@Sushie "Here's to hoping it doesn't SUCK! (get it, suck, like a VAMPIRE?)". Cheers, your comment 36 is fine tuned to my daft sense of humour. Ha, ha if this one sucks I'll fly straight over to Konami's Japan offices and exclaim "Castlevania ReBirth sucks Konami......you can just go and bite me!", gggrrrroooooaaaaannnnnnn. lol. Except, I wouldn't really say that! I haver never even flown to Japan and if I ever met anyone from Konami I would really mumble "pleased to meet you Mr Konami, sir.... I am a huuuuuge fan of Contra ReBirth, Ms Konami, ma'am" and "would you please sign my Super Famicom Contra Spirits box....", ending with "I'm not worthy!", etc, etc.
My friend raves about iPhone 'Castle of Magic' and I am a fan as well, although I have only had a short play of it. Gameloft are focused on becoming master iPhone developers ('Siberian Strike', 'Gangstar', 'Modern Combat: Sandstorm', 'Blades of Fury' and forthcoming 'Shrek Kart' and 'N.O.V.A'). It will be a real bonus to Nintendo gamers if they polish up these titles on iPhone, through incremental updates, and then bring quality ports to platforms like the DS.
I am repeating myself on this, and I am completely with @Djungelurban and @Damo , but 'Axelay ReBirth' makes absolute sense. Especially when when you consider its constant action, spectacular bosses, the switch between horizontal/vertical viewpoints and off course the "wrap around the world", rolly, scrolly mode 7. I am still shouting for 'Sunset Riders ReBirth'. It had a colour packed Western setting, plus truly funny character design and dialogue. Fact is, any cowboy that heads into a gunfight in yellow trousers, a pink hat, pink holster and pink neckerchief, just like Steve, must be absolutely, no nonsense nails. lol.
Perhaps Konami have realised from the popularity and the sales of Contra ReBirth, that there is a massive retro market with an hungry appetite for these new editions of their classic franchises. Our pounds and dollars may have spoken, they may have even prioritised us as a market. This will hopefully mean that we no longer have to wait so long after the Japanese release for further 'ReBirth' editions (16 bit Western release lags were no fun at all, in fact they were literally a drag!) This is great news all around, I can not wait to play it and I also can't wait to see the first release screen shots. Oooooh, the anticipation. Konami have quickly become my retro gaming WiWare "publisher of choice".
I am with @redflicky on that one, pirated games completely suck. The developers have put their work and creativity into building all these virtual worlds, so I pay to play. If I can't afford brand new titles, then I wait and buy on discount or second hand. Modding your consoles with 60 htz switches and the ability to be region free is cool, but chipping to play copied games sucks, too. It is interesting the lengths that pirates must have gone to have Sonic's little red sneakers running on the SNES, though. It was a big deal in the playgrounds of the time, that MD had Sonic and SNES had Mario and each fanboy at the time secretly wanted to be able to play their mates exclusive "system seller" on their own console. Ah, the wonders of choice the multi-format 'Virtual Console' enables.
@SuperSonic1990 Cheers to you for helping me to decide that my "Friday, just finished a tough week" game will be 'Turtles in Time Re-Shelled' on PSN. @SmaMan Thank you for sharing your knowledge, I did not know there was a hacked Sonic type cart. You learn something new every day! @Tony I'm glad that other gamers shout out for Super Double Dragon/ Return of Double Dragon, it was little bit neglected back in the day, but I still somehow managed to end up with two carts (Pal and Japanese). There was one stage where they cranked up the original Double Dragon music and I was brimming with 1987 nostalgia, even in 1992!
@redflicky I can't tell if I am confusing people left right and centre, if you're are making jokes or if I am missing the point and you are asking a real question. There is hardly any inference or gage of expression on a comments board, so I'll stop acting daft for a minute. I thought you were joking, so I was joining in by making silly references to a Commodore 64 'Super Mario Bros' rip off called 'The Great Giana Sisters', a game in which Nintendo's legal might put an end to, because it was so similar in gameplay to their title. It merely replaced Mario with a blonde haired female character. No, Sonic the Hedgehog was not on the SNES. The closest game available was one which was similar in gameplay. This was Konami's 'Sparkster', which is still a nice little fast paced SNES platformer. I hope that this does not come across as patronising.
@Betagam7 If you know about the original C64 Mario Bros then I'm guessing that you also know that I meant the time when he put on a fetching yellow wig, transformed into a punk rock chick, looked like he had bust his face up falling through the ugly tree for the 'Rainbow Arts' cassette art,..... ....oh and he changed his name to 'Giana'.
I read lots of gaming magazines, but I never read any video games books, which does not make any sense when you think about it. Perhaps David’s Sheff’s 'Game Over', would be a good starting point, although Damien is pretty clear that it would be difficult to obtain this one. Sometimes it is interesting to read something from the perspective of an author who is not a massive video game fan, but is still respectful to their source material. I did notice in Retro Gamer issue 68 that they recommend two books in their 'Retro Booty' section ('The Ultimate History of Video Games' and 'Supercade'). Wasn't there a TV documentary which took a rare look into the world of Nintendo and their place within the industry, including interviews with some key Nintendo people? I half remember it was a little bit lacking in objectivity, although I could be wrong. It might have even been by the BBC. Could anyone jog my memory on this one?
Oh yeah, Nintendo Life 'Super Nintendo Review Friday' is a great idea, we are in for a treat all the way up until Christmas @Maniac (comment 5) I was always mad for side scrolling beat 'em ups in their early '90s heyday too. 'Super Double Dragon' was underrated, its block and cheeky repeated slap moves were cool. Trouble is, it was so slow, even when played as NTSC 60 htz. @SuperSonic1990 (comment 19), @PhoenixSage (comment 10) and @BulbasaurusRex (comment 23) I am a fan of 'Turtles in Time', too. It was a simple brawler, but packed colour, fun animations, mode 7 enemy launching and was worth a blast in multiplayer. I think that I will download the "fresh lick of paint" version off PSN soon. I would really love to see a 'Ninja Warriors Again' review, I would even lend Nintendo Life my Japanese cartridge if it meant that it got included, although I am sure that they will already have it in their collection. lol That would make for a cool feature; 'Nintendo Life: Staff Gaming Collections'. Anyways, roll on this Friday.
The combination of the fact that I never played LostWinds, with my inclination towards collecting tangible games on my dusty shelves, makes @SeanAaron 's "deluxe disc" idea a brilliant concept for me. Darren's question referring to the light hearted nature of LostWinds compared to previous Braben releases was a great way to discuss how his approach has adapted as a developer. Cheers, an excellent interview Nintendo Life.
Wow, this must have really impressed, I wonder how many games have got a Nintendo Life 10/10 so far. I was not even a little bit interested in this game before, it was simply not a priority, but Corbie's review has completely grabbed my attention, especially in the conclusion with the comment which @TurboGenesis64 quoted, above. Thanks Corbie.
In my eyes Konami pitched Gradius ReBirth and Contra ReBirth perfectly, both were so true to their respective franchises, that they were a real treat bit of fan service. Those games took the concept of 16 bit visuals and sound, with just a few added bells and whistles, such as graphical effects that may not have been possible on the SNES or Mega Drive. I would place my money on this 'Castlevania the Adventure ReBirth' being based mainly on SNES Castlevania IV, possibly with a hint of Mega Drive The New Generation/ Vampire Killer/ Bloodlines or if we are really lucky the PC Engine Super CD-Rom Dracula X: Rondo of Blood. I feel as though Konami are making these ReBirth games just for me at the moment. They could not turn out any more ideally suited to my taste, even if I was at Konami's Japanese HQ with a huge A4 notebook wish list, including sketches and instructions for everything I wanted them to include. lol.
