News More Nintendo Switch Rumours Emerge Online
Say goodbye to friend codes and more
Review Super Mario Run (Mobile)
Gives you a run for your money
Hardware Hyperkin SupaBoy S Review
It's back, but is it better?
News - December, 2016
Saturday31st Dec 2016
News Hype Builds as Nintendo Switch Advertisements Continue to Appear in Stores
"It's time to make the Switch"
It's almost 2017, the year of the Nintendo Switch, and hype is building ahead of the upcoming January event and March release. Just recently a Reddit thread popped up showing some in-store displays from GameStop in the US. Also, Reddit user 'PMurphy1978' took to the /r/NintendoSwitch subreddit
Rumour Nintendo Switch VR May Have High-Profile Support from Capcom
Resident Evil 7 / Biohazard possibly heading the list
Just recently YouTube user OBE1Plays has shared another 'leak' on his YouTube channel; though it should be taken with a healthy dose of salt, it's nice for a little bit of debate. This time the report is that Capcom is trying to make Resident Evil 7 work with the proposed VR implementation on the...
News The Game Boy Was Nearly a Cheap, Short-Term Project
You can thank Satoru Okada for what it turned out to be
The Game Boy was a pivotal moment in Nintendo's history, establishing near-complete dominance over the portable gaming market that still persists to this day somewhat. Part of the appeal of the Game Boy was offering a largely console-esque game experience on the go, and its usually attributed...
News Speculation on Fire Emblem Game Progress Prompted by Voice Actor's Credits
Company with ties to Fire Emblem: Awakening listed
Update: Since publication Sarah Blandy has updated the relevant line in her credits to now simply read 'Cup of Tea Productions - NDA', removing the mention of Nintendo. We've amended the article to reflect this. Original Article: The last we heard of the Fire Emblem mobile game was a statement...
Deals Buy a Deluxe Wii U from Nintendo for $200
Making up for Black Friday
While the Wii U didn't receive the discounts many were anticipating this year, Nintendo of America has come through with an after-holiday deal for its 32GB Deluxe System which comes with Nintendo Land; it's a refurbished unit for $200. You can buy a system from Nintendo here. These Wii U's are straight from Nintendo...
Rumour Grant Kirkhope to Compose Music For Mario & Rabbids Crossover RPG
Known for Banjo-Kazooie, Perfect Dark, and Yooka-Laylee
Back in November there were reports from multiple sources that Ubisoft would be producing an RPG for the Nintendo Switch, serving as a crossover between the Mario series and the Rabbids universe. You can read what we had to say about it here. Today we might have a hint as to who will be...
Feature A Year in Development - 3Souls and the Debut of a New Nindie
"Games are a really powerful tool for connecting with people"
In this series of features we invite 'Nindies' to share thoughts on their experiences in 2016. In this entry Arturo Chaves Maza of Red Column writes about a year in which his studio released its debut game on the Wii U eShop - 3Souls. If you haven't heard about Red Column before, I...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day Seven
Lucky number seven
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Friday30th Dec 2016
Talking Point Splatoon May Be Winding Down, But Its Legacy Could Be Significant
Modern trends with a Nintendo touch
In the remainder of 2016 we'll re-share some of our favourite feature articles from the year. This article from 4th August reflects on the end of an era after the final Splatoon Splatfest, and how the colourful shooter established a DLC model for Nintendo that's sure to return in the future. Recently we had the...
News Fan-Made Pokémon Prism Game Leaks Online After Nintendo Shutdown Notice
Trainer used Revive
After Nintendo delivered a cease and desist notice, fan-developed game Pokémon Prism has now leaked to the web. Adam "Koolboyman" Vierra received a letter from the gaming giant (on 21st December) requesting his project immediately stop production; he promptly obliged, shutting down both the website and the unreleased game. Now,...
Feature A Year in Development - Yacht Club Games on Digging In With Shovel Knight
"We couldn't feel more honored that people still care about Shovel Knight"
In this series of features we invite 'Nindies' to share thoughts on their experiences in 2016. In this entry we chat to David D'Angelo of Yacht Club Games; we discuss another year of evolution for Shovel Knight, including its retail release in Japan and ongoing free updates...
News Super Mario Bros. Movie Due to Receive an Ultimate Steelbook Blu-Ray Re-release
"This ain't no game, it's a live action thrill ride"
The Super Mario Bros. movie doesn't need any sort of introduction. Not only does it feature one of the worst post-credits scenes known to cinema, it was also considered the poster-child for why you shouldn't base your film off of a renowned video game franchise. UK retailer Zavvi has updated its...
Random Sega Almost Released A Parking Attendant Game Starring Donkey Kong
The man behind Zelda and Mario on the CD-i talks
Stephen Radosh might be more famous nowadays for creating the TV show Catchphrase - which remains incredibly popular in the UK - but he also has quite a history in the video game arena, too. Radosh kicked off his career decades ago working for a publisher which produced textbooks before helping to...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day Six
Six-a-ma-phone
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Thursday29th Dec 2016
News More Nintendo Switch Rumours Emerge Online
Say goodbye to friend codes and more
YouTube user OBE1plays was very intensely streaming a match of Splatoon before a well-known journalist named Laura Kate Dale began conversing with him in the YouTube chat. OBE1 proceeded to stop the stream and decide to start a Skype call with her that was then broadcasted to YouTube. The stream lasts around...
News Nintendo Slams 3DS Homebrew App Which Enables Piracy With Takedown Notice
Shiver my timbers
For those of you who don't know, Freeshop is homebrew software tool which is designed to allow you to download 3DS games you already own. However, as you might expect many people are abusing this tool by downloading games they don't own - and that's something Nintendo is naturally unhappy about. So unhappy in fact that the company...
Ninterview Learning Retro Secrets With A Former Nintendo Game Play Counselor
"We couldn't say 'kill', we had to say 'defeat'"
In the remainder of 2016 we'll re-share some of our favourite feature articles from the year. We're actually cheating with this one, as it was originally published way back on 20th January 2015; with the NES Mini hype of 2016, however, it nevertheless seemed worth sharing once again. In its day the...
Rumour Egyptian Assassin's Creed Game To Release Simultaneously On PS4/Xbox/Switch
Enthusiast YouTuber releasing rumors for 12 days
YouTuber OBE1Plays revealed that the new Assassin's Creed title, rumored to be coming out next year - would be releasing day-one on all three major consoles. This includes the Nintendo Switch. This is reminiscent of the Wii U generation, as Ubisoft adequately supported the console with many ports...
Nintendo Download 29th December (North America)
Mario Kart 64! Castlevania: Dracula X! Pokémon HOME Themes!
It's the final Nintendo Download Update of the year, and as expected we have a couple of Virtual Console releases and no 'new' downloads - the New 3DS gets another SNES title, while the Wii U get some classic kart racing. Let's get to it. Missed the European Nintendo Download details?...
News Devil's Third Loses Its Saving Grace as Online Servers Are Closed
And like that... it's gone
Devil's Third had an interesting time on Wii U, initially as a system exclusive; it was fiercely defended by Tomonobu Itagaki and fans, savaged by others, and greeted with a shrug of indifference by many. Years in the making and a manic 'mature' shooter / action hybrid, it was one of the more intriguing releases of this...
News You Can Now Pre-Register for Super Mario Run on Android
Maybe it's not too far off…
Super Mario Run has been grabbing a lot of attention over the past few weeks, as this is the first time Nintendo brought its mustachioed mascot to mobile markets. While the game has admittedly been bringing in mixed reception—how could we forget that stock drop?—it's nonetheless been a popular app downloaded by...
Feature Looking Back at Nintendo's 2016
The Nintendo Life team considers the good and bad parts of the year
2016 is nearly at an end, and it was an interesting year for Nintendo. It made its first moves into mobile, played its part in the extravagances of the Pokémon 20th Anniversary, while also going big on The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It was a year that also had some lows,...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day Five
Five alive
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Wednesday28th Dec 2016
A Link to the Present
In the remainder of 2016 we'll re-share some of our favourite feature articles from the year. This article considers the bigger picture behind the design decisions in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, based on some extended playtime with the E3 build at Nintendo UK's HQ. This was originally published on 29th June, back...
Video Check Out These Canned Game Prototypes for Wii From Red Fly Studio
Ever want to see Arkham Asylum running on a Wii?
Red Fly Studio is a name that may be familiar to some of you; a few years back, it came out that the studio was working on an ambitious open world game for Wii starring Darth Maul of Star Wars lore. Though that game never made it into production, the studio had notably done work porting the two...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day Four
Four score
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Tuesday27th Dec 2016
Nintendo Download 29th December (Europe)
Happy New Year Sales! Videos! Erm... more discounts!
For most it's still a Holiday period, which might explain the rather quirky distribution of Nintendo Download Update details for Europe. There's been no UK press release that we can see, but the ever-generous Daan Koopman has sent us a press release from Nintendo's Dutch subsidiary. The offering...
Feature The Nintendo Life Game of the Year Awards 2016
Reader and staff choices
It's the season for end of year awards, and now it's time to reveal the Nintendo Life winners for the best games on Nintendo hardware in 2016. Thousands of votes have been cast in the Reader Awards, while our staff have also pitched in with their choices. The results are interesting, with the community results naturally...
News The Second Global Mission for Pokémon Sun and Moon Has Been Revealed
Hopefully this one goes over better
For those of you out of the loop, Game Freak holds monthly "Global Missions" for the recently released Pokémon Sun and Moon in an effort to keep players engaged in the games. They're entirely optional challenges based on basic in-game tasks, though it requires the collective effort of millions of fans in order to...
News Retro-Bit Generations Portable And Super Retro Boy Handheld Coming To CES 2017
Super Retro Boy plays Game Boy, GBC and GBA carts
Two new retro-themed handhelds will be shown off at CES 2017, according to distributor Innex. The Retro-Bit Generations Portable is a handheld version of the existing Retro-Bit Generations system which launched this year. It's not known if it will come with the exact same 100 pre-installed games,...
Rumour Intelligent Systems Has Canned A Crashmo Sequel For Wii U
Resource now shifted over to Nintendo Switch projects
Intelligent Systems has pulled the plug on a proposed Crashmo / Fallblox sequel which was supposed to be coming to the Wii U, according to a report by Unseen 64 and Nintendo Life contributor Liam Robertson. According to Robertson's sources, development on the game - known as Crashmo / Fallblox...
Feature A Year in Development - Drinkbox Studios on Finding a Cutting Edge with Severed
"Working with Nintendo to launch Severed was a really positive experience"
In this series of features we invite 'Nindies' to share thoughts on their experiences in 2016. In this entry we chat to David Rusak, Producer and Designer at Drinkbox Studios. We consider the creation of Severed as the studio's follow-up release after the critically-acclaimed...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day Three
Third day's the charm
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Monday26th Dec 2016
News Nickelodeon Allegedly Creating Animated Film For A Nintendo Series
Hey Paisonos! It's a Super Nickelodeon Super Show!
Back in May, Nintendo announced that they were looking to do theatrical animated films based on a variety of their IP. This came as a shock exciting many, as Nintendo was known for being very protective of their properties since most early productions received poor responses. While many are...
Review Back to Bed (Wii U eShop)
Would you prefer to walk off a ledge?
Sleepwalking can be dangerous. It can result in people exiting their homes in the middle of the night and falling off a ledge. Back to Bed by Bedtime Digital Games plays on such fears by introducing us to Bob the sleepwalker and his subconscious guardian named Subob - a four legged creature that must guide him...
Review Swap Fire (Wii U eShop)
Halt and swap fire
It's an exciting time in the games industry. There are AAA games from big publishers, mid-tier downloadable games and even tiny indie experiences, all of which have the potential to be memorable, interesting experiences. Midnight Status has the makings of one such experience in Swap Fire, a first person shooter with an interesting...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day Two
The sequel
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Sunday25th Dec 2016
News Nintendo Files Trademark Application For Eternal Darkness
Possible virtual console release on the Switch?
Fans of Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem have had a rough decade. While the franchise lays dormant from Nintendo, a spiritual successor titled Shadows of the Eternal was to be developed (by ex-Silicon Knights devs) for the Wii U. Unfortunately it didn't hit an adequate amount of funding via...
Feature Nintendo Life's 12 Days of Christmas - Day One
Let the unwrap-athon begin
In this video series Alex takes a look at a wealth of wonderful Nintendo-themed goodies, unboxing one parcel at a time over the course of twelve days. If you fancy picking up what Alex unboxed today, click here.
Feature A Year in Development - Jools Watsham on the Journey From Renegade Kid to Atooi
"I look forward to bringing more retro-inspired goodness"
In this series of features we invite 'Nindies' to share thoughts on their experiences in 2016. In this entry Jools Watsham outlines a year in which Renegade Kid closed and he went in a new direction with Atooi. Wow, 2016 has been a very busy year – full of many ups and many downs. Let's...
Editorial Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from All at Nintendo Life
Thank you for another wonderful year
Time flies when you're having fun, or contemplating the fun still to come. It's hard to believe it's already here, but we want to wish a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of you; whatever 25th December and the surrounding days mean to you, we hope you have a jolly time. 2016 was an interesting year for...
Saturday24th Dec 2016
Feature 30 Essential Wii U eShop Games
Because it's cold outside
Oh, the weather outside is frightful, But the fire is so delightful. And since we've got no place to go, Let it download, let it download, let it download. (Tsk, must do better, Ed.) So yeah, we're too much into the festive spirit to really make that opening 'bit' work, but in any case we thought the timing was good for...
Video Check Out the Open World Flash Game That Never Was
Gone in a flash
Superhero games have had a bit of a rough track record due to the abundance of lazy licensed games, but highlights of the past few years could be found in the likes of the Batman Arkham or inFamous series. One popular superhero that seems to have never gotten his chance to shine in a game is the Flash, but recent reports indicate...
Feature The Nindie Christmas Celebration - Pocket Card Jockey
Giddyup
If there was ever a game to represent this most cruel, brilliant, and baffling of years, Pocket Card Jockey is it. Game Freak's most recent non-Pokémon venture makes little sense: You're a horseracing jockey, but really you're a Solitaire player... but really you're an animal husbandry novice. That this strange brew of strategy, quick...
