To me these graphics look completely stupendous, I was blown away by Skyward Sword during Nintendo's conference. With the 1:1 control & a completely lush visual style, this is the most excited I have been about a Zelda game since The Wind Waker (I was more hyped for GCN cel-shading style, than for the realistic Twilight Princess).
I love the way that this mixes Wind Waker's art with that of Twilight Princess, I especially like how Nlife tweeted that the trailer's visuals harked back to A Link to the Past, when they were covering the conference.
The detail on the controls is the icing on the cake, which I did not appreciate as much with Nintendo's awkward gameplay presentation (not that interference was their fault). Cheers for this Corbie.
@Golgo Good point mate. My cup is half full, in that we have really strong precedents for region-free Nintendo handheld cartridge gaming. You are spot on about the possibility of a region locked download store though. I agree with you; I would not buy a Japanese 3DS as my main handheld, if it meant that I could only play Japanese games. (I would buy one later, to supplement my English language version, though).
The best case scenario would be if 3DS received a simultaneous worldwide release. That is not an unrealistic possibility in this day and age. Fingers crossed then.
No matter what, it sure has been an exciting E3 for Nintendo fans! Oh yeah!
@Golgo If the Japanese version comes out before Christmas 2010, but Europe and America don't get 3DS until 2011, then I am going to go on a shopping trip with my importers!
I just love the core 'space flight shooter' Star Fox gameplay. I am super excited to play this game with new graphical improvements, especially after Satoru Iwata said about 3DS at yesterday's Nintendo E3 '10 conference, "We've also made improvements to the graphics capabilities of this hardware itself".
After the conference there were Nintendo staff interviews which continued on their stream. It was mentioned in regard to the original N64 game that Star Fox 64 3D improves on its gameplay in that, "There are people who find flying through hoops in Star Fox difficult, but when they see it on 3DS, people will find it easier."
As much as I loove the first game, Star Fox 64 is my favourite out of the series. Awesome 3DS news!
It was great seeing Corbie pop up as the first gamer to give impressions on 3DS during the after-show 'Nintendo E3 Network' stream. I was watching it with my girlfriend and I was completely buzzing to shout out, "Jo! I know that fella talking there!" Ha, ha.
The average gamer is able to get much closer to sharing in the E3 experience as soon as big news hits nowadays. By streaming the conference from Nintendo, checking Nlife's tweets and updates for impressions, as well as spotting Corbie in the thick of the action, I really felt like I was taking part in the E3 magic.
Great stuff, I'm super pleased that Corbie is there to represent everyone who is involved in Nlife. Keep on having tons of fun mate.
I find it stunning that Nintendo's 2010 E3 conference was so strong, especially the fact that they were confident enough to not even release the 3DS screens to showcase an absolutely stunning range of games during their show. Check out this list:
The Kid Icarus: Uprising video was absolutely brilliant, they could have easily included footage of all their other top tier 3DS games as an avalanche of huge announcements in their conference. I have read about and watched lots of E3 conferences in my time, yet to my knowledge I have never known a company to hold back such massive news from their presentation, and save it for the gamers to experience during some hands on viewing time.
I actually love PlayStation games, but Sony's conference was the weakest of the lot, Microsoft's was not much better and Nintendo's show was simply superb. Its games kept on rolling in throughout the show and they presented such a volume of titles that were aimed at core gamers. The 3DS games were barely featured in the main show and I find it jaw dropping that Nintendo were brave enough to save them until after their presentation.
I love this quote from Satoru Iwata during the conference's unveiling of 3DS: "We've also made improvements to the graphics capabilities of this hardware itself. Something tells me this alone might cause lots of enthusiasm in the development community."
3DS was easily the highlight of my E3 2010. Superb!
So did @Drake and I really see @Corbie on the 'Nintendo E3 Network' site stream?
I thought I caught him giving quick impressions on 3DS. It didn't show the 3DS screens, it just displayed his reaction to playing it. I could be wrong.
That was an incredible show, it was a new brilliant announcement rapid-fire presentation. Loads of quality for gamers, for me personally it was packed with future 2D classics. 3DS looks set to live up to expectations.
Nintendo's feed was impeccable, it's still discussing Zelda: Skyward Sword.
I am 'N64 Kid' on Christmas morning; I could not be any more excited about E3.
C'mon Nintendo, hit me full on with a massive bombshell, maybe not a Megaton!, but leave me beaming. Make 3DS as powerful as a GameCube and include a first party big-hitter announcement with it. Treat me with a Wii Star Fox, or F-Zero announcement. Make the new Zelda to be jaw dropping, not just visually, but with new gameplay additions (have a concept as fundamentally brilliant as Galaxy's gravity).
You are a good man @Corbie, I appreciate your coverage. Good luck, have fun and "Cheers"!
Spot on in your mention of N64 Goemon's Great Adventure, not only does it qualify as a side-scrolling platformer, but the Goemon games have always been great for co-op. I have loved the Mystical Ninja titles since the SNES days. If @Stuffgamer1 puts it in the top spot, we have the making of a 'Best 2D N64 game' discussion. Has that one been covered by the forums yet? Nice one for your kind comments and Super Smash Bros. mention too, @GrangeGrover.
@KeeperBvK Thanks mate, and no worries, you did not criticise my review. The comments simply raised an issue which I was already conscious of before I submitted it. There is lots that I have not covered here. I have not mentioned that Mischief Makers does not have a difficulty option or a menu configuration screen, I should have said more about gold gems/ rankings and I could have included more detail about the controls (e.g. to reach height and distance from a jump the 'slider jump' can be mastered, by pressing down and double pressing 'A' quickly).
I would have liked to discuss the story in greater detail, for examples its humour is excellent and its dialogue is superbly self-referential. The Clancers are quirky and mischievous, like a cross between Joe Dante's/Spielburg’s maniacal Gremlins, but each wearing a Wes Craven style Scream mask. Also, if the cut-scenes become too much, they can be skipped with the 'Z' trigger.
I'll hang around here and happily chat more, as long as people want to talk about about Mischief Makers. I'm interested in what Nlife's gamers think about its graphical style and the N64's ability as a 2D machine, when compared to a machine heralded as a 2D legend, like Sega's Saturn.
Cheers @Stuffgamer1, your comment has summed up my initial experience of Mischief Makers, too. I hit a barrier with its controls at first, but I would recommend that you return to it and persevere through to its final stages. Once you reach the later boss battles, I am sure that you will really enjoy it. I keep on returning to it now.
I can also appreciate @devillinko's comment about 2D games on the N64. The N64 may have been a strong 3D console in 1996, yet it never became renowned for its 2D games. However, within a year of its release Treasure/ Enix unleashed this brilliant side-scrolling 2D platformer and it even bested Nintendo and HAL's N64 games in this genre, by creating a title that was superior to both Yoshi's Story and Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards.
If you were to grab a pen and paper and list all of the notable 2D games on the system, the chances are that you would struggle to fill a page. You could make the task easier by including polygon games which present a 2D perspective and 2.5D games in your list. Presumably you would include Killer Instinct Gold, Bangai-O, Star Soldier Vanishing Earth and Mortal Kombat Trilogy. You may even note down a nod to the magnificent Ogre Battle 64.
Narrow the parameters of your list to the genre of 2D or 2.5D N64 platformers and the task becomes more challenging. Without a doubt Yoshi’s Story and Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards would make that list, possibly Donald Duck: Goin’ Quakers/ Quack Attack could be included too. Most likely of all is that you would write down this underrated classic at the top of your list. If you think that my 8/10 score is too low, you may be even more disappointed if you were to see some of the lower scores that this game received when it was first released. It is with hindsight and in the context of viewing its role as one of the few great 2D games on N64 that ensures that Mischief Makers is appreciated as a real marvel....
.... and spot on to all of the VC/sequel comments posted here. I would also like for Mischief Makers to be granted a release on Virtual Console, but as @Token Girl and @Stuffgamer1 state there may be issues of publisher rights between Treasure and Square Enix. Also @Klapaucius, I would love to see a sequel too, as well as a remake or even a fancy ReBirth style update.
