes of the genre, it throws in typically peculiar Mii features and populates the adventure with characters found on your device. You could try...
Tuesday29th Nov 2016
Feature Super Mario Maker FAQs - The Key Differences between the Wii U and 3DS Versions
Aside from screen size
Perhaps due to the limited userbase and sales potential on the Wii U, Nintendo is bringing a couple of its notable home console releases of recent times to the 3DS, no doubt necessitating some technical wizardry in the process. The first of these is Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS, which delivers a portable version of the...
Soapbox Nintendo, the NES Mini and Ongoing Stock Problems
Damien and Tom weigh in on the issues, and the possible reasons for them
When it comes to product releases, particularly hardware or accessory related, Nintendo's reputation is currently suffering. After the missteps with amiibo in late 2014 and into the Summer of 2015, this year has seen Nintendo make a mess of the NES Mini launch and, in North...
Rumour The Skylanders Franchise Might Be Facing Cancellation
Liam Robertson weighs in on the topic
It seems that the writing's been on the wall for the toys-to-life market for a while now. The Disney Infinity franchise just got cancelled this summer, and the general sales in this industry have been steadily shrinking. Lego Dimensions and Skylanders have been holding the line thus far, but it seems that...
News Ubisoft 30th Anniversary Video Has Mario, Luigi And Toad In Rabbids Form
The rumours are true?
A short while ago we reported on the rumour that Ubisoft was working on a title which places the cast of the Super Mario series in the world of the Raving Rabbids, and that it was set to be a Nintendo Switch launch title. This rumour has been given additional weight by the fact that Mario, Luigi and Toad appear in Ubisoft's...
News Nintendo Attractions Confirmed for Universal Studios and Resort Theme Parks
Japan, Orlando and Hollywood all in on the act
Quite some time ago Nintendo confirmed that it was in the process of planning attractions with Universal parks, and it emerged that a deal was pretty much done for a Universal Studios Japan setting in time for the Tokyo Olympics. Rumours then swirled around extra land for a Nintendo attraction at...
Review Ninja Usagimaru - The Mysterious Karakuri Castle (3DS eShop)
Mysterious indeed
Any American high school student who's owned a TI series calculator and endured hours of math classes has no doubt discovered Block Dude. The simple puzzle platformer was centered around escaping from rooms by moving around a limited number of blocks, and presented a wonderful escape from the dreariness of algebra. Evidently, the...
News The First Hands-On Nintendo Switch Event is on 13th January
New Yorkers be ready
Shortly after Nintendo aired the official reveal trailer for the Nintendo Switch, it was announced that a presentation would be taking place on 12th January. This will be livestreamed from Tokyo and will deliver all the details and information around the console's launch, including launch games, release dates, pricing, and more...
News Stardew Valley is Cancelled for Wii U, But It's Heading to Nintendo Switch
"Switch’s unique capabilities could create some exciting opportunities"
Back in June it was announced that Stardew Valley would make its way to the Wii U eShop along with other console platforms; developer Concerned Ape expressed enthusiasm about utilising the GamePad's second screen, for example. It seemed like a good fit for Nintendo's system;...
Random Japanese Player Claims To Have Beaten Pokémon Sun And Moon With A Magikarp
Does that sound fishy to anyone?
One dedicated Japanese gamer has bested Pokémon Sun And Moon using nothing but a Magikarp - a monster which has a reputation as being one of the most useless in the entire Pokémon series. According to Forbes, it appears that the Magikarp was kept in its base form by using Everstone, allowing it to reach level 70...
Music Nintendo Tunes Played On Japanese Instruments Sound As Cool As You'd Expect
Famikoto confirm 4th live performance in Japan
We all know that video game music is some of the most dramatic, striking and downright beautiful around, but nothing can prepare you for the utter magnificence of hearing your favourite Nintendo tunes being played on traditional Japanese instruments. Say hello to Famikoto, a group of musicians who use...
News The Race is on to Catch 100 Million Pokémon in Sun and Moon
We can do it!
Now that Pokémon Sun and Moon has been out for a couple weeks, it's gotten to the time where Global Missions have begun. These will be facilitated via the Pokémon Global Link, and will require the collective participation of Pokémon players across the world in order to achieve the lofty goals being set. The first mission just went...
Random Pokémon Red Glitch Used to Beat Another Game Boy Title With a 'Credits Warp'
Nope, it's not Missingno
Twenty years after being released into the wild, it's amazing that people are still able to find new glitches in the original Pokémon. Here YouTuber MrCheeze shows that by performing a number of actions in Pokémon Red, followed by quickly switching out the cartridge to Magi-Nation, you can access the credits screen faster...
Music Rayman Soundtrack Could Get a Jazz/Rock Reimagining in New Album
Led by the original composer
It's relatively common for enthusiasts for remix and remaster classic game soundtracks, but occasionally the originally composers take up the challenge. That's the case with a current Kickstarter campaign being led by Rémi Gazel, the composer for the original Rayman. His goal is to raise funds for a soundtrack album...
Monday28th Nov 2016
News Super Mario Happy Meals Heading Back to McDonald's in the UK in Early 2017
Including balloons and 'Find Yoshi' activities
The Super Mario franchise and McDonald's Happy Meals are regular buddies, with promotions through different territories over the past few years. Super Mario is now coming back to UK Happy Meals in early 2017, which will be good timing with Nintendo planning its big Nintendo Switch reveal around that...
Guide The Best Nintendo Cyber Monday Deals - US & UK
It's just another manic Monday
So you've survived being crushed by the mobs on Black Friday? The fun doesn't end there however - today you can grab some great online deals as it's Cyber Monday, where the only injury you are likely to get is a repetitive strain injury. We've compiled a list of some of the best deals (for US and UK) and the most...
News Nintendo To Hold Special eShop Sale During The Game Awards 2016
Dazzling digital discounts?
The Game Awards take place this week and host Geoff Keighley has revealed that Nintendo is going to hold a special eShop sale to mark the event. It's not known exactly which titles will be included in the sale but it would be fair to predict that all Nintendo-related Game Award nominees should be featured. Fire Emblem...
Nintendo Download 1st December (Europe)
Super Mario Maker for 3DS! Picross 3D Round 2! Sonic discounts! More!
Another week begins, and we have the European Nintendo Download Update details to get us ready for releases later this week. This time around there are multiple high profile 3DS retail releases, along with a mix of download-only titles across both systems. Let's get to it. Wii U...
News Pokémon Sun And Moon Is Nintendo's Biggest UK Launch Ever
It's a monster
Pokémon Sun And Moon launched in the UK last week, and while it was pretty obvious that it was going to shift a fair few copies, the reality is actually a little more surprising - it's Nintendo's biggest software launch in UK ever. GFK Chart-Track has the two versions of the 3DS game entering the UK multi-format chart at 3 (Sun) and...
News Exclusive Footage for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to Feature in The Game Awards
We'll be tuning in
With Nintendo planning an eShop sale to coincide with The Game Awards, in addition to being up for some of the upcoming event's prizes, it's been clear the company is continuing its run of involvement with the show. Now the hype is ramping up further, with confirmation that there'll be an 'exclusive new look' at The Legend of...
You win some, you lose some
Nintendo is mediocre (at best) when it comes to meeting demand with hardware and accessories, based on recent history, but it can still enjoy some impressive sales in the busiest shopping periods. Some 'Black Friday' reports and analysis reinforce both points. Starting off with the US market, Adobe released some...
Review Dangerous Road (3DS eShop)
Road worrier
The history of video games where animals play in traffic is a very staggered one. Frogger hit the scene in 1981, then nary a croak was heard from any other property until 2014's Crossy Road gained mobile popularity. Dangerous Road on the 3DS eShop borrows a lot from its Crossy counterpart, but is unlikely to leave its splat on history...
News Nintendo Switch Will "Expand The Possibilities Of Fun" Says Ubisoft's Alain Corre
"We have big expectations for the innovative Nintendo Switch"
Ubisoft may have annoyed Wii U owners with some of its business decisions, but it was one of the few major third party publishers to stick by the console when all others had given up. It would seem that the French company intends to enthusiastically renew its relationship with Nintendo...
Super Mario Run is also trying new things with the bankable franchise
When New Super Mario Bros. came out on DS, the excitement was palpable. After all, it was the first 2D Mario platformer in about 15 years, which seems amazing to consider nowadays. Some of you may raise your eyebrows at that statement, and may argue that it's incorrect, but let's...
Video The History Of Croc, The 3D Platformer Which Partly Influenced Super Mario 64
Green with envy
The link between defunct studio Argonaut Software and Nintendo is well known - the UK firm helped the Japanese giant enter the world of 3D gaming with the SNES blaster Star Fox. However, what's less well documented is the fact that Argonaut had a very early role to play in the development of Super Mario 64, a game which is considered...
News Six New SNES Titles Hit The New 3DS Virtual Console In Japan
Kirby! Fire Emblem! Mario's Picross! Pop'n Twinbee!
Last week we reported that six Super Famicom (SNES to me and you) titles were hitting the New 3DS Virtual Console in Japan, along with a special retro 3DS home theme which was free to download if you purchased any of the half-dozen titles. At the time Nintendo confirmed that six more Super Famicom...
Review Retro Road Rumble (Wii U eShop)
Steer clear
Retro Road Rumble is neither retro nor a rumble, but at least it takes place on roads. The concept behind it is very much like Crazy Taxi; drive from point to point in the time allotted to gain points, with some music to keep you company. The difference is that it's presented in an isometric view, with visuals far worse than the 1999...
News Pokkén Tournament to Get Another New Fighter in Arcades
Announcement coming December 1st
You can't go anywhere at the moment without Pokémon appearing in some way. Whether this is on mobile with Pokémon GO or the current hysteria with Pokémon Sun and Moon for 3DS. Now to keep the momentum going it looks like residents in Japan will be treated to some brand new additions to the Pokkén Tournament...
News 8Bit Music Power Book Available To Pre-Order Now
Music to our ears
Long-time readers of the site will know that we covered the incredible 8Bit Music Power Famicom release a while ago and came away very impressed indeed. Essentially a chiptune album in cartridge form, it contained tracks from the likes of Hiroaki Sano, Keishi Yonao and Masahiro Kajihara and has unsurprisingly gone on to become...
Sunday27th Nov 2016
Guide Getting Started In Pokémon Sun and Moon
Become the best trainer in Alola with these handy tips and tricks
Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon, two of the most anticipated games of this year, are finally here. Our reviewer praised the game highly for its new mechanics and its strengthening of Pokémon fundamentals. However, if you've just gotten the game, you might be a bit confused about...
Saturday26th Nov 2016
Book Review Super Mario Adventures
A wonderfully bizarre tour of the Mushroom Kingdom
He's undoubtedly one of the most recognisable faces ever to grace the box art of a video game, but aside from his blue-collar occupation and a dislike for turtles, fans in the early '90s didn't know a whole lot about Super Mario himself. Beyond the pixels onscreen and information found buried within...
News No Reset 'Metroidvaniathon' Raising Money in Honour of Tom Happ's Son
For the Kernicterus Research Fund
We don't often know the detailed background of how games are made or who creates them, but sometimes a developer's story can have as much impact as their game. This has been the case with Tom Happ, creator of the brilliant Axiom Verge. Earlier this year Happ shared details on his young son Alastair - he suffers...
Friday25th Nov 2016
Guide The Top Nintendo Black Friday 2016 Deals in the US
Grab yourself a bargain!
It's that time, once again, when shoppers around the world prepare to brave the crowds in search of bargains. The Black Friday festivities are mostly based in crowded stores, though plenty of deals can also be hunted down online. For gamers, it's often a time of year for stocking up on goodies ahead of the festive season;...
Guide The Top Nintendo Black Friday 2016 Deals in the UK
Grab yourself a bargain
It's that time, once again, for Black Friday, when shoppers around the world prepare to brave the crowds in search of bargains. Though originally an American tradition, like Big Macs and over-sized soft drinks it's been exported around the world, for better and worse. A lot of UK bricks-and-mortar stores try and avoid the...
Hardware Classics SNK Neo Geo AES
The future is now (even more expensive)
The SNES and Mega Drive / Genesis may have dominated the console landscape in the early '90s, but they were by no means the most powerful machines of their era. That distinction goes to SNK's Neo Geo AES, often described as the "Rolls-Royce" of game consoles. It's a good analogy to make, as the machine was...
News Majora's Mask Fan Project Returns With VR Teaser
"It's so hard to work in projects without any budget"
Way back in mid-2014, when The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D was just wishful thinking, a fan project caught the web's attention; this was in the form of a new trailer after an initial tease in 2012. It managed to avoid Nintendo's Takedown Team (we imagine those staff have special t-shirts...
Video Charming Animal Crossing: New Leaf Overview Trailer Shows Off the Welcome amiibo Update
Perfect for relaxing after a mad shopping day
This time of year can be a bit intense, we find, with big game releases, Black Friday and the usual pre-Christmas / Yuletide / generic Winter Holiday shenanigans ahead of late December. In work and private lives, there's a lot going on. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is an ideal way to chill out, with quirky...
News Hyperlight EX Blasting Onto New 3DS on 1st December
Shoot all of the things
Colourful, intense shoot 'em ups are still a staple in gaming, ideal for unwinding or getting hyped up, whatever takes your fancy. The eShop, on both Wii U and 3DS, has had a few strong shooters to date, but there's definitely room for more. For fans of the genre there's some good news, as Hyperlight EX now has a final...
Thursday24th Nov 2016
Random Here's a Theory on the Rather Short NES Mini Controller Cables
Only partially right, though
We suspect that many that own a Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System in Europe) will have fallen in love with it, but it has some flaws. One of these is the incredibly short controller cable; putting aside the retro 'realism' of wired controllers in this...
News An Intriguing Tale of How The Legend of Zelda's Iconic Opening Song Almost Never Happened
It could have been Ravel's Boléro
The main theme for The Legend of Zelda's opening crawl on NES is embedded in gaming and popular culture, reimagined and remixed countless times. Like many much-loved parts of gaming it has a slightly complicated history, which is nicely summarised in a recent official interview. Translated from a feature series...
