@Stuffgamer1 - Actually Microsoft DOES own Rare lock, stock, and barrel. The Stamper Brothers who founded the company sold their majority ownership to Microsoft. The rest of the company was owned by Nintendo - something under 50% - who later sold their stakes in the company. So Rare is in fact owned by Microsoft, as are their intellectual properties. One can only speculate as to what allowances were made regarding the games in the gray area; those that were jointly developed with Nintendo but did not have Nintendo IPs in-game. It seems clear that the lines were very clearly drawn at the bargaining table, but neither side has commented in-depth on the deal. Just the usual corporate talking head stuff.
@MarkyVigoroth - Ha ha... only because I've come to expect it whenever I have a strong and contrary opinion. It's one of the reasons I stopped posting on here for some time now. I found myself getting pulled into protracted debates and I eventually lost interest.
And FYI... I used to work in the Video Game retail industry and as a result got a golden ticket to 2 E3s. One of which included the debut of the original Conker! I can give you an idea as to why it may have changed. It WAS fun, but it was also a bit saccharin and 'me too'. It wasn't broken and it controlled well. It basically felt like Banjo... with nuts. Everyone that I spoke with felt the same... that it was a pretty and fun but that they had seen most of it before. I think we all agreed that we'd pick it up, and that it would definitely move inventory during the holidays, but it wasn't impressive. Rare was kind of in a rut, which is why I actually think the move to Microsoft was good for them. Viva Pinata may not be everyone's cup, but it's at least original and fresh!
Oh for the love of crap. Microsoft owns Rare, Banjo and company are Rare owned IPs, and Nintendo has absolutely no say what-so-ever regarding the handling of ANY Rare franchises. Period. Get over it and get an N64 and a copy of each game. These games were only mildly entertaining to begin with, and certainly aren't 'classics'. If the rose-colored glasses of nostalgia are removed, most of the item gathering and back tracking would be seen for what it is. A played-out game mechanic that Rare went one too many times to the well for when they released Donkey Kong 64. Which, I'm sorry folks, was a bit of a game-play turd. Seriously. All of these games were technical marvels for their time, and some novel approaches to platforming were present, this is true. But none of these games are worth the kind of money Nintendo would have to throw at Microsoft and Rare to get them. Not by a long-shot. And Nintendo knows it. They sold like crazy because they were pretty, and fun for the first half of the game. The boss battles in the Banjo games were fun. But mostly there just wasn't much on the market for the N64 at the time. Nintendo releases were few and far between, and third party support was weak at best. So Banjo, a game that would have normally gotten passable reviews, shown like the sun. Mainly due to Rare's excellent production values, and not the game play.
I'm not saying they weren't fun, and I enjoyed them along with everyone else... for a while. I finished them because I had to, not because they game me overwhelming joy! I'm just saying that they aren't seminal gaming classics and there are better games for Nintendo to throw money at.
@ Quimby - Agree...I've been done with them for a while. I'm going to sit down and play Commando 3 on my PS3. I'm dusting off my emulators for the Dreamcast, and that will be the end of my association w Ninty. They have driven away the loyal fans, and sent them into the arms of hacks and emulation because of their near-sighted, ignorant and pompous mismanagement.
yea. Another 10 dollar wiiware game that can't match the gameplay of a longer and less expensive classic shmup, but can sure eat up several times the storage.
@ quimby - I'm all but through with Nintendo. They've become asses again, and it's becoming apparent that it will only become worse. They're blowing what seems to be an insurmountable lead and they don't even realize it yet. I see the other two next-gen systems having a gradually stronger showing these next 2 years and then either crossing the finish line over the following 2 years neck and neck, or leading Nintendo. A decent price drop for either system would do the trick.
Nintendo placed last the previous 2 generations of systems (don't talk to me about the Dreamcast...it's too soon and I still morn) because of the very same arrogance, ignorance, and sketchy practices. They finally get back to basics and truly innovate, and the suits crap on their own parade. Just when developers were beginning to trust Nintendo again, just when they were getting excited about a Nintendo system...Nintendo slams shut the door. And mashes gamers fingers in the process. Jack balls.
@ Tony and Herandar - Oh my...if it wasn't a North American thing initially, it is now At any rate, I'll just have mine phoned in to Walmart and pick it up for a dollar
@Mirokunite - Have no fear...even if Nintendo doesn't 'man up' with a storage solution, your games are protected.
If your Wii craps out you just have to let Nintendo know and work with them. I asked a Nintendo tech dude this once, and he said it's a matter of letting them know the new serial # and registering your new Wii. Your existing account can then be transfered to that ID. You won't be able to use the games on the VC of the old Wii, even if you get it repaired, but at least you'll be able to download the games again without paying twice for play on the new system. That's the way he broke it down for me. Hope that helps!
@Atlantis1982 - oh yeah...rolls eyes...that's the only reason anyone would want another storage option.
By the way...how are you enjoying your new karts and tracks for mario kart? And how about those new Metroid multiplayer maps? Those are great, huh!?! You still don't get it....but maybe Nintendo finally does.