I am super pleased to be able to have another retro review posted on Nlife, cheers loads to everyone on the Nlife team, I've even posted a li'l Twitpic to show how much I am buzzing.
@accc @Aenaida and @KeeperBvK I agree 100% with your comments, but hear me out for a second, because I can explain and elaborate upon your points. As I compiled this review, I basically became carried away with my research and my final piece was humongous. I was excited about this retro title, but my writing desperately needed to be cut and edited, because it was far too long winded.
I apologise to everyone at Nlife, the Nlife team and its readers, because I definitely need to work on my writing style to become more concise. I also directly apologise to @accc @Aenaida and @KeeperBvK because I wrote an analysis of Mischief Maker's rankings and gold gem system, but it contributed to an overly long review and was therefore edited. If anyone wants to discuss more about Mischief Makers here, I will post some of my edited writing as comments. For example, here are a couple of cut paragraphs, which didn't make the final review, but are relevant to your comments:
The full multitude of treats and surprises that this game has to offer is commendable. There are even more ideas bubbling inside this cartridge that have not yet been mentioned, including a Clanpot recipe and ingredient mixing system used to conjure up player built power-ups, timed bomb explosion puzzles, as well as a collectible gem system to extend longevity. Once the controls have been conquered a player may easily blast through Mischief Makers from start to finish within three and a half hours. However, it will be unlikely that they would have collected a significant number of hidden gold gems to unlock the more detailed, revealing ending. It is also doubtful that they would have earned many dignified rankings, such as an excellent 'A', or particularly a perfect 'S' rating throughout their journey. Mischief Makers openly encourages players to return to each level, even if it is to simply to build up some extra blue or green health gems, or collect red gems to amass more continues.
Cheers to everyone, I really enjoyed repeatedly completing this game for the review.
I am going to elaborate upon my Wii Vitality Sensor comment (above). To me Nintendo will always be a legendary company who make classic video games. I associate them not just with innovation, but with fundamentally fun gameplay.
Therefore, in my head I am hoping that the Vitality Sensor is explored to create new gameplay experiences. For example, it could be used during stealth elements of a game, perhaps in a survival horror type situation, in which an enemy can sense your whereabouts if you are stressed out. You would have to chill yourself out and get your pulse down before you could progress, but at the same time an omnipotent force could be present which attempts to pile on the stress.
It would not have to be a horror game, or be adult orientated. Wind Waker had stealth elements, ideas like this could be implemented through the more traditional Nintendo methods of presentation.
I am a bit predictable in my 'wish list' for E3 '10. I predominantly have my fingers crossed for snazzy new additions of classic franchises like F-Zero, Star Fox and Pilotwings.
I hold a tiny li'l glimmer of hope hiding away in my heart, that Nintendo will dabble in a bit of Wii cel-shading. I am excited for a new Wii Zelda, I would absolutely love something on the lines of GCN Wind Waker.
I join Sean, Bass X0, Guy from Faxanadu and StarBoy91 in keeping my fingers crossed that Natsume are able to release SNES Pocky and Rocky 2 on Virtual Console. I would especially like to play it in its 2 player simultaneous co-op form.
I have played the first arcade game, KiKi KaiKai (1986), on PSP Taito Pocket Memories and on PS2 Taito Legends 2. Bass X0 is right, the first game is a tough cookie!
However, I am more excited about the SNES release if I am honest. Perhaps while we are discussing this, it would be worth pointing out that a Taito Legends type compilation on Wii would be stupendous. I hope that someone out there at Taito listening. We would like a Wii Taito compilation, please !!!
@StarBoy91 Great link to Corbie's review, by the way. I am fully infatuated with Super Famicom games at the moment, so I often check in on Corbie's SUPER-NES.com site, alongside visiting Nlife and reading old 'Mean Machines' SNES reviews at Mean Machines Archive. Nice one.
@brandonbwii Good point mate, I always consider Sin and Punishment to be a 3D extension of fast paced Contra style run-and-gun games. I never really made the association between the Cabal style and viewpoint of gameplay, with that of Sin and Punsihment before.
I think that I associate the visuals of run-and-gun games with fast moving environments, whilst games like Wild Guns do not scroll their backgrounds nearly as much. They are almost like one static background, like in a Street Fighter II style one-on-one fighter, which only scrolls a little bit to the left and right. I realise that my description is not the hard-and-fast rule, many games in this genre are like a third person Operation Wolf, for example Nam-1975 scrolls past a number of different backgrounds.
I like all of the variety in different shooters anyway. I am looking forward to both Wii Sin and Punishment: Star Successor and VC Wild Guns. It is all good arcade blastin'!
Wow, I am really impressed, I can feel the SNES Wild Guns love in this room. I did not even realise that the old school blast-and-dodge, third person shooting gallery gameplay of arcade games like Cabal, Blood Bros and Nam-1975 was so popular. I am always a big fan of the retro appreciation displayed by Nlife users!
Am I right in thinking that Taito's Super Famicom KiKi KaiKai Tsukiyozoushi was released by Natsume in the West as Pocky & Rocky 2? That would be another cool game for the Virtual Console if Natsume still have the license.
I think that Natsume may even have links to Taito's SNES Ninja Warriors Again, which would be another fine beat-em-up for Virtual Console, even if it would mean yet another of my boxed Super Famicom games plummeting in value! That is another game which is particularly expensive on SNES.
Woo hoo! I agree with KakumeiSenshiYoshi, Tsuchinoko, The Fox and StarBoy91, I am really pleased to hear that Natsume's Wild Guns is heading to Virtual Console, I can't wait to read the Nlife review for that one.
Mayhem is right, it is a bargain on VC, compared to some of the prices it can command nowadays. Sweet indeed.
@darklinkinfinite Spot on mate, the cover art for Legacy of Darkness is wonderful (nt. The version I have seen has skulls in the bottom left corner, the castle on the left with an orange sunset, bats flying past a huge half moon on the right and a ship sailing away on the bottom right).
The music on N64's Castlevania intro, which you posted is pretty darn gorgeous, as its tune glides between instruments. Is the 3D model of the castle from its intro the same one you explore in the game? Retro Gamer Issue 77 is out in the UK very soon and it has a double page screenshot spread on the N64's Castlevania (see 1:40 into youtube video).
As soon as I get a copy of that issue, I will let you know what they wrote about it. Cheers!
Wow! That is the second time in about a week that a sound Nlife member has given me a detailed synopsis of a retro game, to help me decide on a purchase. @Starboy91 did exactly the same thing when he recommended SNES Super E.D.F to me in the U.N. Squadron review. I love the way in which Nlifers share knowledge, I can't get enough of learning more about retro.
Therefore, thanks lots @darklinkinfinite and apologies that it has taken me so long to reply. You have saved me time and money, by ultimately recommending N64 Castlevania: Legacy of Darkness. I really like the classic pre-Symphony of the Night Castlevania games, too. Your description of the atmosphere and ambiance built in Legacy of Darkness, including it music and character story arcs, is a definite plus point for me. Fair play to your knowledge on 3D Castlevanias mate, including the PS2 games.
It was very kind of you to take the time to write this analysis. The only dilemma I have, is that I have been spending far too much money on games recently. I checked ebay and they have PAL LoD, but it is 'Buy it Now' £60! Is LoD quite an expensive retro game then?
"killer7 is the part of my soul." What an excellent quote.
I am interested in a Killer7 sequel, too. Devs like Suda51, really bring the industry to life and give it more personality, just like the crazy old 8-bit bedroom coders in the '80s!
Oh yeah, a superb review to evaluate this spectacular game! I say "Yippee for Yoshi" and I like that the new hub makes this game snappy and accessible.
Excuse my retro leanings, but I can't wait to play along to a Super Mario World tune in this, and I am looking forward to when Super Mario Galaxy 2 switches to a traditional 2D perspective like it did in the first game. This is simply awesome all round. Right round planets baby, right round!
Fair play, there is lots of food for thought in the above comments. @darklinkinfinite and @Mike are right the reviews I have read reviews for the 3D N64 titles have generally been in the 7's and 8's, and to a point these generalised scores also apply to the PS2 games. Therefore, they are still decent games.