Nintendo Download 24th November (North America)
Majora's Mask! Dragon Ball Fusions! Citadale! More!
It's Thanksgiving in the US, and for everyone else a reminder that the festive season is right around the corner. We have the usual Download Update details for North America, and this week there are tempting Virtual Console options on both current-gen systems, a couple of Nindie efforts on Wii U...
News European Wii U and 3DS eShop Cyber Deals Now Confirmed
With some extras for My Nintendo members
Earlier this week Nintendo of Europe confirmed that there'd be eShop Cyber deals in the coming weekend, and it's now confirmed details. There aren't as many discounts on offer as in North America, though there are some extras thrown in for My Nintendo members. The following eShop discounts will all be...
News Nintendo Celebrates Thanksgiving With Some Neat Breath of the Wild Art
Link goes back to nature
With Thanksgiving being celebrated today in the US, we can be pretty sure that Nintendo of America will be joining many others in the country with a company-wide day off. NoA did remember, nevertheless, to tweet a Holiday message, and did so with a nice bit of art related to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The...
Black Friday 30 Of The Best Nintendo T-Shirts
Our selection from TeePublic
Here at Nintendo Life we're big fans of the creative and talented Nintendo community, and to celebrate TeePublic's Black Friday sale we've selected 30 of our favourite designs to showcase on the site. The designs on TeePublic are all from the community of independent designers and anything you buy will directly support...
News GAME In-Store Advertising Indicates March 2017 Release For Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
We hope you're keeping up
The Zelda: Breath of the Wild rollercoaster continues. While there have been rumours that the title won't make the Switch launch, yesterday we reported that US retailer GameStop has it listed as a Q1 2017 release (before April, basically). We now have more evidence to suggest that
News Koji Igarashi Would Be "Incredibly Honored" To Make A Metroid Game
No surprise there, then
When its Kickstarter campaign came to a close, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night was the biggest video game crowdfunding project in the site's history, and has only been eclipsed by Shenmue 3. The incredible response to Bloodstained - which is regarded as a spiritual successor to the "Metroidvania" sub-series of Konami's...
Art This Guy Has An Insane Amount Of Original Western Mega Man Cover Artwork
Boxing clever
This promotional image for Game Players Magazine unites two of Greg Winters' cover subjects - he also did some covers for Sega's Sonic the Hedgehog While it can't always be said that western cover artwork is superior to that seen in Japan, it's important to remember that for many gamers growing up during the 8 and 16-bit eras, it was...
News Pokémon Sun and Moon Boost 3DS Sales in Japanese Charts
Launch sales below X & Y but higher than ORAS
Following its launch last week we can see just how well Pokémon Sun and Moon have sold in Japan, which is always a huge market for the series. The games have got off to a strong start, predictably, though have actually come up slightly short compared to the first main series releases that came to 3DS...
News New My Nintendo Rewards Include European Launch Discounts
Metroid gear arrives globally for Miitomo
My Nintendo has had another round of updates, with some variations depending on your territory. We're not convinced the offerings will blow anyone's pants off, but they're available nevertheless. In Europe, first of all, there are two new discounts and a rather tempting Isabelle 3DS HOME Theme; details are...
Video DICO and Monobit Will Be Contributing to Bloodstained's Development
Bringing in reinforcements
It came as a bit of a tough pill to swallow when Koji Igarashi announced that Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night would be delayed into 2018. All the same, this has been done to ensure that the final product is of a sufficient quality; which is reassuring in light of certain other mighty disappointments on Kickstarter. Early...
News 3DS Software Sales Pass 100 Million In Japan
No doubt helped by Pokémon Sun And Moon
More than 100 million pieces of 3DS software have been sold in Japan since the launch of the console in 2011. The 3DS just only the third system to reach this remarkable milestone, with the Nintendo DS and Sony PlayStation 2 being the other two. The recent arrival of Pokémon Sun & Moon - which sold 2...
News The National StreetPass Weekend: Thanksgiving Edition Is Back
Time for hits
While StreetPass is a neat feature that's always working for us when carrying our 3DS systems around, occasionally Nintendo organises themed weekends to encourage more players to take part. Just as it did in 2015, Nintendo of America is utilising the US Thanksgiving Holiday for an event weekend throughout North America. What it...
Wednesday23rd Nov 2016
Review Ice Station Z (3DS eShop)
Not cool
We really wanted to like Wobbly Tooth's Ice Station Z. An open world, multiplayer zombie survival game that takes place in a cold setting, Ice Station Z looked different than other 3DS eShop titles and we'd hoped for a challenging, solid survival experience. Unfortunately, it doesn't live up to its potential at all, instead offering a...
Deals Black Friday - New 3DS Super Mario Black & White Edition
Black or white?
If you live in North America, one of the stand-out Black Friday deals this year is the $99.99 price on two New Nintendo 3DS options. Normally these would cost around $150, so this really is a great chance to get into super stable 3D, amiibo support and the coveted analogue C-Stick. These limited editions come in black and white...
News North American eShop Cyber Deals Include Over 40 Discounts
Live today
With the Thanksgiving Holiday around the corner in the US and the 'Black Friday' shopping events to follow around the world, Nintendo of America has got in early with its range of 'Cyber Deals' on the eShop. In total over 40 games have discounts, and those reduced prices will be available from today (23rd November); naturally valid...
News GameSeek Offers 'Price Guarantee' Nintendo Switch Pre-Order for Just Under £200
Will it be honoured?
Ever since Nintendo unveiled the Switch retailers have been putting up product pages, though in most cases, sensibly, they're placeholders designed to give consumers information and nothing more. Some are trying to secure pre-orders, however, with GAME opting to take orders on a placeholder price of £999.99; sure, why not. Now...
Rumour Monolith Soft Working on Something 'New' for Nintendo Switch
Xenoblade Chronicles X port being handled externally
Monolith Soft has been one of the big 'winners' in the Nintendo scene over the past two generations, with much-loved releases since it was acquired by the company. Though it's had a hand in a surprisingly broad number of games in supporting roles, it's best known for Xenoblade Chronicles on Wii...
Deals Nintendo of America Outlines Key Black Friday Discounts
Game discounts up for grabs
We're not sure how valid the term 'Black Friday' truly is any more, as a lot of deals seem to be starting on the US Thanksgiving Holiday; that, after all, is a Thursday. Still, it's all just a technicality in this age of online shopping and rampant consumerism. In any case, it's worth noting that those awesome $99 New...
News Level-5 is Running a Black Friday Sale on the North American 3DS eShop
Up to sixty percent off
'Tis the season yet again for ravenous shoppers of all kinds to brave the hordes in search of great deals on random stuff. Black Friday is just a few days away, and every day the temptations grow stronger as more companies show their hand for the shopping holiday. Granted, there's nothing wrong with staying at home and...
Video Let's Put the Original 3DS Through its Paces with Pokémon Sun & Moon
Comparing the New 3DS to the original 3DS
Pokémon Sun & Moon received a glowing recommendation from us at Nintendo Life when we reviewed it recently, but many people have expressed concern over how it holds up on the older, more restricted hardware of Nintendo's first 3DS console - before they bumped up the internals with the release of the New...
News Nintendo Marks Sonic's 25th Birthday With Digital Sale In North America
Save up to 60 percent on select titles
Sonic turns 25 this year and Nintendo is marking the occasion with a sale on selected Sonic the Hedgehog titles, no doubt inspired by the Black Friday madness which is currently gripping the planet. The titles - all digital versions, of course - are: 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (3DS) - $2.99 (no
News GameStop Says Nintendo Switch "Intent To Buy" Matches That Of The Xbox One
"I think it really got tremendous potential as a game changer"
GameStop's quarterly financial conference call took place recently, and during the call the Nintendo Switch unsurprisingly came up as a topic of conversation. GameStop's executives were very positive about the system and its potential impact on the games market, and revealed that it...
News Niantic is Expanding the New Tracking System in Pokémon GO
Into certain regions, that is
When Pokémon GO came out, it launched with a fairly hit or miss means of tracking Pokémon via footstep measurements. This system was rather difficult to accurately read and just failed to work altogether at times, so Niantic decided to pull it early on. The problem is, it never replaced it with another means of...
News GameStop Thinks We'll Be Playing Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Before April
Could it be a Switch launch title after all?
It's fair to say that the rumour that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild won't be hitting the Nintendo Switch at launch caused quite a bit of upset, and since then we've seen evidence to suggest that it could arrive later in the year - a listing on Targe
Soapbox In The Wii U's Final Days, Let's Be Thankful For Lego Dimensions
Keeping the dream alive
With production coming to an end, big-name releases drying up and previously-confirmed titles getting cancelled left, right and center, Wii U owners have every right to feel a bit glum at the moment. Switch is coming early nex
News Ditto is Out in the Wild in Pokémon GO
Finally!
Pokémon GO enthusiasts have plenty on their collective wishlist, and one of the must-haves has been for the much-teased Ditto to arrive. The most recent update, which was meant to be minor, included Ditto assets in the code; these files were considered to be the final piece in the puzzle. Well, it's arrived, though it appears to have been...
News Development on Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Has Been Completed
Now if we could just get a release date…
Fans of the Shantae series have no doubt been waiting with bated breath for WayForward to hurry up with development of Shantae: Half-Genie Hero. The latest in WayForward's flagship series, Half-Genie Hero was Kickstarted three years ago and has been in the making ever since. Originally, the game was...
Video Get a Good Look at Exile's End in Its Wii U eShop Trailer
Retro cool
Already out in North America and out this week in Europe, Exile's End is an intriguing release on the Wii U eShop. Localised by Marvelous USA and XSEED (depending on your region), it adopts a neat retro aesthetic and seems to have some fantastic music. We're still working away at a review, but an eShop trailer for the EU release caught...
Tuesday22nd Nov 2016
Feature Best Nintendo 3DS RPGs
A quest for the best
As the 3DS's sixth year in the world draws to a close, we can already look back on its impressively varied library with wonder; along with plenty of standout platformers, life sims, rhythm games, and puzzlers, it's also carved out a particular niche by delivering an almost non-stop barrage of first class RPGs. Responsible for...
News Nintendo Switch Has "Probably The Best Demo I've Ever Seen" Says Bethesda's Todd Howard
"I love it. We're definitely going to be supporting it"
The amazing response to the reveal of the Nintendo Switch has been tempered slightly by the fact that Nintendo is clearly keeping its cards close to its chest - as well as apparently making sure that all development and publishing partners are locked down with NDAs. This hasn't stopped a...
Random You Can High-Five Your Pokémon in Sun and Moon
How Refreshing
Pokémon Refresh is one of the interesting new features in Pokémon Sun and Moon, building upon the foundation that was laid out last generation with Pokémon Amie. You still interact with your Pokémon like before, but this time around it's more than a distraction and has real game related benefits. Status conditions can be cured via...
News Lego City Undercover Is Coming To Nintendo Switch And Other Platforms Next Year
No longer Wii U exclusive
Warner Bros. Games has just announced that it is porting Wii U exclusive Lego City Undercover to PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam and - most importantly of all - Nintendo Switch next summer. The game launched to critical acclaim back in 2013 and was accompanied by a 3DS prequel. It made excellent use of the Wii U GamePad as...
Weirdness Pokémon Sun And Moon Glitches Are Half Monty Python, Half Terminator 2
"You're really interested in silly walks, aren't you?"
Pokémon Sun And Moon hasn't even been available for a full week and people are already discovering all kinds of strange and hilarious glitches in the game. One of the most common bugs involves your character's lower limbs acting rather strangely, calling to mind the legendary "Ministry of...
Video Majora's Mask - Terrible Fate is a Gorgeous Retelling of Skull Kid's Origin Story
Voiced by Joe Zieja, who previously played Fox McCloud
With modern technology, skill and a lot of passion, some truly outstanding things can be achieved by small teams. The latest video by EmberLab certainly qualifies, as it pays tribute to one of Nintendo's most iconic games. Majora's Mask - Terrible Fate focuses on the origins of Skull Kid, and...
News eBay Feeds The Scalper Within You By Offering Guaranteed Profit On Your NES Classic Mini
Money in the bank?
The NES Classic Mini is one of this year's biggest gaming releases, and is currently very difficult to find in stores at its original price. Hover your mouse over eBay however and you'll notice that there are plenty of consoles up for grabs - but not at the official retail price. eBay scalpers have been
News Niantic is Rebalancing the Combat Power of Some Pokémon in Pokémon GO
Alakazam, Rhydon, and Gengar all receive buffs
Pokémon GO has done an admirable job of adapting the Pokémon series' primary combat into a simpler format that works better on mobile. That being said, there's still much room for improvement; the 'CP' system is constructed in such a way that certain Pokémon are not nearly as powerful as they perhaps...
Review Wings of Magloryx (Wii U eShop)
Not a magic dragon
The font of this bold title would have you believe this game is about the most edgy of dragons out there; it encourages visions of a hardened, battle-weathered hero. Tales of Yore. Destruction. Wings of Magloryx has these elements, but the game's executed too poorly for it to matter. Dragons - benevolent or nasty - should be the...
Video This Custom 'SNES Wiimote' Shakes Up Wii and Wii U Controls
Pointing to a retro appeal
The retro hardware modding community often does amazing things, blending modern gadgets with old gaming technology in clever ways. One individual who produces some neat ideas is Dorison Hugo, better known as 'lyberty5' on YouTube. A little while ago we shared his video showing how to create a tiny SNES Mini, and now he's...
News A Single Pokémon Card Just Sold For Over $50,000 At Auction
You probably don't have one in your attic, before you ask
Pokémon is big business at the moment, with this year's launch of Pokémon GO adding even more momentum to a franchise which has been a money-spinner since its inception in the '90s. The mobile app has had quite an impact on the value of certain Pokémon playing cards, in particular the...
News Pokémon Sun And Moon Sells Nearly 2 Million Copies In Three Days In Japan
Only X & Y has had a bigger launch on 3DS
Pokémon Sun And Moon has shifted 1,905,107 copies during its opening weekend in Japan. That incredible figure is only eclipsed (no pun intended) by the launch of Pokémon X & Y, which sold 2.09 million copies in its first weekend on sale. Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire "only" sold 1.5 million...
News Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse EU DLC Details Confirmed
Lots of extras
It's been out in North America for a little while, but it's not long now until Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse arrives in Europe - it lands on 2nd December on the eShop and as a physical retail release. Though the core adventure is lengthy and rather brilliant, there's loads of DLC to also consider. It comes in various forms, and...
News A Monster Hunter Movie Series is On the Cards
Paul W.S. Anderson, behind the Resi films, will lead the project
For those that are enamoured with the Monster Hunter series, the appeal perhaps goes beyond the combat, the deep layers of systems and the sheer volume of content. The fantasy is important, of a heroic hunter defeating enormous monsters against the odds. It could make good movie...
News Sky Skipper Project Outlines Long Journey to See Surviving Unit at NoA's HQ
Serial number 00001
A while ago we told you about the Sky Skipper Project, which has the stated goal of recreating a unit of the little-known and rare Nintendo arcade cabinet, hosting a special event to unveil it while also documenting the game's intriguing history. Some scepticism met the project's announcement, questioning what made a recreation...
Monday21st Nov 2016
News Nintendo of Europe Confirms eShop Cyber Deals Are Coming on Black Friday
Hope you've saved some Rupees
With Black Friday just four days away, Nintendo of Europe's Twitter account has announced that the region will be celebrating the high-savings event with special 'Cyber Deals'. Starting on 25th November, Nintendo fans can find these offers on both eShop pages for Wii U and 3DS; savings of up to 40% have been promised,...
Talking Point What We'd Like To See In Super Smash Bros. For Nintendo Switch
Assuming it's a port…
With all the hype that the Nintendo Switch is generating, it's only natural to speculate on what titles the system will offer upon its launch. If Nintendo's upcoming console could learn anything from the launch of the Wii U, it's that launch titles do indeed matter. This can also mean ensuring popular titles that consumers...
Nintendo Download 24th November (Europe)
Pokemon Sun and Moon! Beat the Beat! Exile's End! More!
Another week begins, and brings with it the European Nintendo Download Update details for the goodies we can expect this week. The 3DS has huge retail arrivals, while there are some tempting download-only options to be found on the Wii U in particular. Let's get to the details. Wii U eShop:...
UPDATE: It's a mini console with emulation support
UPDATE: We've now got a video, taken from the Facebook page: And this new image: ORIGINAL STORY: A site for the "RetroEngine" has just gone live, claiming that this new product offers support for vintage gaming systems from the likes of Nintendo, Sega, Atari, Amstrad and Sony. At the time of...
Video Pokémon Sun And Moon Takes A Fair Old Time To Boot On Vanilla 3DS Consoles
Time to update to New 3DS?
The New Nintendo 3DS may not have received all that many exclusive games, but those of you who have upgraded and are in the process of playing Pokémon Sun And Moon should be feeling a little smug, as the game boots much faster on the newer console than on the original - as you can see from the video above. This isn't the...
Video Explaining The Hot Mess That Was The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Open the door, get on the floor, everybody walk the dinosaur
Our good chum The Gaming Historian is back, this time bringing us a detailed and insightful look at the train wreck that was 1993's The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Billed as Nintendo's first step into the world of Hollywood after dominating the gaming sector, it famously cost $48 million to...
News AM2R And Pokémon Uranium Nominations Revoked At 2016 Game Awards
No longer listed in Best Fan Creation category
Another Metroid 2 Remake and Pokémon Uranium have a lot in common. Not only are they fan-made tributes to famous Nintendo franchises, they were also shut down at roughly the
News Japan Gets A Bumper Helping Of SNES Titles On New 3DS Virtual Console
With six more on the way next week
Seven Super Famicom titles (SNES to you and me) are launching on the New 3DS in Japan this week. The games are Final Fight 2, Final Fight Tough / Final Fight 3, Tactics Ogre, Rockman X3 / Mega Man X3, Romancing SaGa, Super Castlevania IV / Akumajō Dracula
News Pokémon GO Update Appears To Lay Groundwork For Shiny Monsters And The Elusive Ditto
"Minor text fixes" indeed
Pokémon GO was updated over the weekend with what initially appeared to be some relatively minor fixes, but the guys over at The Silph Road have been doing some digging and have discovered some a little more exciting. Despite "minor text fixes" being mentioned in the update notes, it would appear that this new version is...
News Niantic Says Thanks With Pokémon GO Double XP And Stardust Event
"What better way to say thank you than to celebrate our community"
Niantic has confirmed today that it is running a special celebration event to say thanks to the millions of people who have downloaded and played Pokémon GO since its launch in July. Between November 23rd and November 30th, players will earn double XP and Stardust: It has been an...
News GAME Confirms Midnight Openings and Events for Pokémon Sun and Moon
If you fancy a bit of cosplay or TCG action
For European gamers it's been a slightly frustrating wait for Pokémon Sun and Moon, with The Pokémon Company not following up on the global release that we saw with X & Y. Nevertheless it's nearly arrived in the region, and GAME has confirmed a lot of midnight openings in the UK for those that don't...
News Gaming Culture Magazine Makes Strong Start on Kickstarter
To include Yacht Club Games, Rami Ismail and many more
With the perils of print publishing in the modern market, we've seen a range of gaming magazines utilise crowdfunding to find and maintain an audience; a notable example has been Nintendo Force Magazine. Now a 'high-end culture' magazine is aiming to join the ranks and, based on early momentum,...
News Spheroids Mixes Mutant Mudds And Pang, And It's Coming To Wii U Next Year
Might also be 3DS-bound
Eclipse Games has confirmed that it bringing its new title Spheroids to the Wii U eShop. The game mixes the bubble-popping mechanics of Pang / Buster Bros. with the 2D plain-swapping gameplay of Mutant Mudds to create a unique platforming adventure in which you have to save the world from the titular Spheroids. Here's the...
Sunday20th Nov 2016
Rumour Nintendo Switch Release Date and Key Games Outlined
If you don't want to potentially know, don't look
There's little getting around the fact that key Nintendo Switch details are being leaked. While there are plenty of bogus 'rumours' doing the rounds, a few key reports (some with sources we've verified in recent months, in various ways) have been sharing details around the system's line-up of games;...
Feature 25 Essential Wii U Retail Games
Play them all
With the Wii U turning four years old in North America just recently, and with the system soon to be supplanted by the Nintendo Switch, we've been reflecting on the console's qualities and failings. One thing we've consistently argued, however, is that there's a core of excellent games on the system, many of them exclusives, that are...
Video Get Comfy for this Hour-Long Pokémon Sun & Moon Discussion with GameXplain
Alex gets to flex his talking muscles for once
We at Nintendo Life are very typical gamers in the sense that we love to talk the hind legs off anyone who'll listen when it comes to video games, so naturally when the lovely chaps over at GameXplain invited this floppy-haired video diva over to their channel to natter about Pokémon Sun & Moon, we...
Saturday19th Nov 2016
Feature Reflecting on Four Years of the Wii U
Four NL writers pitch in on the outgoing system
The Wii U has now passed its 4th Birthday, in North America at least, though its generation is already nearing its end. A bad run, imminent discontinuation and the March 2017 arrival of the Nintendo Switch all mean that the system is on its way out, a sad fate for a system that has had some terrific...
Video Check Out Mario & Wario, The Japan-Only SNES Mouse Game
Lemmings meets Mario vs. Donkey Kong
There are always games that skip some regions, and sometimes large audiences miss out on some interesting concepts. The latest video from DidYouKnowGaming? shows another example of a neat retro game that, for various sensible reasons, was only released in Japan. It's Super Famicom title Mario & Wario -...
Friday18th Nov 2016
Rumour New Version of Pokémon Sun And Moon, Pokémon Stars, Is Coming to the Nintendo Switch
That would be Super Effective
A new version of Pokémon Sun and Moon is coming to the Nintendo Switch, Eurogamer is reporting. The Switch version is a third entry, much like we've seen in past generations with the 'main' games, and will be called Pokémon Stars. It has apparently been in active development alongside the 3DS edition, paused for a...
Rumour Super Mario And Rabbids Crossover In Development For Nintendo Switch
Could this be Ubisoft's "surprise" secret game?
Not so long ago Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot teased that the company had a "surprise" game in development, and a recent rumour seems to suggest that it's an RPG which combines the world of Rabbids with Super Mario. According to LetsPlayVideoGames - a prime source for Switch rum
Poll The Wii U is Four Years Old, But What Is Its Legacy?
The GamePad! HD Nintendo games! Rubbish file management!
On 18th November 2012, the Wii U was launched in North America. There was a high profile midnight launch attended by Reggie Fils-Aime to give it positive press, and it was Nintendo's jump into HD gaming, with a GamePad-led concept at the core of the messaging. The system had a relatively...
Video A Guide to Poké Pelago in Pokémon Sun and Moon
It's more useful than you might think
Many of you are likely getting stuck into Pokémon Sun and Moon right now, at least if you're fortunate to be in one of the regions where it's already arrived. There's a lot to take in, with the new gen in the series introducing a range of new features and mechanics. One of these is Poké Pelago, and though you...
News Check Out This Fan Concept of an SNES Mini's Packaging
C'mon, Nintendo, just make a real one
The NES Mini only came out this past week, and seems to have drawn mostly positive reaction (barring the ridiculously short controller cord). This is a landmark moment for Nintendo, as it's never released a product quite like this before, and it begs the question of whether or not the company will continue to...
News 'Sonic 25' Fine Art Collection Pays Homage To The World's Fastest Hedgehog
Needs more blue
Sega Europe has joined forces with the UK's leading fine art publisher to create 'Sonic 25', a collection of 25 original pieces which pay tribute to Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic 25 sees a series of Washington Green artists - including Dan Lane, Paul Kenton, Frédéric Daty, Louis Sidoli, Stuart McAlpine Miller, Robert Oxley, Craig...
News Eiji Aonuma Wins Golden Joystick Lifetime Achievement Award as Pokémon GO Picks Up Two Gongs
Aonuma-san accepts on behalf of "The Legend of Zelda Series"
The Golden Joysticks took place today at indigO2 at London's O2 Arena, one of the largest UK-based award shows to take place each year. There were some notable wins for Nintendo and its partners this year, with a popular creator earning a major award. The Legend of Zelda series producer...
Video Get a Closer Look at the Virtual Boy in an Intriguing Teardown
The Ben Heck Show continues its fine work
Regular readers of these pages will be increasingly familiar with the work of The Ben Heck Show, which provides some interesting engineering-focused videos. It does this, often, with a focus on gaming systems, including teardowns and customisations of iconic consoles from various companies, including...
News October NPD Results Show the 3DS Experiencing Steady Growth
Five months straight of higher year-on-year sales
With the Nintendo Switch just on the horizon, many have wondered how it will impact Nintendo's business strategy in the coming months and years. It's obvious that the Wii U is being put out to pasture – the console's already ceased production – but what of the 3DS? Nintendo has shown that...
Video Japanese Pokémon Sun and Moon Trailer Showcases the Z-Ring Toys
Flashy lights
When the main Yo-kai Watch toy became a phenomenon in Japan, it was inevitable that The Pokémon Company would fancy a bit of the action. Z-Ring toys for Pokémon Sun and Moon effectively do just that, as large plastic wearables that light up and interact with the game. Beyond the core toy there are plenty of 'Z-Crystals' to collect,...
Thursday17th Nov 2016
News The Game Boy Color Is Finally Getting The Backlight Mod It Deserves
There's light at the end of the tunnel
Handhelds like the Game Boy may be as old as the hills these days but they're being supported by an active community of modders who are adding new features such as screen lights and prosound functionality. We've covered these mods extensively in the past and always wondered why the Game Boy Color never got as...
News Tekken 7 Producer "Surprised" By Nintendo Switch, Won't Confirm Or Deny Possible Port
"Read into that what you like"
Tekken 7 has been doing the rounds in Japanese arcades since last year but is finally making its way to home consoles in early 2017. Tekken as a series began life on Sony hardware but has since branched out to rival systems, including the Wii U. Given that Tekken 7 is being ported to PS4 and Xbox One around the same...
News Here's a Breakdown of All That Swapdoodle DLC
There's a lot of it
Today, somewhat out of the blue, Nintendo released Swapdoodle in North America and Europe, a spiritual successor to the long lost Swapnote / Nintendo Letter Box. As the name suggests it allows you to swap messages in doodle form with friends, even doing so online provided you've registered the relevant chums. As you can see in...
Nintendo Download 17th November (North America)
Pokémon Sun and Moon! Excitebike 64! Swapdoodle! More!
It's time for another Nintendo Download Update, and this week's North American offering has one (or two, depending on your point of view) huge arrivals at retail on the 3DS. Beyond that we have a fantastic Wii game available for download alongside a surprise N64 title, some promising Nindie...
News Tomonobu Itagaki on Why Devil's Third Underperformed
Basically, NoA let him down
Many of you no doubt remember Devil's Third, the ill-fated third person action game from the creator of Ninja Gaiden. Though there was plenty of enthusiasm around the game during its initial reveal as a Wii U exclusive, pre-release confusion and quality concerns ultimately led to it having an underperforming debut,...
News Swapdoodle Available Now For Free In North America And Europe
Share 3D images with other 3DS owners
Image sharing app Swapdoodle is available to download now in North America and Europe. Cost to you? Absolutely nothing. The app allows you to sketch 3D pictures and share them with other 3DS owners. It even comes with special doodle lesson packs based on famous Nintendo franchises. These packs can be purchased...
Video Check Out How Etika's 'Nintendo Switch' Was Produced
From the same studio that 3D printed the 'NX prototype'
You may recall that not long ago a streamer surprised his audience and busted out a 'Nintendo Switch', prompting the stream's chat to go into meltdown. Our tagline for an article on the topic was 'keeping it real fake', which gives you an idea of what we thought of it, but there were some that...