I think a lot of ppl here, just based on the comments I'm seeing, are feeding into Nintendo's current stance. All I hear is talk about VC games...with a smattering of Wiiware talk. I realize this is a VC games site, and that's first and foremost what comments will relate to. But I think downloadable content relates in that anything Nintendo might be able to pull off for additional content will be competing for space with our VC games.
Where is the that content? MIA. New levels, items, characters? Hell...even new gameplay elements?!? Basically everything we're missing out on as Wii owners that everyone else is enjoying (well, to be honest...I am among the PS3 and 360 owners). Guitar Hero 3 and the coming Rock Band are both extremely kneecapped by the lack of new songs. I'll be getting the ps3 or 360 versions. Look at Medal of Honor: Heros 2 on the Wii. Yeah, graphically it's marginal...but it has been refered to as the best playing console fps because of the Wii-look set-up, and control customization options. But sales haven't been what they should have. They could see a return to the sales charts if there was a way for them to release a multiplayer map pack, or a new co-op mission as micro transactions. But there isn't. Because there's no place to put them. And that's why I hope this comment by Nintendo leads to some sort of storage fix. So we can start to see the real potential of Wii Connect and the Wii Shop.
@Kelvin - I think it's a matter of pride in what you're doing. Publisher deadlines not withstanding, why would you NOT create the absolute best visuals possible to accompany your brilliant game play. As brooks83 alluded to above, given games featuring equally kick-ass game play, but with different levels of polish...well I think we know which one would sell. And I believe rightly so. There is absolutely no reason not to expect the developer to put their best foot forward and create a very complete package. Graphics aren't the most important thing, but they are important. There are some exceptions, but given the power at developers finger tips, a game with great game play, and sub par graphics now seems rushed or lazy...and will take the appropriate hit when reviewed. It shouldn't stop anyone from playing a game, but it should make them buy the graphically superior version. (all other things being equal) Just a counterpoint
@will - hahaha...YES! My feelings exactly!!!! werd.
And my first console was the Odyssey 2...because it had a keyboard and that was the only way a game system was getting my parents approval. Suckers...heh. That was followed by a C64.
And NO! No one on this site may cut me in half and count my rings! Dammit!
That's not what I'M saying is the reality of things...that's what Nintendo's Company line has been since they announced that comparatively the Wii was going to be severely under-powered. They've said from the beginning (even Miyamoto) that graphics have become nigh on irrelevant and that stick figures could carry a game if the game-play was kick ass.
I assert that if that were true, then why are so many sprite based, 2-D games and even 3-D games with either innovative game-play or spot-on old school mechanics being outsold by graphic powerhouses with stale game-play or sequels that do nothing to move a series forward other than step up the tech and game engines.
To get back on topic, that is why I find the very 90's-esque console wars (as Ben mentioned ) obtuse and a bit comical. I was just trying to point out the fact that the game rocks on the system it was built from the ground up for, and ppl should stop crying and wetting themselves about it...and just have fun! I do admit ignorance to the plight of the PAL laden ppl of the world. I don't know how SEGA has wronged you, so I can't comment on your frustration.
See what I'm saying now? Btw...I'm probably one of the older, if not oldest of the posters on this site. The 16 bit days were halcyon days for me...the golden era and I miss the feeling I used to get with new game releases...hell even with waiting for my next issue of EGM, or Next Gen...or better yet Die Hard Game Fan! I owned all of the systems at the time, and had no bias...other than crappy games bad...kick ass games good! I think you missed my point, but that's ok...I was just pointing out all of the silliness
@Kingston - I personally wouldn't waste points on Clayfighter ...use them on any of the Street Fighter games on the SNES instead. Sadly, the only version I could recommend probably won't see the light of day. The Championship or special edition or whatever it was called packed enough into it to warrant a purchase. Unfortunately, it was not released at retail and was only available for rent through Blockbuster Video They did this with a few games. You can now find it used, of course. I doubt it will make it to the VC though.
It's not a stinker of a game...it's just not worth the space and the coin.
@GiantPooka - Yup. That's exactly what I was getting at. But I still felt the Genesis EWJ 2 played better as well. Even my Nintendo fanboy friends at the time (who thought I was stupid and a traitor for getting a SEGA System) had to concede that the games just felt better on the Genesis. I don't specifically remember the weapons swapping issue and I had both versions. But it HAS been awhile. Apparently it didn't distract me too much!
@Betagam7 - Sorry to hear of your PAL issues...but I don't have that trouble, so it's the Genny games all the way!
And does anyone find this ironic: In a time where Nintendo is hawking the 'gameplay over graphics mantra...and telling the world Wii gamers and Nintendo fans prefer gameplay over pretty graphics...the Genesis version of EWJ, which has extra content, tighter gameplay and more fluid animation, is getting bashed based, almost without exception, on the graphics?
Even funnier still when you consider the only real glaring difference is the color palette. Just an observation.
You know, honestly...Earthworm JIm for the Sega CD was my favorite hands down. But beyond that, as attractive as the snes versions were the Genesis versions just seemed to control tighter. It was that way for quite a few cross-platform releases. I don't know if the faster processor gave the Genesis an edge in interface response time, or if there were any developer's tools supplied by SEGA that made this so.