Completely amazing news, lots of Nintendo Life users predicted this one and had it on their Wii-sh list. Konami must have listened, so 'job well done' everyone If anyone knows Jedi mind tricks, persuade Konami for 'Axelay ReBirth' and 'Sunset Riders ReBirth', for me please. Cheers.
@BassX0 I have the Capcom Collection on PSP and PS2 (volume 2) as well and I found Street Fighter 1 (aka TG16 Fighting Street) arcade to be a disappointment. I found the transition through the emulation lost a lot in the controls, particularly as some arcades incorporated pressure sensitive pads. I felt that the imprecise Capcom Classics Collection Street Fighter 1 controls increased the difficulty in an unfair manner, although I was under the impression that there was a fun game somewhere in its design. I would hazard a guess that the PC Engine CD Rom version of this would have smoother joypad control (ie easier to input special moves), I am also interested to hear if it has more detailed, improved graphics.
My first impressions on looking over this review, before I'd even read it were "the red Emperor's Royal Guard sprites in the top banner look class", followed by, "it'll be a battle to get through to those later levels, to be able to fight them, though". I'm glad that the difficulty has been adjusted and thanks Spencer, it is a positive review, I will buy this further down the line. I remember in 1995 Super Play (Iss. 30) reviewed Super Return of the Jedi, but were a bit more harsh in their words, "formulaic platform fare", "lame bunch of secondary villains", "A big disappointment" and closing with "polished, but essentially repetitive and all-too-familiar". I listened to reviews far more vehemently back then and for that reason, I did not buy it. This review suggests that I missed out. Mind you, both reviews ended with a similar score (Super Play gave it 79%).
@Sean Aaron: In an ideal world, some millionaire genius would open a huge chain of video game arcades in the UK with tons of classic and mint retro cabinets, so that everyone like us could head over there and play games just like the old days. There has to be a "business" there somewhere, they could charge 30p a go and still get loads of visitors (I know that I'm dreaming). I went for a weekend at Southport and the seaside arcade was rammed with fruit machines, metal claws to gap prizes, ten pence waterfalls etc (although, me and my girlfriend had fun on the Air Hockey table!). It was massive, but only had about 10 arcade machines. The most nostalgic sit down cabinet in Southport, was Namco's Lucky & Wild. @Crunc: I've never thought about retro compilations from that perspective, I remember when I was a kid there was an arcade that put the more adult content video games machines next to the gambling machines and you had to be 18 to go into that section. On Midway Arcade Treasures 2, NARC is even more inappropriate for a kid than Smash TV (e.g. drug references as well as exploding bodies).
Yay, I've finished Contra Rebirth on Easy and it's everything I hoped it would be. Area 3 is cool, mode 7 enemies are presented like the opposite of Turtles in Time (i.e. they fly into the screen rather than being flung out). Easy level is actually very fair for a Contra game, generous even, especially by letting you keep hold of your weapons after you die and providing unlimited continues. There is no 'Barrier' collectible this time though, correct me if I am wrong fellow Nintendo Lifers. Do not be put off downloading this, if you think it will be too difficult. I think it is the most accessible Contra yet. Those after a challenge can simply up the difficulty and limit you continues. Plus, I am happy with 5 action packed levels, even if the game is short. Late '80s arcade games often had a similar lifespan, it was all about the replayability and I already know that I'll repeatedly be going back to this one.
I want Wario Land Shake It!, Klonoa, Muramasa on Wii and KOF XII, BlazBlue, Ghostbusters, Battle Fantasia on PS3... etc etc...&...I really want WiiWare Contra ReBirth. "You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes... you'll get what you need". You know the chime when NES Fire Mario headers coin blocks to download a new game. He gets more and more frantic the closer you get to completing the download. It is magic that isn't it? Goodbye comments board, hello Contra ReBirth! I will return to join back in on the discussion later (possibly, much, much later!).
I should add to my above comment that if any publishers are listening, I do love MAME, but I would be much happier if I was buying all of the Arcade titles I mentioned. I would snap them up if they were available to download or on retro compilation. Publishers/Devs created all of the gaming fun, so I would rather pay to play it. For me, emulation is the last place I visit, when I am chasing gaming memories and there is no where else I can find them. I realistically can not afford arcade cabs, pcbs, supergun etc. Also my girlfriend is already not exactly over the moon that our poxy little flat (I love it really) is already brimming with consoles, computers, game boxes, peripherals etc. lol
I agree Sean, no doubt about it, MAME is completely awesome as well. Especially to play licensed games that may never seen the light of day without some publisher & big business deals and wrangling. I am particularly a fan of Chase HQ and Konami's Simpsons Arcade and Aliens. Also when TMNT Arcade and Turtles in Time were emulated to GCN, they had to remove the original, boppy tune, just like Taito Rainbow Islands lost "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" remix on Taito Legends. Then again, I would not mind too much if Virtual Console Arcade received an arcade version of Chase HQ, which removed the real cars. If Taito are listening, I would definitely buy it. Licensing and copyright eh, messing about with our memories!
@StarBoy91 There are plenty of PS2 retro style goodies available, as I am sure you know. I often boot up Gradius III, IV & V, R-Type Final, Psyvariar, Steel Dragon X, Raiden III, Sol Divide, SNK vs Capcom Chaos, 1945 I & II, Guilty Gear X2 & Isuka, Street Fighter Alpha Anthology, Sonic Gems, Outrun 2006, Gunbird SE, World Heroes/KOF/Art of Fighting/Fatal Fury collections, Robocod, Crazy Taxi etc etc These PAL titles were all bought so cheap, I felt bad that the shops were letting these classic go at such a discount, based upon their own understanding of what value a retro titles hold. Some UK gaming shops have no idea about what some gamers view as classic games. The Wii will build a similar base of retro classics over time, it already has a stunning variety of downloads and I hope that disc based compilations continue too (ie. Metal Slug Anthology, SNK Arcade Classics, the proposed Data East collection etc). Regardless, there is a downpour of wonderment for retro gamers at the moment. "I'm singing in the rain"
PS2 has some absolutely amazing retro arcade collections. If you do not own a PS2, I would seriously buy one cheap if you're a retro fan, just to play 'Taito Legends 1 '(Continental Circus, New Zealand Story, Ninja Kids, Rainbow Islands, I even play Thunderfox). The lightgun shooters Operation Wolf/Thunderbolt are fairly fun even though they are pad control only. I would particularly purchase a copy of 'Taito Legends 2' (Darius Gaiden, Don Doko Don, Gekirindan, even Growl and especially the awesome Elevator Action Returns). Nt. PSP has a slightly more basic 'Taito Legends' available for import from Japan, too. I know that this is a Nintendo site, so if Taito ever decided to release a collection on Wii, then combining the brilliance of the two PS2 compilations would be a super, smashing, great li'l idea.
Sorry @KDR_11k , my DS Contra 4 smart bomb comment 29 was pretty vague. I've been playing Contra 4 today, in preparation for Contra ReBirth. It has smart bombs in rare and limited spots, when I first played this game I thought they were useless icons (they look like empty golden eagle weapon slots). However, if you collect them, they will destroy all basic enemies on screen. Contra developers are rarely that kind and they have placed these smart bomb collectibles in such awkward places, that I often die trying to collect them! lol
@KDR_11k I quite like smart bombs as a last resort , they give me a bit of power back, a clear the screen option. DS Contra 4 did have smart bombs, but they were pretty limited. I also missed not being able to call up the ESWAT car in Streets of Rage 2. lol.