News Pokémon Sun and Moon Magearna Distribution and Movie Screening Details are Confirmed
A sneak peak of Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon is also coming
With Pokémon Sun and Moon about to arrive in North America in a matter of hours, The Pokémon Company is ramping up with other media around the games. It's confirmed TV screenings for Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel, also dishing the dirt on a preview of Pokémon...
News Project CARS Isn't Planned to Appear on the Nintendo Switch
Quelle surprise
Remember Project CARS? The ultra-realistic racing sim was a pretty big deal back in the early days of the Wii U, and Slightly Mad Studios seemed pretty optimistic for the Wii U port. As time went on, the game was continually hit with delays – though the developer maintained that the Wii U would deliver a competent port – but the...
Preview Getting Creative in Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS
Making it to the small time
When Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS was revealed recently in a Nintendo Direct, it wasn't necessarily surprising. Nintendo has seen some top notch titles achieve only modest sales on Wii U, and where possible is clearly looking to get stronger results through the larger userbase of the 3DS. This, along with Poochy...
News Wave Race Trademark Spotted in Europe
Get ready for the first race!
So, trademarks aren't always a guarantee of something that'll actually happen, let's get that clear right off the bat. On the flipside, they're one of the more solid indicators of planned or upcoming projects; that's certainly the hope with a Nintendo filing spotted in Europe. Filed today with EUIPO (the European Union...
Random Scarlett Johansson's Favourite Game Is Mario Kart, But She Didn't Say Which One
Toad in the Shell
When she's not busy taking down Hydra as Black Widow in the Avengers movies, it seems that talented actress Scarlett Johansson enjoys playing a bit of Mario Kart in her downtime. In a recent video chat with IGN, Johannson revealed her love of Mario Kart, though we don't know which one is her preferred version. Double Dash? Super...
News eBay Reports an Average NES Mini Sale Price of Over $200
"Customers rely on eBay to offer a great selection", apparently
When Nintendo releases a must-have product, quite often a frustrating pattern emerges. There isn't enough stock, fans get annoyed, and scalpers try to charge well over the odds on eBay. It happened very early with the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (NA) / Nintendo...
News First Shipment of Pokémon Sun and Moon Passes 10 Million Units
Setting new records for the 3DS
It's been an exceptional Anniversary year for the Pokémon franchise, from its Super Bowl commercial, to Virtual Console releases of the first-gen games, right through to the phenomenal success of Pokémon GO. Next up are Pokémon Sun and Moon, of course, bringing a new generation for the series exceptional levels of...
News Beat the Beat: Rhythm Paradise Coming to Wii U eShop in Europe
Time to warm up
Can you feel the Rhythm? Nintendo of Europe has announced that Beat the Beat: Rhythm Paradise will be making its way onto the Wii U eShop before the end of the month. This hidden gem was a critical success in the last generation, helping the series become more of a presence in the west. Recently, of course, we had Rhythm Heaven...
Feature Hands-On UK Fanzine HyperPlay's Third Issue
Fan-scene
If you're a regular reader of Nintendo Life then you'll already be aware of HyperPlay RPG, a UK-based fanzine devoted to covering retro RPGs and Nintendo titles. The fanzine has seen three issues so far, and we've just taken stock of the latest instalment (issue 2, but it's actually issue 3 if you include the "zero" release), complete...
News Steve Carell In Talks To Star In Forthcoming Minecraft Movie
Kinda funny
Funnyman Steve Carell is close to signing on for Warner's upcoming cinematic adaption of the popular video game Minecraft, according to Variety. Carell is perhaps most famous for starring in the American version of The Office, and has been in several big Hollywood movies since then, including The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Evan Almighty,...
News Rejoice! Link's New Hairdo Arrives as Miitomo Award on My Nintendo
Get hype?
Why isn't My Nintendo better? Those words are uttered and typed often, but Nintendo listens. It's always listening, carefully strategizing in preparation to blow our addled minds. Well, fear not, the new age of My Nintendo is here. Ok, not really. Nintendo has re-released two Legend of Zelda-themed Miitomo outfits that were originally...
Wednesday16th Nov 2016
News EMiO 'The Edge' Joystick is Incompatible with the NES Mini
Despite the fact it was made for the device
The NES Advantage was easily one of the most memorable peripherals for the NES, bringing arcade like controls and some convenient features, like turbo buttons. Now that the NES Mini is out, it was only a matter of time before third party companies (or maybe even Nintendo itself) got around to releasing a...
Rumour Nintendo Switch Will Have Super Mario And Skyrim At Launch, Splatoon Coming As Pack-In
Loose lips
With Nintendo going into full-on lockdown mode as far as Switch details are concerned the rumour mill is operating at full capacity. The latest report to come out of LetsPlayVideoGames - the site which has already been proven correct on several key Switch details and purports to have several sources close to Nintendo - is that the...
News Nintendo Drops The Ban Hammer on Pokémon Sun and Moon Pirates
Hammer Attack is Super Effective
As you're no doubt aware, some with early access to Pokémon Sun and Moon, whether through approved copies or grabbing them from early retail stock, couldn't behave themselves and promptly starting dropping spoilers online. Naturally the game files were also dumped, and a number of people started pirating the games;...
News No, There Isn't A Nintendo Switch Beta Program
Don't sign up
Like practically every other Nintendo fan on the face of the planet, you probably want to get your hands on a Nintendo Switch as soon as possible. With Nintendo itself remaining tight-lipped on the system until next year there are millions of players all over the globe who are hungry for more information regarding its power, features...
News Darksiders: Warmastered Edition Now Coming to Wii U "At a Later Stage", Delaying eShop Release
Death by a thousand delays
THQ Nordic claimed headlines and some goodwill a few months ago when it confirmed Darksiders: Warmastered Edition for the Wii U, helping Nintendo gamers catch up after the previous release of Darksiders II on the system. Though it'll naturally be less flashy than on PS4 and Xbox One - for example 30fps instead of 60 - it's...
News QubicGames Bringing 2 Fast 4 Gnomz And Audio Hero To Nintendo Switch
Gnomz alone
Japanese firm QubicGames has announced its intention to bring Geki Yaba Runner (known as 2 Fast 4 Gnomz in the west) to the Nintendo Switch. If the name sounds familiar it's because the title was previously released on WiiWare and the 3DS eShop. In addition to this port, QubicGames also confirmed that it is working on an all-new title...
Editorial Cutting Edge Visual Splendour vs. 60 Frames-Per-Second - Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Outside of PC, 'both' isn't often viable
Back when the Nintendo Switch was still the 'NX', we asked the community about their priorities in the great 60fps / visual fidelity debate. Perhaps as a result of our poll wording, or because most people want everything all at once, in general the majority of respondents wanted games both good looking and...
Review Futuridium EP Deluxe (New 3DS)
Let's blow this thing and go home
Support for the Unity engine on the New Nintendo 3DS has only attracted a small number of quality downloads, a pity but inevitable due to how late the engine arrived fully on the portable. When used well, though, it delivers some highly enjoyable gameplay and relatively flashy visuals - Futuridium EP Deluxe achieves...
Random Fan Theory Explains the Consequence of King Bob-omb's Defeat
The baron of all blasting matter
How could anybody forget good ol' King Bob-omb? The rotund ruler is the first boss you ever encounter in Super Mario 64 and grants you the game's first star upon his defeat,but he's appeared in or been referenced to numerous times over the years in subsequent Nintendo games. Of course -- as the game's first challenge...
News Nintendo Of America Wishes Xbox A Happy 15th Birthday
That's nice
Unless you live under a rock you will no doubt be aware that yesterday marked the 15th anniversary of the Microsoft Xbox. Launched as a rival to the PS2 and GameCube, the system laid down the foundations for the incredibly successful Xbox 360 and the Xbox One, Microsoft's current home console. While Xbox and Sony fans are regularly at...
News Shigeru Miyamoto is Now 64 Years Old
Super Miyamoto 64
One of Shigeru Miyamoto's most revolutionary and influential games was Super Mario 64, on which he was the lead director. It took the franchise he'd co-created, and which came to embody the identity of Nintendo, and completely changed the game. 3D gaming, at that point, was a fantastical thing, and no title kickstarted the 64-bit...
News Defenders of the Triforce 'Experience' Coming to US Cities
"We’re always looking for ways to offer new experiences", says Bowser
Here's an interesting little experiment from Nintendo, no doubt all part of a broader strategy to strengthen brand awareness. Nintendo of America has teamed up with 'escape room' company SCRAP to create a 'Legendary Puzzle Experience' themed around The Legend of Zelda; it'll...
Video How Piracy And Clone Consoles Kickstarted Brazil's Love Affair With Gaming
"We'll talk to you guys about representing Nintendo in Brazil"
Brazil has been in the gaming news lately thanks to the fact that Tectoy is planning on releasing a new version of Sega's Mega Drive next year, but the country's fixation with gaming goes way back to the birth of the industry, and a excellent series of video features by Red Bull...
News Nintendo Picks Up Mobile / Handheld Nominations for The Game Awards 2016
Along with some others
Update: Now that the official site for The Game Awards is functioning (it wasn't when we first posted) there's a full list of nominees. Below are some other Nintendo-related nominations. Best Role Playing Games Dark Souls 3 Deus Ex: Mankind Divided The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Blood and Wine World of Warcraft:...
News Famicom Mini Leads The Way In Japanese Charts, Leg Warmers May Be Next for a Big Comeback
Affordable '80s nostalgia beats everything
Nintendo, it seems, has been missing the trick for years. With clone systems everywhere, and SEGA giving rights to people working out of sheds to produce ROM-filled Mega Drive / Genesis systems (or so it seems based on their quality), Nintendo releases one and the world goes crazy. Naturally Nintendo has...
News Super Mario Run Launch News Triggers Nintendo Share Price Rise
Continues strong share rally in 2016
Yesterday's confirmation of the release date and price of Super Mario Run has caused Nintendo's shares to rise as much as 5.3 percent during the day's trading, eventually closing around 2.78 percent higher at 25,550 yen. The new iOS title - which is c
Tuesday15th Nov 2016
Review Pokémon Sun and Moon (3DS)
The difference is night and day
The Pokémon series has been through a lot, and a casual observer would be forgiven for assuming that the developers must be out of fresh ideas after twenty long years. Thankfully people who spend far too much time playing video games, like us and many reading these pages, know better. Enter Pokémon Sun and Moon,...
News A Japanese Hacker Has Cracked The Famicom Mini Already
Opens the door for NES Classic Mini homebrew, as well
The NES Classic Mini and its Japanese sibling the Famicom Mini both run Linux, and because of that Nintendo is duty-bound to share the source files for the hardware. As you might imagine, this has led to industrious hackers - always on the lookout for something to crack
Rumour The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Won't Be Ready by March
The waiting game continues...
It's pretty safe to say that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the most anticipated game on Nintendo's release schedule, and we're now supposedly only a few months out from the game's launch. Of course, if the original release schedule was followed, Breath of the Wild would've been old news by now, but Nintendo...
News EA Executive Clarifies Scope of Nintendo Switch Support, but is Cautious of Its Prospects
Unsure whether "people be interested" in portable aspect
With the Nintendo Switch just a matter of months away, and with the major unveiling all set for early January, anticipation is building for the next step in the system's path to release. We've seen plenty of executives share confidence and support for the system and its concept, that of a...
News Super Mario Run Jumps Onto iOS on 15th December, Priced $9.99 for Full Unlock
"The wait is almost over", says Bowser
We've known since its reveal that Super Mario Run would arrive on iOS devices in December, but now Nintendo has finally given some more concrete information. First of all, the release date on Apple devices will be 15th December, and the initial roll-out will be substantial - across 151 countries and regions...
News Cast Your Vote in the North American My Nintendo Holiday Sweepstakes
Lots of goodies up for grabs
With the holidays just around the corner, many are no doubt already getting together Christmas lists and doing a little bit of preliminary Christmas shopping. Admittedly, Nintendo's holiday lineup is a bit slim – relying more on older, yet still popular titles – but it's clearly feeling in the holiday spirit. A new...
Random Even Xbox Executives Are Desperate To Get Their Hands On The NES Classic Mini
"Come on, Nintendo. Why would you short-bake these??"
It's fair to say that the NES Classic Mini has proven to be rather popular, but sadly Nintendo appears to have massively underestimated demand for the pint-sized console. The shortage of stock has resulted in high prices on the secondary market, with scalpers hitting the web in force. This whole...
News Nintendo of America Seeks Fan Feedback on Social Media Channels
Again...
If you filled in Nintendo of America's social media survey back in February, then you're in for another good time. The subsidiary has put out the call once again, with the stated goal of improving its social media efforts. The survey seems similar to that posted earlier in the year, and once again it'll take a short while to fill out. It...
News Attack on Titan: Escape from Certain Death on 3DS Given Japanese Release Date
Arriving on 30th March
Attack on Titan is still a hugely popular Japanese manga series, and Koei Tecmo has announced that another game based on the series - Escape from Certain Death - will be coming to 3DS on 30th March 2017. Set in an old castle, fans can expect a brand new original story following the adventure of a Survey Corp member. An...
News The Famicom Mini Passed a Quarter of a Million Sales at Launch in Japan
Retro power
Though we normally wait for Media Create numbers when it comes to sales in Japan, some good news can't wait. The Famicom Mini - or Nintendo Classic Mini Family Computer - has enjoyed a strong launch in Japan; according to Famitsu it hit about 262,961 unit sales over its first weekend. Those are very encouraging numbers, especially in...
Video Stylish Pokémon Sun and Moon Trailer Features New York Yankees Pitcher
A bit of a curveball
Earlier today we shared a video for a Pokémon picture book, showing how the franchise can appeal to young children. As we said in that article, the strength of the franchise is its ability to attract a broad and diverse range of gamers; the latest trailer for Pokémon Sun and Moon demonstrates that point rather nicely. It...
News Back to Bits Series of Animated GIFs Lovingly Celebrates NES-Era Gaming
So many classics
With the recent arrival of the NES Mini and the continuing love for retro gaming in general, a project called Back to Bits has hit great timing for its launch. It's the work of a group of 40 talented artists, who have produces GIFs that commemorate classic Bit-era games, particularly in relation to the NES. The following is from...