Video Mega Man Inspired Rock Band "The Protomen" Release Short Film
It's going to make you explode into neon-coloured smoke
I've been listening to The Protomen's music for the generous half of a decade, dreaming of the day when the concepts created would be able to breathe visually. The day has come, and it's a great one. For those unfamiliar, The Protomen are a band that's been around for 13 years. Most...
Feature A Year in Development - A Letter from 13AM Games
"We can't wait to let you know what we've been up to for next year"
In this series of features we invite 'Nindies' to share thoughts on their experiences in 2016. In this entry Dave Proctor from 13AM Games shares an end-of-year letter with Nintendo Life's readers. Dear Nintendo Life Readers, Gosh, I can't believe 2016 is coming to an end. I'm...
Friday23rd Dec 2016
Editorial The Nintendo Switch 'Power' Debate is Likely Missing the Point
Sensible expectations from gamers, and Nintendo, are key
Just as was the case in the build-up to the Wii U's launch, plenty are debating the graphical grunt of the Nintendo Switch; it's a valid thing to argue about, in a sense, as a system's capabilities play a key part in the kinds of games it can deliver. The debate has centred on two sets of...
Deals There Are a Lot of Festive eShop Discounts in North America
Alright, we'll list them...
The festive season is upon us and, well, it's not much fun going out to the shops with the bad weather and crazy crowds. It's the ideal time to look at downloads for new games, then, and the eShop has its usual wide array of discounts. In Europe our Nintendo Download Update exhaustively lists all the festive discounts,...
Retro Check Out These Early Prototype Pictures of the Nintendo DS
The start of a new era
The Nintendo DS represented a bold new direction for Nintendo, kicking off an extremely lucrative period for the company's handheld line; this "third pillar" to Nintendo's strategy wasn't originally supposed to replace the Game Boy line, but it ended up doing so anyway. The original "Phat" model was rather hideous in...
Review Soul Axiom (Wii U eShop)
It's got soul, man
Soul Axiom is a spiritual successor to Master Reboot, a rather decent and interesting Wii U eShop title from Wales Interactive. They're not directly tied together, but thematic and stylistic crossovers deliberately nudge and wink at those with experience of the previous release, while Soul Axiom also goes its own way. Ultimately,...
News Shigeru Miyamoto Neatly Sums Up What Made The Late Satoru Iwata So Special
"He'd always be positive, always try to make the impossible happen"
When Nintendo president Satoru Iwata passed away in 2015, it came as a massive shock not just to Nintendo fans, but to the industry as a whole. Iwata had guided the company through one of its most successful periods, and - had his life not been tragically cut short - would no doubt...
Video 80's Overdrive Continues To Look And Sound Totally Radical
"See you in 2017"
80's Overdrive is on course for a release in 2017, and developer Insane Code has released some more gameplay footage which makes this Out Run-style racer look even more impressive. The video contains music from Vectorwolf, a band which has licensed some of its songs to appear in the game - including Night Chase, which is the tune...
News Niantic Increasing Gen II Pokémon GO Encounters Over Holiday Period
Have a Pichu at the details
Having recently added some generation II 'mon, Niantic is now offering increased odds of nabbing these critters in Pokémon GO. There have been some mumblings of discontent over how these are accessed, so this is probably a smart move. Through Christmas week and into the New Year various tweaks in the game will adjust...
News Uncharted And Last Of Us Designer Says Super Mario Run Is One Of His Games Of The Year
He's got all the coins, too
Super Mario Run has had something of a mixed reception since it launched; 50 million downloads would suggest that the game has been an overwhelming success, but a few negative App Store reviews and investor niggles have soured the release a little. On the plus side, it always helps when one of the most infl
Rumour A Miiverse Page Has Been Spotted for SEGA 3D Classics Collection 2
Keep those fingers crossed
Nintendo kicked off the 3D Classics line shortly after the 3DS eShop launched, offering gamers a chance at reliving retro games through a different perspective. Unfortunately, the company never took the idea much further beyond the initial few games, but SEGA has carried the torch and created dozens of 3D remasters from...
Video Slick Promotional Video Attempts To Summarise Mario For The Mobile Generation
There's more to Mario than Super Mario Run, after all
Super Mario Run is now available on iOS, and while its launch hasn't been without some issues, it appears to have been a considerable commercial success for Nintendo, with 40 million downloads in f
Video The Final Episode of Pokémon Generations is Now Live
All good things come to an end
The Pokémon Generations video series has been hugely popular, with high-quality animations telling the story from all of the main series releases up to Pokémon X & Y. Now the final episode is live - The Redemption. It's a rather nice way to end the series, albeit lacking the over-the-top explosive battles that...
Deals Grab A New Nintendo 3DS With Game And Cover Plate For Just £150 From Nintendo UK
Kick off the New Year with a bang
It might be too late to secure one before Santa arrives, but Nintendo UK's online store has some amazing deals on New Nintendo 3DS bundles. The store is offering up to £40 off some of these packages, all of which come with a game and a face plate. Here are the bundles currently on offer:
News Super Mario Run Races to 50 Million Downloads
Think of that Mushroom Kingdom coin...
What can you say? People love Mario. After previously surpassing 40 million downloads in its first four days since becoming available on the App Store, the plumber has already taken another milestone. Nintendo of Europe has announced that Super Mario Run has now reached 50 million downloads worldwide. To...
News A New SteamWorld Project is Coming in 2017 as Image & Form Gears Up for Its 20th Anniversary
It'll be shown at PAX East
Image & Form has posted its final 'Engine Room' episode of the year, in which it looks back on 2016 (a bit) and looks ahead at what's to come. The hosting duo confirm that 2017 will see a new SteamWorld project, and it'll be shown at PAX East in Boston; the company will also be celebrating its 20th Anniversary. Is...
Thursday22nd Dec 2016
News On Nintendo Switch Power, WSJ Tech Writer Pitches in With Alternative Details
Disagreeing with aspects of recent reports
For almost three days, a report by Eurogamer has left parts of the Nintendo fanbase distraught. Some fretted the rumoured specs to be a negative omen for third-party support, worrying that a seemingly burdensome development environment would repeat itself following the Wii U. Eurogamer also specifically...
Hardware Famicom Classic Mini Review
The NES Classic Mini's Eastern relation
With the NES Classic Mini currently proving to be quite hard to find at retail right now, chances are that the thought of sourcing its Japanese sibling may have crossed your mind. Released at the same time and boasting a design which imitates that of the system that started it all – 1983's "Family Computer",...
It's not as bad as it sounds
Earlier this week, reports emerged suggesting the kind of architecture that would be utilized with Nintendo Switch, while also mentioning that there would be a sizable difference between its performance in its docked and undocked modes. Many were no doubt concerned to hear this, and while these reports certainly haven't...
News Nintendo Shares Original Design Documents from The Legend of Zelda
It all started with some graph paper
The original Legend of Zelda blazed many trails for gaming, arguably setting the standard for what would eventually become the open-world genre. Seeing as how this is the 30th anniversary for the series as a whole, Nintendo has opted for a blast from the past and dug up some of the original design documents from...
Nintendo Download 22nd December (North America)
Shantae: Half-Genie Hero! Mario Party 2! Geki Yaba Runner Deluxe! More!
It's the final North American Nintendo Download Update before Christmas, and there are some solid options available on Wii U and 3DS. There's a standout on Wii U, but there's also a fun retro party game and some tempting and affordable options on 3DS. Let's get to it. Missed...
News Pachter Says Switch is the Easiest of the Big Three to Develop For
We can only hope
About a week ago, rumours emerged that the upcoming Nintendo Switch will be utilizing the Tegra X1 chipset, and this raised a lot of debate over whether or not the console would be competitive with the PS4 and Xbox One. Naturally, it's only he said, she said at this point, and all will be revealed when the system receives its full...
News Nintendo Shuts Down Another Pokémon Fan Project
"I'm sorry everyone, but Pokémon Prism is cancelled"
A short while ago Nintendo made the news for shutting down Pokémon Uranium, a fan-made title which gained so much positive press it was even nominated at the 2016 Game Awards this year - before it and Metroid II remake AM2R were
Video A Reminder That Christmas 1994 Wasn't Just About Donkey Kong Country
"That play the records on it?"
With Christmas almost here, many of you are no doubt wondering exactly what gaming goodies Saint Nick is going to leave under your tree. These days it's all 3DS, Wii U and perhaps PS4 and Xbox One, but back in 1994 there were only two real options: Nintendo and Sega. The guys over at iretrogamer.com have put together...
News Super Mario Run Passed 40 Million Downloads in Just Four Days, Focus Shifts to Improvements
A little further to run yet
Super Mario Run has had a mixed launch, it's fair to say, something we wrote about recently; it's had staggering highs and quite a few lows in its first week. Some broader figures have started to emerge. Nintendo, for its part, has given an official (albeit broad) number for downloads over launch, stating that the app...
News Dragon Quest VIII Official Website Shares More Details for 3DS
Coming 20/01/2017
Just in time for the holidays and to celebrate the impending release of Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King, Nintendo UK has updated its official website dedicated to the JRPG. Sharing more details of what players can expect on their perilous journey, the webpage explains the premise, controls and new features exclusive...
News Pokémon GO Now Has Apple Watch Support, But You Can't Catch Monsters With It
You can pillage PokéStops, though
Well, that escalated quickly. Less than a week ago we reported on rumours that Pokémon GO's Apple Watch support was being put on ice - rumours that were quickly dismissed via social media - and now the functionality has gone live. If you're on iOS and you have an Apple Watch, you can now log each Pokémon GO...
News Toby: The Secret Mine is Digging Its Way to Wii U in Early 2017
Headup Games steps in with publishing
Headup Games is a publisher that made its Nintendo debut in this Wii U generation with the rather smart Typoman. The company is a prolific publisher on various platforms, and in pleasing news one of its closest new releases will also be coming to Nintendo's system. The work of Lukáš Navrátil, Toby: The...
Wednesday21st Dec 2016
Review Shantae: Half-Genie Hero (Wii U)
Genieus
Immediately upon seeing the title screen and hearing the game's main theme, you know that Shantae: Half-Genie Hero is another step forward for this series. Back in 2002, Shantae made her debut on the Game Boy Color to rave reviews but disappointing sales — hardly a shock when you take into account the GBC was on its last legs — but the...
News The Nintendo 3DS Has Now Sold More Units In Japan Than The PlayStation 2
Quite a milestone
While Nintendo nay-sayers are always quick to point out that the 3DS hasn't been as big a commercial success as the Nintendo DS - which sold a staggering 154.02 million consoles worldwide - the handheld has still shifted an impressive number of units, especially in its native Japan. In fact, last week the 3DS shifted another...
News Nvidia's Shield Range Lives On In 2017, Despite The Impending Arrival Of Nintendo Switch
Could this be the Switch in disguise?
When rumours were circulating last year that Nvidia was working with Nintendo on what was then known as the NX, one of the key pointers was the cancellation of the 2016 Shield Tablet device. This added weight to the speculation that the graphics card giant was refocusing its energy
News You Can Now Play Super Mario Run's Toad Rally Without Spending Tickets, But There's A Catch
Enjoy a friendly run
Super Mario Run's World Tour mode is fun, but it's the Toad Rally mode which really provides the game's addictive hook. In this mode you compete with other players to earn Toads which expand the size of your kingdom and grant access to new buildings and items. Taking part in Toad Rally requires special tickets, and if you're...
Review Radiantflux: Hyperfractal (Wii U eShop)
Become a master hacker and uncover the truth
In any crime-ridden story, hackers are often depicted as a quick solution to a series of complicated problems. Sometimes in these plots they willingly cooperate with law enforcement, but often they are portrayed as social outcasts who are leading the fight against huge corporations and government...
News Metacritic's 'Best Video Games' Feature Highlights Quiet Year for Nintendo
No 90+ rated games on Wii U or 3DS
Metacritic isn't beloved by all, but the aggregator still gives a useful barometer of where key IPs and companies sit in the mainstream gaming industry. Its 'Best Video Games' feature emphasizes something we've all been painfully aware of - 2016 was a quiet year for Nintendo. For one thing, both Wii U and 3DS...
News Dark Horse is Bringing 'The Art of Splatoon' Book to the West
For squids or kids
Splatoon was a major success for Nintendo in 2015, generating significant buzz and establishing the IP as one that has a key role to play in the future. The gameplay is terrific, of course, but part of the appeal is also found in the hugely colourful environments and characters. Those that love the designs in Splatoon are now in...
A classic in every way
It's been over twenty years now since the release of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, but it's interesting to look back at the state of the Zelda series around the time of its release. In many ways, A Link to the Past was the first true sequel to the original Legend of Zelda, after Zelda II: The Adventure of Link went...
Random Your Pool Table Isn't Complete Until It's Had A Zelda Makeover
One in the pocket
Legend of Zelda fan Bryan loves everything about the series, but there was always something missing from his collection - something pool table-sized. YouTube channel Awe Me - which runs regular segments where it enlists the help of industry professionals to construct one-of-a-kind items - decided to help him solve this issue by...
News The First NES Advertisement Has Been Successfully Preserved
Chalk up another point for gaming historians
Despite the gaming industry's relatively young age, it's interesting that much of its history is subject ot permanent loss. As standards have changed over the years, many games, advertisements, prototypes, and so on, have been lost due to poor efforts to future proof them. A great example of this can be...
News Save Data Unlocks Bonus Games On Sega 3D Fukkoku Archives 3: Final Stage
Two key titles from Sega's history
Sega 3D Fukkoku Archives 3: Final Stage hits Japan this week, and the latest issue of Famitsu has revealed that fans of the series can unlock bonus games with their existing save data. If you own Sega 3D Fukkoku Archives then you can unlock 1984's Girl's Garden - famous for marking the debut of Sonic co-creator...
Video The Latest Event Course in Super Mario Maker Wants You to Use Your Head
Well, not YOUR head...
Super Mario Maker is delightfully quirky - if a structured Mario game is a piece of art, the level creation tool is a scruffy yet oddly exciting street play. It's silly and ridiculous, encouraging players around the world to create daft stages full of puzzles, sound effects and oddly stacked enemies. Yet Nintendo can always...