Excellent Review Marcel, I like the idea that some levels represent a nostalgic throwback to previous Contras, particularly Contra III, and the ability to unlock new characters. It’s a shame about them leaving out the smart bombs and double firepower, but I imagine that you can still juggle between two weapons. The smart bomb decision seems a bit inexplicable, like Nintendo leaving feathers out of later Mario Karts. I’m looking forward to hearing those Contra remixes, too. Anyone who follows me on Twitter ( Jamie_iPodTouch ), will know that I’ve been blathering on about looking forward to Contra Rebirth for a while now. I am really pleased that it has lived up to expectations and earned a Nintendo Life 8/10 stars. I am hyped up about playing it even more now, these are the best gaming times, reading a cracking review and waiting patiently to play the game myself. Have lots of fun with this one, Euro Wii owning ‘Run and Gun’ fans, it is obviously a treat. I will watch this comments board for further reflections on all of your alien blasting & blobby bullet dodging, fun times. In the meantime I will continue to be patient and cross my fingers that it receives that US Labor Day (Monday Sept 7th) release date, tomorrow. Thank you @Drake
Thanks again @KDR_11k , it appears as though Konami went full throttle with the wackiness for Mega Drive ‘Contra: Hard Corps’! I have seen the screens with the "cyborg wolf with a minigun" arm, but I did not know about the Simon Belmont boss. The developer’s creativity and imagination was working overtime on that one. At least Konami were blatant about the game's difficulty in its sub-title. Perhaps they should have called it ‘Konami Krazy Kruel Kontra’. It definitely looks and sounds like fun and I would still buy it if it was on Virtual Console, even if I only got to play the first level.
@Sean Aaron (comment 12) That is cool mate, I did figure your comment was meant for the staff. I was just thinking that I had copies of both games and the hardware to play them on, sitting at home. I noticed you have a 'Join The Team' link and it is clear that you’re “not currently looking for any new staff at present”. I’ve been reading the Nintendo Life coverage for a while, I followed the progress of Virtual Console Reviews and its amalgamation with the current site. I particularly like to read all of the retro coverage, whether in the Retro, Virtual Console or WiiWare sections. However, until now I have been a passive bystander, just reading the information and not joining in on comments/forums etc. I am actually really enjoying participating in discussions, writing comments and having little chats with all the Nintendo Life users and staff. There is definitely a lot of clued up, friendly and knowledgeable gamers following your site. You have all built a solid community and I’m glad to be a part of it. Thank you @Panda (comment 15), I plan on heading over to the forums soon. Cheers for your reply Sean and thanks to everyone at Nintendo Life
Cheers @KDR_11k , for filling my gap in Contra character knowledge. I am a little embarrassed to say that, despite being a Mega Drive fan, Contra Hard Corps is pretty much the only Contra game I have never played (I have not played original GameBoy Contra, either). I have played a few of its levels on the GameBoy Advance Contra, though. Does MD Hard Corps compare favourably to SNES Contra Spirits? I would definitely buy Contra Hard Corps if it turned up on Virtual Console.
@Sean Aaron (comment 9). I am new to Nintendo Life, so I am not sure how your comment "if someone else wants to review them?" works. I presume that you are referring to another member of the Nintendo Life team, not for a user to review them. I write for an iPhone gaming site, so it would be possible to link to a review on my blog. This may not be "good practise" though, as it would basically be tenuous plug for our iPhone site, through your far larger, established, popular and successful Nintendo Life. I can play both Midway Arcade Treasures 2 and 3 on either my import Gamecube or Wii. I would be up for writing a review, especially of no.2 (how I would explain a GCN review on an iPhone blog, I don’t know!). Anything I write is on a voluntary basis, wherever it is posted. I do not take any payment for my iPhone reviews. You may even mean for a user to post a short review on this comments board (I noticed that a user posted up their short, fan based perspective review of Gradius Rebirth). I realise that you do not mean to submit a review to Nintendo Life and I understand that Nintendo Life have a big staff team and do not need any new writers.
Cheers Sean, this is the 2nd of your retro GCN collection reviews that I've read in a week (see Namco Museum 50th Anniversary). Thanks for the intro history on Midway Home Entertainment, too. This explains their reasoning to be the first company to really present retro gamers with a "jam-packed" collection, (Midway Arcade Treasures had about 24 titles). I remember thinking "back of the net!", when I imported this on my US GCN, back in 2003. Highlights for me were Paperboy, Gauntlet, Roadblasters, Toobin' and Rampage. The Smash TV announcer still cracks me up and the Paperboy tune fills me with nostalgia. I really wanted to love 720 degrees, but I suck at it and I lose at that game so often, it hurts (damn bees). Its a shame about the lack of a UK release, PAL PS2/Xbox owners could pick this up for about £4 in game shops today (17p a game, bargain). I like Midway Arcade Treasures 2 & 3 as well, especially no.2 which represents the late '80s to early '90s arcade era really well. However, I will wait for the Nintendo Life review of those, before I write my comments.
In regards to my above comment 19, previously I had only read Corbie Dillard's Gradius Rebirth Review, I had not read any of the 124 comments below it, so I did not realise that a debate had already taken place about the validity of review scores. I definitely do not want to be the Nintendo Life noob who accidentally re-opens a can of worms. First off, I completely understand the diversity of Nintendo Life's readership, which is why reviews can not be solely written for people who have enthusiastically, possibly blindly, followed an entire franchise like me (as I said I'm a fanboy). Secondly, any reviewer with detailed shmup knowledge ranging from Otomedius Gorgeous, Gradius V, Mars Matrix, Parodius/ Twinbee/ Salamander PSP collections to Cave PCBs in an arcade cabinet (Deathsmiles, Muchi Muchi Pork, Ibara, & Espgaluda II) and compiled a top 100 shooter list, has actually earned my curiosity and increased my interest to read more about what they have to say. The game could get a 3 and I would still want to read their opinion. As was mentioned in the comments, the actual words in the review assemble a more detailed game analysis than any score at the end. I think that it is cool that many Nintendo Life users turned that comments board into a quality discussion about shooters in general, by the end. Fair play I was not having a 6 month late dig Corbie, I promise.
@jbrodack (comment 34) I agree about Shattered Soldier's difficulty level, there was not any chancing my way through those levels, that game forced me to fully learn enemy attack patterns. Oh, and what was with the incarcerated Bill, new character Cyborg lady (possibly a nod to the atrocity that was Euro Pal Probotector, then again probably not!) and Lance has gone bad story? I'm not sure if it was funny, or just horribly tragic!
Cheers @Dazza (comment 18), I was hoping that you would post a comparison, because it was clear from your Contra III: The Alien Wars Review (Virtual Console- SNES), that you appreciated what I consider to be the best in the series (9/10) Your list is spot on, whilst the Mode 7 and background effects sound really cool, the lack of smart bombs and dual wielding is a worry (I enjoyed the Mega Drive levels on GBA, but weren’t no dual weapons and the lack of top down Mode 7, the main complaints about GBA Contra?). Thing is I'm such a fanboy that even though Gradius Rebirth only scored a 6, the play time and enjoyment I got out of it was like I was playing an 8 star game. If Contra Rebirth snatches a Nintendo Life 7/10, then roll on Monday, because in the eyes of this beholder I'll be reveling in a 9/10 game. lol. Nice one, Darran.
@cowboy (comment 29) It is an all new Contra game, which is respectful to the arcade roots of previous games in the series. Obviously I have not played it, but it looks like more of a homage and continuation of SNES Contra III: Alien Wars, than later efforts like PS2 Shattered Soldier, (both visually and in its pacing/action set pieces. However, get your spread guns and flamethrowers ready... I actually really enjoyed Shattered Soldier, which gamesTM gave a meager 5/10 in issue 1).