News New 3DS Jikkyou Powerful Pro Baseball Title Will Include Super Mario Content
Super Mario Sluggers
Konami has revealed that the next entry in its Jikkyou Powerful Pro Baseball series will feature Super Mario-themed content. Jikkyou Powerful Pro Baseball Heroes - which hits the Nintendo 3DS in Japan on December 15th - will allow players to dress up the famous Power Pro Kun as Mario. As well as being a dead ringer for the...
Video Check Out the Official Launch Trailer for Mekazoo
Hopefully it's still coming to Wii U
In the vacuum left behind by major third party developers, indie games have been the lifeblood of the Nintendo eShop, filling the digital storefront with all sorts of unique and interesting games. One game that caught our eye is Mekazoo, a neon-centric platformer that seems to be equal parts Donkey Kong Country...
Video This Pokémon Picture Book Showcases the IP's Cute Appeal
D'awww
The Pokémon series continues to deliver hugely impressive sales, boosted by the Summer success of Pokémon GO and likely to continue with Pokémon Sun and Moon on 3DS. The IP has faced plenty of challengers, with Yo-kai Watch being a notable recent example in Japan, particularly, yet it rarely slows down or loses momentum. Its cause is...
Monday14th Nov 2016
Weirdness Streamer Claims To Have Nintendo Switch, Flaunts It During Live Broadcast
Keeping it real fake
In what feels like an unscheduled episode of The Twilight Zone, YouTuber Etika has apparently shown off a Nintendo Switch console during one of his livestreams. Etika grabbed the console during one of his broadcasts, briefly holding it in front of camera before ducking off-screen to retrieve a Joy-Con pad, which he then...
Rumour Nintendo Switch To Start At £199.99 In United Kingdom, $329.99 In Canada
£249.99 bundle will also be available in UK, according to report
Nintendo's latest console launches in March next year and while there are still a great many unanswered questions, one of the most pressing has to be the cost of the system - something which, if this latest rumour is to be believed, will be quite reasonable. LetsPlayVideoGames - a...
Nintendo Download 17th November (Europe)
Lionel City Builder 3D! A retail demo! An aquarium thing! Um...
Another week begins, and as always we have the European Nintendo Download Update details to kick things off. Last week was a bit underwhelming in the region, and we're not going to lie - it's not exactly a barnstormer on the way this week either. Nevertheless there may still be one or...
Deals Amazon and Toys "R" Us Jump In With Early Nintendo Deals Ahead of Black Friday
The Book of Unwritten Tales 2 heading for a discount in the UK
Though 'Black Friday' is still over a week away, some retailers are jumping in with early deals to get ahead of the year's most chaotic shopping day. There are some decent options kicking around to start this week, so we thought we'd give you an update in another 'Deals' article. We'll...
Gallery Pokémon Sun and Moon's Starter Z-Moves, Battle Features, Early Distributions and More
It's almost time...
With release just days away, The Pokémon Company isn't yet finished unveiling new details for Pokémon Sun and Moon. It certainly saved some tasty reveals for today. Today's new video brought a (probably) final piece to the Starter puzzle, perhaps helping some to finalise their choice. It was the Z-Moves that were shown off,...
Weirdness Nintendo Commissions a Survey to Try and Sell Mario Party Star Rush to Guilty Parents
Sure, why not
Nintendo has a lot of money, and can spend it as it darn well pleases, but a press release from Nintendo of America has us a little baffled. It seems the subsidiary hired a survey company (they're not necessarily cheap, either) to quiz parents about how bad they feel about time they can't spend with their children; this data has then...
News New Sega Mega Drive Platformer Hits Kickstarter
Coming 2017, all being well
The Sega Mega Drive - or Genesis, if you're of the North American persuasion - may be a vintage system in the eyes of modern players but that doesn't mean it can't get new software. With that in mind, say hello to Tanglewood, a new action-platformer which is currently in development for Sega's legendary 16-bit console...
Video This Australian Wii U Commercial Is Perfect In Every Way, Apart From Its Timing
"Bring the family together!"
Last week, Nintendo finally admitted what everyone knew - production of its struggling Wii U system is coming to a close. The company's focus has now shifted to the Switch, which launches in March next year, and that makes this curiously comprehensive Australian ad for the departing console all the more puzzling...
Video Check Out The Latest Trailer and Information For Pokémon Sun And Moon
Excitement levels rising...
Pokémon Sun and Moon arrives this week, and a new trailer has just gone live to celebrate that fact. The trailer - which is just over 3 minutes on length - boasts some lovely new footage from the game and is sure to generate a fair amount of hype before the finished product arrives in a few days. Update: The localised...
Video Looking Back At Metal Slug, Everyone's Favourite Run And Gun Shooter
War has rarely been this much fun
Metal Slug is unique in the world of gaming as being a hardcore run-and-gun shooter which practically everyone has heard of. Despite the fact that it launched on the super-exclusive Neo Geo system in the mid '90s when the world was going giddy over 3D visuals, the first title in the franchise found a solid fanbase...
Video Former Nintendo Software Technology Staffer Shares Design Insights Via New Channel
Tipping a star
It's often said that the opening 30 minutes of any video game are possibly the most important. Not only do they give the player an indication of the title's quality, but they can also be used to show how the game works, establish its core mechanics and tease elements of an epic storyline. With this in mind, game developer Stephen...
News You Can Now Post Pokémon All Over Your Twitter Photos
A dream come true?
To mark the release of Pokémon Sun and Moon on the 3DS Twitter has released some new Pokémon stickers which can be added to photos posted on the popular social network. Rowlet, Litten, Popplio and a Poké Ball are the options available at present, and it's not known if more 'mon will be added in the future. Sun and Moon...
Sunday13th Nov 2016
Poll Retro Delights and Stock Shortages - What Are Your Thoughts on the NES Mini Launch?
Old games, old fun, old problems
The Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System in Europe) arrived on 11th November, and it's certainly one of Nintendo's hottest releases of the year. It may seem strange that a micro-console loaded up with 30 NES games can be described that way, but it's...
Random Desert Bus for Hope Aims to Raise Big Money for Child's Play
Various Nintendo games and giveaways on offer
As fans of the terrific 'Games Done Quick' events will know, live streaming games in an entertaining way is a great method for raising money and doing a lot of good. Now Desert Bus for Hope, which has been running annual events since 2007, is pitching in once again. Since 2007 the group has raised over...
Saturday12th Nov 2016
News NVIDIA CEO Talks Up 'Incredible' Nintendo Switch
Expects people to be "amazed by it"
The Nintendo Switch, as we found out during its reveal, is going to be powered by a custom Tegra GPU by NVIDIA. For a few years the 'Tegra' range has aimed to deliver powerful portable graphics while suiting handheld / mobile formats; with the impressive work seen in older chips in the 'Shield' devices, it'll be...
Friday11th Nov 2016
Hardware NES Classic Mini Review
The master, remastered
It's fair to say that the announcement of NES Classic Mini earlier this year came as something of a shock, despite the fact that the concept of reproduction consoles isn't a particularly new one. Nintendo's old rival Sega has been pumping out licenced Mega Drive and
Random The Classic Controller Can Be Used to Reset the NES Mini
Also, the cord's a little longer
Though online reaction to the NES Mini has been extremely positive, there has been almost universal backlash to the cord length of the controllers that come with it. The cord is barely three feet long, roughly a third of the length of the original NES controller, though the ports on the front of the NES Mini do allow...
Deals A Guide To The Finest Pokémon Sun And Moon Preorders
Gotta pre-order em all
This article was originally published on 1st November, and with release now just one week away in North America (and slightly longer in Europe) we thought we'd share it with you once again. In case you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you'll most likely be aware that Pokémon Sun and Moon will finally be...
News Limited Stock Brings Out the Inevitable NES Mini Scalpers
Here's a bold idea for Nintendo - meet demand
The Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (NA) / Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System (PAL) is out today, which means there's plenty of retro gaming goodness ahead. Many in Europe will have been clinging on to pre-orders for months, with second waves of stock due to arrive...
News Nintendo of America Promises 'Steady Flow' of NES Classic Edition Units Through Holiday Period
"Working hard" to keep up with demand
It's a day for an exciting new Nintendo release, the NES Classic Edition - that means it's a happy occasion, but likely also a day for shortages and some consumer frustration. Scalpers are already gleefully cashing in, or trying to, and the race is on in North America, in particular, where pre-orders have been...
Reminder Fresh New Nintendo 3DS XL Colours Out Now in Europe
Mainland Europe even gets hot pink
Announced way back in August, three additional colours for the New Nintendo 3DS XL are now out in Europe, though availability varies depending on where you are. There's a 'Rose' and white model in mainland Europe (hot pink, really), while the UK also joins in with the Orange / Black and 'Pearl White' editions...
News Global Roll-Out of Pokémon GO's Nearby Feature Gets Closer as Niantic Plans a Long Run
"It's not about taking a bunch of money off the table and going"
Pokémon GO was a viral sensation in the Summer - politicians were playing it when they should have been governing, drivers were playing it when they should have been watching the road, and millions of more sensible people were using it as a fun tool to improve their health and...
News Poochy and Yoshi's Woolly World Will Let You Create Custom Yoshi Skins
Get that stylus ready
It came as a bit of a surprise when Nintendo lifted the lid on Poochy and Yoshi's Woolly World, a 3DS Port of the cute Wii U platformer. As indicated by the name, this version will be placing greater emphasis on Yoshi's canine companion, and a Poochy amiibo will even be sold alongside the game. When it was revealed, there were...
Random Charles Martinet's IMDb Listing Has Fans Dreaming of Galaxy 3, Sunshine HD and Unicorns
Anyone can edit these things...
When the Nintendo Switch was unveiled, there was hope. Perhaps the speculation was behind us. Nintendo gave us a sneak peak and a timeline for more details, all we needed was patience and a strong will. We could do it, we could all hold firm. No, that's not how things work, especially in the Wild West of the...
News Looks Like That Bravely Default Tease Was For A Smartphone Game
Coming next year
Not long ago, we reported that Bravely Default Twitter account had teased news regarding a future instalment in the series, which naturally led to speculation that some kind of sequel might be in development, possibly for the Nintendo Switch. However, it's now been revealed today that the next title in the franchise - and no doubt...
Features NES Mini Classics - Galaga
Pew pew
With the upcoming release of the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (NA) / Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System (PAL), we're going to (eventually) provide short profiles of all 30 games included on the system. This time around we look at Galaga, and you can catch up with past entries in this series on our NES...
News Nintendo Badge Arcade Celebrates Anniversary With Discounts and Free Plays
Pinned down
Though it may not necessarily be widely used on a daily basis, Nintendo Badge Arcade has been a fun extra on the 3DS. The free-to-download app - with various microtransactions thrown in - offers a chance to win badges through a simple crane game, which can then be used to spruce up the system's HOME page. The pricing on plays and...
Video Mark NES Classic Mini Day With This Heartwarming Home Movie From The Past
Christmas means Nintendo
Today sees the arrival of the NES Classic Mini in North America and Europe, a modern-day reimagining of the classic 1985 system which truly kick-started Nintendo's dominance of the living room. As you excitedly rip open the packaging on your shiny new NES console, it's worth taking a vintage look back at how Nintendo really...
Video Pokémon Generations Episode 12: The Magma Stone Is Now Live
Liquid hot mag-ma
The Pokémon Generations series keeps on going, and continues to draw impressive audiences on YouTube. The latest episode - The Magma Stone - is now live for your viewing pleasure. This time an erupting volcano is a bit of a problem, as is the constant use of the word 'Dude' - in any case, it's another stylish and entertaining...
Thursday10th Nov 2016
Video This Nintendo Switch 'Anime Opening' Is Pure Retro Cool
'Switchformers! Consoles in Disguise!'
A while ago we shared a rather fun and impressive fan-made Star Fox cartoon opening. That was the work of the Channy & Kimberly channel on YouTube, and the animators have produced a few more cool pieces since. Their latest creation helps to tap into Nintendo Switch hype, though. Titled as an 'Anime...
Editorial The Wii U Has Been Nintendo's Lowest Selling Home Console; It Deserved Better
Its sales will fall well short of the GameCube
It's been coming for some time, and Nintendo made the odd call to initially deny it was happening, but the Wii U is in its final stretch; manufacturing of the system is due to end soon. Nintendo's decision to make a denial, only to quietly contradict it a little over a week later is - to quote our...
News Pokémon Sun and Moon Version Exclusives Leaked Online
Massive spoiler alert, but it may help your purchasing decision...
Over the past few days a whole load of Pokémon Sun and Moon details have leaked early, as a result of some with early copies not being able to control themselves. This is par for the course with the franchise, though has perhaps happened a little earlier than normal this time. For...
News Nintendo Confirms Wii U Production Is Coming To A Close
UPDATE: Nintendo of America issues statement
Update: Nintendo of America has issued the following statement: As recently posted by Nintendo on the Wii U website in Japan, Wii U production will end in the near future for the Japanese domestic market. We have nothing to announce in terms of exact timing. We can confirm that as of today, all Wii U...
Reminder Set Your Alarm Clock To Snag A NES Classic Edition For The Holiday Season
Very limited quantities at Amazon US
We have to admit it, we're a tiny bit in love with the NES Classic Edition, and so far it seems to have been a smash hit for Nintendo with preorders filling up almost immediately. If you live in North America and missed out on a preorder (there weren't many), there is no need to despair. Amazon US says it has...
Nintendo Download 10th November (North America)
Harvest Moon: Skytree Village! Umbrella Chronicles! Rhythm Heaven! More!
It's Nintendo Download Update time, and the North American line-up is has been fully confirmed. It has some decent options, with the Wii U and New 3DS Virtual Consoles offering a few varied titles from the Wii and SNES. The Wii U eShop has an intriguing new download-only...
News New North American My Nintendo Rewards Carry A Major Metroid Theme
And the Splatoon Ink Tank is back
My Nintendo has been updated in North America with a raft of discounts focused around the Metroid series. The following discounts are available now, and are exclusive to the region - if you're in Europe, you won't be able to benefit. 30% off Super Metroid (New 3DS) – 20 Gold Points 30% off Metroid: Zero Mission...