News Niantic Issues Walking and Catching Stats on Pokémon GO
We did it!
Though Pokémon GO has definitely fallen in popularity from its record-setting summer debut, it's still managed to hold a sizable fanbase. Considering the game's global success, one must occasionally wonder things such as how many Pokémon have been caught, or how far everyone has collectively walked. Fortunately, Niantic does keep track...
Video Check Out The Opening Salvos Of Tank Troopers On Nintendo 3DS
Lock and load
Tank Troopers was something of a surprise announcement during 2016, with Nintendo showing it off for the first time in September's Nintendo Direct broadcast. The game isn't out until next year in the west, but it launched today in Japan for 800 Yen and our friend NintenDaan has duly recorded some footage. While the game's focus is...
Ninterview Channy and Kimberly, Sharing A Love for All Things Nintendo Through Animation
Tributes to the likes of Switch, Star Fox and now Pokemon Sun & Moon
We often like to share the best of fan-made creations here on Nintendo Life, whether it's artwork, music, live-action videos or animations. One YouTube channel that's had a bit of love from us is Channy & Kimberly, which emerged this year and achieved some success with its...
News Pic-a-Pix Color Will Brighten Up Picross-Style Challenges on Wii U and 3DS
Try for free in Lightwood Games' interactive Holiday card
There are various ways to announce games, but we want to doff our festive hats to Lightwood Games for its latest approach. It's announced Pic-a-Pix Color for the Wii U and 3DS eShop, out in 2017 with more details to come in January, and has given us all a chance to try it out. The concept is...
Video Shantae: Half-Genie Hero's Launch Trailer Will Swash Your Buckles
Ret-2-Go!
Unless you've been trapped in a genie's bottle, you'll probably know that WayForward's amazing looking Shantae: Half-Genie Hero has finally made it to the Wii U. To celebrate Shantae embarking on her first full HD adventure the good folks over at WayForward recently put out a launch trailer with a rousing soundtrack which you can watch...
Tuesday20th Dec 2016
Hardware Hyperkin SupaBoy S Review
It's back, but is it better?
The industry's passion for "new" retro hardware has been growing steadily over the past few years, and the launch of the NES Classic Mini finally signals Nintendo's entry into this niche yet vibrant sector of the market. Given the astonishing success of that venture it is almost inevitable that we'll see a SNES Classic...
News Pokémon GO Lapras Event Raises $17 Million In Tourist Revenue For Tsunami-Hit Japanese Region
Every little helps
During November Niantic held a special Pokémon GO event in Japan's Iwate Prefecture, Miyagi Prefecture, and Fukushima Prefecture - all areas impacted by the 2011 Tsunami. The intention was to generate interest with players and give the tourist industry in this struggling region a much-needed boost; the achieve this, Niantic made...
News Poochy & Yoshi's Woolly World Trailer Shows Off 3DS Features
You'll probably want the amiibo...
Poochy & Yoshi's Woolly World will be an early arrival on 3DS in 2017, the latest in a small batch of Wii U titles that are have been re-worked for the portable. It's a title that'll actually put the New 3DS to use, too, reportedly running at 60fps on the New model (like the Wii U original) and 30fps on older...
News 20 Years Ago This Week, Gaming History Was Made On UK Television
The infamous Super Mario 64 GamesMaster challenge
We've had a lot of anniversaries recently, with Sonic and Metroid standing out as key examples. However, one event - which was in danger of going uncelebrated until we spotted this tweet - is a seminal moment in UK TV history, and it all revolved around a challenge on Super Mario 64. For those of...
Editorial Rediscovering the Simple Pleasures of 2D Platformers on Wii U
What mascots do best
Heading towards the festive period I often revisit older games, favourites that have perhaps been untouched for a year or two. That's certainly the case this year, where relatively few recent blockbusters (on any platform) have been tempting enough to make me part from my cash. There's also a bit of premature nostalgia at play,...
Fun for the whole family
Have you ever experienced a moment when you've attempted to draw an object or animal and your family or friends identify it as something else? The odds are very good as, in a nutshell, that's what Pictionary is all about. Scribble, by indie developer Bear Box Media, is essentially an enhanced digital version of the classic...
News Nintendo Has No Plans For Additional Super Mario Run Content
Out Run
There are currently no plans to produce new content for Super Mario Run, Nintendo has stated. The game launched last week and has been downloaded millions of times, generating a considerable amount of revenue for Nintendo - but it hasn't been without its issues, with players complaining about the high cost and connection problems. While...
Rumour Latest Pokémon GO Update Hints At Christmas Event
But is Niantic is running out of time?
While the mobile world loses its head over Super Mario Run, let's not forget the other big smartphone release of 2016 - Pokémon GO. The monster-catching app just got a new update, and as ever data miners have been digging in to find anything of interest. It so happens that this new update has a very...
News Five Hours of 3DS Nintendo Network Maintenance is On the Way
Don't expect anything, though...
There's normally an hour or two of maintenance each week on the Nintendo Network, often affecting Wii U and 3DS, though there's a slightly longer stretch coming shortly that'll affect 'online play, rankings etc' on the portable. In total there'll be five hours of downtime; the eShop isn't mentioned specifically, but...
Video The Pokémon Company Tries to Show Off Multi-Coloured LEDs for Sun and Moon Z-Rings
Gotta buy 'em all?
Millions of gamers have been getting stuck into Pokémon Sun and Moon, but it'll be interesting to see how well - or otherwise - the Z-Ring toys are performing. Clearly mimicking the gimmick of the Yo-kai Watch series in terms of oversized wearable toys, these communicate with the game to light up and react to Z-Moves. In Japan,...
Monday19th Dec 2016
News Eurogamer Report Suggests Nintendo Switch GPU Runs 60 Percent Slower When Undocked
CPU power remains locked in, however
The Nintendo Switch arrives in March next year but we still know relatively little about the console, at least from an official perspective. Leaks relating to the machine's power have been coming thick and fast however, and Eurogamer has pulled together a report which cites numerous development sources and...
Nintendo Download 22nd December (Europe)
Shantae: Half-Genie Hero! Picross e7! Discounts galore! More!
Another week begins, but it's a little bit more special as the festive season is just around the corner. The European Nintendo Download update promises a notable Wii U release along with plenty more besides, including more Picross, downloadable videos and another ridiculously long list of...
Video Take an Extended Look at Switch Exclusive Seasons of Heaven
Showing off the Unreal Engine on Nintendo's system
One thing that is known about Nintendo Switch's capabilities is that it's set to deliver support for the Unreal engine, an area where the Wii U struggled on a technical level. A good demonstration of that may be found in the full three and a half minute trailer for Seasons of Heaven, a title that'll...
News Nintendo's Share Value Plummets Despite Super Mario Run Downloads and Revenue Performance
Negative App Store reviews cited as concerns
Super Mario Run has, on the surface level, had a strong launch. Reportedly downloaded over 37 million times since launch, it's set records and also done well in the charts; at the time of writing it's still the most downloaded and highest grossing iPhone app in the US and UK, according to App Annie, and...
Talking Point The Leaps and Falls of Super Mario Run's Launch
Records broken, positive press, negative user reviews, connection issues
Last week Super Mario Run was released after what seemed like an age of waiting, particularly for investors demanding that Nintendo make a big move on mobile. Though we had Miitomo earlier in the year, and of course Pokémon GO succeeding for Niantic and The Pokémon Company,...
News Insane Shooter Mani Yugi TOKOYO Could Be Headed To New 3DS And Nintendo Switch
Subject to successful crowdfunding campaign
No one quite does 2D shooters like the Japanese and that's why STUDIO TOKOYO's Mani Yugi TOKOYO has really caught our attention. The game made its debut at BitSummit 4th and was originally expected to arrive on the New Nintendo 3DS at the end of this year, but STUDIO TOKOYO put a stop to development and...
Video Get a Good Look at Dragon Quest XI on 3DS
Two screens, two styles
We've known for quite some time that Dragon Quest XI is coming to the 3DS, and Square Enix has been showing it off a little in recent days at Jump Festa 2017; it's looking rather interesting. In a presentation the company showed off the PS4 and 3DS versions; a unique touch with the portable entry is that the top screen shows...
News D-Day Comes For The Game Boy Color As It Finally Hosts Wolfenstein 3D
"Mein Leiben!"
Updating the age-old Game Boy with a speedier CPU and a rather substantially generous colour palette proved to be a shrewd move back in 1998, but even with this hardware upgrade, certain games - such as the iconic Wolfenstein 3D - would always seem out-of-reach. Yet that is exactly what Anders Granlund is pulling off as you can see...
Feature It's Time to Vote for Your Nintendo Life Overall Game of the Year
The final reckoning
With 2016 drawing to a close it's time to look back and reflect on a year of Nintendo gaming. Part of this is through Game of the Year awards, of course, and last week we opened the voting for the Reader Awards. Lots of you took part, and now it's time to choose your Overall Game of the Year. Last week you voted in categories...
News New NES game Dreamworld Pogie Finds Kickstarter Success
Let's hope the Oliver Twins don't go dizzy
Are you itching for something 'new' to play on your beloved NES? Then the Dreamworld Pogie Kickstarter might be the one for you. If you are British and of a certain age, you'll no doubt remember the Dizzy series of games by The Oliver Twins. While most of the Dizzy success story was on home computers,...
Video Let's Learn More About The Super Game Boy
The Gaming Historian has you covered
Typical. You wait years for someone to do a decent, in-depth video guide to the Super Game Boy and two come along at once. A few weeks ago we reported on Pug Hoof Gaming's excellent three-part series on the popular peripheral, and now our old chum Norm "The Gaming Historian" is back with his increasingly...
News NVIDIA is Named the Yahoo Finance Company of the Year
AI and gaming are the key to incredible growth for the company
One of ongoing debates prior to the unveiling of the Nintendo Switch was the company that would ultimately supply the GPU; reports pointing to NVIDIA were countered with suggestions AMD would get the nod, especially as the latter has had a lockdown on consoles for a decent period of...
Random Satoru Shibata Shares Season's Greetings, Spent Too Long on His Yo-kai Watch Dance
Three days... three days!
As per annual tradition, Nintendo of Europe President Satoru Shibata has issued a seasonal message to Nintendo fans. He talks about some highlights from the year, while also issuing an apology for the restricted NES Classic Mini stock. In some respects Shibata-san's message reflects a quiet year for the company, with a lot...
News Niantic Reiterates Pokémon GO For Apple Watch Is Still Coming Amid Rumours Of Cancellation
"Stay tuned"
It's easy to forget that the announcement of Super Mario Run wasn't the only Nintendo-related bombshell that was dropped during Apple's iPhone 7 keynote earlier this year. Pokémon GO developer Niantic also showed off an Apple Watch app which works in conjunction with the game to save you the bother of having to pull your phone out of...
Sunday18th Dec 2016
Guide The Best Nintendo Gifts For The Holiday Season (US Edition)
Some last minute treats
It's that time of year when we look forward to the Holidays on the one hand, and suffer sweaty brows on the other as we fret over late gift purchases. What to get your Nintendo-obsessed loved one this festive season? What gift will be good enough? Well, don't fret, we've looked around the web to find a range of gifts that...
Guide Collecting Zygarde's Cores for the Complete Forme in Pokémon Sun and Moon
Gotta find 'em all
Zygarde was one of the great mysteries towards the end of the last generation, with new forms being introduced and no game to tie them together, but Pokémon Sun and Moon finally provide the first time that these forms are usable in a main game. Getting these forms is a convoluted process where, once given the Zygarde Cube, you...
Guide The Best Nintendo Gifts For The Holiday Season (UK Edition)
Tis the season to be generous
It's that time of year when we look forward to the Holidays on the one hand, and suffer sweaty brows on the other as we fret over late gift purchases. What to get your Nintendo-obsessed loved one this festive season? What gift will be good enough? Well, don't panic, we've looked around the web to find a range of gifts...
Video Our Alex Goes Into Battle With Pokémon Game Designer Shigeki Morimoto
Have a pika at the launch event
Pokémon Sun and Moon has been Nintendo's biggest launch this year, and in some respects its most successful ever; when the games dropped various events were held in different countries, with Nintendo's subsidiaries going big on the launch. Nintendo UK, for its part, hosted an event in London where fans could get...
Friday16th Dec 2016
Random Nintendo Gives Away 3DS Consoles On Plane To Promote Super Mario Maker
The sky is the limit
Most long-haul aeroplane journeys are crushingly dull affairs, with ropey food, terrible in-flight entertainment and the added bonus of sitting in close proximity to a group of noisy and annoying people. Maybe that's just us! However, for passengers on board Southwest Airlines flight #2482 the monotony of travelling in a giant...
News Nintendo and DeNA Shares Tumble as Investors Show Super Mario Run Revenue Fears
Terribly premature, but that's investors for you
It's time for another episode of 'Investors do the Darndest Things!', in which Nintendo's share value swings up and down as strange movements happen in the financial market. It's right up there with death and taxes as an inevitable part of existence. Super Mario Run arrived on 15th December at about...
Feature An Android User's Weird Alternatives to Super Mario Run
Take that, Apple!
Super Mario Run is out - yay! It's only available to roughly half the world's smart device owning population - boo! Yes, of course, the plumber's first mobile game is only on iOS right now, with Android owners having to wait until 2017. It's a bitter mushroom to swallow. Android users can get around this, though. As an 'Android...
Guide How To Get Togepi, Cleffa, Pichu And Other Gen II Monsters In Pokémon GO
Be my baby (Pokémon)
Gen II monsters are finally in Pokémon GO, but Niantic has disappointed some fans by choosing not to introduce them in the wild. Instead, these 'mon are hatched from eggs which are one of the game's premium items. The debate about whether or not Pokémon GO is now "pay to win" is best left for another day, but the fact of the...
News Nintendo of America Outlines 'Nintendo Switch Preview Tour'
Six cities and three expos confirmed
Earlier this week a small number of My Nintendo members started to get first-come-first-served invites to Nintendo Switch preview events in North America, with New York being first up with other cities to follow. Nintendo of America has now rebranded these events as the 'Nintendo Switch Preview Tour', offering up...