However, I would still argue that there had not been a 3D Castlevania which has been as majestic as Rondo of Blood and Symphony of the Night, but I put my hands up and admit that I have not actually played any of the 3D Castlevanias. I have based my opinion on what other people say and what I've read, which completely diminishes my argument really. If other gamers have played the 3D titles lots, then that holds more weight in my opinion.
I am also a bit biased, because I love 2D sprite games so much. Also, Symphony of the Night was released on PlayStation in 1997 and Konami's devs were dab hands at 2D game design by that point. The first N64 game was released in 1999, so loads of improvements have been made in third person 3D game design since then, over the last 11 years. I have both a N64 and PS2, so there is no reason why I can't do a bit of background research on the joys of 3D Castlevanias. I could go on the hunt for N64 Castlevania and Legacy of Darkness, as well as PS2 Lament of Innocence and Curse of Darkness.
Fact is I would be much happier if Lords of Shadow is amazing and I hope that it exceeds people's expectations. Fingers crossed, then.
@Damo I know mate, remember ages ago when I tweeted you with my excitement about Kojima's role in Lords of Shadow, when really I was being a bit naive by overstating the depth of his involvement.
I think we are justified in being quietly apprehensive about this one. That way if it turns out to be a blinder we can all buzz off it and celebrate its greatness. However, if it sucks then at least we will have not built it up to be a monumental progression for the series, on the level of Metroid Prime's transition from 2D to 3D.
**** edit: Although I remember in the early preview days of GCN Metroid Prime, there were magazines who were nervous that Retro Studios would not be able to represent 2D Metroid from a first person perspective. They were unsure if Retro would still create Metroid's progressive gameplay, in which new areas were uncovered by earning power-ups, using what looked like a FPS engine. Their concerns were unnecessary, now that we have the gift of hindsight. ****
Still this is good new for everyone looking forward to playing Lords of Shadow, because if they are taking care and attention to get the retro tunes right, then they may be able to re-create aspects of the classic gameplay.
However, as Damo says, it is still up in the air about how true this iteration will be to the 'real deal' Castlevania titles. From my understanding, the series has simply not been effectively represented from a 3D perspective, when compared to the 2D classics. It is just a case of wait and see, I think the word that I'm looking for is, "hmmmmmm".
Spot on @Corbie, 1996 was quite late for a SNES title, it sounds like HAL really went to to town with the SNES's colour palette and dual sound chips. Your description of its varied gameplay has captured my interest. Fact is, I have never really played any Kirby games, but I am clearly a dork, because I should not be missing out on a 9/10 scoring SNES classic.
I am not currently a fan of the Kirby series but reading this review was great, because it has made me want to play this title. Question is, do I download it straight off theVirtual Console, or hunt down a boxed Super Famicom copy? Hmmm.
Oh yeah, and "Suck on this!" is a class intro one-liner!
@Starboy91 Whoa, thanks lots mate, that was a detailed synopsis of Super EDF. You have piqued my interest, I will keep my eyes peeled on a boxed with instructions Super Famicom version. I am not actually that good at shmups, so I may struggle with Super EDF when I get it. However, I find that it is one genre in which perseverance pays off, I like the sound of its levelling up system.
As for Gradius III, I am a bit of an unusual Gradius player. I basically only allow myself to have one life, because I like to hoard my power ups early on. I always go for all the options, with powered up lasers and I constantly try to save '?' icons for a shield. Then I try to see how far I can get with a fully powered ship. I do not even bother with the extra lives which I accumulate. Take into account that I have not completed any Gradius game using this method, so it is not a particularly effective strategy. lol.
It is past 1am in the UK, so I'm going to head off to bed now, but I just want to say that it is good to back chatting about 'retro' with you guys. I have been so busy writing my dissertation, I have missed talking about classic games with retro enthusiasts, like Starboy91 etc. It is finished now, so I will be actively ranting about chunky ole 8 megabit cartridge games again. Nice one!
@Shiryu Cool mate, 3 player co-op would rule! I never played Amiga UN Squadron, but S.W.I.V was quality. The Sales Curve did such a fine job to make a pseudo sequel to Silkworm, switch to a vertical perspective and still maintain the core style from the original. I have two, maybe even three, Amigas gathering dust in a box. Sadly, I have become so lazy with my retro computer games playing. I have lost the patience for disc, or tape, load times. It would be great if 'load free' Amiga games were made available on Virtual Console.
@Starboy91 I have never played SNES Super EDF. I'm collecting Japanese Super Famicom games at the moment, so if you recommend it, I will add it to my hunt and wanted list. I do not mind slowdown too much either. I enjoy the little niggles inherent in retro titles, especially if it results from the devs pushing the hardware. Like Shiryu says regarding Gradius III, some of the classic retro mags used to say that the slowdown gave the gamer breathing space to dodge bullets and obstacles. I think that Konami struggled with that title, because it was so early in the SNES's development. Perhaps if they had developed it after the stirling work that they achieved with Contra III: The Alien Wars, they may have been able to make it smoother.
I do not know that much about Manga, but like the other gamers on this board, I have loads of fond memories for SNES Area 88/ U.N. Squadron. Dave is spot on, lots of SNES shooters became infamous for their slowdown. I like the design of U.N. Squadron as well, CPS-1 era Capcom was simply an ace time period for arcade titles.
There is something about shooters which were based upon aeroplanes, which added variety to a multitude of space and sci-fi shmups, that I really liked. I love Tecmo's helicopter/ jeep shooter Silkworm (1988), on Arcade and Amiga for that, too. I think that shooters with shops add a bit of a tactical edge to a game's power-up management. Capcom's Forgotten Worlds (MD, 1989) and Namco's Ordyne (PCE, 1989) were good for including shops.
Good point by @Shiryu (comment 5) about U.N. Squadron's licencing issues and as Shriyu mentioned Carrier Air Wing (1990) is class too. My understanding is that Carrier Air Wing is one of the unconverted, it has not had a home console port, not even on the PS2 and PSP 'Capcom Classics' compilations. For console gamers, wanting to play Carrier Air Wing, it is even more elusive than U.N. Squadron. That is a shame, no two ways about it.
I have been looking forward to this game for ages now and I have also been looking forward to reading Nlife's assessment of it, too. For one reason or another, I missed this review on 6th May, but that's cool because I have read it in plenty of time before I buy it on its US release. My Canadian exporters will have it in stock on Monday 28th June, so with international shipping I may be one of the last Nlifers to even get to play it! It is not cheap either, at about £43, I think that they know that they have a quality Wii game on their hands.
None of that matters, because Damo has pumped up my anticipation even more for this 3D run-and-gunner. Oh yeah, if Nintendo have gone "beyond the call of duty" here, I take that as they recognise that Treasure have turned Sin and Punishment's chaos up to 11! Countering rocket attacks, by returning them on enemies sounds sweet. The gameplay obviously rocks, even if it is a slight shame about the subdued two player option.
It sounds like Treasure have squeezed every last drip of graphical effect out of the Wii, I am particularly pleased that it runs smoothly and is slowdown free. Treasure are boss battle architects too, so I look forward to each new boss that it chucks out at me. Excellent review, @Damo.
I agree wholeheartedly with the review's final sentence. C'mon everyone, help to create Treasure's first ever significant sales success, I could never view this as a rental only game. I say, buy Wii Sin and Punishment: Star Successor. That is just my personal opinion, but it is clearly awesome.
@Sean Aaron I really like the Taito Legends 2 comp., it enables me to play Darius Gaiden on my PS2. I would love it if Taito brought an arcade compilation disc to Wii.
All the UK/EU gamers will get to play it on May 7th, a month before its US release, which is cool. I will buy it on its US release of 10th June, which is listed on my Canadian exporters site, though obviously it will take a week, or two to be internationally shipped to me.
Therefore, by the time I actually play it, I will have had loads of feedback from all of the NLifers, about what to look forward to. I don't mind being late to the party, I simply look forward to the NLife review and to booting up some Treasure Wii disc magic for the first time.
Hi @Banana_Jane, are you referring to the Canadian Virtual Console service?