@Omega 's comment 9 is such an perceptive idea, it is pretty much genius! Hopefully Konami think in exactly the same way.Castlevania IV Rebirth or Symphony of the Night Rebirth? (both!). I'd like.... (deep breath)...... Axelay/Parodius/Goemon/Twinbee/Vendetta/Salamander/Sunset Riders and Sparkster Rebirth. Please !! Konami have an awesome development history
Oh yeah, this news bodes well for me to download it on my import US Wii, through the Brazilian Wii Shop Channel account, this Monday. I am sure that one of the Nintendo Life reviewers is beavering away as I type this, to give us the full lowdown following today’s European release. I just hope that it holds up in comparison to Contra III: Alien Wars and does not end up a damp squib! Surely not.
I will start off a 'Namco Arcade Retro Fun' list: Pac Land, Splatterhouse, Marvel Land, Final Lap 2 & 3, Rolling Thunder 2 and 3, Lucky and Wild, Ridge Racer, Tekken and Time Crisis.
If Namco released a compilation with these titles for Wii, I would place an import pre-order straight away.
Oh and if Namco had The Outfoxies on it, I would buy 2 copies. One to play and the other to keep sealed, display on my bookcase and repeatedly state that "I never expected this to happen in a million years".
This is a spot on review, I bought the GameCube version of Namco Museum: 50th Anniversary and I came away massively disappointed. My brother had more fun because he is a Pole Position nut, but I only really played Rolling Thunder, Dragon Spirit, Galaga '88 and Pacmania (last 2 are unlockables). Namco could really learn from Sega's ‘Megadrive Ultimate Collection' and release over 45 classic games for this generation. Retro Gamers have greater expectations now, for too long Namco have had the same only early to mid- ‘80s titles on their compilations. I am sure Nintendo Life readers could compile a list of 40 Namco classics.
@bro2dragons (comment 21)- If Arcade Captain America and the Avengers is on the collection you will be in luck , because it is the same game as the SNES version, but lots better. Graphically it is stronger, with better defined sprites and backgrounds which cover the whole screen (the SNES version had a black bar at the top of the screen for characters profile pics, lives & energy levels). The arcade cab could allow for 4 player games too, the SNES was only 2 players simultaneous. On another note, Robocop 2 would be intriguing to play. I never played it, but reviews in old mags show that it had large chunky sprites and Harley Davidson motorbike chasing, as well as the usual side scrolling shooty bits.
There are so many Data East games here on my Wii-sh list. I am a huge Midnight Resistance fan, going right back to it being the first game I ever completed (the brilliant Amiga conversion). The Megadrive did a fine job with the graphics, but was single player only and had trouble emulating the arcade's control. The 2 sticks on the GameCube controller may just be able to handle it. Arcade Caveman Ninja (Joe & Mac) was superior to SNES version and Bad Dudes (Dragon Ninja) is a fun, jump across the top of a truck, 2-player fighter. I would be interested to compare Bloody Wolf and Vigilante (linked with Irem) to the PC Engine versions. Sadly, there is little chance for Robocop and Captain America and the Avengers for licensing reasons. Never say never, though. I'm chuffed it is a compilation; I do like to have tangible, hard copy discs and boxes to build a physical/concrete games collection. (well, not literally concrete!)
My comment will probably sound like gobbledygook, because I live in Merseyside, but I am well jealous of Pal Wii owners right now (serves me right for importing my US Wii).
2D side scrolling 'Run and Guns' games are easily my favourite genre and I am looking forward to Contra Rebirth most of all. Every day I'm saying to my girlfriend "I can't wait for Contra Rebirth" and she always replies "Ahhh, that is nice.... What is Contra Rebirth?". She is sweet like that, always eager to listen and talk about gaming!
As soon as this is out for my US Wii, I am taking a DDO (Dissertation Day Off!).
US (well Brazilian!) releases very soon, please Konami ? !!!
@Terranigma (comment 48) I wonder how likely it is that Hudson would contunue their DoReMi series? I had never played, or even knew about, DoReMi Fantasy: Milon's DokiDoki Adventure (SNES) when it was first released and it turned out be a sweet, li'l hidden gem on Virtual Console. I would not place money on it being Hudson's next WiWare franchise update though!
Bonk looks a bit smaller now, like the camera has been pulled back, to allow for widescreen presentation. Hudson have given him a new gnarly little Rugrat look as well, just to stir things up and the spiky headed, punk rock kid might be to distinguish players for co-op.
I am optimistic about this, I don't mind its visual style. He is a great character and it is always good for a laugh to dive him head first onto baddies, climb walls with his teeth and repeatedly head butt the air to float. The Prehistoric based setting should be atmospheric, I’m wondering if he will climb and swim around inside a dinosaurs belly this time.
I sympathise completely with bro2dragons (comment 10). If I import Muramasa to UK it will cost about £37 ($60 USD) with posting, which is completely reasonable. However, I have still not bought Wario Land: Shake It! or Wii Klonoa. I find myself increasingly spending my pennies on WiWare and particularly Virtual Console downloads, they're so cheap and easy. Trouble is, as sad as it makes me sound, I actually miss building a collection of all my titles stacked as game boxes!
Wow, Super Empire Strikes Back has received a snappy release; it seemed like just yesterday that Super Star Wars was debuting on Virtual Console. I appreciate the point about Hoth's AT-AT battles, we should feel lucky that the Wii has GameCube backwards compatibility. I may even play Rogue Leader or Rebel Strike tonight, they still look mighty fine. Talk about not aging one bit. It is a shame about Factor 5
I live in UK, but I have an American Wii. I normally import from an online Canadian shop, they are listing this as available on Tues 1st Sept 2009, but that can't be right (before September 9th US release). I definitely want Muramasa, it looks incredible, but I will wait for Nintendo Life review first before buying.
@ Machu (comment 3) I am completely sold on this as well. It is stunning, not just in the way the characters/backgrounds are drawn, but the lush animations and the atmospheric details (like drifting blossom and lamp illuminations). It looks like it is plenty 'fighty' for my tastes too.
I am just repeating everyone else’s comments, but it would be cool to have a massive Nintendo Store in the UK, putting on flashy events like this. I would not even mind “the cheese”, it would be funny to see Muramasa themed characters clashing it out against feudal Japanese backdrops. I’d take many a ‘Samurai Shodown’ type photo. I also like the way in which Ignition Entertainment enthusiastically publishes SNK Playmore titles, if they support Vanillaware titles too, then I’m all for it.
Comments 506
Re: Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth Coming This Month
@Sushie "Here's to hoping it doesn't SUCK! (get it, suck, like a VAMPIRE?)".
Cheers, your comment 36 is fine tuned to my daft sense of humour.
Ha, ha if this one sucks I'll fly straight over to Konami's Japan offices and exclaim "Castlevania ReBirth sucks Konami......you can just go and bite me!", gggrrrroooooaaaaannnnnnn. lol.
Except, I wouldn't really say that! I haver never even flown to Japan and if I ever met anyone from Konami I would really mumble "pleased to meet you Mr Konami, sir.... I am a huuuuuge fan of Contra ReBirth, Ms Konami, ma'am" and "would you please sign my Super Famicom Contra Spirits box....", ending with "I'm not worthy!", etc, etc.
Re: Castle of Magic Trailer is Conjured Out of Thin Air
My friend raves about iPhone 'Castle of Magic' and I am a fan as well, although I have only had a short play of it.
Gameloft are focused on becoming master iPhone developers ('Siberian Strike', 'Gangstar', 'Modern Combat: Sandstorm', 'Blades of Fury' and forthcoming 'Shrek Kart' and 'N.O.V.A').
It will be a real bonus to Nintendo gamers if they polish up these titles on iPhone, through incremental updates, and then bring quality ports to platforms like the DS.