News Super Mario Run Currently The Top Grossing iOS Store App
It prints money
While investors might have their concerns about the money making potential of Super Mario Run which was released on the iOS App Store yesterday, it seems their fears might be unfounded as the title is currently the top grossing app is both the UK and US, and no doubt many other territories too. In the UK we can see Super Mario Run...
News NES Classic Edition Sold 196,000 Units in US Launch as Pokémon Sun and Moon Set Records
3DS hardware sales also enjoyed a boost in November
November is always a big month in gaming, and this year was no different. The NPD results for the US - which present a limited but still interesting snapshot of the industry - reflect this, though notably revenues for November were down across the board compared to 2015. Nevertheless, there was...
Guide Super Mario Run Tips And Tricks
Helping you to take the money and run
Hold the phone! The most super of all video game plumbers makes his debut on (gasp) iOS this week with the rather lovely Super Mario Run (check out our full thoughts on the game in our full review). Since we've played a boatload of it already, we thought it'd be swell to key you in early on how to make the most...
News More Legend of Zelda Merchandise Added to Nintendo UK Store
Dress like the Hero of Time
Struggling to find a Christmas present for that someone special in your life? Well, fear not, as your prayers to the Gods of Hyrule have been answered. Nintendo UK has confirmed that it's added more Zelda merchandise, with a new range including a cosplayer's hoodie from Link's own tunic. A lot of these things have been...
Video Happy Birthday Pit! - The 30th Anniversary of Kid Icarus
Another NES classic marks three decades
Mark your calendars, because on Monday, 19th December, another classic NES game has an anniversary. In 2016 there have been a long list of games that turned 30, including the likes of The Legend of Zelda, Dragon Quest and
News The Era of Meme-Filled 'Parody' Runners on Wii U Isn't Over - Here's Zombie Brigade
Oh no
Who remembers Meme Run? Go on, search in your subconscious, dredge up those memories; therapists can be hired later for extravagant fees. As the name made clear it was a runner that was full of memes, and it had an interesting history. So, you thought the era of meme-filled runners was over on Wii U, and that we could all lead richer, more...
News Minecraft Is Getting Fallout DLC And It's Coming To The Wii U
Taking the nuclear option
While Nintendo fans have been cruelly denied the chance to play the recent entries in Bethesda's Fallout series, there's some good news on the horizon - no, Fallout 4 isn't confirmed for the Nintendo Switch before you get too excited - but the Wii U version of Minecraft is getting Fallout-themed content via a new DLC...
Video Pokémon Generations Episode 17: The Investigation, is Now Live
Warning, contains scenes of Pokémon cruelty
The Pokémon Generations animated series has been keeping YouTube viewers happy for a number of weeks, but it's almost reached its big conclusion. It's due to end on 23rd December, with episode 17 continuing the story from Pokémon X & Y. It's another interesting episode, though be warned - Pokémon...
Video Remembering The Soggy Awesomeness Of Mega Man 2's Bubble Man Stage
Water good level this is
Mega Man 2 has to rank as one of the best action platformers in the NES library, if not the entire genre. Regarded by many as the pinnacle of the 8-bit series, it's the only Mega Man release to make it onto the NES Classic Mini, which speaks volumes about its quality. Our friends over at iretrogamer.com cl
Thursday15th Dec 2016
Review Super Mario Run (Mobile)
Gives you a run for your money
The news that Nintendo's globally-renowned mascot Mario would be starring in his own smartphone title was, for some, as earth-shattering as learning that the Easter Bunny isn't real. Nintendo entering the mobile arena was hard enough to stomach, but offering up its most famous son as a blood sacrifice for the baying,...
News The Nintendo Switch Power Debate is Back - Report Suggests It Won't Quite Match PS4
Nintendo Power?
In some respects the graphical power of the Nintendo Switch, though still mysterious in terms of detail, isn't too difficult to figure out. Developers sticking to non-disclosure agreements generally avoid specifics, but due to the portable nature of the system it's unlikely to be bleeding edge technology; Nintendo has focused on...
Nintendo Download 15th December (North America)
Super Mario Run! Excitebots! Picross! My Nintendo discounts! More!
It's that time again, dear readers, for the Nintendo Download update. This week Nintendo of America is cheekily mentioning the latest mobile release (gasp!), but also has some tempting new arrivals and discounts on the Wii U and 3DS eShop stores. Let's get right to it. Missed the...
News Nintendo Switch Patent Provides Insights Into VR Accessory and Console Touchscreen
VeRy interesting
Over the past two years patents have been explored in detail as fans seek clues about Nintendo's upcoming hardware, but now there are some documents that are directly relevant to the Nintendo Switch; they provide some interesting insights, too. Filed on 10th June and made available to the public today, application number 15/178984...
News Pokémon: I Choose You Movie Gets Its First Trailer
Pokémon Chat Pal stickers also go live on iOS
Though they don't necessarily have the same impact in the West as in Japan, the regular Pokémon animated movies continue to be a big draw for fans of the series. Intriguingly, the next looks like it's getting right back to basics. A short teaser for the movie, which is simply called Pokémon: I Choose...
News Nintendo Offers a Seasonal Treat in New Screen for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
You may Fall for it
Nintendo has a number of decent official Facebook pages, and now it appears to be kicking into gear with its page for The Legend of Zelda. The latest post states that we can look forward to new screens for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, showcasing Hyrule and its varied locations up to the game's launch; it doesn't...
Video Watch Us Compare Super Mario Run's "Battery Saving" Graphics Options
Who ordered the choppy framerate?
Burrowed away in the options menu of Super Mario Run you can find a pair of options that claim they can save you battery power by lowering the graphical performance that the game attempts to pump out. Casual players may not notice an enormous difference at first but for any frame rate-savvy individual out there the...
News Super Mario Run's My Nintendo Rewards Are Live
Toad! Coins! Tickets! Things!
When My Nintendo launched one of its key features was integration with Miitomo; through the social app you can earn more Platinum Points, and there are regular reward updates with outfits and virtual goodies. With Super Mario Run - Nintendo's second smart device app - now out on iOS, the same idea is being applied once...
Music Behold the Majesty of The Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary Concert CD
Japan gets all the best stuff!
Remember CDs? They were those shiny discs you can still play in most car stereos. We jest, the Japan-exclusive The Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary Concert CD looks seriously cool. Out on 15th February 2017, this lovely 2-disc release will set you back ¥3,000 (around £20 / $25) plus tax; Amazon Japan is listing it...
Video Embrace the Weirdness of Snack World, Level-5's Next Big Thing
Deliciously strange
Level-5 has been a successful company for quite some time, but the viral success of Yo-kai Watch in Japan took it to another level. Though the company had previously dabbled with 'cross-media' franchises with the likes of Professor Layton and Inazuma Eleven, the idea's been exploited to the full with the Pokémon challenger. The...
Video Super Mario Run Launch Used as an Opportunity to Promote My Nintendo
Get exciting rewards! Like, um...
It's Super Mario Run day for Nintendo, and while we're awaiting an embargo to tell you what we think of it and to go into detail, the big N has at least given a glimpse of the role the iOS game will play on My Nintendo. A short video for the loyalty programme has been posted by Nintendo of Europe; it shows that -...
News Nintendo Releases Link-Themed 'Holiday Card' Website for the Festive Season
Snow joke
Every year Nintendo releases festive messages in different regions, and Nintendo of America has already pitched in. It's launch a simple 'Happy Holiday' website, which in the code is referred to as a 'Holiday Card'; it's a rather neat video focused on The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and the broader series. You can see it here or...
News Super Mario Run Is Now Live On The iOS App Store
Run to the App Store now!
It's the moment we've all been waiting for - Super Mario Run is now available to download in the iOS App Store. Just in case you forgot to turn on that notification, we can tell you that it popped up at about 17:35 here in the UK, and it seems to have already rolled out in the US; it's worth checking in your territory,...
News Picross e7 Launches in North America Tomorrow
European release is next week
The Picross series has always been a reliable portable offering from Nintendo, providing relaxing, thought provoking puzzle gameplay. It seems that Jupiter Corporation—the development studio—has really doubled down this generation, as we've so far received six Picross e games along with Zelda and Pokémon spinoffs,...
News SSBMRANK joins with Red Bull eSports to announce Melee Rankings 2016
This game's winner is...
There's big news for fans of the competitive Super Smash Bros. Melee scene,with SSBMRANK announcing that it will be partnering with Red Bull eSports to reveal the world's greatest players from the past year. For those of you that don't know, SSBMRANK is a community-driven ranking of the top 100 players in Super Smash Bros...
Video NFL Stars Richard Sherman and Johnny Hecker Kick in for Pokémon Promotion
Hey, punters can be stars too
Throughout this year The Pokémon Company has been recruiting celebrities to show off the fact they're fans of the franchise. As a series of videos in an anniversary year they've been rather effective. Another one has popped up today, and it's had a little more effort than "put a celeb in a room and get 30 seconds of...
Wednesday14th Dec 2016
Rumour Images Related to the Upcoming Fire Emblem Mobile Game Have Been Found in Miitomo
Well, isn't that interesting
In addition to Super Mario Run and Miitomo, there are currently two more games planned for release next year: Fire Emblem and Animal Crossing. Aside from the fact that they're in development, not a whole lot is known about these, though it is expected that they will mirror the main games in some way. Interestingly...
Feature The Wii U's Journey - Four Years of Excellence, Failure and Indifference
It wasn't to be
The Wii U is now just over four years old, passing the milestone most recently on 8th December (for the Japanese release). This is the point when it should be contemplating a steady step back, still accumulating quality games while the 'next generation' starts to loom. That would be the norm, but the gaming industry - like the...
News Fresh Download Discounts Come To My Nintendo In North America
Mario Tennis! Wrecking Crew! Mario & Luigi!
A fresh batch of 3DS and Wii U software discounts have gone live on the North American My Nintendo site, along with some items for Miitomo. Here's what's new: 3DS/Wii U Software Discounts • 20% Discount on Mario Tennis (Wii U) - 200 Platinum Points • 20% Discount on Wrecking Crew (Wii U) - 100...
Video Seasons Of Heaven Teaser Trailer Launches Ahead Of Full Reveal Next Week
Switch exclusive is looking good
Seasons of Heaven has been something of a surprise Switch reveal, coming ahead of Nintendo's January event where - it is assumed - we'll get a more solid picture of the console's software lineup. Based on a book by Nico Augusto and developed by California-based Any Arts Production, Seasons of Heaven is looking...
News A Special Kirby 25th Anniversary Broadcast Will Air Tomorrow in Japan
Pinch me, I must be dreaming
Earlier this summer, the Kirby series saw its latest entry with Kirby: Planet Robobot, the sublime mech-centric platformer that more or less concluded a trilogy of Kirby games that have come out over the past few years. As it would happen, Kirby's 25th anniversary is due to occur in 2017, and while there haven't been any...
Random Someone Is Localising Final Fantasy IV Using Google Translate
"I want to hit it with my mother chocolate"
Modern gamers are quite fussy about how Japanese games - RPGs in particular - are localised. Back in the 16-bit era, translations were often hack-jobs riddled with errors, but more recently we've seen a rise in quality which is all down to the tireless efforts of localisation teams who seek to maintain the...
A minimalist trip down memory lane
We've seen lots of attractive coffee table art books aimed at retro gaming fans in recent times, which is no bad thing. Joining the ranks is a publication simply titled 8-Bit Art Book - by Ear Books - which pays homage to the visual quality of classic games spanning from 1975 to the early '90s. The author Stephan...
News 3D Platformer Clive 'N' Wrench No Longer Leaping Onto Wii U
There's a pattern here...
Remember Clive 'N' Wrench, a 3D platformer inspired by the likes of Banjo-Kazooie? We'll forgive you if you don't, but back in February 2015 we reported that the title was bound for the Wii U subject to a successful Kickstarter campaign. The game raised just
News Nintendo UK Opens Contest to Attend Nintendo Switch Preview Event
Check your email
Nintendo of America has started to give My Nintendo members in some areas a chance to get tickets for a Switch preview in early January, and now Nintendo UK is getting in on the act. An email newsletter being sent out now to UK users offers a simple prize draw to get a place at a Switch event in London on 14th or 15th January. A...
News Koji Igarashi on How Bloodstained Will Utilize Procedural Generation
It'll handle all the environmental detail
Though Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night has been delayed until 2018, we can rest assured that Koji Igarashi and his team are doing everything they can to polish the game to the nth degree and make it all worth the wait. In a previous update, Igarashi mentioned how he would be utilizing procedural generation...
News New Super Mario Bros. Discounts Hit My Nintendo for PAL Gamers
No doubt timed for the launch of Super Mario Run
Super Mario Run arrives on iOS on 15th December, and could prove to be an enormous success for Nintendo. We'll see whether that turns out to be the case, but My Nintendo in PAL territories (Europe / Australia / New Zealand) is offering a couple of appropriate discounts to celebrate the release. The...
News Former PS4 Indie Exclusive, Rime, Listed for Nintendo Switch Along With Other Platforms
Another potential eShop treat
We don't yet know with absolute certainty whether the Switch's download store will keep the eShop name - though we suspect it will - but we do know that promising download titles are in the works for the system. A number have been confirmed or teased, and now another seems to have joined the list. Rime, developed by...
News 3DS Hardware Sales on the Rise in Japan as Miitopia Makes Chart Debut
Pokemon Sun and Moon continues solid momentum
The Media Create Chart results are with us once again, showing us what's hot and not in the Japanese market. There are a number of new game releases this week, with a few on 3DS, which has helped prompt some positive movement in hardware sales. Starting with software, Yakuza 6: The Song of Life has...
News Mini Golf Resort Will Bring Serious Sport to 3DS on 22nd December
Fore (because Golf, see?) dollars and 99 cents in the US
There are some key genres that largely skip Nintendo hardware - sports games are certainly in that mix. But fear not, 3DS fans, as Mini Golf Resort will help to scratch that itch soon - it's coming out on 22nd December in North America ($4.99 in the US), and is aiming for Europe in early 2017...
News Pokémon GO Was Google's Most Searched Term of 2016
Hey Google
Search engine and all-around behemoth technology company Google has revealed its biggest searches of 2016. With categories ranging from musicians to global news, the biggest insight into our searches has shown that Pokémon GO was the most searched term of the year. It should be noted that the bulk of that interest was in July and August...