It is just that when I read Sean's comment, I came away thinking that he was saying he has played Super Darius II on his Japanese Virtual Console. I did a bit of checking online and my understanding is that the PC Engine CD Rom game is definitely on Japanese VC. I think it costs 800 Wii points, which is exactly the same information Sean gave in this news article. With it being a Japan based piece of news, then I believe that he is referring specifically to that region.
Apologies if I have made any errors here, because I do not own a Japanese Wii to check my information through their VC. Cheers.
@Sean Aaron Cool Sean, I hear you completely regarding my question about Darius Twin.
The sound effects of arcade Ordyne really pop out of the speakers, even when watching it through a You Tube video, so I imagine it is a fun listen through your TV. The main track is nice and catchy, it is pretty much perfect for a cutesy shooter.
Thanks for your reply, have a fun weekend gaming on your Japanese Wii.
@Sean Aaron Sorry for being forward, but is Darius Twin going to get your review treatment, mate? I know that it is not considered to be the most ambitious iteration of Darius, but I am still interested in reading about it.
I really enjoy reading your Japanese Virtual Console review coverage. You did a great job covering Ironclad and lots of us finally got to play that, after reading your review. I hope that other Japanese exclusive VC games make it to Western Wiis and I think that Nintendo Life review articles have an important role in helping promote these releases.
Also, just out of interest, is Namco's arcade cute-'em-up Ordyne on the Japanese VCA? I downloaded the PC Engine game on Virtual Console after reading Dazza's review and I am really interested in the arcade version of this title. Its arcade release looks really impressive on You Tube, noticeably better that the PCE game, and technically strong considering it was released in 1989.
@Sean Aaron You know I can not even remember if PS2 Namco x Capcom made it to the other regions, e.g. PAL, US, Brazil, Australia etc.
You are right, there is something about the flamboyant character celebration and design of that game, which would make a nice fit for the Wii.
**** Edit @bro2dragons comment (below) made me think more about how likely the prospect of this actually is. I understand the licensing issues, but I think that the actual content ofMarvel vs. Capcom 3would similarly make a nice fit for Wii. Especially ifTatsunoko vs. Capcomhas set a precedent for the crossover fighter genre on Wii, by selling well.
Then again I could be making a fool of myself here, because I have not looked at any actual sales figures! I am only presuming that it sold well, based upon its critical acclaim. D'oh. ****
@Sean Aaron Fair enough mate, I hear you. I think that it is cool that we all reach that point where we know precisely what games we like.
There is nothing wrong with everyone having their own personal favourite genres. I am not massively enthusiastic about rhythm action, tower defence, turn based strategy and complicated puzzle games. I realised a long time ago that I am an arcade gamer. Give me a racer, a shooter, run-and-guns, scrolling beat-'em-ups, or a fast paced platformer and I am buzzing like a bee in a honey pot. lol.
Was the game that you were referring to called Namco x Capcom?
Oh yeah, I've got this now, thanks to Dave's review and it is brilliant! They have packed so much character into it, the courses are lovely. The boost mechanic is well implemented and jumping around the Stunt Trax is ace.
As the review and @Chunky Droid state, special mention must go to the fine music, 16-bit Nintendo stylee! It even echoes Super Mario World, at one point. Superb.
Ryan mate, you got me with "...a kind of female Han Solo analogue with a sassy attitude and a typically pneumatic physique". There should be a rule saying every sci-fi game/ movie should have one character of that ilk. lol. Great review.
@Adamant and @gojiguy I have got PS2 and PSP as well, it is just that I think if they want to get the best out of sales of a compilation in Western regions, they need to be releasing it on Wii as well. I hope that gojiguy is right, perhaps SNK Playmore will handle which systems receive it in Japan and Ignition choose if Wii gets it in the West. Presumably it is SNK Playmore as developers who have to program all of its emulation in the first place, though. So they would have to actually makeSNK Arcade Classics Vol.0 on the Wii.
@meppi I did not know that you had an AES, mate. Now I am officially jealous of you too, as I am anyone who owns a Neo Geo. Ha, ha, I am most envious of Corbie's Neo 25 cabinet, though. All you gamers who save the spondoolies to invest in the higher prices of Neo Geo hardware, AES carts and MVS boards earn my instant respect.
@nix I think that you hit the nail on the head, which is also one of the points of Corbie's feature (although the feature refers directly to Virtual Console, Corbie mentioned in comment 36 that he would "happily take all of these together on one Wii retail compilation disc as well"). : SNK Playmore and Ignition could release these 10 games as a shooter compilation, without any other SNK titles from different genres, and it would still be a must buy!
@Adamant Cheers for posting what you know about the list of titles which may be coming to SNK Arcade Classics Vol.0. The games you mentioned truly make it sound like a '80s retro-terrific treat!
My main question now is regarding which systems it will be released on. Surely the Wii will be included in its release.
@Warioware The first Prehistoric Isle in 1930 was an SNK arcade game, it was released in 1989, so it predated the Neo Geo AES console and MVS arcade system by just one year. As Corbie mentions, in the sequel you fly a helicopter, but in the first game you pilot a red, or blue biplane (simultaneous two player).
It joins a number of arcade games that were never converted to console, only its sequel reached the Neo Geo. Admitedly, it is visually not up to scratch to have received a direct conversion on the more advanced Neo Geo hardware, don't get me wrong though, it still looks good. It would have made a nice shooter for a PC Engine, or Mega Drive conversion, both of which were out in '89. Sadly it never happened, which may have been for the best, because it probably would have resulted in loads of broken PCE/ MD pads, 'cause it is rock hard!
Comments 506
Re: E3 2010: First Impressions: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
To me these graphics look completely stupendous, I was blown away by Skyward Sword during Nintendo's conference. With the 1:1 control & a completely lush visual style, this is the most excited I have been about a Zelda game since The Wind Waker (I was more hyped for GCN cel-shading style, than for the realistic Twilight Princess).
I love the way that this mixes Wind Waker's art with that of Twilight Princess, I especially like how Nlife tweeted that the trailer's visuals harked back to A Link to the Past, when they were covering the conference.
The detail on the controls is the icing on the cake, which I did not appreciate as much with Nintendo's awkward gameplay presentation (not that interference was their fault). Cheers for this Corbie.
Re: E3 2010: 3DS Will be Out Within 12 Months
@Golgo Good point mate. My cup is half full, in that we have really strong precedents for region-free Nintendo handheld cartridge gaming. You are spot on about the possibility of a region locked download store though. I agree with you; I would not buy a Japanese 3DS as my main handheld, if it meant that I could only play Japanese games. (I would buy one later, to supplement my English language version, though).
The best case scenario would be if 3DS received a simultaneous worldwide release. That is not an unrealistic possibility in this day and age. Fingers crossed then.
No matter what, it sure has been an exciting E3 for Nintendo fans! Oh yeah!
Re: E3 2010: 3DS Will be Out Within 12 Months
@Golgo If the Japanese version comes out before Christmas 2010, but Europe and America don't get 3DS until 2011, then I am going to go on a shopping trip with my importers!
Re: E3 2010: This Kirby Advert Looks Familiar
Wow, excellent find! Is the Kirby's Adventure advert from 1992/93, James?
They should replicate this advert's tune and vocals in Kirby's Epic Yarn, too!
Re: E3 2010: 3DS Will be Out Within 12 Months
Tick, tick, tick, tick, tick.... Christmas 2010 would be incredible!
****On a side note, Rich Leadbetter is a legend! ****
Re: E3 2010: Metroid: Other M Trailer
Wall jumping galore, rain harking back to the original Metroid Prime Tallon Overworld landing and a massive 'climb on the lava beastie'!
I love this trailer!
Re: Star Fox 64 3D
I just love the core 'space flight shooter' Star Fox gameplay. I am super excited to play this game with new graphical improvements, especially after Satoru Iwata said about 3DS at yesterday's Nintendo E3 '10 conference,
"We've also made improvements to the graphics capabilities of this hardware itself".
After the conference there were Nintendo staff interviews which continued on their stream. It was mentioned in regard to the original N64 game that Star Fox 64 3D improves on its gameplay in that,
"There are people who find flying through hoops in Star Fox difficult, but when they see it on 3DS, people will find it easier."