Whatever arcane arts were used to conjure up sweet control, SEGA had it down...even with third party games. That's why I'll take the SEGA versions over the eye candy anytime. Not that the SNES versions controlled poorly. Just felt floaty at times, comparatively speaking. Oh well...just an opinion and my 2 or 3 cents worth.
I have to say that while I'll concede Clayfighter as a game that should be played on the SNES (the characters really come to life with the larger color palette. They start to really feel like claymation figures), I really don't understand all of the whining and crying about the Genesis versions. The control is tight. While the color palette suffers, and certain effects are not as pronounced or faked using work-arounds,the animation is every bit as smooth, and maybe even smoother. Certainly a bit faster/quicker. The game is still stunning in motion and certainly doesn't deserve a rabid fan-boy beat down. I'd venture a guess from the tone of the comments that most of these opinions come from people who have never played the 2 side by side or one after the other. For them I suggest you do some homework...cause you'll be missing out. Start a petition...yeeesh.
Great! It's not bad enough those bastards get theatrical release tentacle porn, and underwear from vending machines...now they have the unmitigated gall to release games that Japanese Gaming companies created and released first run on Japanese consoles...IN JAPAN?!?!?!?! Before the rest of the world?
Next they'll be trying to tell us they saved the video game industry from some kind of (air quotes) Crash (air quotes)! That they somehow brought video games 'back from the dead'! Pfft...
The Lufia games never got their due. They were well written, and the second had beautiful graphics on par with any rpg released stateside on the snes. Lufia II also had beautiful and haunting music.
As a matter of fact, I'm going to plop my butt down with my SNES and play it right now. Shame it probably won't see a VC release (for those who haven't played either, and don't have any other access to them)
@ CuzinMike - Definately pulling for Crystalis. LOVE that game! And the Lunar games of course. But I'm pulling for the underdog!
@ Dark Jinjo - Um...I think you're a bit confused on this one. What you're (sort of) describing is the Sega SATURN. The Sega CD was an add-on for the Sega Genesis that pre-dated the Playstation (in it's final Sony form ) by about 4 years. It wasn't a 3-d machine at all. There were a couple of games that did some 3-D (Stellar 7 and Silpheed come to mind), but the majority faked it using what was actually sort of mode 7 on steroids, with bi-axial rotation and sprite scaling (take a peak at Soul Star by Core).
No, you're thinking of the Saturn. There shouldn't be anything precluding the release of Sega CD games on the VC...at least not anything on the tech side.
@Damo - Heh...oh most definitely not! But from a collector's standpoint it's awesome...and plays well too. Some people will bemoan the occasional slow-down, but I think I remember a bit on the original...and it doesn't hurt the game-play at all.
The Saturn was and is a great system for shooters and other 2-d goodness. I have 3 right now - one switched - and so far they still run beautifully. Picked them up for $15US a piece and had the one modded for $30. Best gaming money spent. The one I bought at (surprise) launch got stolen, so I think of it as gaming karma!
It's a shame there are no official plans to attempt the Saturn on the VC. I know we've had the discussion before, but I still will hold out hope for a few good titles sometime down the road.
Why doesn't everyone just play Metal Slug on the NEO GEO CDZ...like I do!
If you have a modded Saturn, you can pick up metal slug w/the 1meg expansion card and it plays really well!
@ Damo and anyone who LOVES shmups...if you ARE in the market for some kick-ass import saturn games...well, Radiant Silver Gun is the ridiculously obvious choice...but there are other lesser-know gems. I recommend Bulk Slash - 3D shootin' with 2D flavor...and a giant mech that you can change from walker mode to flight mode! Yay!
Just some options
@Damo - I just hooked up my Xeye last night to play M.U.S.H.A. and Robo Aleste...and then I fell asleep on the wet spot.
Damn those games are good! I miss my shmups...I don't think I'm breaking down my Xeye for storage again any time soon
I actually have a virtual boy, an it's fun in short bursts. I wish I could say that I have any hope for this being anything other than a prank, but I can't. Funny though. It's interesting tech though.
There were a few decently fun games, and I even found myself getting hooked on the Baseball game. The shooter I have (Vertical Force, I think it's called) is decent and fun. I DID have the headache problem, myth for everyone else or not. From what I understand of the system, it was probably due to the Stereoptic-like effect created by the mirror mechanism. I get the same thing from games with choppy or low frame rates. I remember switching between playing my Nomad, and the Virtual Boy to let my brain rest, but not lose valuable gaming time! I was a little more hardcore back then. Now I'd probably just shut everything down for a little while
@Everyone wanting VC MS Pricing - The annoucment as I've seen it around the net is that MS games will START at 400. I checked the VC this a.m., and Wonder Boy is 500. I'm assuming that the 400 point price will be for 'Sega Card' titles. I wonder if that means they can go above 500 as well? PS I for 600 points anyone? Meh...who knows
Great news day! I have to say, as much as I'd like to be a hard ass regarding the flood of retro remakes...I can't..I love Alien Crush entirely too much! And this has me cautiously optimistic. I hope they don't break it.
I'm taking a wait and see attitude with bomberman. I hope it reaches the level of fun of Saturn Bomberman.