News Check Out the Manuals for All the NES Classic Edition Games
Original scans and new e-manuals
One of the neat features of the Virtual Console on the Wii U is the inclusion of original manuals with the purchase of some games, giving gamers a glimpse at how manuals used to be. It's a nice way of catering to nostalgia, and considering that the NES Classic Edition is basically being sold for nostalgia, it comes...
Review Blasting Agent: Ultimate Edition (Wii U eShop)
Everything old is new again
A recipe for a good old-fashioned shooter is actually quite straightforward. Take a vaguely sinister terrorist organisation with a remote base of operations (genetic experimentation is always a plus), stir in a brightly pixelated art style, sprinkle weapon upgrades, and always serve with a buff hero who shoots before he...
News Hyperkin Supaboy S Promises Multi-Region SNES Gaming On The Go
Bigger screen and support for PAL games
Long-time readers of the site will be aware that we covered Hyperkin's Supaboy a few years back, and came away impressed with its ability to play SNES and Super Famicom games on the road. The company is now revamping the system with the Supaboy S, which boasts a bigger screen, better stamina and the ability...
Video Unboxing the Famicom Mini
Japan still gets everything first, even if by one day
On 11th November people around the world finally get the joy of opening and enjoying their brand new NES Mini, or NES Classic Edition (or Nintendo Classic Mini as it's known in Europe). It's been a long wait, but for those of us in Japan you could say Christmas comes one day early as today, on...
Defy gravity
Gravity+ by Nitrolic Games is a puzzle title for the Wii U eShop that's all about gravitational pull; the plus sign featured in the game's title makes reference to the game's use of the directional pad to manipulate gravity. In reality, you are actually just rotating the game's maze-like environments in multiple directions in order to...
News The New Miitomo Update is Now Live
A much-needed shot in the arm
During the Financial Investors Briefing a few weeks ago, Nintendo revealed that a big update was coming to Miitomo which, among other new features, would be adding in the ability to send out personal messages to friends. The update has just gone live for Android and iOS, and has brought a whole wealth of new features to...
News Ohayou! Beginner's Japanese Aims to Help Budding Language Students on Wii U
Arriving soon at a budget price
Finger Gun Games previously made its debut on the Wii U eShop with Stone Shire, a Minecraft-style title, but has gone in an entirely different direction for its next release. Ohayou! Beginner's Japanese aims to help users gain the building blocks for learning the language. The basic premise is that you use flash...
Random The Famicom Mini Ain't Got Nothing On This Mini Famicom Mini
Get your tweezers ready
Like its western sibling the NES Classic Mini, the Famicom Mini is pretty dinky - even its joypads are diminutive. However, if you're a fan of taking large things and making them much, much smaller, then the vid
News Nintendo Share Value Joins Market in Recovery from Post-US Election Drop
Investors shrug and carry on with their lives
Yesterday we reported on Nintendo joining the broader Tokyo exchange in seeing a hefty drop in share value, a reaction to the pending confirmation (at the time the Japanese markets closed) of Donald Trump being elected US President. However, as we also reported Western markets shared that initial shock...
Video Celebrate Miitomo's Update With These Cringe-Worthy Promo Videos
Do you have a confession to make?
Miitomo got a huge update today which allows users to send each other direct messages, decorate their rooms and even strut their sense of fashion for all the world to see. To mark this occasion - and to perhaps remind people that Miitomo exists - Nintendo has published two video promos which highlight the new...
Wednesday9th Nov 2016
Rumour Bayonetta And Cloud amiibo Delayed Until Release Of Super Smash Bros. On Switch
Not coming at launch, apparently
Although amiibo sales are down, the range of NFC-enabled toys is still an important revenue stream for Nintendo. However, we're now hearing reports that fans might have to endure a wait for the remaining two Smash Bros. amiibo - Bayonetta and Final Fantasy VII's Cloud Strife - until next year. The rumour comes from
News There Are More NES Classic Mini Accessories On The Way
All your control needs catered for
The NES Classic Mini comes out this week, and appears to be getting just as much third-party accessory support as as full-blown Nintendo console. We've already seen Nyko and EMiO's range of contr
Video We Compare the NES Mini Emulation With the Wii U Virtual Console
Yeah, it's obvious which one wins
Those that have splashed the cash on a number of NES titles on the Wii U Virtual Console may feel that although they're functional ROMs, they could be better. The Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (NA) / Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System (PAL) should, however, have some...
News Three Tempting Virtual Console Games Are Heading to North America This Week
Resi! Rhythm Heaven! Mega Man X3!
It's not exaggeration to say that this week's European Nintendo Download Update is one of the worst we've seen, though those with a NES Mini pre-order will find some solace in that. North America, on the other hand, could have a decent week ahead. Three titles have popped up with 10th November dates on Nintendo of...
Feature The Most Intriguing Features in Pokémon Sun and Moon
A new generation is coming
Pokémon Sun and Moon are almost here, bringing us the year's biggest release(s) on the 3DS and kicking off a new generation in the iconic franchise. There's plenty of excitement, with pre-order numbers high and plenty of buzz online, so we thought we'd break down some of the most intriguing new features to be found in...
Feature NES Mini Classics - Final Fantasy
A final fling that launched a dynasty
With the upcoming release of the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (NA) / Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System (PAL), we're going to (eventually) provide short profiles of all 30 games included on the system. This time around we look at Final Fantasy. The Mini NES is packed...
News Four Lost Satellaview Kirby Games Have Been Recovered
Three to go
The Satellaview represented a fascinating chapter in Nintendo's long history. The peripheral allowed Japanese players to tune in to special satellite broadcasts that distributed various forms of unique and exclusive game content to their consoles. The problem is, many of the games that were part of the Satellaview have been lost due to...
Video Here's The GameCube Diddy Kong Racing Sequel We Never Got To Play
Climax's pitch never got the nod, sadly
Back in 2004, UK studio Climax was keen for work. The war between the PS2, Xbox and GameCube was in full swing and this presented opportunities for developers, assuming they had the right game. Like all game studios, Climax created speculative pitches for titles it wanted to work on. Around this time, the...
News Nintendo Share Value Dives Following US Presidential Result, But Recovery Is Likely
Nikkei closes well down, though Western markets have since rebounded
As regular readers know, we report on any substantial variations in Nintendo's share value, which typically climbs or falls steeply following major announcements or financial results. Sometimes the political world has a notable short-term influence - the UK 'Brexit' vote shocked...
Video Get a Good Look at Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS in This Japanese Showcase
You can almost hear the humble 3DS GPU whirring
Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS is a notable release for the portable this Holiday season, as Nintendo aims to target a sizeable audience that likely doesn't own a Wii U. It's lacking some features seen in the home console iteration, notably online level sharing, but does have a few of its own...
The '70s just called, they want their game back
Just the other day, this writer happened to encounter a page loading error on Google Chrome and got an opportunity to play that hidden dinosaur platforming game, where the T-rex has to jump over rocks and cacti as it runs through a desert. You know the one. This 'game' is simple, something that's just...
News 3DS Hardware Sales Grow in Japan Despite Lack of New Releases
No 3DS games in current software top 10
The world keeps on spinning, and today brings the Media Create chart results out of Japan. It's a slightly strange week from a Nintendo perspective, as it has positives to consider despite the absence of meaningful new releases. Number one this week is Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare on PS4, one of four new...
News Nanoloop Mono Turns Your Old Game Boy Into A Synthesiser
For all your old-school bleep and bloop needs
It is not news the Game Boy is the weapon of choice for many chiptune artists, nor that nanoloop is one of the most recognized names for software that makes the Game Boy "sing" to your desires. But now the company is taking things a step further and is releasing a cartridge that turns your old DMG model...
News Mondo Music Releasing Super Castlevania IV Vinyl Soundtrack Next Year
"What music they make!"
Pop culture reissue company Mondo has revealed that it is releasing a limited edition vinyl soundtrack for Konami's legendary SNES hit Super Castlevania IV next year. Mondo - which creates limited edition posters, vinyl soundtracks, collectibles and clothing "inspired by our favorite movies, TV shows, comics and more" - has...
Video Takahashi Meijin Puts The Famicom Mini Through Its Paces
Japanese show also includes Zelda: Breath of the Wild footage
A recent episode of the Japanese show Denjin ☆ Getcha! had a real Nintendo feel to it. Not only did the team - which includes the legendary Takahashi Meijin - get to grips with the new Famicom Mini console, footage of the forthcoming Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was also shown...
News Pirate Pop Plus Developer Would Love To Bring It To The Original Game Boy
"If I did it, [it] would be proper cartridges"
Pirate Pop Plus recently launched on the 3DS and Wii U eShops, and the game received a hearty recommendation from us. Produced by dadako, this bubble-popping action title uses Game Boy-style visuals and audio to create a unique "faux-retro" experience which has predictably enraptured players old enough...
Tuesday8th Nov 2016
News Looks Like Nintendo Has A Sense Of Humour About The Wii U's Failure
"Great artists aren’t always appreciated in their own time”
Nintendo is used to success - it is responsible for some of the most popular video game franchises of all time, and has produced consoles and handhelds which have sold millions upon millions of units. However, like any firm with a history that stretches back more than 100 years, it...
News Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS Will Feature amiibo Support
What will it do?
It feels like Nintendo's been a little quiet on Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS, considering that the game is launching less than a month from now. Of course, we mostly know what to expect from the core experience, but there will still be some exclusive new features, such as the tough Medal Challenges. Interestingly enough, it...
News Short Hyrule Warriors Video Signals the End of a DLC Era
Koei Tecmo thanks the players
It's been quite a ride for Hyrule Warriors and Hyrule Warriors Legends; developed by the always-busy Warriors team at Omega Force, the Legend of Zelda spin-offs didn't fall short in terms of extensive add-ons and DLC. The Wii U version had its own additions, and since then Legends on 3DS had its own extensive season...
News RPG Maker Fes Player Will Give Japanese 3DS Owners Plenty of Free Games
Yes, we're jealous
A while ago we wrote about RPG Maker Festival - or RPG Maker Fes - which will bring the well-regarded app to the 3DS in Japan. Though the tools are simple, it's a popular app for enthusiasts and, occasionally, a gem emerges that succeeds in becoming a full published game. It arrives as a retail title in Japan on 24th November,...
News Pokémon GO Bonuses Increased For Limited Period
More monsters and items to find
The latest update to Pokémon GO has introduced daily bonuses which earn additional XP and stardust for monster captures and extra XP and items at PokéStops. To mark the arrival of this feature, Niantic is enhancing the bonus scheme for a limited period of time: We are excited to let you know that the new daily...
Random PC Indie Title Gives You A Reason To Dust Off Those Donkey Konga Bongos
"It's a lot more fun with a controller you can hit really hard"
Beat Nebula is an indie title created by TJ "Kyatt" Cordes for QaziJam8 event, and while it's unlikely to ever make it to the Wii U, 3DS or Switch, it should be of interest to Nintendo fans thanks to the controller it supports. The premise is simple - you have to destroy incoming...
News Bandai Namco's Financial Results Show Decline in Sales of Yo-kai Watch Toys
Time for fresh ideas?
For those that follow the weekly Media Create charts out of Japan, one thing is known to be certain - when a new Yo-kai Watch game comes out it goes to number one. That said, however, even the latest 'main' entries in the series have been tracking below the sales of their predecessors. The numbers are still impressive, but the...
News Earthlock: Festival of Magic Still On Track for Wii U, With Third-Party Producing Port
"We will release on Wii U as soon as the game is ready"
It was quite some time ago that the ambitious Earthlock: Festival of Magic was crowdfunded on Kickstarter. Snowcastle Games earned plenty of fans for its comprehensive campaign, along with ambitious plans for the RPG that features turn-based combat, base building and development, in addition to...
News Junichi Masuda Didn't Expect Pokémon GO to Be a Big Deal
Guess it must have come as a surprise
Though it's certainly tapered off by this point, it's impossible to dispute the fact that Pokémon GO had a pretty colossal debut. One would think that the developers behind this game would've realized in advance the kind of appeal that an AR Pokémon game would have, but it's also well documented that they were...
Exclusive Scribble to Bring Pictionary-Style Party Gaming to Wii U This Holiday Season
Let's draw out some details
Earlier this year U Host came to the Wii U eShop, a debut effort by Bear Box Media. A party quiz game, it also gives players the ability to create their own competitions, and we were impressed by how fun it can be when played in groups, awarding it a 7 - 'good' - rating in our review. The developer has now given us...
News Lionel City Builder 3D: Rise of the Rails Arrives on the European eShop on 17th November
Pokémon had better watch out
Some of you may remember Lionel City Builder 3D: Rise of the Rails, a train simulator that came to the 3DS in North America in January. We thought it was quite enjoyable in our review, giving it a recommendation, though at the time no European release date was on the cards. Fortunately, it seems as though that will be...
Video Get Hype For The Kutar Series With This Gloriously Unhinged New Trailer
"Kutar will just inflate his body and overcome"
Circle Entertainment is releasing the Kutar series in North America this week, a range of mini-games which showcase the mysterious Kutar, who - we're reliably informed by the PR below - is absolutely not a dog, cat or bear. There are 10 titles in total, each costing 99 cents. They are Kutar Apple,...
Monday7th Nov 2016
News Budget New Nintendo 3DS Models Announced for North America
Out in time for Black Friday
It seems that the move towards budget hardware status is picking up pace for the 3DS, which need not be a bad thing. Nintendo of America has announced two New Nintendo 3DS models - the smaller variations - that'll arrive on 25th November, with a recommended price of just $99.99 in the US. In the initial announcement no...
News Generation II Pocket Monsters Found in Pokemon GO Update Code
Enter the Unown
Rejoice Pokéfans! Like Whitney's Miltank it looks like it won't be long now until Generation II starts rolling out in Pokémon GO. In Niantic's latest code for the recent Android update (0.45.0), The Silph Road has done some data mining and discovered that there are 100 new Pokémon names waiting in the (steel) wings, fron #152 to...