As much as I loove the first game, Star Fox 64 is my favourite out of the series. Awesome 3DS news!
Re: E3 2010: Corbie's Reaction to 3DS on Video
It was great seeing Corbie pop up as the first gamer to give impressions on 3DS during the after-show 'Nintendo E3 Network' stream. I was watching it with my girlfriend and I was completely buzzing to shout out, "Jo! I know that fella talking there!" Ha, ha.
The average gamer is able to get much closer to sharing in the E3 experience as soon as big news hits nowadays. By streaming the conference from Nintendo, checking Nlife's tweets and updates for impressions, as well as spotting Corbie in the thick of the action, I really felt like I was taking part in the E3 magic.
Great stuff, I'm super pleased that Corbie is there to represent everyone who is involved in Nlife. Keep on having tons of fun mate.
Re: E3 2010: Nintendo's Press Conference Highlights
This video has been put together brilliantly, it is great to see Nintendo's conference highlights all in one snappy 4 minute video.
Cheers Nintendo Life.
Re: E3 2010: Nintendo 3DS
I find it stunning that Nintendo's 2010 E3 conference was so strong, especially the fact that they were confident enough to not even release the 3DS screens to showcase an absolutely stunning range of games during their show. Check out this list:
The Kid Icarus: Uprising video was absolutely brilliant, they could have easily included footage of all their other top tier 3DS games as an avalanche of huge announcements in their conference. I have read about and watched lots of E3 conferences in my time, yet to my knowledge I have never known a company to hold back such massive news from their presentation, and save it for the gamers to experience during some hands on viewing time.
I actually love PlayStation games, but Sony's conference was the weakest of the lot, Microsoft's was not much better and Nintendo's show was simply superb. Its games kept on rolling in throughout the show and they presented such a volume of titles that were aimed at core gamers. The 3DS games were barely featured in the main show and I find it jaw dropping that Nintendo were brave enough to save them until after their presentation.
I love this quote from Satoru Iwata during the conference's unveiling of 3DS:
"We've also made improvements to the graphics capabilities of this hardware itself. Something tells me this alone might cause lots of enthusiasm in the development community."
3DS was easily the highlight of my E3 2010. Superb!
Re: E3 2010: Live Text - Nintendo's Media Presentation
So did @Drake and I really see @Corbie on the 'Nintendo E3 Network' site stream?
I thought I caught him giving quick impressions on 3DS. It didn't show the 3DS screens, it just displayed his reaction to playing it. I could be wrong.
Re: E3 2010: Live Text - Nintendo's Media Presentation
That was an incredible show, it was a new brilliant announcement rapid-fire presentation. Loads of quality for gamers, for me personally it was packed with future 2D classics. 3DS looks set to live up to expectations.
Nintendo's feed was impeccable, it's still discussing Zelda: Skyward Sword.
Nintendo, I take my hat off to you.
Re: E3 2010: Live Text - Nintendo's Media Presentation
Wii Sports Resort was all well and good, but how about a Wave Race Wii?
Re: E3 2010: Live Text - Nintendo's Media Presentation
I am 'N64 Kid' on Christmas morning; I could not be any more excited about E3.
C'mon Nintendo, hit me full on with a massive bombshell, maybe not a Megaton!, but leave me beaming. Make 3DS as powerful as a GameCube and include a first party big-hitter announcement with it. Treat me with a Wii Star Fox, or F-Zero announcement. Make the new Zelda to be jaw dropping, not just visually, but with new gameplay additions (have a concept as fundamentally brilliant as Galaxy's gravity).
You are a good man @Corbie, I appreciate your coverage. Good luck, have fun and "Cheers"!
Re: Nintendo Download: 14th June 2010 (North America)
I would like to learn more about Natsume's Shadow of the Ninja (NES), my understanding is that it benefits from co-op, but is a bit of a tough cookie!
I will read the Nlife review of that one with interest. Good on Natsume for getting behind the Virtual Console.
Re: Review: Mischief Makers (Nintendo 64)
Spot on in your mention of N64 Goemon's Great Adventure, not only does it qualify as a side-scrolling platformer, but the Goemon games have always been great for co-op. I have loved the Mystical Ninja titles since the SNES days. If @Stuffgamer1 puts it in the top spot, we have the making of a 'Best 2D N64 game' discussion. Has that one been covered by the forums yet? Nice one for your kind comments and Super Smash Bros. mention too, @GrangeGrover.
@KeeperBvK Thanks mate, and no worries, you did not criticise my review. The comments simply raised an issue which I was already conscious of before I submitted it. There is lots that I have not covered here. I have not mentioned that Mischief Makers does not have a difficulty option or a menu configuration screen, I should have said more about gold gems/ rankings and I could have included more detail about the controls (e.g. to reach height and distance from a jump the 'slider jump' can be mastered, by pressing down and double pressing 'A' quickly).
I would have liked to discuss the story in greater detail, for examples its humour is excellent and its dialogue is superbly self-referential. The Clancers are quirky and mischievous, like a cross between Joe Dante's/Spielburg’s maniacal Gremlins, but each wearing a Wes Craven style Scream mask. Also, if the cut-scenes become too much, they can be skipped with the 'Z' trigger.
I definitely should have written more detail on Clanpot recipe mixing, as well as the Teran levels and I have not even mentioned riding Cat Clancer, the Ostrich or especially the brilliant Flambéé shmup type level. This is only my 7th retro review, so I'm still learning. I think I need to realise that gamers do not especially want a reviewer to cover everything, that would spoil the game. It is most important to prioritise the important parts, because the extra details can be discussed as comments. Writing a few reviews here makes me appreciate the work of the other Nlife writers even more. They consistently review and inform, so I am grateful as a user for all of their contributions. I predominantly visit Nlife as a reader, so I have loads to learn from the team.
I'll hang around here and happily chat more, as long as people want to talk about about Mischief Makers. I'm interested in what Nlife's gamers think about its graphical style and the N64's ability as a 2D machine, when compared to a machine heralded as a 2D legend, like Sega's Saturn.
Re: Review: Mischief Makers (Nintendo 64)
Cheers @Stuffgamer1, your comment has summed up my initial experience of Mischief Makers, too. I hit a barrier with its controls at first, but I would recommend that you return to it and persevere through to its final stages. Once you reach the later boss battles, I am sure that you will really enjoy it. I keep on returning to it now.
I can also appreciate @devillinko's comment about 2D games on the N64. The N64 may have been a strong 3D console in 1996, yet it never became renowned for its 2D games. However, within a year of its release Treasure/ Enix unleashed this brilliant side-scrolling 2D platformer and it even bested Nintendo and HAL's N64 games in this genre, by creating a title that was superior to both Yoshi's Story and Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards.
If you were to grab a pen and paper and list all of the notable 2D games on the system, the chances are that you would struggle to fill a page. You could make the task easier by including polygon games which present a 2D perspective and 2.5D games in your list. Presumably you would include Killer Instinct Gold, Bangai-O, Star Soldier Vanishing Earth and Mortal Kombat Trilogy. You may even note down a nod to the magnificent Ogre Battle 64.
Narrow the parameters of your list to the genre of 2D or 2.5D N64 platformers and the task becomes more challenging. Without a doubt Yoshi’s Story and Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards would make that list, possibly Donald Duck: Goin’ Quakers/ Quack Attack could be included too. Most likely of all is that you would write down this underrated classic at the top of your list. If you think that my 8/10 score is too low, you may be even more disappointed if you were to see some of the lower scores that this game received when it was first released. It is with hindsight and in the context of viewing its role as one of the few great 2D games on N64 that ensures that Mischief Makers is appreciated as a real marvel....
.... and spot on to all of the VC/sequel comments posted here. I would also like for Mischief Makers to be granted a release on Virtual Console, but as @Token Girl and @Stuffgamer1 state there may be issues of publisher rights between Treasure and Square Enix. Also @Klapaucius, I would love to see a sequel too, as well as a remake or even a fancy ReBirth style update.