@konkerdoodle - hehehe - I would consider myself a truely boring individual if I was 'In the mental health'. And those comments were specifically for you, since you seemed a little glum about your waning psychic powers
btw - forums/boards became very boring for me awhile back. Then I found this site, and to a degree (sans sarcasm) you're correct. I've found (most of ) the ppl on here a lot of fun, open-minded and thoughtful...which in my many years of posting is refreshing. I have a lot of fun with the debates and verbal jousting, as well as sharing in the excitment of old-school gaming. It's a nice break from a very stressful job during the day.
@Pegasus - Yup...you're right. But it just comes out sometimes! Sorry!
I just had a Nerdgasm...I've been wanting M.U.S.H.A. on the VC since the first shmups started appearing. I hope this gets a states release! Phelios isn't horrible either, but give me Lighting Force please..and Gaiares. And I don' think I really need to say it but...RONDO!!! Oh...yeeees!
@Tony - Holy crap...I didn't even think of that. I played that game for hours when I was in the field, and waiting on orders or had down time. Good call.
Oh... and you only wear pads if you play 'organized ..um..gridiron'. The rest of us play full-contact - no pads.
and I've never been so off-topic...I'm a little goofy today. But I agree...this is the shot in the arm Wiiware needs (if it stays the course). I was getting really concerned that the vast majority of games were going to be glorified cell-phone/flash game crap. This makes me a little more comfortable with the States launch.
Oooo...I like Rugby. We don't really get much exposure to Rugby over here, but we pplayed some 'pick-up' games when I was in the military in the Gulf. Played poorly I would image, and I have no real idea of what it was I was doing...but it was fun and I remember mouthfuls of very hot sand. Ruck over! I actually bought the EA Rugby game back in 19XX.
Ooooo...How about a Wiiware Shining Force that allows you to recreate the battles from all the games...but with both forces controlled by players! Kind of RTS-lite in a familiar universe!
Has anyone played PixelJunk Monsters? I'd love to see that come to Wiiware. Or a re-make of Herzog Zwei! That would make my year! Online realtime strat? Yum.
@Quimby - Forgive my Yankee ignorance, but what sports are you speaking of? I know that you do the sail boat thingy pretty well, but other than Wallaby wrestling and the platypus toss...I'm unfamiliar.
Oh...and I really like where this game is headed. I kind of reminds my of how I felt reading the first reports and looking at the first screen shots of games like 'Rayman', 'Earthworm Jim' or 'Astal'. Warm fuzzies all around!
@Damo - I've played Gley Lancer in emulation, and I dug it. Plenty of fun to be had, and certainly a very good shooter. I guess I never heard the hype surrounding it or I might share your pov that it's overrated. It isn't a Thunderforce/Lightning Force game, that's for sure. I would rather have seen M.U.S.H.A. show up on the hit list myself. And I could do w/o PSIII. Bought it when it came out, and was immediately disappointed. Not a bad game, but a REALLY long time to play mediocrity. PS IV, now...YAY! And it's not $100 dollars!
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Re: Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie "Exclusively" on XBLA
@Stuffgamer1 - Actually Microsoft DOES own Rare lock, stock, and barrel. The Stamper Brothers who founded the company sold their majority ownership to Microsoft. The rest of the company was owned by Nintendo - something under 50% - who later sold their stakes in the company. So Rare is in fact owned by Microsoft, as are their intellectual properties. One can only speculate as to what allowances were made regarding the games in the gray area; those that were jointly developed with Nintendo but did not have Nintendo IPs in-game. It seems clear that the lines were very clearly drawn at the bargaining table, but neither side has commented in-depth on the deal. Just the usual corporate talking head stuff.
Re: Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie "Exclusively" on XBLA
@MarkyVigoroth - Ha ha... only because I've come to expect it whenever I have a strong and contrary opinion. It's one of the reasons I stopped posting on here for some time now. I found myself getting pulled into protracted debates and I eventually lost interest.
And FYI... I used to work in the Video Game retail industry and as a result got a golden ticket to 2 E3s. One of which included the debut of the original Conker! I can give you an idea as to why it may have changed. It WAS fun, but it was also a bit saccharin and 'me too'. It wasn't broken and it controlled well. It basically felt like Banjo... with nuts. Everyone that I spoke with felt the same... that it was a pretty and fun but that they had seen most of it before. I think we all agreed that we'd pick it up, and that it would definitely move inventory during the holidays, but it wasn't impressive. Rare was kind of in a rut, which is why I actually think the move to Microsoft was good for them. Viva Pinata may not be everyone's cup, but it's at least original and fresh!