Talking Point A New Nintendo 3DS Price Drop Can Prolong the Portable's Lifespan
New Black Friday options in North America are a smart idea
We've been wondering when it would happen, and it's finally come. Nintendo has bitten the bullet and confirmed New Nintendo 3DS models for North America that will cost under $100. Now, you don't need to be a genius to proclaim that selling goods at a budget price is a way to attract...
News Tantalus Media is Developing Games for the Switch
Cue speculation
It already came as a bit of a surprise when Nintendo announced that they'd be doing an HD remaster of Twilight Princess, but few would have guessed that it'd be outsourcing the project to a third-party studio in Australia. The studio in question is known as Tantalus Media, and the team there did an excellent job of bringing the Zelda...
Nintendo Download 10th November (Europe)
SHOOT THE BALL, discounts... erm, that's it
A fresh week is upon us, and as usual Nintendo of Europe has sent out details for the Download Update that's to come. In truth it's extremely slim pickings this time around, with one new game and some discounts. There's no particularly positive spin we can give, so let's just get on with it. Wii U eShop...
News Capcom "Researching" Viability Of PS4 And Xbox One Ports On Nintendo Switch
"We do feel that there are differences in the desired direction"
Capcom has stated during its financial year 2016 Q2 question and answer session that it is currently researching the viability of porting PS4 and Xbox One titles to the Nintendo Switch. The veteran publisher - which has franchises such as Resident Evil, Street Fighter and Monster...
News Small My Nintendo Reward Discounts Arrive in North America
You're 'Bound' to love them...
If My Nintendo was a member of a typical social group in a sitcom, it'd be the one that was recast because the original actor wanted too much money. It's just like the charming Club Nintendo that we all knew well, but it's not the same, and arguably not as good. Nintendo has failed to win everyone over with the new...
News Takashi Tezuka Wanted Super Mario Bros. 3 To Use An Overhead Perspective
"We just couldn't make it work"
To mark the arrival of the NES Classic Mini (and its Japanese sibling, the Famicom Mini) Nintendo has run a series of interviews on its site with key personnel who worked on the system. Two interviews - one with Shigeru Miyamoto and the other with
Video A Quirky Look at How to Use an iPhone 7 to Buy 3DS eShop Games in Japan
You should NFC it
Ever since Apple unveiled the iPhone 7, declaring all those using wired headphones to be cave-dwellers that need to join a wireless revolution, gamers in Japan have been able to do something else with their new phone besides looking for their lightning adapter. The SUICA app allows users to buy 3DS eShop games with the iPhone on...
News Pokémon GO Daily Bonuses Update Begins Rollout
It's no "Mystery Gift", but...
Still one of the most played apps on the planet, Niantic has started rolling out its latest update for Pokémon GO users. Version 0.45.0 (Android) and 1.15.0 (IOS) brings daily bonuses to try and entice players back to the never-ending quest to "Catch'em All". Originally discovered by data miners, the latest update...
News SEGA 3D Classics Collection is Nowhere to be Seen in the UK Charts
Mario Kart 7 runs a lonely race in top 40
The weekly UK chart results have made for disappointing reading for Nintendo in the past few weeks; not much has changed this time around, though there are a couple of interesting points to consider. First of all, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare has surprised no-one in arriving at number one, though its...
Random Transformers Crossed With The Famicom Equals The Best T-Shirt Ever
YOU MUST NEVER FORGET MIND IN EXPECTATION AND THE LOVE OF THOSE DAYS!
As any child of the '80s will tell you, Transformers were amazing. We're not talking about Bay-formers here - we mean Generation One, the series that started it all. We mean toys which actually looked like real vehicles, and boasted just as much die-cast metal in their...
News Game Boy-Inspired Puzzler Warlock's Tower Coming To 3DS eShop Next Year
Every step you take
Indie studio Midipixel is bringing its Game Boy-inspired puzzle title Warlock's Tower to the 3DS in 2017. Boasting more than 100 rooms packed with zombies, flying eyes and slimes, Warlock's Tower has a unique twist. Every step you take costs you a life, and the need to constantly restock is a key part of the gameplay. It also...
News Mega Cat Studios Aims To Create New Side-Scrolling Brawler For The Sega Genesis
"Metal, aliens and awesome"
The fact that the Sega Genesis (or Mega Drive, if you prefer) is no longer in production hasn't stopped companies from creating new games for it. Pier Solar was one of the first to kick things off, but since then we've had other studios getting in on t
Sunday6th Nov 2016
Review EctoPlaza (Wii U eShop)
You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave
Though it seems all too likely that history won't be too kind to the Wii U, it's difficult to dispute the fact that it has been the couch multiplayer console of the generation. Aside from featuring highly polished iterations of classic Nintendo franchises with games such as Mario Kart 8...
Feature NES Mini Classics - Excitebike
Rev it up
With the upcoming release of the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (NA) / Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System (PAL), we're going to provide short profiles of all 30 games included on the system. This time around we look at Excitebike. The upcoming Mini NES has a decent selection of games, but in some...
Saturday5th Nov 2016
Review Twisted Fusion (Wii U eShop)
(Don't) Do the twist
Kickstarter has given budding game developers a chance to shine that never existed in the early days of gaming. Twisted Fusion is one of the most recent titles to be supported by the service, but does it fare well from its crowdfunded roots? Let's find out. We're a little light on story in Twisted Fusion. The main character,...
Not your average Joe
It is not uncommon for a game's critical appeal to far outweigh its selling power. Throughout the history of gaming there have been many cult hits that now go for ridiculous prices on the second hand market, EarthBound and the original Shantae being a couple of notorious examples. However, few games can boast the extreme rarity...
Gallery Check Out Blaster Master Zero, The Inti Creates Revival of a Classic
'Everything is starting again from “zero”'
The power of nostalgia is very real, and Inti Creates - perhaps best known for Azure Striker Gunvolt and its sequel - is counting on it. It's announced that it's bringing Blaster Master Zero to the 3DS eShop next Spring, having acquired the rights to the original Blaster Master. It's a reboot that's...
Video Watch Us Go Hands-On with the NES Mini
It's not about the size, it's what you do with it
Now that the Mini NES is safely out of its packaging, we decided to go absolutely mad and actually play the console to see how it handles. After a few minor technical frustrations we finally got our mess of technology required to capture what this sucker spits out to behave. Make sure you check out...
Live Blog Watch the Japanese Miitopia Nintendo Direct - Live!
Solving the Mii-stery
Miitopia, a Mii-centric game that appears to blend Tomodachi Life with more conventional RPG gameplay, is out in Japan very soon. Localisation to the West seems to be a longshot at present, so we'll watch this out of curiosity; after all, it's a major December release on 3DS in Japan. <liveblog...
Friday4th Nov 2016
Soapbox Captain Falcon, We Have A Problem With F-Zero X on Wii U
Controls are off course on Virtual Console (Updated)
Update: We've been asked quite a few times if this issue is the same on the Wii version of the game. As a test I've just used the exact same Wiimote + Classic Controller on both the Wii U and Wii Virtual Console versions available. The Wii version does not appear to have the same issue and the...
News Yoshio Sakamoto Recalls The Moment He Realised Satoru Iwata Was A Programming Genius
"Iwata-san basically made it in three days"
The celebrate the upcoming release of the NES Classic Mini (or Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition system, if you wish), Nintendo commissioned Japanese writer Akinori Sao with interviewing key staff involved with the console's history. One of his interview subjects is Yoshio Sakamoto,...
News Ubisoft CEO Praises "True Innovation" Of Switch, Teases "Surprise" Game In Development
"I’m very happy that we can continue to make big things with Nintendo"
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot has hailed the Nintendo Switch as "true innovation" and has teased a "surprise" game that the company currently has in development. Speaking during Ubisoft's first-half 2016-17 earnings conference call, Guillemot highlighted the game-changing nature...
Competition Win Tickets to an Exclusive UK Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon Launch Event
We've got 30 pairs of tickets up for grabs
Nintendo UK will be hosting an exclusive celebration event for the upcoming release of Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon for Nintendo 3DS family systems, taking place on Tuesday 22nd November 2016 at The Old Truman Brewery from 5pm to 10pm. Nintendo UK have given us 30 pairs of tickets to give away to this...
News Check out the Retro-Bit Generations Launch Trailer
In all its old-school glory
It won't be long before the NES Mini will be on store shelves, but that's obviously not the only console that will be offering a throwback experience. The Retron-5 has gotten a lot of attention for its versatility, but now Retro-Bit is looking to get a piece of the market with the Retro-Bit Generations. Over 100 titles...
Video See What Lurks Inside the Packaging of the NES Mini
Released from its cardboard prison
As far as miniaturised consoles go, the NES Classic Edition (or Nintendo Classic Mini as it's known in Europe) has to be one of the most adorable. We managed to get our hands on one of these bad boys early and put its packaging through its paces, albeit gently. Check out the video above where we take this sucker...
News Nintendo Celebrates the NES Classic Edition by Going Retro With The 'Power Line'
Who you gonna call?
Remember the '80s? The Goonies, leg warmers, Duran Duran and most importantly the Power Line. Yes, back when there was no internet (not even dial-up!) Nintendo fans struggling with a particular game could contact the call line for handy tips and hints from "Nintendo Game Play Counselors" (imagine having that on your CV). Now with...
News The November Monster Hunter Generations DLC is Now Live
With a distinctly Japanese flavour
We're on the final stretch of free Monster Hunter Generations DLC, with content due to keep coming up to early 2017. The latest set is distinctly Japanese in flavour, given us a taste of the sorts of outfits, weapons and extras that are no doubt hugely popular in Capcom's homeland. The DLC quests are all...
Poll Are You Excited About the Mini NES?
Perhaps hype is bigger than the diminutive system
It's been easy to get distracted in recent times, but one of Nintendo's most important Holiday releases is around the corner. We're not talking about Pokémon Sun and Moon, that's still to come, but rather the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo...
News Argos Seems to Have the UK Retail Exclusive for SEGA 3D Classics Collection
There's also a rad release trailer
SEGA 3D Classics Collection is rather good, bundling together plenty of delicious retro games - including some making their way out of Japan for the first time in their 3D form. This collection arrived in North America earlier in the year, and thankfully European gamers can now get in on the act. It's available on...
News Doubt Is Thrown On The Exact Story Behind The Creation Of Donkey Kong
Did Miyamoto have to compete with his co-workers?
Donkey Kong is arguably one of the most important games in Nintendo's history. Prior to its release the firm was struggling for attention with coin-op rivals like Taito and Namco, and it is often stated that it was a 'make or break' release for the Japanese company after a string of costly failures...
News Spawn Rates Of Pidgeys, Rattatas And Zubats Reduced In Pokémon GO
Thank goodness for that
Niantic has revealed that it has reduced the spawn rate of some of Pokémon GO's more common monsters to increase the chances of players finding other, rarer 'mon. Pidgeys, Rattatas and Zubats are perhaps the most commonly-found monsters in the game, and players have previously complained that they seem to catch very little...
News Runbow Pocket Devs Explain the Lack of Local Multiplayer and StreetPass
Porting and coding issues seem to be the culprit
Runbow still stands as one of the most fun and frantic multiplayer games on the Wii U eShop, so it made plenty of sense when 13AM Games announced they'd be doing a portable variant with Runbow Pocket. The game will be coming to the New 3DS and seems to have translated the Runbow experience to the...
News Huge Miitomo Update Promises Direct Messages, Room Customisation And Sidekick Miis
Show off your style and answer publicly-posted questions, too
The Miitomo update that was teased back in October has been revealed in a little more detail. Once the mandatory updates arrives, you'll be able to send direct messages to people on your friends list. You'll also be able to customize what your room looks like by picking a wallpaper and...
News Isabelle Animal Crossing 3DS HOME Theme Added to My Nintendo in North America
Now she can organise your games for you, too
Animal Crossing: New Leaf may not be the freshest game in the world, but this week it's had a welcome revival courtesy of the extensive (and free) 'welcome amiibo' update. Keen to build on that momentum, Nintendo of America has released a small extra treat. It's an Isabelle 3DS HOME Theme, which can be...
News Classic Game Music Gets a Jazzy Twist in New Game+ Album
From OverClocked Records and jazz fusion band Materia
Retro games are continually celebrated in different ways around the web, giving classic material a new lease of life. Plenty of talented fans do this through music, and a new album brings a classy twist to iconic tracks. New Game+ is a collaboration between OverClocked Records and 'jazz...
Video Check Out Pokémon Generations Episode 11: The New World
Time, space, dimensions, drama...
It's a weekly treat that keeps on giving (until 23rd December), with The Pokémon Company continuing the run of its rather popular animation series - Pokémon Generations. This time we have Episode 11: The New World, and the lore may start to feel familiar to those that have only jumped into Pokémon in more recent...
News Official 25 Hour Live Stream of Sonic the Hedgehog Games to Raise Money for Charity
Including the rubbish games, of course
As regular readers have no doubt noticed, we're fans of the somewhat anarchic but always self-aware Sonic the Hedgehog social media accounts. Yet it's not all memes, Sanic and fan-art, as it's been announced that the social team will run a 25 hour live stream (not 24, because the clocks go back in North America...
Thursday3rd Nov 2016
Random Raspberry Pi Hack Takes The Wii U GamePad One Step Closer To Switch
Build it and they will come
Nintendo Switch comes out next year, and is already shaping up to be quite an impressive concept - a stand-alone gaming system which not only connects to your TV but can also be taken on the road. Thing is, some people don't like to wait and hacker banjokazooie has taken it upon himself to create the next best thing - a...
Talking Point Ports vs. Sequels On The Nintendo Switch
A unique switchuation...
In this Talking Point, Arjun gives his perspective on the ports vs. sequels considerations for the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo NX - erm, Switch - has finally been unveiled, and it's arguably the lion's roar that the big N needed after troubles with its last home system. The Wii U has suffered a similar fate to that of the...
Nintendo Download 3rd November (North America)
Mario Party! Twisted Fusion! DK Jungle Beat! Hyrule Warriors DLC! More!