Re: Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth Coming This Month
I am repeating myself on this, and I am completely with @Djungelurban and @Damo , but 'Axelay ReBirth' makes absolute sense. Especially when when you consider its constant action, spectacular bosses, the switch between horizontal/vertical viewpoints and off course the "wrap around the world", rolly, scrolly mode 7.
I am still shouting for 'Sunset Riders ReBirth'. It had a colour packed Western setting, plus truly funny character design and dialogue. Fact is, any cowboy that heads into a gunfight in yellow trousers, a pink hat, pink holster and pink neckerchief, just like Steve, must be absolutely, no nonsense nails. lol.
Re: Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth Coming This Month
Perhaps Konami have realised from the popularity and the sales of Contra ReBirth, that there is a massive retro market with an hungry appetite for these new editions of their classic franchises. Our pounds and dollars may have spoken, they may have even prioritised us as a market. This will hopefully mean that we no longer have to wait so long after the Japanese release for further 'ReBirth' editions (16 bit Western release lags were no fun at all, in fact they were literally a drag!)
This is great news all around, I can not wait to play it and I also can't wait to see the first release screen shots. Oooooh, the anticipation.
Konami have quickly become my retro gaming WiWare "publisher of choice".
Re: Super Nintendo Review Fridays
I am with @redflicky on that one, pirated games completely suck. The developers have put their work and creativity into building all these virtual worlds, so I pay to play. If I can't afford brand new titles, then I wait and buy on discount or second hand. Modding your consoles with 60 htz switches and the ability to be region free is cool, but chipping to play copied games sucks, too.
It is interesting the lengths that pirates must have gone to have Sonic's little red sneakers running on the SNES, though. It was a big deal in the playgrounds of the time, that MD had Sonic and SNES had Mario and each fanboy at the time secretly wanted to be able to play their mates exclusive "system seller" on their own console.
Ah, the wonders of choice the multi-format 'Virtual Console' enables.
Re: Super Nintendo Review Fridays
@SuperSonic1990 Cheers to you for helping me to decide that my "Friday, just finished a tough week" game will be 'Turtles in Time Re-Shelled' on PSN.
@SmaMan Thank you for sharing your knowledge, I did not know there was a hacked Sonic type cart. You learn something new every day!
@Tony I'm glad that other gamers shout out for Super Double Dragon/ Return of Double Dragon, it was little bit neglected back in the day, but I still somehow managed to end up with two carts (Pal and Japanese). There was one stage where they cranked up the original Double Dragon music and I was brimming with 1987 nostalgia, even in 1992!
Re: Super Nintendo Review Fridays
@redflicky I can't tell if I am confusing people left right and centre, if you're are making jokes or if I am missing the point and you are asking a real question. There is hardly any inference or gage of expression on a comments board, so I'll stop acting daft for a minute.
I thought you were joking, so I was joining in by making silly references to a Commodore 64 'Super Mario Bros' rip off called 'The Great Giana Sisters', a game in which Nintendo's legal might put an end to, because it was so similar in gameplay to their title. It merely replaced Mario with a blonde haired female character.
No, Sonic the Hedgehog was not on the SNES. The closest game available was one which was similar in gameplay. This was Konami's 'Sparkster', which is still a nice little fast paced SNES platformer.
I hope that this does not come across as patronising.
Re: Super Nintendo Review Fridays
@Betagam7 If you know about the original C64 Mario Bros then I'm guessing that you also know that I meant the time when he put on a fetching yellow wig, transformed into a punk rock chick, looked like he had bust his face up falling through the ugly tree for the 'Rainbow Arts' cassette art,.....
....oh and he changed his name to 'Giana'.
Re: Super Nintendo Review Fridays
Ha, ha @redflicky your comment 41 made me laugh.
Wasn't Super Mario on C64, dressed up as a lady?
Re: Feature: Game Over: How Nintendo Zapped an American Industry
I read lots of gaming magazines, but I never read any video games books, which does not make any sense when you think about it.
Perhaps David’s Sheff’s 'Game Over', would be a good starting point, although Damien is pretty clear that it would be difficult to obtain this one. Sometimes it is interesting to read something from the perspective of an author who is not a massive video game fan, but is still respectful to their source material.
I did notice in Retro Gamer issue 68 that they recommend two books in their 'Retro Booty' section ('The Ultimate History of Video Games' and 'Supercade').
Wasn't there a TV documentary which took a rare look into the world of Nintendo and their place within the industry, including interviews with some key Nintendo people? I half remember it was a little bit lacking in objectivity, although I could be wrong. It might have even been by the BBC.
Could anyone jog my memory on this one?
Re: Super Nintendo Review Fridays
Oh yeah, Nintendo Life 'Super Nintendo Review Friday' is a great idea, we are in for a treat all the way up until Christmas
@Maniac (comment 5) I was always mad for side scrolling beat 'em ups in their early '90s heyday too. 'Super Double Dragon' was underrated, its block and cheeky repeated slap moves were cool. Trouble is, it was so slow, even when played as NTSC 60 htz.
@SuperSonic1990 (comment 19), @PhoenixSage (comment 10) and @BulbasaurusRex (comment 23) I am a fan of 'Turtles in Time', too. It was a simple brawler, but packed colour, fun animations, mode 7 enemy launching and was worth a blast in multiplayer. I think that I will download the "fresh lick of paint" version off PSN soon.
I would really love to see a 'Ninja Warriors Again' review, I would even lend Nintendo Life my Japanese cartridge if it meant that it got included, although I am sure that they will already have it in their collection. lol
That would make for a cool feature; 'Nintendo Life: Staff Gaming Collections'.
Anyways, roll on this Friday.
Re: Interviews: LostWinds 2 - Frontier's David Braben
The combination of the fact that I never played LostWinds, with my inclination towards collecting tangible games on my dusty shelves, makes @SeanAaron 's "deluxe disc" idea a brilliant concept for me.
Darren's question referring to the light hearted nature of LostWinds compared to previous Braben releases was a great way to discuss how his approach has adapted as a developer.
Cheers, an excellent interview Nintendo Life.
Re: Review: Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story (DS)
Wow, this must have really impressed, I wonder how many games have got a Nintendo Life 10/10 so far.
I was not even a little bit interested in this game before, it was simply not a priority, but Corbie's review has completely grabbed my attention, especially in the conclusion with the comment which @TurboGenesis64 quoted, above.
Thanks Corbie.
Re: Castlevania Comes to WiiWare
In my eyes Konami pitched Gradius ReBirth and Contra ReBirth perfectly, both were so true to their respective franchises, that they were a real treat bit of fan service.
Those games took the concept of 16 bit visuals and sound, with just a few added bells and whistles, such as graphical effects that may not have been possible on the SNES or Mega Drive.
I would place my money on this 'Castlevania the Adventure ReBirth' being based mainly on SNES Castlevania IV, possibly with a hint of Mega Drive The New Generation/ Vampire Killer/ Bloodlines or if we are really lucky the PC Engine Super CD-Rom Dracula X: Rondo of Blood.
I feel as though Konami are making these ReBirth games just for me at the moment. They could not turn out any more ideally suited to my taste, even if I was at Konami's Japanese HQ with a huge A4 notebook wish list, including sketches and instructions for everything I wanted them to include. lol.
Re: Castlevania the Adventure ReBirth
Completely amazing news, lots of Nintendo Life users predicted this one and had it on their Wii-sh list. Konami must have listened, so 'job well done' everyone
If anyone knows Jedi mind tricks, persuade Konami for 'Axelay ReBirth' and 'Sunset Riders ReBirth', for me please.
Cheers.
Re: OFLC Ratings Promise Street Fighting Action
@BassX0 I have the Capcom Collection on PSP and PS2 (volume 2) as well and I found Street Fighter 1 (aka TG16 Fighting Street) arcade to be a disappointment. I found the transition through the emulation lost a lot in the controls, particularly as some arcades incorporated pressure sensitive pads.