Re: Review: Mischief Makers (Nintendo 64)
I am super pleased to be able to have another retro review posted on Nlife, cheers loads to everyone on the Nlife team, I've even posted a li'l Twitpic to show how much I am buzzing.
@accc @Aenaida and @KeeperBvK I agree 100% with your comments, but hear me out for a second, because I can explain and elaborate upon your points. As I compiled this review, I basically became carried away with my research and my final piece was humongous. I was excited about this retro title, but my writing desperately needed to be cut and edited, because it was far too long winded.
I apologise to everyone at Nlife, the Nlife team and its readers, because I definitely need to work on my writing style to become more concise. I also directly apologise to @accc @Aenaida and @KeeperBvK because I wrote an analysis of Mischief Maker's rankings and gold gem system, but it contributed to an overly long review and was therefore edited. If anyone wants to discuss more about Mischief Makers here, I will post some of my edited writing as comments. For example, here are a couple of cut paragraphs, which didn't make the final review, but are relevant to your comments:
However, it will be unlikely that they would have collected a significant number of hidden gold gems to unlock the more detailed, revealing ending. It is also doubtful that they would have earned many dignified rankings, such as an excellent 'A', or particularly a perfect 'S' rating throughout their journey. Mischief Makers openly encourages players to return to each level, even if it is to simply to build up some extra blue or green health gems, or collect red gems to amass more continues.
Cheers to everyone, I really enjoyed repeatedly completing this game for the review.
Re: You Can Watch Nintendo's E3 Presentation Live
I am going to elaborate upon my Wii Vitality Sensor comment (above). To me Nintendo will always be a legendary company who make classic video games. I associate them not just with innovation, but with fundamentally fun gameplay.
Therefore, in my head I am hoping that the Vitality Sensor is explored to create new gameplay experiences. For example, it could be used during stealth elements of a game, perhaps in a survival horror type situation, in which an enemy can sense your whereabouts if you are stressed out. You would have to chill yourself out and get your pulse down before you could progress, but at the same time an omnipotent force could be present which attempts to pile on the stress.
It would not have to be a horror game, or be adult orientated. Wind Waker had stealth elements, ideas like this could be implemented through the more traditional Nintendo methods of presentation.
I sure am excited about E3 !!!
Re: You Can Watch Nintendo's E3 Presentation Live
I am a bit predictable in my 'wish list' for E3 '10. I predominantly have my fingers crossed for snazzy new additions of classic franchises like F-Zero, Star Fox and Pilotwings.
I hold a tiny li'l glimmer of hope hiding away in my heart, that Nintendo will dabble in a bit of Wii cel-shading. I am excited for a new Wii Zelda, I would absolutely love something on the lines of GCN Wind Waker.
I can be a little bit clichéd in the way I always harp on about new additions of retro titles, so I will be a bit more forward thinking by saying that it would be brilliant for Nintendo to surprise us with a Vitality Sensor game that includes all of their innovation and magic, but is targeted at core gamers.
Re: You Can Watch Nintendo's E3 Presentation Live
I. Simply. Can. Not. Wait !!!
Re: Nintendo Download: 31st May 2010 (North America)
I join Sean, Bass X0, Guy from Faxanadu and StarBoy91 in keeping my fingers crossed that Natsume are able to release SNES Pocky and Rocky 2 on Virtual Console. I would especially like to play it in its 2 player simultaneous co-op form.
I have played the first arcade game, KiKi KaiKai (1986), on PSP Taito Pocket Memories and on PS2 Taito Legends 2. Bass X0 is right, the first game is a tough cookie!
However, I am more excited about the SNES release if I am honest. Perhaps while we are discussing this, it would be worth pointing out that a Taito Legends type compilation on Wii would be stupendous. I hope that someone out there at Taito listening. We would like a Wii Taito compilation, please !!!
@StarBoy91 Great link to Corbie's review, by the way. I am fully infatuated with Super Famicom games at the moment, so I often check in on Corbie's SUPER-NES.com site, alongside visiting Nlife and reading old 'Mean Machines' SNES reviews at Mean Machines Archive. Nice one.
Re: Nintendo Download: 31st May 2010 (North America)
@brandonbwii Good point mate, I always consider Sin and Punishment to be a 3D extension of fast paced Contra style run-and-gun games. I never really made the association between the Cabal style and viewpoint of gameplay, with that of Sin and Punsihment before.
I think that I associate the visuals of run-and-gun games with fast moving environments, whilst games like Wild Guns do not scroll their backgrounds nearly as much. They are almost like one static background, like in a Street Fighter II style one-on-one fighter, which only scrolls a little bit to the left and right. I realise that my description is not the hard-and-fast rule, many games in this genre are like a third person Operation Wolf, for example Nam-1975 scrolls past a number of different backgrounds.
I like all of the variety in different shooters anyway. I am looking forward to both Wii Sin and Punishment: Star Successor and VC Wild Guns.
It is all good arcade blastin'!
Re: Nintendo Download: 31st May 2010 (North America)
Wow, I am really impressed, I can feel the SNES Wild Guns love in this room. I did not even realise that the old school blast-and-dodge, third person shooting gallery gameplay of arcade games like Cabal, Blood Bros and Nam-1975 was so popular. I am always a big fan of the retro appreciation displayed by Nlife users!
Am I right in thinking that Taito's Super Famicom KiKi KaiKai Tsukiyozoushi was released by Natsume in the West as Pocky & Rocky 2? That would be another cool game for the Virtual Console if Natsume still have the license.
I think that Natsume may even have links to Taito's SNES Ninja Warriors Again, which would be another fine beat-em-up for Virtual Console, even if it would mean yet another of my boxed Super Famicom games plummeting in value! That is another game which is particularly expensive on SNES.
Re: Nintendo Download: 31st May 2010 (North America)
Woo hoo! I agree with KakumeiSenshiYoshi, Tsuchinoko, The Fox and StarBoy91, I am really pleased to hear that Natsume's Wild Guns is heading to Virtual Console, I can't wait to read the Nlife review for that one.
Mayhem is right, it is a bargain on VC, compared to some of the prices it can command nowadays. Sweet indeed.
Re: Sonic Colours to Brighten Up DS and Wii
I am up for Sonic to make a truly triumphant return in 2010, I will back him all the way... just no piggy backs! He's too spiky!
Good luck Sega, we know Sonic is fast, we just want him to really hit his stride.
Re: Lords of Shadow to Feature Classic Nintendo Castlevania Music
@darklinkinfinite Spot on mate, the cover art for Legacy of Darkness is wonderful (nt. The version I have seen has skulls in the bottom left corner, the castle on the left with an orange sunset, bats flying past a huge half moon on the right and a ship sailing away on the bottom right).
The music on N64's Castlevania intro, which you posted is pretty darn gorgeous, as its tune glides between instruments. Is the 3D model of the castle from its intro the same one you explore in the game? Retro Gamer Issue 77 is out in the UK very soon and it has a double page screenshot spread on the N64's Castlevania (see 1:40 into youtube video).
As soon as I get a copy of that issue, I will let you know what they wrote about it. Cheers!
Re: Lords of Shadow to Feature Classic Nintendo Castlevania Music
Wow! That is the second time in about a week that a sound Nlife member has given me a detailed synopsis of a retro game, to help me decide on a purchase. @Starboy91 did exactly the same thing when he recommended SNES Super E.D.F to me in the U.N. Squadron review. I love the way in which Nlifers share knowledge, I can't get enough of learning more about retro.
Therefore, thanks lots @darklinkinfinite and apologies that it has taken me so long to reply. You have saved me time and money, by ultimately recommending N64 Castlevania: Legacy of Darkness.
I really like the classic pre-Symphony of the Night Castlevania games, too. Your description of the atmosphere and ambiance built in Legacy of Darkness, including it music and character story arcs, is a definite plus point for me. Fair play to your knowledge on 3D Castlevanias mate, including the PS2 games.
It was very kind of you to take the time to write this analysis. The only dilemma I have, is that I have been spending far too much money on games recently. I checked ebay and they have PAL LoD, but it is 'Buy it Now' £60!
Is LoD quite an expensive retro game then?