News 3Souls Episodes 2 and 3 to Now Arrive as Free Updates
Festive discount of part one also on the way
3Souls has been an intriguing release on the Wii U eShop, utilising the GamePad for dual-screen gaming and plotting out a three-part release schedule. Though we found faults with part 1 in our review, we appreciated some of the ideas and intent behind the title. Those interested in taking a punt on it...
Tuesday13th Dec 2016
Talking Point Nintendo Will Rely on Switch Word of Mouth Due to Strange Presentation Timing
A very Nintendo move, it must be said
Nintendo is gearing up to kick off 2017 with a bang, unveiling the Switch in detail on 12th / 13th January, in the process ensuring that early-year momentum and attention goes its way. With a March release and so little officially known about it, that seems like a smart way to go. Oddly, however, Nintendo has...
News Yooka-Laylee Rattles Away From Wii U Release
Are you happy with the switch to Switch?
In a move which isn't necessarily surprising, it has now been confirmed that the much anticipated Yooka-Laylee will not longer be getting a Wii U release. In a recent blog post on the Playtonic Games site, the reasoning for this is explained. The Playtonic team is sad to confirm that despite our best...
News Junichi Masuda on the Future of Pokémon for the Switch
Seems to be taking a wait and see stance
The Nintendo Switch represents a bold new step for Nintendo, as it currently seems that the company will be going forward with just the one console. This will mean many new beginnings, one of which is the future of the Pokémon series, which has historically kept its main entries to portables. With the Switch...
Editorial As Games Jump to Nintendo Switch, We See How Quickly the Industry Moves On
The Wii U is only just over four years old, but is almost last-gen
The Wii U doesn't have too many big-name games still confirmed to be on the way, especially from third-parties. As a result the cancellation of Yooka-Laylee on the platform has led to quite a reaction, which I suspect is partly reflective of some wider frustrations. First of all,...
News Yooka-Laylee's Wii U Cancellation is Only Due to Technical Challenges, Not the System's Woes
"We can assure you this was a hard decision for everyone"
Earlier today there was the disappointing news that Yooka-Laylee is no longer coming to Wii U. When the game was first revealed Playtonic Games emphasized the importance of Nintendo hardware to the game, with a number of backers opting for the Wii U iteration in the Kickstarter campaign. The...
News Nintendo Confirms Broadcast Time for January Switch Event
It'll be worth it
Several weeks ago, Nintendo announced that it would be lifting the lid on complete details surrounding the upcoming Nintendo Switch, with matters such as pricing, games, and release dates all being discussed. Afterwards, there will be some hands on demo sessions taking place around the world in which the public will be able to try...
News Former SNK Staffers Are Bringing A New Fighter To The SNES
Say hello to Unholy Night: The Darkness Hunter
A team of ex-SNK staffers are working on a one-on-one fighter for the SNES called Unholy Night: The Darkness Hunter. Yes, you read that right, the SNES. The project has passed under the radar somewhat, and only came to light thanks to a recent Facebook post regarding the game's playable debut at the...
News The First Pokémon Sun and Moon 'Global Mission' Was a Bit of a Flop
No wonder, based on the sign-up process
Pokémon Sun and Moon has been setting sales records in some regions, and generally looks on track to be another monster hit for The Pokémon Company, Game Freak and Nintendo. That said, not everything has been a storming success - the first 'Global Mission' for the Pokémon Global Link is one such example...
News Limited Numbers of Nintendo Switch Preview Invites Offered to US My Nintendo Members
New York is first up
During its most recent financial briefings Nintendo outlined plans to offer members of the public a chance to try out the Nintendo Switch ahead of its launch. It's not a new idea from the big N, as it previously ran system-specific events prior to the launch of the 3DS in 2011. As chatty journalists and attendees confirmed in...
News The Ocarina of Time Soundtrack is Getting an Orchestrated Vinyl Release
One for the ages
One of the most odd, yet satisfying, things to emerge from the 25th Anniversary of the Legend of Zelda was the Symphony of the Goddesses. This traveling orchestra took fans on a sonic journey through all of Link's past adventures, with many classic soundtracks getting a live, orchestrated reproduction. It seems that the symphony...
News The Soul Calibur Series Has Turned 20, And All We're Getting Is A Pachinko Machine
The soul still burns
Bandai Namco's weapon-based 3D fighter Soul Calibur (or "Soulcalibur", if you prefer) turns 20 today, but the publisher isn't giving us a new outing to celebrate - we're getting a Soul Calibur-themed Pachinko machine instead. Just what the doctor ordered, right? The series began not with a Soul Calibur title, but with Soul...
Video Let's Count Down Our Top Five Best New Moves from Pokémon Sun & Moon
Total agreement not guaranteed
Every new Pokémon game brings with it new features, new Pokémon, and the subject of this video, new moves. We decided to check through all the new moves Pokémon Sun and Moon has to offer and compile our top five that we consider to be the best because Golisipod isn't getting nearly enough love in our eyes. What are...
News Veteran Publisher Majesco Exits The Video Game Business
Merges with a medical tech company, of all things
Video game veteran Majesco has merged with PolarityTE, a company which operates in the medical industry, signalling its exit from the video game arena. Founded in 1986, Majesco has published titles like Cooking Mama, Data East Arcade Classics, Bomberman Generation, BattleBots and BlastWorks on...
Rumour Yooka-Laylee Might Be Released in April
Not long now
Playtonic's highly anticipated collectathon, Yooka-Laylee, is expected to launch sometime early next year, though the exact time has not been specified. Considering that we're rapidly closing in on the launch window, one would expect a release date to be forthcoming, but it seems that a few online storefronts may have accidentally let...
Video Check Out Some Key Features of Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King
In-game photos copyright Square Enix...
With Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past being a treat this year on 3DS, fans of the series are no doubt looking forward to Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King, which is due in North America and Europe on 17th January. A number of the new features in this
News Catch Up With an Apple Super Mario Run Event Featuring Shigeru Miyamoto
If you have iTunes, that is
Whether it's a mutual desire to benefit each other or whether a formal timed exclusivity deal was agreed, what's clear is that Apple has been keen to heavily promote Super Mario Run. Over the past month or so the app has enjoyed the benefit of tweets from the App Store's official account, strong placement on the store...
News There's Another Famicom Chiptune Cart Coming Next Year
8bit Music Power Final to contain 18 tracks
The idea of someone releasing a chiptune album on a Famicom cartridge might seem strange if it hadn't happened once already, but that doesn't make the impending launch of 8bit Music Power Final any less exciting or unique. Riki is the developer and Columbus Circle is the publisher, and the cart will hit...
News 3DS eShop Title Johnny Dynamite Hitting Europe in Updated Form
18 months in the making
Despite being developed in the UK, 3DS eShop title Johnny Dynamite still hasn't been released in Europe - but that's about to change. Ian James of developer Twofivesix has gotten in touch to tell us a little more about the release in Europe this week, 18 months after the game arrived in North America. The plan was for Enjoy...
Monday12th Dec 2016
News NES Classic Mini Demand "Greater Than We Anticipated," Admits Reggie Fils-Aime
"Every day there's more going into the retail channel"
The NES Classic Mini has been almost impossible to find since it launched a short time ago, with some North American retailers only getting two or three units per store. Nintendo has been trying to satisfy demand since then but stock is still
Nintendo Download 15th December (Europe)
Minecraft Complete Story! Pikmin 2! Teslapunk! Loads of discounts!
The European Nintendo Download Update details arrived a little later than normal, giving us a look at what to expect this week. It's a packed line-up, with lots of Minecraft storytelling, a well-regarded Wii re-release of a GameCube sequel, a number of 'Nindie' titles, discounts...
Review Hyperlight EX (New Nintendo 3DS)
Faster than...
This review was originally going to begin with the saying "Imitation is the best form of flattery," but we found that it wouldn't be accurate for Hyperlight EX. While, at first glance, the game looks like a simple Geometry Wars clone, Hyperlight EX soon reveals itself to be something quite different. CatfishBlues Games has taken the...
Review Exile's End (Wii U eShop)
Good enough to avoid being exiled
Metroidvania fans have had some great luck over the past few years; with solid indie titles like Guacamelee! and Axiom Verge, a once-quiet genre has inched back into the spotlight. Though the game's description claims that Exile's End isn't a Metroidvania game, it should indeed be counted in that category. Let's...
Feature It's Time to Vote for Your Nintendo Life Game of the Year Awards
Your say on the best Wii U and 3DS games of 2016
As 2016 draws to an end it's that time once again - Game of the Year Awards. We're continuing with tradition in having both Staff and Community awards; the latter are entirely in your hands. As in previous years you can vote through a series of polls. In each category we've created longlists; now, of...
News Gen II Roll-Out Begins in Pokémon GO
Limited edition Pikachu also up for grabs
For quite some time it's seemed clear that Gen II Pokémon are coming to Pokémon GO, and as expected the announcement has come to confirm just that. The roll-out of Pokémon Gold and Silver pocket monsters is underway, though the initial numbers (accessed by hatching eggs) are modest; more are coming over...
News Super Nintendo World Coming to Universal Studios Japan in 2020
First concept art showcases stunning theming and immersion
Universal Studios Japan has revealed initial details surrounding Super Nintendo World, Nintendo's first foray into theme park entertainment. The much anticipated theme park experience will be completed in time for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The themed land in Japan will be the first...
Random Baten Kaitos Speedrun Attempt Leads To Temporary Twitch Account Ban
Getting 100 percent ain't easy
Speedruns of classic games are commonplace on Twitch, with veteran players seeing them as an entertaining challenge as well as a way of popularising their favourite titles years or even decades after their original release. However, not all of these speedrun attempts go according to plan, and that's certainly the case...
News Shigeru Miyamoto Thinks Nintendo Should Have Made Minecraft
"We had some designs that were very similar"
Minecraft is unquestionably one of the most popular video games in the world right now, especially with young children. A vast toybox full of cool tricks and a strong online element, the game has found its way on to practically every viable system, including the Wii U. The success of Minecraft hasn't...
News Miyamoto On Working With Apple, Living With Mario And Why He's Not Retiring Any Time Soon
"I kinda of look at it as if I'm running a talent agency"
Super Mario Run launches on iOS this week, an event which not so long ago would have been totally inconceivable to the average Nintendo fan. Nintendo's slow but steady embrace of mobile has certainly generated column inches in the gaming world, and to push the release the legendary Shigeru...
News Footage Of Unreleased Akira Game Boy Title Hits The Web
Plus Heavy Weight Hockey on NES and Mall Rats on Mega Drive
Remember back in October when someone found four prototype copies of Akira for the Game Boy? Well that someone - Patrick Scott Patterson - has recently released gameplay video of one of the prototype Akira carts being played on the Super Game Boy. The game looks promising despite its...
News Pokémon Sun Beats the Cheeky Moon in UK Charts, as Super Mario Maker on 3DS Moves Up
Also, people are still buying Tomodachi Life
There aren't many UK chart updates left for the year, and the majority of big time releases are now out in the wild and scrapping over festive sales. This week's results bring some decent results for Nintendo, along with a development in the great Pokémon Sun and Moon battle. Starting with non-Nintendo...
News Radiantflux: Hyperfractal Will Be Hacking Your Wii U Later This Month
Hack the planet
TACS Systems has announced that its next Wii U eShop title will launch this month. Radiantflux: Hyperfractal is a unique combination of adventure, action and puzzle-solving all presented in a faux desktop computer environment. You assume the role of a "neo-hacker" who delves into "data-fractal hyper structures" after receiving a...
Sunday11th Dec 2016
Talking Point The Nintendo Switch Has the Potential to Deliver the Ultimate Virtual Console
An opportunity for a special retro experience
Over the past decade or so Nintendo has made significant strides in its online / download stores, with the eShop platform becoming vital for both 3DS and Wii U. Those stores both learnt lessons from their predecessors - on Wii and DSi - in terms of becoming more accessible and rewarding for Indies, while...
Random Store Employees Buy Wii U For Teen Who Visited Every Day To Play Smash Bros.
Tis the season, after all
Christmas is a time when heart-warming gestures are commonplace, and this tale of selflessness should warm even the coldest of souls. According to staff at Best Buy in Valley Stream, New York, a teenage Smash Bros. fan would come to the outlet every day in order to play the Wii U outing on the store demo pod. Such was this...
Video Nintendo Really Wants You to Play Super Mario Run With One Hand
Don't Mario and drive, though
Ever since Shigeru Miyamoto joked at the Super Mario Run reveal that players could help Mario do his thing while also eating a burger at the same time, Nintendo's been pushing the one-handed angle. It's a fun spiel, for sure, even if playing the game while eating dinner is sure to annoy others; don't do it on a date, is...
Feature The Nindie Christmas Celebration - Affordable Space Adventures Edition
A journey best shared
With Christmas just around the corner, many a Nintendo gamer is perhaps asking "what should I buy?" Alas, there isn't a whole lot to look forward to in terms of new releases, so in this series we'll be spotlighting a menagerie of quality indie games that have shown up on the eShop over the years. In this edition, Tom Whitehead...
Saturday10th Dec 2016
News Mercenaries Saga 3: Gray Wolves of War Adding More Budget RPG Action to 3DS Soon
Arriving in North America on 15th December
The 3DS has been a wonderful machine for RPG fans, with games of various sizes, styles and prices arriving on the system. The eShop has played its part, often with low-priced efforts that can nevertheless be rather fun. The Mercenaries Saga series has been a decent example, and we quite enjoyed its first...
News The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth+ is Looking Like a Decent Bet for Nintendo Switch
Cryptic tweeting has the answer
The Binding of Isaac has had an interesting history with Nintendo hardware - early attempts to bring the game to the eShop seemed to be rebuffed due to its general themes, but then Nintendo softened and the critically acclaimed title arrived on the New 3DS and Wii U in its 'Rebirth' form. Then there was a will it /...
Friday9th Dec 2016
Poll How Important is the Virtual Console, and GameCube, for the Nintendo Switch?
If the rumours are true...