I felt that the imprecise Capcom Classics Collection Street Fighter 1 controls increased the difficulty in an unfair manner, although I was under the impression that there was a fun game somewhere in its design.
I would hazard a guess that the PC Engine CD Rom version of this would have smoother joypad control (ie easier to input special moves), I am also interested to hear if it has more detailed, improved graphics.
Re: Review: Super Return of the Jedi (Virtual Console / Super Nintendo)
My first impressions on looking over this review, before I'd even read it were "the red Emperor's Royal Guard sprites in the top banner look class", followed by, "it'll be a battle to get through to those later levels, to be able to fight them, though".
I'm glad that the difficulty has been adjusted and thanks Spencer, it is a positive review, I will buy this further down the line.
I remember in 1995 Super Play (Iss. 30) reviewed Super Return of the Jedi, but were a bit more harsh in their words, "formulaic platform fare", "lame bunch of secondary villains", "A big disappointment" and closing with "polished, but essentially repetitive and all-too-familiar".
I listened to reviews far more vehemently back then and for that reason, I did not buy it. This review suggests that I missed out.
Mind you, both reviews ended with a similar score (Super Play gave it 79%).
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
@Sean Aaron: In an ideal world, some millionaire genius would open a huge chain of video game arcades in the UK with tons of classic and mint retro cabinets, so that everyone like us could head over there and play games just like the old days. There has to be a "business" there somewhere, they could charge 30p a go and still get loads of visitors (I know that I'm dreaming).
I went for a weekend at Southport and the seaside arcade was rammed with fruit machines, metal claws to gap prizes, ten pence waterfalls etc (although, me and my girlfriend had fun on the Air Hockey table!). It was massive, but only had about 10 arcade machines. The most nostalgic sit down cabinet in Southport, was Namco's Lucky & Wild.
@Crunc: I've never thought about retro compilations from that perspective, I remember when I was a kid there was an arcade that put the more adult content video games machines next to the gambling machines and you had to be 18 to go into that section.
On Midway Arcade Treasures 2, NARC is even more inappropriate for a kid than Smash TV (e.g. drug references as well as exploding bodies).
Re: Review: Contra ReBirth (WiiWare)
Yay, I've finished Contra Rebirth on Easy and it's everything I hoped it would be. Area 3 is cool, mode 7 enemies are presented like the opposite of Turtles in Time (i.e. they fly into the screen rather than being flung out).
Easy level is actually very fair for a Contra game, generous even, especially by letting you keep hold of your weapons after you die and providing unlimited continues. There is no 'Barrier' collectible this time though, correct me if I am wrong fellow Nintendo Lifers.
Do not be put off downloading this, if you think it will be too difficult. I think it is the most accessible Contra yet.
Those after a challenge can simply up the difficulty and limit you continues. Plus, I am happy with 5 action packed levels, even if the game is short. Late '80s arcade games often had a similar lifespan, it was all about the replayability and I already know that I'll repeatedly be going back to this one.
Re: Review: Contra ReBirth (WiiWare)
I want Wario Land Shake It!, Klonoa, Muramasa on Wii and KOF XII, BlazBlue, Ghostbusters, Battle Fantasia on PS3... etc etc...&...I really want WiiWare Contra ReBirth.
"You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes... you'll get what you need".
You know the chime when NES Fire Mario headers coin blocks to download a new game. He gets more and more frantic the closer you get to completing the download. It is magic that isn't it?
Goodbye comments board, hello Contra ReBirth!
I will return to join back in on the discussion later (possibly, much, much later!).
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
I should add to my above comment that if any publishers are listening, I do love MAME, but I would be much happier if I was buying all of the Arcade titles I mentioned. I would snap them up if they were available to download or on retro compilation. Publishers/Devs created all of the gaming fun, so I would rather pay to play it.
For me, emulation is the last place I visit, when I am chasing gaming memories and there is no where else I can find them.
I realistically can not afford arcade cabs, pcbs, supergun etc. Also my girlfriend is already not exactly over the moon that our poxy little flat (I love it really) is already brimming with consoles, computers, game boxes, peripherals etc. lol
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
I agree Sean, no doubt about it, MAME is completely awesome as well. Especially to play licensed games that may never seen the light of day without some publisher & big business deals and wrangling.
I am particularly a fan of Chase HQ and Konami's Simpsons Arcade and Aliens.
Also when TMNT Arcade and Turtles in Time were emulated to GCN, they had to remove the original, boppy tune, just like Taito Rainbow Islands lost "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" remix on Taito Legends.
Then again, I would not mind too much if Virtual Console Arcade received an arcade version of Chase HQ, which removed the real cars. If Taito are listening, I would definitely buy it.
Licensing and copyright eh, messing about with our memories!
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
@StarBoy91 There are plenty of PS2 retro style goodies available, as I am sure you know.
I often boot up Gradius III, IV & V, R-Type Final, Psyvariar, Steel Dragon X, Raiden III, Sol Divide, SNK vs Capcom Chaos, 1945 I & II, Guilty Gear X2 & Isuka, Street Fighter Alpha Anthology, Sonic Gems, Outrun 2006, Gunbird SE, World Heroes/KOF/Art of Fighting/Fatal Fury collections, Robocod, Crazy Taxi etc etc
These PAL titles were all bought so cheap, I felt bad that the shops were letting these classic go at such a discount, based upon their own understanding of what value a retro titles hold.
Some UK gaming shops have no idea about what some gamers view as classic games.
The Wii will build a similar base of retro classics over time, it already has a stunning variety of downloads and I hope that disc based compilations continue too (ie. Metal Slug Anthology, SNK Arcade Classics, the proposed Data East collection etc).
Regardless, there is a downpour of wonderment for retro gamers at the moment.
"I'm singing in the rain"
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
PS2 has some absolutely amazing retro arcade collections.
If you do not own a PS2, I would seriously buy one cheap if you're a retro fan, just to play 'Taito Legends 1 '(Continental Circus, New Zealand Story, Ninja Kids, Rainbow Islands, I even play Thunderfox). The lightgun shooters Operation Wolf/Thunderbolt are fairly fun even though they are pad control only.
I would particularly purchase a copy of 'Taito Legends 2' (Darius Gaiden, Don Doko Don, Gekirindan, even Growl and especially the awesome Elevator Action Returns). Nt. PSP has a slightly more basic 'Taito Legends' available for import from Japan, too.
I know that this is a Nintendo site, so if Taito ever decided to release a collection on Wii, then combining the brilliance of the two PS2 compilations would be a super, smashing, great li'l idea.
Re: Review: Contra ReBirth (WiiWare)
Sorry @KDR_11k , my DS Contra 4 smart bomb comment 29 was pretty vague.
I've been playing Contra 4 today, in preparation for Contra ReBirth.
It has smart bombs in rare and limited spots, when I first played this game I thought they were useless icons (they look like empty golden eagle weapon slots). However, if you collect them, they will destroy all basic enemies on screen.
Contra developers are rarely that kind and they have placed these smart bomb collectibles in such awkward places, that I often die trying to collect them! lol
Re: Review: Contra ReBirth (WiiWare)
@KDR_11k I quite like smart bombs as a last resort , they give me a bit of power back, a clear the screen option. DS Contra 4 did have smart bombs, but they were pretty limited.
I also missed not being able to call up the ESWAT car in Streets of Rage 2. lol.
Re: Review: Contra ReBirth (WiiWare)
Excellent Review Marcel, I like the idea that some levels represent a nostalgic throwback to previous Contras, particularly Contra III, and the ability to unlock new characters. It’s a shame about them leaving out the smart bombs and double firepower, but I imagine that you can still juggle between two weapons. The smart bomb decision seems a bit inexplicable, like Nintendo leaving feathers out of later Mario Karts. I’m looking forward to hearing those Contra remixes, too.