Re: Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie "Exclusively" on XBLA
Oh for the love of crap. Microsoft owns Rare, Banjo and company are Rare owned IPs, and Nintendo has absolutely no say what-so-ever regarding the handling of ANY Rare franchises. Period. Get over it and get an N64 and a copy of each game. These games were only mildly entertaining to begin with, and certainly aren't 'classics'. If the rose-colored glasses of nostalgia are removed, most of the item gathering and back tracking would be seen for what it is. A played-out game mechanic that Rare went one too many times to the well for when they released Donkey Kong 64. Which, I'm sorry folks, was a bit of a game-play turd. Seriously. All of these games were technical marvels for their time, and some novel approaches to platforming were present, this is true. But none of these games are worth the kind of money Nintendo would have to throw at Microsoft and Rare to get them. Not by a long-shot. And Nintendo knows it. They sold like crazy because they were pretty, and fun for the first half of the game. The boss battles in the Banjo games were fun. But mostly there just wasn't much on the market for the N64 at the time. Nintendo releases were few and far between, and third party support was weak at best. So Banjo, a game that would have normally gotten passable reviews, shown like the sun. Mainly due to Rare's excellent production values, and not the game play.
I'm not saying they weren't fun, and I enjoyed them along with everyone else... for a while. I finished them because I had to, not because they game me overwhelming joy! I'm just saying that they aren't seminal gaming classics and there are better games for Nintendo to throw money at.
Let the flames now engulf me
Re: EU - 6th June - No Virtual Console Games!
@ Quimby - Agree...I've been done with them for a while. I'm going to sit down and play Commando 3 on my PS3. I'm dusting off my emulators for the Dreamcast, and that will be the end of my association w Ninty. They have driven away the loyal fans, and sent them into the arms of hacks and emulation because of their near-sighted, ignorant and pompous mismanagement.
Re: WiiWare Publishers Lament Release Date Shambles
@hal - werd.
Re: Protöthea
@ Quimby - Holy crap...I'm gonna break it out and play it right freakin now...THANKS!!!! I didn't want to sleep anyway!!!!
Re: Protothea
yea. Another 10 dollar wiiware game that can't match the gameplay of a longer and less expensive classic shmup, but can sure eat up several times the storage.
Again...yawn. I mean yea.
Re: US VC Release - 2nd June - Ninja Combat
Nintendo can fellate me for all I care. PS3 and 360...show me the goods cause you get my money from now on.
Re: WiiWare Publishers Lament Release Date Shambles
@ quimby - I'm all but through with Nintendo. They've become asses again, and it's becoming apparent that it will only become worse. They're blowing what seems to be an insurmountable lead and they don't even realize it yet. I see the other two next-gen systems having a gradually stronger showing these next 2 years and then either crossing the finish line over the following 2 years neck and neck, or leading Nintendo. A decent price drop for either system would do the trick.
Nintendo placed last the previous 2 generations of systems (don't talk to me about the Dreamcast...it's too soon and I still morn) because of the very same arrogance, ignorance, and sketchy practices. They finally get back to basics and truly innovate, and the suits crap on their own parade. Just when developers were beginning to trust Nintendo again, just when they were getting excited about a Nintendo system...Nintendo slams shut the door. And mashes gamers fingers in the process. Jack balls.
Re: North American WiiWare launch games
Definitely digging on Lost Winds...reminds me of Klonoa and Astal.
Re: New name for Dr. Mario WiiWare
@ Tony and Herandar - Oh my...if it wasn't a North American thing initially, it is now At any rate, I'll just have mine phoned in to Walmart and pick it up for a dollar
Re: Nintendo Wii hard drive coming soon?
@Mirokunite - Have no fear...even if Nintendo doesn't 'man up' with a storage solution, your games are protected.
If your Wii craps out you just have to let Nintendo know and work with them. I asked a Nintendo tech dude this once, and he said it's a matter of letting them know the new serial # and registering your new Wii. Your existing account can then be transfered to that ID. You won't be able to use the games on the VC of the old Wii, even if you get it repaired, but at least you'll be able to download the games again without paying twice for play on the new system. That's the way he broke it down for me. Hope that helps!
Re: Nintendo Wii hard drive coming soon?
@Atlantis1982 - oh yeah...rolls eyes...that's the only reason anyone would want another storage option.
By the way...how are you enjoying your new karts and tracks for mario kart? And how about those new Metroid multiplayer maps? Those are great, huh!?! You still don't get it....but maybe Nintendo finally does.
I think a lot of ppl here, just based on the comments I'm seeing, are feeding into Nintendo's current stance. All I hear is talk about VC games...with a smattering of Wiiware talk. I realize this is a VC games site, and that's first and foremost what comments will relate to. But I think downloadable content relates in that anything Nintendo might be able to pull off for additional content will be competing for space with our VC games.
Where is the that content? MIA. New levels, items, characters? Hell...even new gameplay elements?!? Basically everything we're missing out on as Wii owners that everyone else is enjoying (well, to be honest...I am among the PS3 and 360 owners). Guitar Hero 3 and the coming Rock Band are both extremely kneecapped by the lack of new songs. I'll be getting the ps3 or 360 versions. Look at Medal of Honor: Heros 2 on the Wii. Yeah, graphically it's marginal...but it has been refered to as the best playing console fps because of the Wii-look set-up, and control customization options. But sales haven't been what they should have. They could see a return to the sales charts if there was a way for them to release a multiplayer map pack, or a new co-op mission as micro transactions. But there isn't. Because there's no place to put them. And that's why I hope this comment by Nintendo leads to some sort of storage fix. So we can start to see the real potential of Wii Connect and the Wii Shop.