Nice one @darklinkinfinite
Re: Suda 51 Interested in Killer7 Sequel, No Plans for NMH3
"killer7 is the part of my soul." What an excellent quote.
I am interested in a Killer7 sequel, too. Devs like Suda51, really bring the industry to life and give it more personality, just like the crazy old 8-bit bedroom coders in the '80s!
Re: Review: Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)
Oh yeah, a superb review to evaluate this spectacular game! I say "Yippee for Yoshi" and I like that the new hub makes this game snappy and accessible.
Excuse my retro leanings, but I can't wait to play along to a Super Mario World tune in this, and I am looking forward to when Super Mario Galaxy 2 switches to a traditional 2D perspective like it did in the first game. This is simply awesome all round. Right round planets baby, right round!
Cheers, @Corbie
Re: Lords of Shadow to Feature Classic Nintendo Castlevania Music
Fair play, there is lots of food for thought in the above comments. @darklinkinfinite and @Mike are right the reviews I have read reviews for the 3D N64 titles have generally been in the 7's and 8's, and to a point these generalised scores also apply to the PS2 games. Therefore, they are still decent games.
However, I would still argue that there had not been a 3D Castlevania which has been as majestic as Rondo of Blood and Symphony of the Night, but I put my hands up and admit that I have not actually played any of the 3D Castlevanias. I have based my opinion on what other people say and what I've read, which completely diminishes my argument really. If other gamers have played the 3D titles lots, then that holds more weight in my opinion.
I am also a bit biased, because I love 2D sprite games so much. Also, Symphony of the Night was released on PlayStation in 1997 and Konami's devs were dab hands at 2D game design by that point. The first N64 game was released in 1999, so loads of improvements have been made in third person 3D game design since then, over the last 11 years. I have both a N64 and PS2, so there is no reason why I can't do a bit of background research on the joys of 3D Castlevanias. I could go on the hunt for N64 Castlevania and Legacy of Darkness, as well as PS2 Lament of Innocence and Curse of Darkness.
Fact is I would be much happier if Lords of Shadow is amazing and I hope that it exceeds people's expectations. Fingers crossed, then.
Re: Lords of Shadow to Feature Classic Nintendo Castlevania Music
@Damo I know mate, remember ages ago when I tweeted you with my excitement about Kojima's role in Lords of Shadow, when really I was being a bit naive by overstating the depth of his involvement.
I think we are justified in being quietly apprehensive about this one. That way if it turns out to be a blinder we can all buzz off it and celebrate its greatness. However, if it sucks then at least we will have not built it up to be a monumental progression for the series, on the level of Metroid Prime's transition from 2D to 3D.
**** edit: Although I remember in the early preview days of GCN Metroid Prime, there were magazines who were nervous that Retro Studios would not be able to represent 2D Metroid from a first person perspective. They were unsure if Retro would still create Metroid's progressive gameplay, in which new areas were uncovered by earning power-ups, using what looked like a FPS engine. Their concerns were unnecessary, now that we have the gift of hindsight. ****
Re: Lords of Shadow to Feature Classic Nintendo Castlevania Music
Still this is good new for everyone looking forward to playing Lords of Shadow, because if they are taking care and attention to get the retro tunes right, then they may be able to re-create aspects of the classic gameplay.
However, as Damo says, it is still up in the air about how true this iteration will be to the 'real deal' Castlevania titles. From my understanding, the series has simply not been effectively represented from a 3D perspective, when compared to the 2D classics. It is just a case of wait and see, I think the word that I'm looking for is, "hmmmmmm".
Re: Review: Kirby Super Star (Virtual Console / Super Nintendo)
Spot on @Corbie, 1996 was quite late for a SNES title, it sounds like HAL really went to to town with the SNES's colour palette and dual sound chips. Your description of its varied gameplay has captured my interest. Fact is, I have never really played any Kirby games, but I am clearly a dork, because I should not be missing out on a 9/10 scoring SNES classic.
I am not currently a fan of the Kirby series but reading this review was great, because it has made me want to play this title. Question is, do I download it straight off theVirtual Console, or hunt down a boxed Super Famicom copy? Hmmm.
Oh yeah, and "Suck on this!" is a class intro one-liner!
Re: Review: UN Squadron (Super Nintendo)
@Starboy91 Whoa, thanks lots mate, that was a detailed synopsis of Super EDF. You have piqued my interest, I will keep my eyes peeled on a boxed with instructions Super Famicom version.
I am not actually that good at shmups, so I may struggle with Super EDF when I get it. However, I find that it is one genre in which perseverance pays off, I like the sound of its levelling up system.
As for Gradius III, I am a bit of an unusual Gradius player. I basically only allow myself to have one life, because I like to hoard my power ups early on. I always go for all the options, with powered up lasers and I constantly try to save '?' icons for a shield. Then I try to see how far I can get with a fully powered ship. I do not even bother with the extra lives which I accumulate. Take into account that I have not completed any Gradius game using this method, so it is not a particularly effective strategy. lol.
It is past 1am in the UK, so I'm going to head off to bed now, but I just want to say that it is good to back chatting about 'retro' with you guys. I have been so busy writing my dissertation, I have missed talking about classic games with retro enthusiasts, like Starboy91 etc. It is finished now, so I will be actively ranting about chunky ole 8 megabit cartridge games again. Nice one!
Re: Review: UN Squadron (Super Nintendo)
@Shiryu Cool mate, 3 player co-op would rule! I never played Amiga UN Squadron, but S.W.I.V was quality. The Sales Curve did such a fine job to make a pseudo sequel to Silkworm, switch to a vertical perspective and still maintain the core style from the original.
I have two, maybe even three, Amigas gathering dust in a box. Sadly, I have become so lazy with my retro computer games playing. I have lost the patience for disc, or tape, load times.
It would be great if 'load free' Amiga games were made available on Virtual Console.
@Starboy91 I have never played SNES Super EDF. I'm collecting Japanese Super Famicom games at the moment, so if you recommend it, I will add it to my hunt and wanted list. I do not mind slowdown too much either. I enjoy the little niggles inherent in retro titles, especially if it results from the devs pushing the hardware.
Like Shiryu says regarding Gradius III, some of the classic retro mags used to say that the slowdown gave the gamer breathing space to dodge bullets and obstacles. I think that Konami struggled with that title, because it was so early in the SNES's development. Perhaps if they had developed it after the stirling work that they achieved with Contra III: The Alien Wars, they may have been able to make it smoother.
Re: Review: UN Squadron (Super Nintendo)
Great review @Other Dave
I do not know that much about Manga, but like the other gamers on this board, I have loads of fond memories for SNES Area 88/ U.N. Squadron. Dave is spot on, lots of SNES shooters became infamous for their slowdown. I like the design of U.N. Squadron as well, CPS-1 era Capcom was simply an ace time period for arcade titles.
There is something about shooters which were based upon aeroplanes, which added variety to a multitude of space and sci-fi shmups, that I really liked. I love Tecmo's helicopter/ jeep shooter Silkworm (1988), on Arcade and Amiga for that, too. I think that shooters with shops add a bit of a tactical edge to a game's power-up management. Capcom's Forgotten Worlds (MD, 1989) and Namco's Ordyne (PCE, 1989) were good for including shops.
Good point by @Shiryu (comment 5) about U.N. Squadron's licencing issues and as Shriyu mentioned Carrier Air Wing (1990) is class too. My understanding is that Carrier Air Wing is one of the unconverted, it has not had a home console port, not even on the PS2 and PSP 'Capcom Classics' compilations. For console gamers, wanting to play Carrier Air Wing, it is even more elusive than U.N. Squadron. That is a shame, no two ways about it.
Re: Review: Sin and Punishment: Star Successor (Wii)
I have been looking forward to this game for ages now and I have also been looking forward to reading Nlife's assessment of it, too. For one reason or another, I missed this review on 6th May, but that's cool because I have read it in plenty of time before I buy it on its US release. My Canadian exporters will have it in stock on Monday 28th June, so with international shipping I may be one of the last Nlifers to even get to play it! It is not cheap either, at about £43, I think that they know that they have a quality Wii game on their hands.