It's that time once again, dear readers, for the North American Nintendo Download Update. This week includes a first-party retail release on 3DS, while a couple of tempting Virtual Console games arrive on Wii U. Beyond that there are a variety of interesting download-only games...
News NES Classic Edition Teardown Peeks Inside the Tiny System
Might not be easy for modders to add new games
Various media outlets are beginning to get their hands on the upcoming Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition, and it was only matter of time before someone dismantled this miniature work of art to see what's going on inside the shell. GameSpot senior reviews editor Peter Brown tweeted a...
News Nyko Thinks Cords Are Gnarly, Offers The Miniboss For The NES Classic Edition Instead
$19.99, out on November 11th
The NES Classic Edition arrives this month, and ships with a wired controller which is a close match for the pad that accompanied the game-changing 1985 console. While being tethered to the system by a cord no doubt adds to the authentic retro experience, there will be some players out there who are young enough to have...
News Monster Hunter Stories amiibo Are Compatible with English Copies of Animal Crossing: New Leaf
Hmm….
No doubt many of you are aware of Monster Hunter Stories, the kid-friendly RPG spin-off of Capcom's popular Monster Hunter series. The game's done pretty well in Japan, but there's still no word on whether or not there will be a Western localisation. Though Capcom has remained fairly tight lipped about this, the recent update to Animal...
Rumour Nintendo Switch Will Launch On 17th March In Europe
Thank me lucky charms
It's been confirmed by Nintendo that the Nintendo Switch will be launching in all regions during March 2017. Take this with a pinch of salt, but now Laura Dale - who from our own conversations seems to have some solid sources, and has previously published some articles on Switch via LetsPlayVideoGames - has revealed that she...
News Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King Arrives on 20th January
Time for another adventure
A number of 3DS owners are likely still working through Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past. They should probably get a move on, however, as Nintendo of America has now confirmed that Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King will arrive in its region on 20th January. [Update: this is also confirmed as...
News Donkey Kong Jungle Beat Hitting the North American Wii U eShop This Week
The Wii version, obviously
Though we often wait until the full Download Update is issued before going into too much detail on the line-up for any given week, it's worth changing it up to confirm that North American gamers are in for a treat - Donkey Kong Jungle Beat (the Wii New Play Control version) is heading to the Wii U eShop on 3rd November,...
News Take-Two Interactive Reiterates Support of Nintendo Switch, But Won't Confirm Games Yet
NBA 2K is still just a trailer concept
Remember the bit in the Nintendo Switch trailer where the 'dudes' play real life Basketball, then play videogame Basketball on the Switch right next to the same court? Not necessarily the most realistic scenario, but it made for a good video sequence. It did leave us scratching our heads at Nintendo Life...
Review Fire: Ungh's Quest (Wii U eShop)
Are you still fascinated by the concept of fire?
We're all taught about fire at a young age. It's dangerous, and without it humanity would likely not have developed as it has. So how about a game where you are transported to the Stone Age and take control of a Neanderthal who is on a journey to locate fire? This is the basis of the eShop title that...
News Pokémon GO's Designer Wants You To Look Up From Your Phone
"It saddens me a bit when I see a lot of hunched over people outside"
The name Dennis Hwang might not mean much to you, but you're almost certain to have seen one of his creations online. Hwang is responsible for many of the amazing "Google Doodles" which have been seen on Google's main page over the years - surely one of the most visited pages on...
Gallery Nintendo Cosplay and More at MCM Comic Con in London
Lots of love for the big N
MCM London rolled around again for its biannual event, and with it the Nintendo presence was strong. Ranging from games to play at the official Nintendo stand, retro game competitions with Smash Bros. and Mario Kart, stands selling lots of Nintendo merchandise and a number of awesome Nintendo cosplays, there was plenty to...
News Daily Bonuses Are on the Way to Pokémon GO
Get rewarded for regular play
Some rumours have been floating around the internet lately concerning a future update for Pokémon GO. Data miners uncovered data that seemed to be pointing the way to some sort of 'Daily Quest' system to keep players invested in continuous play. Given the evidence, it seemed like a pretty safe bet that this would be...
Wednesday2nd Nov 2016
Feature Top Nindies On the Nintendo Switch Concept, Its Positives and Key Unanswered Questions
"It's definitely a new style for Nintendo"
The dust has now well and truly settled on the Nintendo Switch 'Preview Trailer', a three and a half minute reveal that aimed to succinctly and stylishly promote the merits of Nintendo's next-gen gaming concept. Since it aired Nintendo and a handful of gaming executives have added a few relatively vague...
Weirdness Mario Kart 8 Contains Hidden Swearing
But you'll have to do a lot of digging to find it
Modern computers allow gamers to dig into video game data files to their heart's content, and this often throws up some interesting discoveries which perhaps should have remained hidden. That certainly seems to have been the case with this latest Mario Kart 8 find. YouTube user Harm - who perhaps...
This is a fair 'un
Fairune was a fun - if not particularly ground-breaking - little game that came out of nowhere and charmed us with its simplistic yet addictive gameplay, mixing Ys-like bump combat with a Zelda-esque overworld filled with secrets. We thought the game's story felt pretty complete, so we were quite surprised that a sequel popped up,...
Review Just Dance 2017 (Wii U)
Another year, another Just Dance game
It seems like it was only yesterday that this writer was reviewing Just Dance 2016 – last year's entry in Ubisoft's mammoth dancing franchise. Most people will be at least somewhat familiar with the concept; seeing friends and family dancing along to a variety of songs with wavering levels of success. By that...
Random GAME 'Opens' Nintendo Switch Pre-Orders, Though Using Paypal is a Bad Idea
A temporary price of just £999.99
Nintendo has been pretty clear in its Nintendo Switch strategy. On 12th January it'll host a full unveiling of the system, and is planning to give gamers around the world opportunities to go hands on with the system before it arrives in March. Pricing and release date are key details that should emerge at that...
Feature Catch Up With the Animal Crossing Direct and New Leaf's Fresh Features
The only download in the village
The Animal Crossing Direct has taken place, and revealed a surprisingly extensive update for Animal Crossing: New Leaf. We knew that the 'Welcome amiibo' update and new edition would introduce the figures and cards into the much-loved 3DS game, but Nintendo went further with new minigames and additional features to...
News Animal Crossing: New Leaf Update Is Available Now
amiibo support, here we come!
The long-awaited update for Animal Crossing: New Leaf is available for download as we speak. This welcome news was announced during today's Animal Crossing Direct. The update brings amiibo support to the game for those playing on the New Nintendo 3DS or using the NFC Reader. Fire up that 3DS and get playing. Once...
Live Blog Watch the Animal Crossing Nintendo Direct - Live!
amiibo and New Leaf update goodness
It was a little while ago now that Nintendo confirmed this Animal Crossing Direct, during which we anticipate details on the upcoming update and amiibo support for Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Will there be any neat surprises? Well, we'll just have to watch to find out. <liveblog...
News Pokémon Sun and Moon Pre-Load Now Available on the 3DS eShop
Be prepared
Pokémon Sun and Moon are undoubtedly the biggest hits coming to Nintendo hardware in the Holiday season, and there seems to be substantial hype around the dual release. Nintendo is making big claims about them being the biggest pre-selling games in the company's history, which shows how much appetite there is for a new generation of...
News Super Mario Run Has Been Built on Unity
A sign of things to come?
Of all the common engines used in the game industry, few are used as often as Unity. Though it may not suit every developer's needs, the engine is scalable and easy to grasp, making it a popular choice among indie developers. Until very recently, Nintendo mostly developed games for its own hardware -- meaning that it also...
News Nintendo Insists That Wii U Production Will Continue Beyond This Week
"There is no change to our continuing [Wii U] production"
Yesterday we - like a great many other gaming sites - reported on a rumour which claimed that Wii U production was stopping this Friday. However, Japanese site IT Media has been in touch with a spokesperson from Nintendo who has said the reports are "not true" and that the console will...
Reminder The Distribution of Mythical Pokémon Genesect is Underway
Now with a cool trailer
As we reported last week, the November Mythical Pokémon distribution is Genesect, a rather neat addition to the range of 'mon that have arrived during this Anniversary year. The good thing is that the distribution is now live, though you do have to head to a participating store to get a code. A rather flashy new trailer...
Reminder Super Mario Series Wave 2 amiibo Hit North America This Week
Will you be getting any?
It's felt like an age since we've had some truly new amiibo, excluding Splatoon palette swaps. Now the time has finally arrived for the Super Mario Series Wave 2 amiibo. While a few of these came out in Europe in October, they will all be available in North America later this week, on 4th November. We've assembled these...
Video Take a Look at the Miitopia Preview Download in All Its Weird Glory
Like Tomodachi Life, sort of
Miitopia is getting its own Japanese Nintendo Direct this weekend, continuing the strange path to release for the Mii-centric 3DS title. As for a Western arrival, there's been no solid indication of that happening any time soon. In any case, a preview download of the game is on the Japanese 3DS eShop, and NintenDaan
Video Latest Japanese Pokémon Sun And Moon Ads Acknowledge The Pokémon GO Effect
Linking up
Pokémon Sun and Moon comes out this month, and is sure to be a massive seller for Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. Any new mainline release in this popular series is assured bumper sales of course, but this time around the hype machine has been sent into overdrive by the release of Pokémon GO on smartphones this year. This...
News Take A Sneak Peek At Prima's Playing With Power: Nintendo NES Classics Book
It's dangerous to go alone!
Hot on the heels of the launch of the Nintendo Classic Mini on the 11th of this month is Prima's Playing With Power: Nintendo NES Classics Book, which is available on the 18th November. The book offers a retrospective on 17 NES classics including complete walkthroughs for Super Mario Bros. 3, Donkey Kong, and The Legend...
Video Check Out the First North American Pokémon Sun and Moon Commercial
A World Beyond
It seems like Pokémon Sun and Moon were only just unveiled last week, yet here we are in the home stretch to the games being on store shelves. Though the jury's still out on how they'll perform, interest in the Pokémon franchise has been quite high over this past year, and Sun and Moon have already gone on to break a few records in...
News Miitopia Getting Its Own Nintendo Direct In Japan This Week, Releases On December 8th
That was quick
During the Japanese version of today's Animal Crossing Direct it was revealed that the mysterious 3DS title Miitopia launches in that region on December 8th - and it's getting its own Direct broadcast in just a few days on 5th November. That's a quick turnaround for a title which we still don't really know much about, aside from the...
News Japanese 3DS Hardware Sales Remain Steady as PS4 and Vita Games Dominate Software Sales
River City Ransom SP makes a modest debut
The weekly Media Create chart results out of Japan are now available, and this week they're dominated by new releases on PS4 and Vita, though Nintendo's hardware sales have maintained their momentum. As you can see in the top 20 below, new releases on PS4 and Vita are the headline story, with Sword Art...
Tuesday1st Nov 2016
News Here Are Your New My Nintendo Rewards
Get your lovely discounts here
A bunch of new My Nintendo rewards have gone live today, and as has been the case previously, these are all related to software discounts across Wii U and 3DS. There are different rewards for Europe and North America, which can be viewed below: Europe 30% off Typoman (Nintendo Wii U eShop): 250 Platinum Coins...
Feature Getting To Know Pokémon Sun And Moon's Monsters
Monster mash
We are just a mere two weeks away from the launch of Pokémon Sun & Moon and so it's time for another run down of every single thing that we know and today, we are dealing with the Pokémon. We won't be detailing the datamined leaks here, but there will be things from what has been officially revealed so there may still be spoilers...
News Pokkén Tournament's New Fighter Is A Bit Of A Surprise
I feel so gunky
A new character is coming to the arcade version of Pokkén Tournament, and it's fair to say that it's a rather unexpected addition. Ladies and gentlemen, allow us to introduce the one and only Croagunk. This Poison/Fighting Pokémon comes to the coin-op version of the crossover fighter on November 10th. You can check out some...
News Animal Crossing Nintendo Direct Airs Tomorrow
Japanese Direct will include a look at Miitopia, too
We already know that more content is coming to Animal Crossing: New Leaf, but tomorrow Nintendo will explain exactly what t
News Pokémon Producer Still Interested in Producing Remakes
Though no plans for Gen 2 On 3DS VC
Take a look at the eShop charts in any region and you'll see that the Gen 1 Pokémon games still consistently take the top spots, proving that there is still a market for the older Pokémon games. Over the past few years, Game Freak has also sprung to remake the first 3 generations across the most recent Nintendo...
Rumour Last Wii U Consoles Roll Off The Production Line This Week
The end of an era?
Nintendo launches its new Switch console in March next year, and while the advent of new hardware is always a time of excitement, it invariably means that existing machines are put out to pasture. With popular platforms there's quite a bit of overlap between the generations, but in other cases the changeover is quite abrupt - it...
Random WWE Star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Dresses As Pikachu To Entertain Baby Daughter
Because why the heck not
WWE star and Hollywood actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson might get paid to act like a hard case, but he let his softer side show this Halloween by dressing up as the world's most famous Pokémon, Pikachu. The somewhat disturbing costume was for the benefit of his baby daughter Jasmine, who didn't seem all that bothered that a...
Video Digital Foundry Takes a Retrospective Look at Metroid Prime
A timeless classic
It goes without saying that Metroid Prime marked a high point in Nintendo's long history; the game is frequently listed as one of the best in the Metroid series and is even occasionally listed as one of the greatest games of all time. While Retro did an excellent job of designing it from a gameplay perspective, the visuals and...
News Upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog Movie Gets a New Executive Producer
Oh, boy…
As many of you are no doubt aware, there seems to be something of a curse on film adaptations of video games. It seems that very few of these types of movies are commercial successes and even fewer are critical success, due to a variety of factors. While arguably no company has managed to crack this problem yet, Sega's going to be taking...
News "All New" Daytona USA is Indeed Coming to Arcades
Will be on show in two weeks
Yesterday we reported on the hints that a new Daytona USA was coming to arcades, which is particularly exciting for a few members of the Nintendo Life team. Well it is happening, and it'll be on show in a couple of weeks. The SEGA Amusements Twitter account shared the good news; as the name makes clear it focuses on the...