Anyone who follows me on Twitter ( Jamie_iPodTouch ), will know that I’ve been blathering on about looking forward to Contra Rebirth for a while now.
I am really pleased that it has lived up to expectations and earned a Nintendo Life 8/10 stars.
I am hyped up about playing it even more now, these are the best gaming times, reading a cracking review and waiting patiently to play the game myself.
Have lots of fun with this one, Euro Wii owning ‘Run and Gun’ fans, it is obviously a treat. I will watch this comments board for further reflections on all of your alien blasting & blobby bullet dodging, fun times.
In the meantime I will continue to be patient and cross my fingers that it receives that US Labor Day (Monday Sept 7th) release date, tomorrow.
Thank you @Drake
Re: Contra ReBirth Coming To America This Monday
Thanks again @KDR_11k , it appears as though Konami went full throttle with the wackiness for Mega Drive ‘Contra: Hard Corps’!
I have seen the screens with the "cyborg wolf with a minigun" arm, but I did not know about the Simon Belmont boss. The developer’s creativity and imagination was working overtime on that one.
At least Konami were blatant about the game's difficulty in its sub-title.
Perhaps they should have called it ‘Konami Krazy Kruel Kontra’.
It definitely looks and sounds like fun and I would still buy it if it was on Virtual Console, even if I only got to play the first level.
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
@Sean Aaron (comment 12) That is cool mate, I did figure your comment was meant for the staff. I was just thinking that I had copies of both games and the hardware to play them on, sitting at home.
I noticed you have a 'Join The Team' link and it is clear that you’re “not currently looking for any new staff at present”.
I’ve been reading the Nintendo Life coverage for a while, I followed the progress of Virtual Console Reviews and its amalgamation with the current site. I particularly like to read all of the retro coverage, whether in the Retro, Virtual Console or WiiWare sections. However, until now I have been a passive bystander, just reading the information and not joining in on comments/forums etc.
I am actually really enjoying participating in discussions, writing comments and having little chats with all the Nintendo Life users and staff. There is definitely a lot of clued up, friendly and knowledgeable gamers following your site. You have all built a solid community and I’m glad to be a part of it.
Thank you @Panda (comment 15), I plan on heading over to the forums soon.
Cheers for your reply Sean and thanks to everyone at Nintendo Life
Re: Contra ReBirth Coming To America This Monday
Cheers @KDR_11k , for filling my gap in Contra character knowledge. I am a little embarrassed to say that, despite being a Mega Drive fan, Contra Hard Corps is pretty much the only Contra game I have never played (I have not played original GameBoy Contra, either). I have played a few of its levels on the GameBoy Advance Contra, though.
Does MD Hard Corps compare favourably to SNES Contra Spirits?
I would definitely buy Contra Hard Corps if it turned up on Virtual Console.
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
@Sean Aaron (comment 9).
I am new to Nintendo Life, so I am not sure how your comment "if someone else wants to review them?" works.
I presume that you are referring to another member of the Nintendo Life team, not for a user to review them.
I write for an iPhone gaming site, so it would be possible to link to a review on my blog. This may not be "good practise" though, as it would basically be tenuous plug for our iPhone site, through your far larger, established, popular and successful Nintendo Life. I can play both Midway Arcade Treasures 2 and 3 on either my import Gamecube or Wii. I would be up for writing a review, especially of no.2 (how I would explain a GCN review on an iPhone blog, I don’t know!). Anything I write is on a voluntary basis, wherever it is posted. I do not take any payment for my iPhone reviews.
You may even mean for a user to post a short review on this comments board (I noticed that a user posted up their short, fan based perspective review of Gradius Rebirth).
I realise that you do not mean to submit a review to Nintendo Life and I understand that Nintendo Life have a big staff team and do not need any new writers.
Re: Review: Midway Arcade Treasures (GameCube)
Cheers Sean, this is the 2nd of your retro GCN collection reviews that I've read in a week (see Namco Museum 50th Anniversary). Thanks for the intro history on Midway Home Entertainment, too. This explains their reasoning to be the first company to really present retro gamers with a "jam-packed" collection, (Midway Arcade Treasures had about 24 titles). I remember thinking "back of the net!", when I imported this on my US GCN, back in 2003.
Highlights for me were Paperboy, Gauntlet, Roadblasters, Toobin' and Rampage. The Smash TV announcer still cracks me up and the Paperboy tune fills me with nostalgia.
I really wanted to love 720 degrees, but I suck at it and I lose at that game so often, it hurts (damn bees).
Its a shame about the lack of a UK release, PAL PS2/Xbox owners could pick this up for about £4 in game shops today (17p a game, bargain).
I like Midway Arcade Treasures 2 & 3 as well, especially no.2 which represents the late '80s to early '90s arcade era really well.
However, I will wait for the Nintendo Life review of those, before I write my comments.
Re: Contra ReBirth
In regards to my above comment 19, previously I had only read Corbie Dillard's Gradius Rebirth Review, I had not read any of the 124 comments below it, so I did not realise that a debate had already taken place about the validity of review scores.
I definitely do not want to be the Nintendo Life noob who accidentally re-opens a can of worms.
First off, I completely understand the diversity of Nintendo Life's readership, which is why reviews can not be solely written for people who have enthusiastically, possibly blindly, followed an entire franchise like me (as I said I'm a fanboy).
Secondly, any reviewer with detailed shmup knowledge ranging from Otomedius Gorgeous, Gradius V, Mars Matrix, Parodius/ Twinbee/ Salamander PSP collections to Cave PCBs in an arcade cabinet (Deathsmiles, Muchi Muchi Pork, Ibara, & Espgaluda II) and compiled a top 100 shooter list, has actually earned my curiosity and increased my interest to read more about what they have to say. The game could get a 3 and I would still want to read their opinion. As was mentioned in the comments, the actual words in the review assemble a more detailed game analysis than any score at the end.
I think that it is cool that many Nintendo Life users turned that comments board into a quality discussion about shooters in general, by the end. Fair play
I was not having a 6 month late dig Corbie, I promise.
Re: Contra ReBirth Coming To America This Monday
@jbrodack (comment 34) I agree about Shattered Soldier's difficulty level, there was not any chancing my way through those levels, that game forced me to fully learn enemy attack patterns.
Oh, and what was with the incarcerated Bill, new character Cyborg lady (possibly a nod to the atrocity that was Euro Pal Probotector, then again probably not!) and Lance has gone bad story? I'm not sure if it was funny, or just horribly tragic!
Re: Contra ReBirth
Cheers @Dazza (comment 18), I was hoping that you would post a comparison, because it was clear from your Contra III: The Alien Wars Review (Virtual Console- SNES), that you appreciated what I consider to be the best in the series (9/10)
Your list is spot on, whilst the Mode 7 and background effects sound really cool, the lack of smart bombs and dual wielding is a worry (I enjoyed the Mega Drive levels on GBA, but weren’t no dual weapons and the lack of top down Mode 7, the main complaints about GBA Contra?).
Thing is I'm such a fanboy that even though Gradius Rebirth only scored a 6, the play time and enjoyment I got out of it was like I was playing an 8 star game.
If Contra Rebirth snatches a Nintendo Life 7/10, then roll on Monday, because in the eyes of this beholder I'll be reveling in a 9/10 game. lol.
Nice one, Darran.
Re: Contra ReBirth Coming To America This Monday
@cowboy (comment 29) It is an all new Contra game, which is respectful to the arcade roots of previous games in the series.