None of that matters, because Damo has pumped up my anticipation even more for this 3D run-and-gunner. Oh yeah, if Nintendo have gone "beyond the call of duty" here, I take that as they recognise that Treasure have turned Sin and Punishment's chaos up to 11! Countering rocket attacks, by returning them on enemies sounds sweet. The gameplay obviously rocks, even if it is a slight shame about the subdued two player option.
It sounds like Treasure have squeezed every last drip of graphical effect out of the Wii, I am particularly pleased that it runs smoothly and is slowdown free. Treasure are boss battle architects too, so I look forward to each new boss that it chucks out at me. Excellent review, @Damo.
I agree wholeheartedly with the review's final sentence. C'mon everyone, help to create Treasure's first ever significant sales success, I could never view this as a rental only game. I say, buy Wii Sin and Punishment: Star Successor. That is just my personal opinion, but it is clearly awesome.
Re: Nintendo Download: 13th & 14th April 2010 (Japan)
@Sean Aaron I really like the Taito Legends 2 comp., it enables me to play Darius Gaiden on my PS2. I would love it if Taito brought an arcade compilation disc to Wii.
I am with you in hotly anticipating Sin and Punishment: Star Successor, it is possibly the title I most look forward to in 2010.
All the UK/EU gamers will get to play it on May 7th, a month before its US release, which is cool. I will buy it on its US release of 10th June, which is listed on my Canadian exporters site, though obviously it will take a week, or two to be internationally shipped to me.
Therefore, by the time I actually play it, I will have had loads of feedback from all of the NLifers, about what to look forward to. I don't mind being late to the party, I simply look forward to the NLife review and to booting up some Treasure Wii disc magic for the first time.
Re: Nintendo Download: 13th & 14th April 2010 (Japan)
Hi @Banana_Jane, are you referring to the Canadian Virtual Console service?
It is just that when I read Sean's comment, I came away thinking that he was saying he has played Super Darius II on his Japanese Virtual Console. I did a bit of checking online and my understanding is that the PC Engine CD Rom game is definitely on Japanese VC. I think it costs 800 Wii points, which is exactly the same information Sean gave in this news article. With it being a Japan based piece of news, then I believe that he is referring specifically to that region.
Apologies if I have made any errors here, because I do not own a Japanese Wii to check my information through their VC. Cheers.
Re: Nintendo Download: 13th & 14th April 2010 (Japan)
@Sean Aaron Cool Sean, I hear you completely regarding my question about Darius Twin.
The sound effects of arcade Ordyne really pop out of the speakers, even when watching it through a You Tube video, so I imagine it is a fun listen through your TV. The main track is nice and catchy, it is pretty much perfect for a cutesy shooter.
Thanks for your reply, have a fun weekend gaming on your Japanese Wii.
Re: Nintendo Download: 13th & 14th April 2010 (Japan)
@Sean Aaron Sorry for being forward, but is Darius Twin going to get your review treatment, mate? I know that it is not considered to be the most ambitious iteration of Darius, but I am still interested in reading about it.
I really enjoy reading your Japanese Virtual Console review coverage. You did a great job covering Ironclad and lots of us finally got to play that, after reading your review. I hope that other Japanese exclusive VC games make it to Western Wiis and I think that Nintendo Life review articles have an important role in helping promote these releases.
Also, just out of interest, is Namco's arcade cute-'em-up Ordyne on the Japanese VCA?
I downloaded the PC Engine game on Virtual Console after reading Dazza's review and I am really interested in the arcade version of this title. Its arcade release looks really impressive on You Tube, noticeably better that the PCE game, and technically strong considering it was released in 1989.
Re: Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 Could Be On Its Way
@Sean Aaron You know I can not even remember if PS2 Namco x Capcom made it to the other regions, e.g. PAL, US, Brazil, Australia etc.
You are right, there is something about the flamboyant character celebration and design of that game, which would make a nice fit for the Wii.
**** Edit @bro2dragons comment (below) made me think more about how likely the prospect of this actually is. I understand the licensing issues, but I think that the actual content of Marvel vs. Capcom 3 would similarly make a nice fit for Wii. Especially if Tatsunoko vs. Capcom has set a precedent for the crossover fighter genre on Wii, by selling well.
Then again I could be making a fool of myself here, because I have not looked at any actual sales figures! I am only presuming that it sold well, based upon its critical acclaim. D'oh. ****
Re: Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 Could Be On Its Way
@Sean Aaron Fair enough mate, I hear you. I think that it is cool that we all reach that point where we know precisely what games we like.
There is nothing wrong with everyone having their own personal favourite genres. I am not massively enthusiastic about rhythm action, tower defence, turn based strategy and complicated puzzle games. I realised a long time ago that I am an arcade gamer. Give me a racer, a shooter, run-and-guns, scrolling beat-'em-ups, or a fast paced platformer and I am buzzing like a bee in a honey pot. lol.
Was the game that you were referring to called Namco x Capcom?
Re: Review: Stunt Race FX (Super Nintendo)
Oh yeah, I've got this now, thanks to Dave's review and it is brilliant! They have packed so much character into it, the courses are lovely. The boost mechanic is well implemented and jumping around the Stunt Trax is ace.
As the review and @Chunky Droid state, special mention must go to the fine music, 16-bit Nintendo stylee! It even echoes Super Mario World, at one point. Superb.
Nice one for covering this, Dave.
Re: Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 Could Be On Its Way
@Sean Aaron Would you not like to see another iteration of Capcom vs. SNK, or SNK vs. Capcom, by either of the two developers, as well mate?
Re: Review: Infinite Space (DS)
Ryan mate, you got me with "...a kind of female Han Solo analogue with a sassy attitude and a typically pneumatic physique". There should be a rule saying every sci-fi game/ movie should have one character of that ilk. lol.
Great review.
Re: Feature: The Neo Geo Shooters We Need On Virtual Console
@Adamant and @gojiguy I have got PS2 and PSP as well, it is just that I think if they want to get the best out of sales of a compilation in Western regions, they need to be releasing it on Wii as well. I hope that gojiguy is right, perhaps SNK Playmore will handle which systems receive it in Japan and Ignition choose if Wii gets it in the West. Presumably it is SNK Playmore as developers who have to program all of its emulation in the first place, though. So they would have to actually make SNK Arcade Classics Vol.0 on the Wii.
@meppi I did not know that you had an AES, mate. Now I am officially jealous of you too, as I am anyone who owns a Neo Geo. Ha, ha, I am most envious of Corbie's Neo 25 cabinet, though. All you gamers who save the spondoolies to invest in the higher prices of Neo Geo hardware, AES carts and MVS boards earn my instant respect.
@nix I think that you hit the nail on the head, which is also one of the points of Corbie's feature (although the feature refers directly to Virtual Console, Corbie mentioned in comment 36 that he would "happily take all of these together on one Wii retail compilation disc as well"). :
SNK Playmore and Ignition could release these 10 games as a shooter compilation, without any other SNK titles from different genres, and it would still be a must buy!
Re: Feature: The Neo Geo Shooters We Need On Virtual Console
@Adamant Cheers for posting what you know about the list of titles which may be coming to SNK Arcade Classics Vol.0. The games you mentioned truly make it sound like a '80s retro-terrific treat!
My main question now is regarding which systems it will be released on. Surely the Wii will be included in its release.
Re: Feature: The Neo Geo Shooters We Need On Virtual Console
@Warioware The first Prehistoric Isle in 1930 was an SNK arcade game, it was released in 1989, so it predated the Neo Geo AES console and MVS arcade system by just one year. As Corbie mentions, in the sequel you fly a helicopter, but in the first game you pilot a red, or blue biplane (simultaneous two player).
It joins a number of arcade games that were never converted to console, only its sequel reached the Neo Geo. Admitedly, it is visually not up to scratch to have received a direct conversion on the more advanced Neo Geo hardware, don't get me wrong though, it still looks good. It would have made a nice shooter for a PC Engine, or Mega Drive conversion, both of which were out in '89. Sadly it never happened, which may have been for the best, because it probably would have resulted in loads of broken PCE/ MD pads, 'cause it is rock hard!