Re: Three Interplay-Owned Franchises Coming to VC
@Kelvin - I think it's a matter of pride in what you're doing. Publisher deadlines not withstanding, why would you NOT create the absolute best visuals possible to accompany your brilliant game play. As brooks83 alluded to above, given games featuring equally kick-ass game play, but with different levels of polish...well I think we know which one would sell. And I believe rightly so. There is absolutely no reason not to expect the developer to put their best foot forward and create a very complete package. Graphics aren't the most important thing, but they are important. There are some exceptions, but given the power at developers finger tips, a game with great game play, and sub par graphics now seems rushed or lazy...and will take the appropriate hit when reviewed. It shouldn't stop anyone from playing a game, but it should make them buy the graphically superior version. (all other things being equal) Just a counterpoint
Re: Three Interplay-Owned Franchises Coming to VC
@will - hahaha...YES! My feelings exactly!!!!
werd.
And my first console was the Odyssey 2...because it had a keyboard and that was the only way a game system was getting my parents approval. Suckers...heh. That was followed by a C64.
And NO! No one on this site may cut me in half and count my rings! Dammit!
Re: Three Interplay-Owned Franchises Coming to VC
@brooks83 - That's my point...thus the irony.
That's not what I'M saying is the reality of things...that's what Nintendo's Company line has been since they announced that comparatively the Wii was going to be severely under-powered. They've said from the beginning (even Miyamoto) that graphics have become nigh on irrelevant and that stick figures could carry a game if the game-play was kick ass.
I assert that if that were true, then why are so many sprite based, 2-D games and even 3-D games with either innovative game-play or spot-on old school mechanics being outsold by graphic powerhouses with stale game-play or sequels that do nothing to move a series forward other than step up the tech and game engines.
To get back on topic, that is why I find the very 90's-esque console wars (as Ben mentioned ) obtuse and a bit comical. I was just trying to point out the fact that the game rocks on the system it was built from the ground up for, and ppl should stop crying and wetting themselves about it...and just have fun! I do admit ignorance to the plight of the PAL laden ppl of the world. I don't know how SEGA has wronged you, so I can't comment on your frustration.
See what I'm saying now? Btw...I'm probably one of the older, if not oldest of the posters on this site. The 16 bit days were halcyon days for me...the golden era and I miss the feeling I used to get with new game releases...hell even with waiting for my next issue of EGM, or Next Gen...or better yet Die Hard Game Fan! I owned all of the systems at the time, and had no bias...other than crappy games bad...kick ass games good! I think you missed my point, but that's ok...I was just pointing out all of the silliness
@Kingston - I personally wouldn't waste points on Clayfighter ...use them on any of the Street Fighter games on the SNES instead. Sadly, the only version I could recommend probably won't see the light of day. The Championship or special edition or whatever it was called packed enough into it to warrant a purchase. Unfortunately, it was not released at retail and was only available for rent through Blockbuster Video They did this with a few games. You can now find it used, of course. I doubt it will make it to the VC though.
It's not a stinker of a game...it's just not worth the space and the coin.
Re: Three Interplay-Owned Franchises Coming to VC
@GiantPooka - Yup. That's exactly what I was getting at. But I still felt the Genesis EWJ 2 played better as well. Even my Nintendo fanboy friends at the time (who thought I was stupid and a traitor for getting a SEGA System) had to concede that the games just felt better on the Genesis. I don't specifically remember the weapons swapping issue and I had both versions. But it HAS been awhile. Apparently it didn't distract me too much!
@Betagam7 - Sorry to hear of your PAL issues...but I don't have that trouble, so it's the Genny games all the way!
And does anyone find this ironic: In a time where Nintendo is hawking the 'gameplay over graphics mantra...and telling the world Wii gamers and Nintendo fans prefer gameplay over pretty graphics...the Genesis version of EWJ, which has extra content, tighter gameplay and more fluid animation, is getting bashed based, almost without exception, on the graphics?
Even funnier still when you consider the only real glaring difference is the color palette. Just an observation.
Re: Alex Kidd in Miracle World
Very cool. Very, very cool.
Re: Three Interplay-Owned Franchises Coming to VC
You know, honestly...Earthworm JIm for the Sega CD was my favorite hands down. But beyond that, as attractive as the snes versions were the Genesis versions just seemed to control tighter. It was that way for quite a few cross-platform releases. I don't know if the faster processor gave the Genesis an edge in interface response time, or if there were any developer's tools supplied by SEGA that made this so.
Whatever arcane arts were used to conjure up sweet control, SEGA had it down...even with third party games. That's why I'll take the SEGA versions over the eye candy anytime. Not that the SNES versions controlled poorly. Just felt floaty at times, comparatively speaking. Oh well...just an opinion and my 2 or 3 cents worth.
I have to say that while I'll concede Clayfighter as a game that should be played on the SNES (the characters really come to life with the larger color palette. They start to really feel like claymation figures), I really don't understand all of the whining and crying about the Genesis versions. The control is tight. While the color palette suffers, and certain effects are not as pronounced or faked using work-arounds,the animation is every bit as smooth, and maybe even smoother. Certainly a bit faster/quicker. The game is still stunning in motion and certainly doesn't deserve a rabid fan-boy beat down. I'd venture a guess from the tone of the comments that most of these opinions come from people who have never played the 2 side by side or one after the other. For them I suggest you do some homework...cause you'll be missing out. Start a petition...yeeesh.