As part of the big January unveiling, or perhaps not long after, we'd expect the eShop (or new equivalent) to get a big push for the Nintendo Switch. We already know of multiple 'Nindie' developers that are actively working on projects, and considering the growth in importance of downloads it's inevitable that the new...
Random Shigeru Miyamoto's Samurai Mario Shirt Gets Excitable Speculation Up and Running
Could be a delicious tease... or just a cool t-shirt
Most people have seen one or more of the Nintendo Switch / Reggie / Miyamoto videos from The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The live debut of the system was a highlight, as was the sight of Miyamoto-san and Bill Trinen in the audience. The whole thing was a bit of a GIF gift, too: Some...
News The Sacred Hero Teased For Nintendo Switch Release In 2018
"A unique adventure game that twists the conventions of the RPG genre"
Nintendo may be keeping its cards close to its chest when it comes to Switch software, but indies are already announcing their intention to support the forthcoming console, which launches in March next year. Yesterday we revealed the promising Seasons of Heaven, and today we've...
News Miyamoto on the Reasoning Behind Super Mario Run's Pricing
One and done
With the impending launch of Super Mario Run, there's been a veritable explosion of coverage across the internet as Nintendo has been aggressively promoting the timed iOS exclusive. Fans will be pleased to hear that it isn't going the route of microtransactions or free to play, as is popular in the mobile market, but will be centered...
News Super Mario Run Will Require a Constant Online Connection
Also, the reason why it's coming to iOS first
Super Mario Run is only a week away from releasing on iOS, and the hype is reaching its peak. This is the first major Mario game to come to a platform that's not Nintendo developed, and while it is still a mobile game, it's an important milestone in the long running history of the series. Up until now,...
Random Kanye West's Potential Album Tracklist is All About the Wii
The album's tentative name is TurboGrafx-16
Now, there's a headline we never thought we'd write. Kanye West has always been known for attracting plenty of attention to himself with some pretty off the wall antics, and now a new report seems to indicate that his next album will have a distinctly video game-centric sound, with a tracklist that pulls a...
News Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Retail Edition Heading to Wii U on 27th December
Still hits the eShop on 20th December, though
Shantae, WayForward's tentpole IP that's developed an audience on Nintendo portables in addition to other systems through remasters, is getting its next title very soon - Shantae: Half-Genie Hero. Crowdfunded and a decent amount of time in the making, we're now just a couple of weeks from playing it. A...
Video Get The Most Out Of Your Game Boy With This Exhaustive Guide
The chaps at My Life in Gaming strike again
While the brand name has been put out to pasture these days, the Game Boy line of consoles is legendary with gamers of a certain age. From the bulky monochrome original to the super-sleek Game Boy Micro, this line of portables defined mobile gaming for an entire generation of players, offering amazing...
Video Let's Get a Closer Look at the Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary amiibo
Violence ensues
Everyone loves a good amiibo, and as time has gone by Nintendo'a attention to detail and refinement of the manufacturing process has only made them more delightful. Following this tradition, the release of the four new amiibo based on The Legend of Zelda series has got this video-based writer all giddy, and you can see this as well...
Gallery Feast Your Eyes on a Whole Lot of Monster Hunter XX (Double Cross) Screens
They've got some bite
Not too long ago Capcom unveiled Monster Hunter XX (Double Cross) for the 3DS, the latest entry in the 'main' series on the portable. It's been a hugely lucrative partnership, with core entries on an almost annual basis in Japan. This latest arrival builds on Monster Hunter X (Cross), better known as
News Skylanders Developer Vicarious Visions Is Now Working On Destiny
Backs up rumours of series cancellation
It has been confirmed thatSkylanders developer Vicarious Visions is helping Bungie with Destiny, adding credence to rumours that Activision is pulling the plug on its defining toys-to-life franchise following disappointing sales of the latest entry, Skylanders Imaginators. Vicarious Visions has worked on the...
News Nintendo Share Value on the Rise, With Super Mario Run Leading the Charge
High profile public debut of Nintendo Switch might have helped, too
It's been a solid week for Nintendo in terms of boosting brand awareness, not necessarily for the current-day, but for the imminent and slightly longer term future. It's been all about Super Mario Run and the Nintendo Switch, ultimately. With Super Mario Run there's been a ramping...
Music Hero Muzik Vol. II Blends Chrono Trigger With Hip Hop, and Does It Brilliantly
Produced by K-Murdock with contributors like Mega Ran and Sammus
Gaming attracts some incredibly talented creators, and we enjoy keeping track of some musicians that show their love for games through their projects. A new album is now out to celebrate Chrono Trigger - it's called Hero Muzik Vol. II. Produced by K-Murdock with a broad range of...
News Inchvilles Crowdfunding Campaign Goes Live, 3D Printed Figure Pricing Revealed
A twist on toys to life
A few days ago we reported on Inchvilles, a new take on the toys-to-life concept which allows you to 3D print your own characters for use in-game. Developer Moragami has now put the game's crowdfunding site live, and has also released a new trailer which not only shows off some gameplay, but also gives some detail on the...
News Super Mario Run Promotion Dashes Into Miitomo
We need that Little Boo Buddy in our lives
Super Mario Run launches on iOS next week and Nintendo is running a special promotion in Miitomo to celebrate this fact. The collaboration includes special Super Mario-themed items and room decorations, as well as a cool Super Mario Run varsity jacket and an adorable Little Boo Buddy. Here's the run down:...
Video Pokémon Generations Moves Into Gen VI With Lysandre and His Crazy Hair
Less action, more corporate malarkey and chatter
Pokémon Generations is heading towards its finale, after many weeks of entertaining videos that have proven to be hits on YouTube. The story has shifted to recent times, too, with Pokémon X & Y. Episode 16: The Beauty Eternal is focused on Lysandre and his hair, and adopts more story-building...
Thursday8th Dec 2016
Video Watch Jimmy Fallon Play Breath of the Wild on the Nintendo Switch
The first live look at the console
With the Wii U winding down, it's a pretty safe statement to say that Nintendo didn't do too good of a job at marketing the new console early on. It seems many consumers were confused as to whether or not the machine was an add on to the Wii or something entirely new, and there wasn't much in the way of commercials...
News Nintendo Switch Exclusive Game Revealed - Seasons of Heaven
Based on book of the same name
Update: This title has now been official confirmed, below. The original article's details and context remain correct. Original Article: In the past generation Nintendo has often relied upon smaller studios to produce some compelling exclusives and ports for its systems, in particular on the eShop or as budget...
Review Unlucky Mage (3DS eShop)
Ill-fated Illusionist
From Dragon Quests and Shin Megami Tenseis to Pokémon and Fire Emblems, the 3DS is an RPG powerhouse. It's a testament to the eShop's offerings, however, that those famous names are flanked by a flurry of mid-tier RPGs of every persuasion, some of which are certainly worthy of your time. Kemco has been a prolific publisher in...
Nintendo Download 8th December (North America)
Metroid Other M! Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon! Demon's Crest! Teslapunk! More!
It's that time again, dear readers, for the North American Nintendo Download Update. This week brings a few new download-only titles to the Wii U and New 3DS eShop platforms, along with some varied and tempting Virtual Console options. With a couple of themes and a...
Preview Running Wild in Super Mario Run
Born to run?
Considering the fact that the Super Mario series started out as a precision platformer, it seems mad to think that this formula could translate into a mobile app with only a single input. As such we picked up the game with few expectations and a healthy dose of scepticism, but thankfully our fears were allayed. Super Mario Run has...
Video You Really Need To See Miyamoto Jamming The Super Mario Theme With The Roots
We demand a world tour
As you'll no doubt already know, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime appeared on The Tonight Show last night to demo Super Mario Run and the forthcoming Nintendo Switch console to an understandably over-excited Jimmy Fallon. Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto was also in attendance, and at one point joined the house...
News Dataminers Tear The Latest Pokémon GO Update Apart, Find New Features
Spoiler alert, obviously
The latest Pokémon GO update is rolling out at the moment and - as ever - dataminers have been digging into the code to find out exactly what goodies it has in store. It would appear that this update is laying down foundations for quite a few significant changes to the game, including genders for monsters, Pokémon...
News Miyamoto on Why Nintendo Waited to Make Smartphone Games
Better late then never?
Though Nintendo has now finally broken the barrier of smart device gaming and joined the market, most agreed that it was about time. For years, the company had been facing pressure from fans and investors to put its games on smart devices, and it staunchly refused until recent times. Several explanations were given, which all...
News Check Out These Officially Licensed Breath of the Wild Pocketwatches
Now that's classy
Ever since The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, many of Zelda games have had some sort of time traveling element to them, be it by a dungeon or an item or a plot point. The jury's still out on how time will be involved in the upcoming The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, but there's a good chance that it'll play some sort of...
News Super Mario Run Could Influence The Future Of The Series, Claims Shigeru Miyamoto
"We'll have to look at what it is these new fans want from a Mario game"
Super Mario Run launches next week and is perhaps Nintendo's most significant play in the smartphone arena yet, placing the world-famous mascot in an entirely new style of game. The potential audience for this title is mind-boggling when you take into account the sheer size of...
News Pokémon Sun & Moon Sales Pass 2 Million in Europe
Meowth used Pay Day
The good news keeps coming for Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. After initially delivering its biggest ever launch in Europe with sales of over 1.5 million in the first week, Nintendo Europe's Twitter account has now revealed the game has gone on to the sell 2.1 million copies in 12 days. Not even 2 weeks in yet, Sun & Moon...
News Capcom's Quirky NFC Card 3DS Game, Megami Meguri, Is Out Now in Japan
Approximately a 0.00000001% chance of localisation
A little while ago we wrote about a quirky Capcom game for 3DS that'll utilise NFC payment cards - and in particular their train travel records - for a free-to-play game. That title - Megami Meguri - is out now in Japan. The basic plot revolves around a 'novice Goddess' called Tsukomo, who needs to...
Video Super Mario Run Commercial Is Packed With Sprinting But Light On Gameplay Footage
You might even wonder what it's actually advertising
With Super Mario Run due to arrive on iOS next week Nintendo is really ramping up promotional activity for the game, with TV appearances and interviews all taking place at the moment. The company has also released
News Starbucks Confirms Pokémon GO Collaboration, 7,800 Outlets To Become In-Game Locations
Gulp
Earlier this week we reported on a rumour which suggested that coffee retailer Starbucks would be teaming up with Pokémon GO creator Niantic for a special promotion which would transform many Starbucks outlets into locations within the game itself. Today, the two companies confirmed this alliance with an official press release, and also gave...
Wednesday7th Dec 2016
Rumour GameCube Virtual Console Coming To Nintendo Switch
Early games outlined
The Virtual Console has been one of Nintendo's real success stories of the past decade, giving players a platform on which they can rediscover old classics and play titles they might have missed first time around. While Nintendo hasn't given any solid details on what its plans are for the Virtual Console on the forthcoming...
News Nintendo on the Naming of the Nintendo Switch
It means more than you think
When Nintendo made the official announcement of its upcoming Switch console, the name seemed to immediately make sense. Rather than the somewhat weak naming of the Wii U, which was named in order to focus on "you" more, the Switch appeared to have gotten its name from the way in which you "switch" between home and...
Talking Point The Nintendo Switch Pitch - A Jack of All Trades
Tough to predict whether Nintendo's next-gen system will take off
As we get closer to the early January online event that should blow the lid off more Nintendo Switch details, most of which will have probably been leaked with varying degrees of accuracy beforehand, opinions are starting to crystallise. The flashy millennial-filled reveal trailer...
News Analyst Firm Notes Hype For Switch, But Worries Nintendo Is "Not Prepared" To Take Advantage
"They have really struggled with overall strategy"
The hype for Nintendo Switch is real but the company's approach could scupper its chances of success, according to analysts at DFC Intelligence. The firm has just released its Holiday 2016 research brief which takes a look at the games industry as a whole and makes predictions based on current...
News Amazon US Likely To Have NES Classic Mini In Stock Again Soon
Christmas might be saved
The saga surrounding NES Classic Mini stock shortages continues as many have resorted to paying over the odds to scalpers on eBay to secure a unit before Christmas. However it appears from a recent tweet by Amazon US that lucky American customers might get another chance to buy one at MSRP: What we have learnt about these...
News The PAL Magearna QR Code is Now Available for Pokémon Sun and Moon
You don't have to watch the movie
Distributions will come in a variety of forms in Pokémon Sun and Moon, with one method being QR codes. The QR Scanner function can only be used in the game after you've cleared the story, so it's an incentive to get through the campaign. After distributing the first of these - Magearna- in a rather conventional...
News PlayStation Boss Praises Nintendo's Return To "Convention" With The Switch
"I think they're going to cover a new market for themselves"
After the motion-control of the Wii and the dual-screen setup of the Wii U, Nintendo has arguably gone back to basics with the Switch, apparently discarding interface gimmicks to give a more traditional control experience. One person who seems very pleased with that is President of Sony's...
News Pokémon GO Update Makes It Easier To Turn Unwanted Pidgeys Into Precious Candy
Short and sweet
Pokémon GO version 0.49.1 (Android) and 1.19.1 (iOS) is rolling out as we speak, and the update brings an important time-saving feature - the ability to transfer monsters to Professor Willow in batches, rather than one at a time. Trading unwanted 'mon for candy has become an annoying yet essential process for many players, and this...
News Pokémon Sun And Moon Data Files Show Removed Buddy System
Side by side no longer
Data miners have uncovered what appears to be an unused "buddy" system in Pokémon Sun and Moon. This feature - which shows a Pokémon walking alongside you in the game - was showcased in previous titles but is absent from the most recent instalment, presumably to keep the game running at an acceptable pace on older 3DS...
News Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS Enjoys Stronger Japanese Launch Than Wii U Original
Helped by a far larger userbase, of course
The Japanese Media Create chart results are out, and this week they have some interesting new entries that have also driving significant hardware sales. Starting with software, Final Fantasy XV is the undisputed champion of the week, racking up 690,471 sales on PS4. Pokémon Sun and Moon are still moving...
News More Pokémon to be Announced for Pokémon GO on 12th December
Major US partnership with Sprint also announced
A major press conference, due soon at the time of writing, will feature Niantic and Sprint discussing a collaboration for Pokémon GO; the details have already been officially confirmed, however, along with some positive news for those hoping to expand their Pokédex. Reinforcing the recent chatter...