Obviously I have not played it, but it looks like more of a homage and continuation of SNES Contra III: Alien Wars, than later efforts like PS2 Shattered Soldier, (both visually and in its pacing/action set pieces. However, get your spread guns and flamethrowers ready... I actually really enjoyed Shattered Soldier, which gamesTM gave a meager 5/10 in issue 1).
Re: Contra ReBirth Coming To America This Monday
@Omega 's comment 9 is such an perceptive idea, it is pretty much genius! Hopefully Konami think in exactly the same way.Castlevania IV Rebirth or Symphony of the Night Rebirth? (both!).
I'd like.... (deep breath)......
Axelay/Parodius/Goemon/Twinbee/Vendetta/Salamander/Sunset Riders and Sparkster Rebirth. Please !!
Konami have an awesome development history
Re: Contra ReBirth Coming To America This Monday
Oh yeah, this news bodes well for me to download it on my import US Wii, through the Brazilian Wii Shop Channel account, this Monday.
I am sure that one of the Nintendo Life reviewers is beavering away as I type this, to give us the full lowdown following today’s European release.
I just hope that it holds up in comparison to Contra III: Alien Wars and does not end up a damp squib! Surely not.
Re: Review: Namco Museum: 50th Anniversary (GameCube)
I will start off a 'Namco Arcade Retro Fun' list:
Pac Land, Splatterhouse, Marvel Land, Final Lap 2 & 3, Rolling Thunder 2 and 3, Lucky and Wild, Ridge Racer, Tekken and Time Crisis.
If Namco released a compilation with these titles for Wii, I would place an import pre-order straight away.
Oh and if Namco had The Outfoxies on it, I would buy 2 copies. One to play and the other to keep sealed, display on my bookcase and repeatedly state that "I never expected this to happen in a million years".
Re: Review: Namco Museum: 50th Anniversary (GameCube)
This is a spot on review, I bought the GameCube version of Namco Museum: 50th Anniversary and I came away massively disappointed. My brother had more fun because he is a Pole Position nut, but I only really played Rolling Thunder, Dragon Spirit, Galaga '88 and Pacmania (last 2 are unlockables).
Namco could really learn from Sega's ‘Megadrive Ultimate Collection' and release over 45 classic games for this generation. Retro Gamers have greater expectations now, for too long Namco have had the same only early to mid- ‘80s titles on their compilations.
I am sure Nintendo Life readers could compile a list of 40 Namco classics.
Re: Data East Arcade Classics Coming to Wii
@bro2dragons (comment 21)- If Arcade Captain America and the Avengers is on the collection you will be in luck , because it is the same game as the SNES version, but lots better. Graphically it is stronger, with better defined sprites and backgrounds which cover the whole screen (the SNES version had a black bar at the top of the screen for characters profile pics, lives & energy levels). The arcade cab could allow for 4 player games too, the SNES was only 2 players simultaneous.
On another note, Robocop 2 would be intriguing to play. I never played it, but reviews in old mags show that it had large chunky sprites and Harley Davidson motorbike chasing, as well as the usual side scrolling shooty bits.
Re: Data East Arcade Classics Coming to Wii
There are so many Data East games here on my Wii-sh list. I am a huge Midnight Resistance fan, going right back to it being the first game I ever completed (the brilliant Amiga conversion). The Megadrive did a fine job with the graphics, but was single player only and had trouble emulating the arcade's control. The 2 sticks on the GameCube controller may just be able to handle it.
Arcade Caveman Ninja (Joe & Mac) was superior to SNES version and Bad Dudes (Dragon Ninja) is a fun, jump across the top of a truck, 2-player fighter.
I would be interested to compare Bloody Wolf and Vigilante (linked with Irem) to the PC Engine versions.
Sadly, there is little chance for Robocop and Captain America and the Avengers for licensing reasons. Never say never, though.
I'm chuffed it is a compilation; I do like to have tangible, hard copy discs and boxes to build a physical/concrete games collection. (well, not literally concrete!)
Re: Contra is Reborn in Europe Tomorrow
My comment will probably sound like gobbledygook, because I live in Merseyside, but I am well jealous of Pal Wii owners right now (serves me right for importing my US Wii).
2D side scrolling 'Run and Guns' games are easily my favourite genre and I am looking forward to Contra Rebirth most of all. Every day I'm saying to my girlfriend "I can't wait for Contra Rebirth" and she always replies "Ahhh, that is nice.... What is Contra Rebirth?". She is sweet like that, always eager to listen and talk about gaming!
As soon as this is out for my US Wii, I am taking a DDO (Dissertation Day Off!).
US (well Brazilian!) releases very soon, please Konami ? !!!
Re: Bonk: Brink of Extinction Coming to WiiWare
@Terranigma (comment 48) I wonder how likely it is that Hudson would contunue their DoReMi series? I had never played, or even knew about, DoReMi Fantasy: Milon's DokiDoki Adventure (SNES) when it was first released and it turned out be a sweet, li'l hidden gem on Virtual Console.
I would not place money on it being Hudson's next WiWare franchise update though!
Re: Bonk: Brink of Extinction Coming to WiiWare
Bonk looks a bit smaller now, like the camera has been pulled back, to allow for widescreen presentation. Hudson have given him a new gnarly little Rugrat look as well, just to stir things up and the spiky headed, punk rock kid might be to distinguish players for co-op.
I am optimistic about this, I don't mind its visual style. He is a great character and it is always good for a laugh to dive him head first onto baddies, climb walls with his teeth and repeatedly head butt the air to float. The Prehistoric based setting should be atmospheric, I’m wondering if he will climb and swim around inside a dinosaurs belly this time.
Re: Muramasa: The Demon Blade "Chop-Chop" Trailer
I sympathise completely with bro2dragons (comment 10). If I import Muramasa to UK it will cost about £37 ($60 USD) with posting, which is completely reasonable. However, I have still not bought Wario Land: Shake It! or Wii Klonoa. I find myself increasingly spending my pennies on WiWare and particularly Virtual Console downloads, they're so cheap and easy.
Trouble is, as sad as it makes me sound, I actually miss building a collection of all my titles stacked as game boxes!
Re: Review: Super Empire Strikes Back (Virtual Console / Super Nintendo)
Wow, Super Empire Strikes Back has received a snappy release; it seemed like just yesterday that Super Star Wars was debuting on Virtual Console.
I appreciate the point about Hoth's AT-AT battles, we should feel lucky that the Wii has GameCube backwards compatibility. I may even play Rogue Leader or Rebel Strike tonight, they still look mighty fine. Talk about not aging one bit. It is a shame about Factor 5
Re: Muramasa: The Demon Blade "Massive Attack" Trailer
I live in UK, but I have an American Wii. I normally import from an online Canadian shop, they are listing this as available on Tues 1st Sept 2009, but that can't be right (before September 9th US release).
I definitely want Muramasa, it looks incredible, but I will wait for Nintendo Life review first before buying.
Re: Muramasa: The Demon Blade "Chop-Chop" Trailer
@ Machu (comment 3) I am completely sold on this as well. It is stunning, not just in the way the characters/backgrounds are drawn, but the lush animations and the atmospheric details (like drifting blossom and lamp illuminations).
It looks like it is plenty 'fighty' for my tastes too.
Re: Muramasa: The Demon Blade Exclusive Release Party
I am just repeating everyone else’s comments, but it would be cool to have a massive Nintendo Store in the UK, putting on flashy events like this. I would not even mind “the cheese”, it would be funny to see Muramasa themed characters clashing it out against feudal Japanese backdrops. I’d take many a ‘Samurai Shodown’ type photo.
I also like the way in which Ignition Entertainment enthusiastically publishes SNK Playmore titles, if they support Vanillaware titles too, then I’m all for it.