Re: Japan To Get Dracula X And Metal Slug Next Tuesday
Great! It's not bad enough those bastards get theatrical release tentacle porn, and underwear from vending machines...now they have the unmitigated gall to release games that Japanese Gaming companies created and released first run on Japanese consoles...IN JAPAN?!?!?!?! Before the rest of the world?
Next they'll be trying to tell us they saved the video game industry from some kind of (air quotes) Crash (air quotes)! That they somehow brought video games 'back from the dead'! Pfft...
The nerve!
Re: Top 10 RPGs We Want To Come To The Virtual Console
The Lufia games never got their due. They were well written, and the second had beautiful graphics on par with any rpg released stateside on the snes. Lufia II also had beautiful and haunting music.
As a matter of fact, I'm going to plop my butt down with my SNES and play it right now. Shame it probably won't see a VC release (for those who haven't played either, and don't have any other access to them)
@ CuzinMike - Definately pulling for Crystalis. LOVE that game! And the Lunar games of course. But I'm pulling for the underdog!
Re: Will Sega CD Support Ever Come To The Virtual Console?
@stinssd - ok. you're crazy
Re: Will Sega CD Support Ever Come To The Virtual Console?
@ Dark Jinjo - Um...I think you're a bit confused on this one. What you're (sort of) describing is the Sega SATURN. The Sega CD was an add-on for the Sega Genesis that pre-dated the Playstation (in it's final Sony form ) by about 4 years. It wasn't a 3-d machine at all. There were a couple of games that did some 3-D (Stellar 7 and Silpheed come to mind), but the majority faked it using what was actually sort of mode 7 on steroids, with bi-axial rotation and sprite scaling (take a peak at Soul Star by Core).
No, you're thinking of the Saturn. There shouldn't be anything precluding the release of Sega CD games on the VC...at least not anything on the tech side.
Re: Why April Is A Massive Month For the Virtual Console
@Damo - Heh...oh most definitely not! But from a collector's standpoint it's awesome...and plays well too. Some people will bemoan the occasional slow-down, but I think I remember a bit on the original...and it doesn't hurt the game-play at all.
The Saturn was and is a great system for shooters and other 2-d goodness. I have 3 right now - one switched - and so far they still run beautifully. Picked them up for $15US a piece and had the one modded for $30. Best gaming money spent. The one I bought at (surprise) launch got stolen, so I think of it as gaming karma!
It's a shame there are no official plans to attempt the Saturn on the VC. I know we've had the discussion before, but I still will hold out hope for a few good titles sometime down the road.
Re: Why April Is A Massive Month For the Virtual Console
Why doesn't everyone just play Metal Slug on the NEO GEO CDZ...like I do!
If you have a modded Saturn, you can pick up metal slug w/the 1meg expansion card and it plays really well!
@ Damo and anyone who LOVES shmups...if you ARE in the market for some kick-ass import saturn games...well, Radiant Silver Gun is the ridiculously obvious choice...but there are other lesser-know gems. I recommend Bulk Slash - 3D shootin' with 2D flavor...and a giant mech that you can change from walker mode to flight mode! Yay!
Just some options
@Damo - I just hooked up my Xeye last night to play M.U.S.H.A. and Robo Aleste...and then I fell asleep on the wet spot.
Damn those games are good! I miss my shmups...I don't think I'm breaking down my Xeye for storage again any time soon
Re: Virtual Boy Confirmed for Virtual Console
I actually have a virtual boy, an it's fun in short bursts. I wish I could say that I have any hope for this being anything other than a prank, but I can't. Funny though. It's interesting tech though.
There were a few decently fun games, and I even found myself getting hooked on the Baseball game. The shooter I have (Vertical Force, I think it's called) is decent and fun. I DID have the headache problem, myth for everyone else or not. From what I understand of the system, it was probably due to the Stereoptic-like effect created by the mirror mechanism. I get the same thing from games with choppy or low frame rates. I remember switching between playing my Nomad, and the Virtual Boy to let my brain rest, but not lose valuable gaming time! I was a little more hardcore back then. Now I'd probably just shut everything down for a little while
Re: US VC Releases - March 31st - Wonder Boy
@Everyone wanting VC MS Pricing - The annoucment as I've seen it around the net is that MS games will START at 400. I checked the VC this a.m., and Wonder Boy is 500. I'm assuming that the 400 point price will be for 'Sega Card' titles. I wonder if that means they can go above 500 as well? PS I for 600 points anyone? Meh...who knows
Re: Virtual Boy Confirmed for Virtual Console
@BDPatVCR - My first thought on seeing it!
Re: Hudson announces WiiWare lineup, Alien Crush sequel
@Quimby - I will, when I get some time! Busy weekend...freelance projects.
@The Shoemaker - Oh, it does!
Re: Hudson announces WiiWare lineup, Alien Crush sequel
Great news day! I have to say, as much as I'd like to be a hard ass regarding the flood of retro remakes...I can't..I love Alien Crush entirely too much! And this has me cautiously optimistic. I hope they don't break it.