News You'll Want This Sonic The Hedgehog Art Book On Your Coffee Table
Shipping April 2017
Sonic turned 25 this year, and Sega marked the occasion by confirming that the popular character would be getting two new outings next year, one of which is the gorgeous-looking Sonic Mania. Art house Cook & Becker also has something special for fans of the Blue Blur coming next year - a coffee table book which shows off a...
News Niantic and Sprint Will Be Hosting a Special Pokémon GO Press Conference Tomorrow
Gee, what could it be?
Earlier today, there was a sizable leak detailing a partnership between Starbucks and Niantic in order to promote a massive impending update for Pokémon GO. There's plenty of speculation that the aforementioned update will be adding in the Pokémon from the Johto region Pokédex, and a recent announcement seems to be fanning...
Random Learn How to Make an Extravagant Pokémon Sun and Moon Cupcake 'Cake'
More effort than filling a Pokédex
Credit is due to Nintendo of America for its continued efforts with Play Nintendo. A dedicated website and YouTube channel with content suitable for young gamers is still ticking along, and it's pleasing to see the effort made to create bespoke content for that audience. We keep an eye on Play Nintendo and its...
News Dragon Ball Fusions Will Direct Its Super Saiyan Fury Towards Europe On February 17th
Middle East and Australasian regions included, too
After initially being released in Japan back in August and North America in November, Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe have today announced that Dragon Ball Fusions will be arriving in European, Middle Eastern and Australasian territories on 17th February 2017. The fighting and role-playing game...
Tuesday6th Dec 2016
Hardware Review Retro-Bit x 8Bitdo RB8-64 Bluetooth Controller
Three pronged thriller?
8Bitdo's replica controllers have gained quite a reputation with retro gamers who are keen to get that authentic feel but also wish to benefit from modern conveniences such as the absence of annoying wires and the ability to recharge the internal battery. We've already seen excellent variants on the NES and SNES controllers,...
Rumour Nintendo Switch Dock Helps Boost Performance, But Not in the Way You Think
It's all about USB-C, apparently
It's time for a round of Switch rumours; there are a few. Laura Kate Dale, who we understand to have generally solid sources and has been largely correct in previous reports, has been sharing more updates. In a little twist it appears to be an unfurling of multiple leaks (lighthearted it seems) as a response to...
News Goodbye! BOXBOY! Has Been Announced for Nintendo 3DS
New Qbby amiibo will be sold alongside a collector's edition
A side project from HAL Laboratory, of Kirby fame, the BOXBOY! games have been a nice puzzle-platforming addition to the 3DS eShop, offering a diverse array of thought provoking levels. So far, we've gotten BOXBOY! and its follow up, BOXBOXBOY!, and now it's been announced that HAL will be...
Competition One Generous UK Reader Wants To Share Pokémon Sun & Moon With You This Christmas
A truly heartfelt gesture
In a true act of kindness a regular Nintendo Life reader, who wishes to remain anonymous, contacted us with a desire to spread some festive cheer to all readers after what has been a difficult year for many across all walks of life. Not only do they wish to restore some faith in an increasingly cynical world they also want...
Video It's Not Hard to Spot the Difference in This Super Mario Maker 3DS & Wii U Comparison
It really isn't...
Super Mario Maker is now available on the 3DS of all things, and if our review is anything to go by it's more than worth your time if you're currently in a state of Wii U-lessness. But can this shrunk-down version compete with its HD counterpart in the visual arena? Of course not, the whole idea that the two would be vaguely...
News Konami Files Fresh Trademark For TurboGrafx In The United States
Could we be getting a TG-16 Classic Mini?
Gamers of a certain age will no doubt have a fondness for the TurboGrafx-16, the console which tried to fight Sega and Nintendo during the '90s and failed. Based on the NEC PC Engine - which launched in Japan in 1987 and challenged the Famicom for dominance in that part of the world - the TG-16 was home to...
Rumour New Pokémon GO Monsters On The Way This Week As Part Of Starbucks Campaign
"The world of Pokémon GO is about to expand with new Pokémon"
A series of leaks from Starbucks employees have lifted the lid on an upcoming promotion which revolves around Pokémon GO. As part of the campaign - which has been verified as real by several Starbucks staff - most Starbucks outlets in the US will become either a PokéStop or a Gym. By...
News Eiji Aonuma and Satoru Takizawa on the Fate of Wind Waker 2
It would've focused on land-based travel
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was a controversial release for its time, though it seems that the passage of time has softened fan perception. The cel-shaded, cartoon style wasn't widely embraced, with many fans feeling betrayed after that promising Spaceworld demo. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess...
Rumour Dark Souls 3 and Trilogy Possible on Nintendo Switch, If System Sales Are Solid
Prepare to Wait
Back when Nintendo unveiled a massive list of 'partners' for the Nintendo Switch, there were a few intriguing stand-outs. One that got some pulses racing was From Software - it's behind the brilliant Sony exclusive Bloodborne (which has as much chance of coming to Switch as Bayonetta 2 does of arriving on PS4) but is best known for...
News Nintendo Is Looking For Hackers Who Can Discover 3DS Vulnerabilities
Join the Bug Bounty program if you are a "1337 h4x0r"
While the humble Nintendo 3DS might not be around for too much longer with the impending arrival of the Nintendo Switch, it should not come as a surprise that the Big N are still interested to learn of any vulnerabilities on their 3DS family of systems that might still be exploited. Nintendo...
Rumour Koei Tecmo Pitched a Star Fox Game, But it Was Rejected
Another Warriors title, it would seem
Earlier today, Laura Kate Dale of Let's Play Video Games released a cache of info on Nintendo's recent plans, including the soon-to-be fully revealed Nintendo Switch. Among the info was a particularly interesting bit about the future of the Star Fox franchise; apparently Koei Tecmo approached Nintendo earlier...
News THQ Nordic Is Currently Working On Two Nintendo Switch Titles
"We are excited for Nintendo Switch"
THQ Nordic - the company formally known as Nordic Games - has confirmed that it has a pair of Nintendo Switch titles in development. CEO Lars Wingefors revealed the news during an announcement regarding the company's latest IP acquisitions. THQ Nordic now owns the rights to Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy, War...
News Capcom Reaffirms Commitment To Resurrecting Its Vast Catalogue Of "Dormant IP"
Looking to "enhance corporate value" via "its library of rich content"
Capcom's library of games is arguably the envy of the industry, thanks in part to the company's prolific coin-op output during the '80s and '90s. During this period the firm pumped out classics like Strider, 1942, Ghouls 'n Ghosts, Captain Commando, Street Fighter, Darkstalkers...
News Charmander Joins the Ranks at Build-A-Bear
Build-A-Firebreathing-Pokemon isn't as catchy
Build-A-Bear is a charming chain of stores that isn't afraid to jump into the hottest trends in popular culture. It's not slow to offer Darth Vader bears when Star Wars is all the rage, and of course began to make hay while the Pokémon GO sun was shining. With Pokémon Sun and Moon now a hot thing,...
News Retro Fighters is Releasing a NES to NES Classic Edition Controller Adapter
Supports two players and various retro options
The NES Mini / Classic Edition is a 'hot' item, as Nintendo admits, and we're running out of time as the big N attempts to meet demand for festive shoppers; it's looking like a long-shot, sadly, but hope remains. In any case, for those still enjoying the system early next year - or who decide to grab...
News The Altered Beast And Streets of Rage Movies You Never Knew You Wanted Are On Their Way
Rise from your couch
Way back in 2014 we reported that various Sega properties were being considered for TV and even movies. It sounds like these projects are one step closer to becoming a reality as two classic Sega properties - Altered Beast and Streets of Rage - have been added to the slate of Circle of Confusion (Fear The Walking Dead) and...
News Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Arrives on Wii U on 20th December
Just in time for Christmas
A couple weeks ago, it was announced that development on Shantae: Half-Genie Hero had been completed and that a release date was forthcoming. Fortunately, it has now been confirmed that the wait won't be much longer, the game releases in just a couple of weeks. WayForward recently updated the Kickstarter to announce that...
Video These Kids Might Be The Luckiest Mario Kart Fans In The World
Living the dream
Playing Mario Kart all day long is fun, but there's no substitute for having your very own circuit to race around in real life - and that's exactly what happened to two young fans of the series. Jack and Maddi Mello were given the treat of their lives when their parents Johnny and Krista created a track complete with working karts,...
Video Empoleon Struts His Stuff In New Pokkén Tournament Trailer
Hail the emperor (penguin)
Long rumoured as a new combatant in the excellent Pokkén Tournament, Empoleon is finally making his debut in the coin-op edition of the popular one-on-one brawler, and Bandai Namco has released a special trailer to mark the occasion. Packed with in-game action featuring the penguin-like Pokémon, the trailer shows the...
News Final Call For Pokémon European World Championship Early Registration
Last chance to be the very best
With today marking the start of the Pokémon inaugural international championship, The Pokémon Company have now announced the European International Championships. Arriving on British shores from 9th-11th December, this event is taking place in the heart of London at the ExCeL Exhibition Center. The first in a new...
Monday5th Dec 2016
News Retailer Accessories for Nintendo Switch Include Lengthy Charging Cables and Portable Cases
Nintendo says it's a 'home gaming system', but plenty see a portable
The core purpose of the Nintendo Switch is in the eye of the beholder. Nintendo is pitching it as its next 'home gaming system', which it can be, but many see a portable with the added bonus of easy integration for TV gaming. Is it a handheld that happens to be playable on TV, or a...
News Here's the Magearna Pokémon Sun and Moon QR Code for North America
Gotta scan 'em all
Distributions will come in a variety of forms in Pokémon Sun and Moon, with one method being QR codes. The QR Scanner function can only be used in the game after you've cleared the story, so it's an incentive to get through the campaign. As promised, The Pokémon Company has now distributed the first QR code; the North American...
Nintendo Download 8th December (Europe)
Excitebike 64! Retail DLC! Discounts! More!
Another week begins, and the European Download Update details are available to show what's on the way to the eShop in the coming days. There's a promising Virtual Console release, a whole lot of DLC for recent retail releases and more besides, so let's get to it. Wii U VIrtual Console: Excitebike 64...
Random A Glimpse of the Days When a Super Mario 64 Tease Tormented Luigi Fans
"L is Real 2401"
Nowadays game secrets don't remain elusive for long, especially in new releases. The internet picks apart and analyses games to the most extreme degree, meaning that - most of the time - we're just a Google search away from answers on shortcuts, easter eggs and all manner of small but fun details. Older titles had the benefit of...
News App Annie Outlines Super Mario Run's Chances of Being a Major Global Hit
The odds are good, basically
Super Mario Run is out soon on iOS (15th December), and is Nintendo's biggest mobile release to date - Pokémon GO, remember, isn't a Nintendo game. The moment Nintendo announced its partnership with DeNA in early 2015 most people will have said "there'll be a Mario runner", and they will have been right; nevertheless...
News Poochy & Yoshi’s Woolly World To Benefit From Frame Rate Bump On New Nintendo 3DS
Another reason to upgrade?
Wii U title Yoshi's Woolly World is getting a new lease of life next year thanks to the 3DS port Poochy & Yoshi's Woolly World, and according to Game Informer, it could offer existing 3DS owners another reason to consider upgrading to the more powerful New Nintendo 3DS. The magazine is reporting that the title runs at...
News Pokémon GO Plus Back in Stock at Nintendo's UK Store
'Tis the season to avoid scalpers
Like pretty much every desirable Nintendo product, the Pokémon GO Plus add-on has been relatively tricky to track down. The app's popularity has contributed to that, along with Nintendo's habit of only sending about three units to each country - we exaggerate, but only a little... In any case, the Plus is back in...
News SnowCastle Games Wants To Bring Earthlock: Festival Of Magic To Nintendo Switch
But of course
Kickstarter project Earthlock: Festival of Magic has taken its sweet time coming to the Wii U, one of the platforms originally mentioned in the crowdfunding campaign. It's still on course, with a release early in 2017 planned, but SnowCastle Games CEO Bendik Stang has now revealed that he and his team want to see the game on the...
News Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS Makes Modest UK Debut as Pokémon Stays in Top 10
The sun's not setting on the new generation yet
Major game releases will start to dry up in the final stretch towards the festive break, but some late-hitters have made an impact on the UK charts in the past week; Nintendo's big release didn't really join the party, however. FIFA 17 is still top (sigh) but Final Fantasy XV was the big new arrival...
Video Unboxing Those Lovely Super Mario Maker For Nintendo 3DS Bonus Goodies
Coasters! A Tin! A Book! A T-Shirt!
Super Mario Maker arrived on the 3DS last week and to celebrate the occasion - as well as encourage you to spend some cash, of course - the Official Nintendo UK Store has a range of special bundles which include the game itself as well as some bonus merchandise. We've been lucky enough to have been sent some of...
News Nintendo Goes Christmas Crazy With Special Festive Miitomo Drop Stage
You know you want that reindeer costume
Miitomo has had an injection of festive cheer with a new Miitomo Drop stage in which you can win Christmas-themed items. "Tis The Season! Happy Holidays!" has the following pieces of clothing on offer: Santa Miniskirt Set - Dress Santa Miniskirt Set - Boots Reindeer Head Reindeer Costume As ever, you have...
Sunday4th Dec 2016
Feature Xenoblade Chronicles X - One Year Later
Musing on Mira
In this article Gonçalo "Shiryu" Lopes shares his personal reflections on Xenoblade Chronicles X, the enthralling Wii U title. Exactly one year ago Wii U owners were given a unique opportunity to escape reality by embarking on the extremely difficult assignment: to beat extinction against all odds on Planet Mira. But Xenoblade...
Feature 10 Essential Wii U And 3DS Platformers
Jump to it
Not long ago we picked out 10 RPG gems that we think are pretty much indispensable for fans of the genre that own a 3DS. Now, with the recent release of Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS, we thought it was high time to look at the best of the platforming genre. To do the word 'essential' justice, though, this list takes in both the Wii U...