I'm taking a wait and see attitude with bomberman. I hope it reaches the level of fun of Saturn Bomberman.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
@konkerdoodle - hehehe - I would consider myself a truely boring individual if I was 'In the mental health'.
And those comments were specifically for you, since you seemed a little glum about your waning psychic powers
btw - forums/boards became very boring for me awhile back. Then I found this site, and to a degree (sans sarcasm) you're correct. I've found (most of ) the ppl on here a lot of fun, open-minded and thoughtful...which in my many years of posting is refreshing. I have a lot of fun with the debates and verbal jousting, as well as sharing in the excitment of old-school gaming. It's a nice break from a very stressful job during the day.
@Pegasus - Yup...you're right. But it just comes out sometimes! Sorry!
Re: Japanese Virtual Console list - April 2008
I just had a Nerdgasm...I've been wanting M.U.S.H.A. on the VC since the first shmups started appearing. I hope this gets a states release! Phelios isn't horrible either, but give me Lighting Force please..and Gaiares.
And I don' think I really need to say it but...RONDO!!! Oh...yeeees!
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
@Quimby - Who with the what now?
I choose my seals with the greatest of care. Only the firmest of seals ever sees the light of day in my three screen youtube spectacular!
And to stay on topic...STORAGE!!!!!!!
@konkerdoodle - I am very proud to be a manicfatty! I'm more the manic these days, but I just love the name!
and...HARD DRIVE!!!
@Starwolf_UK - Holy crap!!!! There is an edit button!!! Quimby!!! You gotta try this thing out...It's Shweeeeet!
and...PLAY FROM SD CARD!!!
Sorry...I've been random boy yesterday and today. I'll be good now
Re: Block Breaker Deluxe Coming to WiiWare
@Damo - werd.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
@konkerdoodle - your new user name is now Sarcasmatron!
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
@konkerdoodle - Is someone cranky and retaining? We are not monkeys and we do not perform for you organ grinder
Besides, we all know what the deal is ;P
Re: Block Breaker Deluxe Coming to WiiWare
@Tony - Holy crap...I didn't even think of that. I played that game for hours when I was in the field, and waiting on orders or had down time. Good call.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
Oh... and you only wear pads if you play 'organized ..um..gridiron'. The rest of us play full-contact - no pads.
and I've never been so off-topic...I'm a little goofy today. But I agree...this is the shot in the arm Wiiware needs (if it stays the course). I was getting really concerned that the vast majority of games were going to be glorified cell-phone/flash game crap. This makes me a little more comfortable with the States launch.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
Oooo...I like Rugby. We don't really get much exposure to Rugby over here, but we pplayed some 'pick-up' games when I was in the military in the Gulf. Played poorly I would image, and I have no real idea of what it was I was doing...but it was fun and I remember mouthfuls of very hot sand. Ruck over! I actually bought the EA Rugby game back in 19XX.
Yeah. I'm old
Re: Block Breaker Deluxe Coming to WiiWare
Ooooo...How about a Wiiware Shining Force that allows you to recreate the battles from all the games...but with both forces controlled by players! Kind of RTS-lite in a familiar universe!
Re: Block Breaker Deluxe Coming to WiiWare
@Quimby - werd. But I'll be breaking out Arkanoid on the SNES!
Re: Block Breaker Deluxe Coming to WiiWare
Has anyone played PixelJunk Monsters? I'd love to see that come to Wiiware. Or a re-make of Herzog Zwei! That would make my year! Online realtime strat? Yum.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
No sleep. Nope. None.
..............they're after me Lucky Charms.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
Give me Euros people, and I'll stop posting for the day
hehehehe
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
@Quimby - Forgive my Yankee ignorance, but what sports are you speaking of? I know that you do the sail boat thingy pretty well, but other than Wallaby wrestling and the platypus toss...I'm unfamiliar.
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
STORAGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
hehehe...you just knew I couldn't resist, now didn't you
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
Oh...and I really like where this game is headed. I kind of reminds my of how I felt reading the first reports and looking at the first screen shots of games like 'Rayman', 'Earthworm Jim' or 'Astal'. Warm fuzzies all around!
Re: LostWinds: One to Watch on WiiWare?
@konkerdoodle - Nope. Water based vs. Silicon based lubricants. Discuss.
and....GO!
Re: USK update - Four new Sega games: Phantasy Star, Gley Lancer
@Damo - I've played Gley Lancer in emulation, and I dug it. Plenty of fun to be had, and certainly a very good shooter. I guess I never heard the hype surrounding it or I might share your pov that it's overrated. It isn't a Thunderforce/Lightning Force game, that's for sure. I would rather have seen M.U.S.H.A. show up on the hit list myself. And I could do w/o PSIII. Bought it when it came out, and was immediately disappointed. Not a bad game, but a REALLY long time to play mediocrity. PS IV, now...YAY! And it's not $100 dollars!
Re: King's Knight
Quimby - You want quirky and obscure? Try Super Tempo for the Saturn...or Silhouette Mirage in it's pure Saturn goodness.