Feature The Nindie Christmas Celebration - Runbow Edition
Mitch Vogel on one of the multiplayer highlights of the eShop
With Christmas just around the corner, many a Nintendo gamer is perhaps asking "what should I buy?" Alas, there isn't a whole lot to look forward to in terms of new releases, so in this series we'll be spotlighting a menagerie of quality indie games that have shown up on the eShop over...
Saturday3rd Dec 2016
News F-Zero X Wii U Update Improves Controls and 'Deadzone' Issue
About "75% better", according to our resident F-Zero veteran
Back in early November we wrote about a problem with the Wii U Virtual Console release of F-Zero X in PAL territories. The buzz around a release of the 60Hz North American version was quickly lost when it was discovered that there was a notable 'deadzone' in the analogue controls. Our...
News The Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary amiibo Provide Food and Goodies in Breath of the Wild
Self-scan groceries
In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Link is more of a living, breathing character. He always has been, of course, but in the upcoming Switch / Wii U title you need to manage his clothing and diet to keep him healthy and ready for the environment. You'll need to catch, cook and prepare food to get through the challenge...
News Four Satellaview Kirby Mini-Games, Previously Thought to be Lost, Have Been Preserved
Kirby Pachislot Simulator
You might remember us bringing you the news early last month that four of the ten long lost "Kirby's Toy Box" Satellaview titles had surfaced and been successfully purchased at a Japanese auction. Thanks to the efforts of Frank Cifaldi and Mathew Callis enough money was raised by the community and the auction was won. All...
Review Octocopter: Super Sub Squid Escape (Wii U eShop)
What has tentacles, spins and shoots missiles?
In an unlikely but plausible(?) scenario an octopus and a submarine have lost their way and sunk to the bottom of the deep blue sea during an epic battle. With the octopus still latched onto to the spinning watercraft, the two enemies must now unite in order to escape from the deadly depths. This...
Friday2nd Dec 2016
News Toys 'R' Us Expecting Fresh NES Classic Mini Stock This Weekend
"They will sell very quickly"
Retail giant Toys 'R' Us has revealed that it will be getting more stock of the NES Classic Edition in its North American stores this Sunday. The console has been incredibly hard to find all over the globe, with demand far outstripping supply. Nintendo has stated previously that a steady flow of machines is expected...
Poll The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Share Your Thoughts on the Latest Footage
Has it left you breathless?
The Game Awards are done for another year, once again doing a solid job of showing and teasing major games, while throwing in some some unpredictable moments. For example in one performance rap duo Run the Jewels seemed to utter the line "I will punch a baby bear", which is a novel way to get some free press from a PETA...
Video Take a Look at The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild's New Trailer
It's worth a watch
A big part of the pre-show of The Game Awards 2016 was a new trailer for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It focuses on showing new environments and gives glimpses of villages, bigger towns and other characters. You can see it below, and fans are sure to pick it apart for details; there's plenty to see, including what may...
Reminder There's Another Chance to Pick Up Arceus for X, Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
It's time for judgment
It's been a year of awesome Anniversary Legendary distributions in the last-gen Pokémon games (as they are now), with some neat 'mon given away for X, Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. Most were distributed via the Nintendo Network, but some were more awkwardly tied to store distributions. One of these was Arceus in August,...
Live Blog Watch The Game Awards 2016, Featuring The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Live!
Reggie Fils-Aime also expected at the event
It's time, once again, for The Game Awards. Now in its third year, this show has established itself as one of the biggest of its kind and has started to build a solid reputation. Nintendo often has a decent presence, and this year there'll be exclusive new footage of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the...
Video Nintendo Shows Off New Area in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Check out Zonai Ruins
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild had two segments during The Game Awards, with the second being a brief Nintendo Treehouse playthrough of a new area; gameplay was on Wii U, notably. Link initially meets Kass, a travelling minstrel, and then we catch a glimpse of the 'Zonai Ruins' and different approaches to tackling the...
News 3D-Printed Toys-To-Life Title Inchvilles Coming To Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo Switch being considered, too
Hungarian studio Moragami has announced that it is bringing a new kind of toys-to-life experience to the Nintendo 3DS eShop. Inchvilles - so-called because the toys are an inch tall - is a 3D action platformer in which you must use your wits to collect all of the golden gems in each stage. The unique element of...
Video Everything You Wanted To Know About The Super Game Boy, But Were Afraid To Ask
Don't matter if you're black or white
The Super Game Boy accessory might seem a little pointless to modern gamers who are used to playing retro titles in a wide range of ways on various systems, but back in the early '90s it was a wise investment for the typical Nintendo fan. On the surface, the selling point was simple - you can play your portable...
News Retro Studios is Hiring and Tweeting, Which is Nice
We all want to know what the dev is making, of course...
Retro Studios is among the most admired of Nintendo's associated studios, having made its name with the Metroid Prime Trilogy and then by reinvigorating 2D DK gaming, most recently with Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze on Wii U. The studio has contributed to other games - including Mario...
News Zelda: Breath Of The Wild And Pokémon GO Win At The Game Awards 2016
No winner picked in controversial "Best Fan Creation" category
The Game Awards 2016 took place last night and Nintendo scooped awards in three categories. The phenomenon that is Pokémon GO won two awards - Best Mobile/Handheld and Best Family game - while Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was deemed to be the Most Anticipated upcoming title...
Video Prepare for Pixel Goodness With the Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment Trailer
'Prequel' will be standalone adventure, but still free with the main game
Yacht Club Games has gone to impressive lengths to deliver on crowdfunding promises and to keep expanding the brilliant Shovel Knight. As expected it released fresh footage of the next expansion during The Game Awards - Specter of Torment. What's fascinating is that it'll be...
News Metroid Developers Reflect on the Development Process of the Original Metroid
Samus was mistakenly named after a Brazilian soccer player
The Metroid series is one of those franchises that has a ravenous and loyal fanbase, but doesn't always have the best of luck. It's been in something of a slump lately, with the middling Metroid Prime: Federation Force being something of an anticlimactic comeback after 2010's Metroid: Other...
Video A Look At Pokémon GO as Played Using Augmented Reality Glasses
Virtual Insanity
The Pokémon GO craze during the Summer meant that you didn't have to go far before seeing the tell-tale signs of people playing it; anyone stood in an unlikely place looking at their phone was probably catching pocket monsters. The app is still rather popular, too, and tech companies continually use it as a platform to explore...
News Monster Hunter Generations December DLC Has Blanka And Chun-Li Felyne Armour
As well as special gear designed by Square-Enix's Tetsuya Nomura
Capcom has lifted the lid on Monster Hunter Generations' free DLC offerings for December, and Street Fighter fans have a lot to smile about. Take part in the "SF: Ultimate Entrance Exam" Prowler Quest and you can win Blanka and Chun-Li armour sets for your Felyne companions. Also up...
Video A Modern Take on the Virtual Boy is Still a Bit Ridiculous
But we love it
A short while ago we shared an episode of the The Ben Heck Show where he deconstructed and repaired a Virtual Boy; it was an interesting look into how the machine works. Now, as promised, a follow-up episode rebuilds it and tries to modernise the device, dispensing of the infamous 'stand' and redesigning it as a head mounted display...
Video A Brief Interview with One of the Original Nintendo Power Line Counselors
They were simpler times
One of the most notable features of the days of the NES was the existence of the Nintendo Power Line. Seeing as it would be several years before the internet became usable to the world, obtaining information back in the day was mostly related to schoolyard discussions and advice from that one kid whose dad worked for...
Video Pokémon Generations Episode 15: The King Returns is Suitably Dramatic
It's all heating up
There are only a few weeks left of the Pokémon Generations episodes on YouTube, the hugely popular series that has been dramatizing the plot lines and lore of the 'main' games. Another new episode is live, but as we missed last week's here - your humble writer apologises - they're below as a catch-up. Episode 13: The Uprising...
News Shigeru Miyamoto Will Be Showing Off Super Mario Run At NY Apple Store Next Week
He'll be chatting to Katie Linendoll, too
Apple has confirmed that Shigeru Miyamoto will be visiting its SoHo, New York store to demo the forthcoming Super Mario Run smartphone game on Thursday, December 8th. Miyamoto will appear at 6:00PM alongside tech expert and TV personality Katie Linendoll, and is expected to "share the importance of fun and...
Thursday1st Dec 2016
Nintendo Download 1st December (North America)
Super Mario Maker 3DS! Advance Wars: Dual Strike! Hyperlight EX! More!
It's that time, once again, for the North American Nintendo Download Update. This time around there's a major retail arrival on 3DS, a DS classic on the Wii U and some interesting 'Nindie' efforts. Let's get right to it, shall we? Missed the European Nintendo Download Update?...
News Meloetta is Now Being Distributed to the Gen 6 Pokémon Games
Get it while you can
With all the hype around Pokémon Sun and Moon, it seems that the earlier games on 3DS have largely fallen by the wayside. All the same, the Pokémon Company has been regularly distributing Legendary and Mythical Pokémon each month via the mystery gift to Pokémon X and Y and Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. Now the time...
News My Nintendo Rewards Site Gets A Fetching Facelift
New rewards and "Child Accounts" available, too
The My Nintendo rewards programme hasn't been running all that long but Nintendo has already given the main site something of a makeover. Almost every element of the site has been updated, with a new main page and refreshed sections for current rewards, points balances and ongoing missions. There are...
News My Nintendo Gets Plenty of Legend of Zelda Goodies in North America
Discounts, themes, and also Flipnote Studio 3D
With the start of the month comes the standard My Nintendo updates, and now the North American equivalent is on board. Capitalising on the buzz of upcoming footage of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the rewards are mostly focused around the iconic franchise. Details are below; as you can see...
Feature The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Five Things We Still Want to See
Some of which may be glimpsed during The Game Awards
Back in late 2014, such innocent times, we got a good look at what is now The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild during The Game Awards. It was an enjoyable segment, during which Eiji Aonuma and Shigeru Miyamoto showed a decent amount of off-screen footage, though the game has certainly changed a...
Video Image & Form Discusses Nintendo Switch Capabilities and 'Cool Facts'
With an eye on its NDA, of course
The Nintendo Switch is going to be revealed more fully in January, with press and preview events also due around the same time. More questions will be answered, and we'll hopefully have a good taste of what the system will have to offer when it arrives in March. Image & Form is one of the developers that's working...
News Ubisoft Director Says Nintendo Switch May Unite the Casual and Hardcore Gaming Audiences
Best of both worlds?
We're only about four months away now from the official release of the Nintendo Switch, and pre-release reaction certainly does seem to be quite positive. Naturally, developers are always talking up a storm ahead of any console's launch, but the Switch's unique positioning as both a handheld and home console has gotten a lot of...
Video Learn How to Make a Tiny and Functional Game Boy for Your Keychain
And play The Witcher 3 on it, sure
We've often shared our admiration for the technical wizardry that's often applied to console mods and creations, as talented gamers see how far they can push readily available tools for unique results. Now there's what is possibly the smallest Game Boy in the world doing the rounds, and it works. A keynote from...
News Pokémon Sun And Moon Is Nintendo's Fastest-Selling Game In The Americas, Ever
85 percent up on Pokémon X & Y
Pokémon Sun and Moon has already broken records in the UK and Europe and sold by the bucketload in Japan, and now it has been confirmed that the game is the fastest-selling
News Sonic And Tails Are Spin-Dashing To Build-A-Bear Workshop
Ringing in the changes
Teddy bear maker Build-A-Bear Workshop is marking Sonic's 25th with two special plush toys. Sonic comes as part of a special bundle which includes the 17-inch toy, a gold ring and an art print produced exclusively for the retailer by Sonic Team, all for $35. Also available is Sonic's trusty sidekick Tails, who is slightly...
News New Mario Happy Meal Toys Are Coming To Japanese McDonald’s Next Year
What is Mario doing on his chocolate throne?
Following news that the UK McDonald's outlets will be getting a fresh line of Super Mario Happy Meal toys next year, we've now hearing reports that Japanese restaurants will also be receiving new figures around the same time. The hook of this particular range is that each toy recreates famous actions...
News Reggie Confirmed For On-Stage Appearance At The Game Awards 2016
The main man himself
The Game Awards 2016 take place tonight and host Geoff Keighley has confirmed that Nintendo of America boss Reggie Fils-Aime will be appearing on-stage at some point during the event. From Keighley's comments it sounds like Reggie is going to be presenting on-stage. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will be shown during...
News Yacht Club Games All Set to Show New Material at The Game Awards
Specter Knight content seems like a good bet
Shovel Knight has been out for quite some time, yet Yacht Club Games is still diligently working through its original Kickstarter stretch goals to deliver free updates to the game. The next content due is 'Specter of Torment', and it looks like a good bet that we'll get a look at it during the pre-show...
News Empoleon is Coming to the Arcade Version of Pokkén Tournament
So the rumours were true
You've gotta give the developers of Pokkén Tournament credit, they've kept the game going for quite some time post-release with new characters. Though the Wii U version hasn't really gotten the benefit of receiving these new fighters, their existence in the arcade version mean that there's always a chance that an update...
News The Man Behind Goosebumps And Monsters Vs. Aliens Is Directing The Detective Pikachu Movie
Say hello to Rob Letterman
Legendary Entertainment has confirmed that Rob Letterman will be directing the live-action Pokémon movie Detective Pikachu. Letterman has helmed projects such as Goosebumps, Monsters Vs. Aliens, Gulliver's Travels and Shark Tale, the latter of which he wrote as well as directed. He is also currently attached to a new...
News Check Out This Officially Licensed Famicom Stationary Collection
Want a Famicom pen?
With the recent launch of the NES/Famicom Mini, Nintendo's debut home console has seen something of a pop culture resurgence. It's always been an iconic piece of tech, so it's no surprise that Nintendo hasn't been afraid to dip into its past a bit to tap into nostalgia every now and then. Of course, the new microconsole has been...
News Pokémon GO's Nearby Tracking Feature Now Live In The UK
Rest of the US and parts of Europe coming shortly, too
Pokémon GO's "Nearby" tracking feature - which replaces the previous tracking element of the app that was turned off a while ago - is now live in the United Kingdom. The feature shows which Pokéstop each monster is closest to, narrowing down your search for rare and elusive 'mon. Niantic has...
