Wii Virtual Console News
November2013
News M2: Bringing Space Harrier To 3DS Was "Almost Impossible", But It's "The Definitive Version"
Who would have thought porting old arcade games could be this hard?
This week the 3DS eShop will finally be blessed with 3D classics from SEGA — including arcade classic Space Harrier — but getting these titles to run as perfectly as they do on 3DS was no easy task, as the developers have explained in a recent interview. Naoki Horii, President...
Review Wario's Woods (Wii U eShop / NES)
Kinopio's Canopy
Wario's Woods has had quite a storied legacy over the last few decades, standing not only as the last officially licensed game released on Nintendo's legendary NES in North America in 1994, but also one of the very first titles available on the Wii's Virtual Console service. In-between those impressive milestones, it made an...
News Nintendo Updates Available Club Nintendo Reward Games in North America
Better start counting those coins
Update: WiiWare title Art Style: Cubello is also available as a reward until 8th December, at a cost of 150 coins. Original Article: Nintendo has updated its North American Club Nintendo Rewards service with three new games to download. From now until the 8th December 2013, users who have enough Club Nintendo...
October2013
Review Wario's Woods (3DS eShop / NES)
It's back like you wooden believe
Originally released in 1994, Wario's Woods holds the prestigious honour of being the last officially licensed game to release for the NES in North America; that's a remarkably long time after the console itself launched in the mid-eighties. Yet while it's impressive that the legendary system received a first-party...
News Capcom Issues Update On Game Boy Mega Man Titles Heading To 3DS Virtual Console
They're on the way, Mega Man X2 could also be possible
Capcom is celebrating a lot this year, with the company itself reaching its 30th anniversary and Mega Man hitting his 25th birthday. While the Blue Bomber hasn't had a new game to celebrate the occasion, he is to be a playable character in the upcoming Super Smash Bros. on Wii U and 3DS and...
Review GOLF (Wii U eShop / NES)
Sub-par
Before the hyper-realistic, face-deforming technology of modern Tiger Woods games was conceived in the deepest dreams of Electronic Arts (a company busy with Marble Madness at the time), there was Golf for the Nintendo Entertainment System. The game wears its no-nonsense attitude on its sleeve, focusing on simulating the time-honoured sport...
Review Tennis (Wii U eShop / NES)
Net-net, a loss
Tennis — the NES game, not the actual sport — hails from an age when the most rudimentary of virtual simulations could be entertaining and notable simply by existing, perhaps causing a passing family member to comment on how it looks just like the real thing. Although a genuine novelty in the 80s, this dull-as-toast recreation of...
News Yoshi's Cookie to Be Removed From European Wii Shop Channel
Oh how the cookie crumbles
Nintendo has updated the Wii Shop Channel with a new message stating that Yoshi's Cookie will be no longer available for sale as of 11th October. The surprise announcement doesn't provide any details as to why the NES game is being removed. It was originally developed by Bullet-Proof Software, with Nintendo acting as...
Review Milon's Secret Castle (3DS eShop / NES)
A secret best kept hidden
Hudson had many classics in its NES library - Adventure Island, Faxanadu and Bomberman are just a few of the great titles it gave us all back then. Milon's Secret Castle probably shouldn't be counted among those. As the title might reveal, you play as Milon, who has to make his way through a castle filled to the brim with...
September2013
News Four Turbografx-16 Games Return to the Wii Virtual Console in PAL Territories
A rather pleasant surprise
The Wii Virtual Console was not only the first of its kind on Nintendo hardware, but it had terrific diversity in the platforms and games that it offered; we'll have to see how far the Wii U Virtual Console progresses on those terms. One of the platforms that was supported, giving excellent opportunities to those that...
Nintendo Download 5th September (Europe)
Explosive racing, a legendary titan, cheaper Mickey and more
Monday mornings are, perhaps strangely, relatively happy times for some Nintendo gamers in Europe. The download delights due this week have been revealed, and this time around there are two new Wii U download-only games, a long awaited 3DS RPG and much more. Let's get right to the details,...
August2013
Review Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV (Wii U eShop / SNES)
Depth incarnate
If there's one thing that you could pretty much be assured of when it came to a Koei game back in the day, it was getting a lot of depth to your gameplay experience. Not only were you generally treated to a very high production value visual experience, but the attention to detail and historical accuracy was always of high quality...
Review Donkey Kong (3DS eShop / NES)
It's on like Donkey Kong
This year marked the 30th anniversary of the initial Japanese launch of the Nintendo Family Computer, more popularly known around the world as the Famicom. Among the landmark console’s launch titles was Donkey Kong, a port of the arcade hit that began Nintendo’s launch into video game history. Now, in the year of the...
Review Galaga (Wii U eShop / NES)
That man is playing Galaga!
Galaga is old. It may well state 1988 on Galaga’s NES title screen, but that refers to its European and US release date, the Japanese Famicom conversion was released early in 1985 and they are all based on a port of Namco’s 1981 coin-op. This means that with any Wii U Virtual Console purchase you must consider if you...
Nintendo Download 15th August (Europe)
DuckTales returns, 'mon rumble, extreme bike riding and much more
It's time for the European Nintendo Download news to wipe away our Monday morning blues, and this week is one of the most packed line-ups in recent memory. There are two heavy-hitting Wii U releases, and plenty of others spread throughout the 3DS, DSi and Wii. There are some discounts...
Review Harvest Moon (Wii U eShop / SNES)
Barnstorming
Early wake ups, extensive hours, back-breaking labour and ever-vulnerable to unpredictable weather patterns – farming doesn't sound like the most tantalising profession on paper. Way back when, however, developer Natsume clearly caught a glimpse of the positive aspects of the job and was inspired to create one of gaming's most beloved...
July2013
Review Kid Icarus (Wii U eShop / NES)
A demonic angel
The popularity of Pit, even before his triumphant return in Kid Icarus: Uprising, was focused around nostalgia for his first two appearances on NES and Game Boy, with the home console original setting the tone with catchy music, quirky mythological enemies and lashings of creativity. This was impressive in the days of the early 8-bit...
Review Shantae (3DS eShop / GBC)
Whip ya hair
Just over 11 years since its original release in 2002, Shantae has finally made it onto the 3DS Virtual Console – and it's the first time that it's been available in Europe too. Despite the long wait, WayForward's tricky 2D platformer is sprinkled with enough genie-magic to keep it fresh and interesting for a modern audience. Shantae...
Nintendo Download 25th July (Europe)
Pikmin 3 at last, lots of retro, BASIC programming and more
It's another Monday morning, but it's also another Nintendo Download update for Europe. The star of this week's show is undoubtedly an eagerly anticipated Wii U retail release, but we also have a variety of titles — old and new — covering every Nintendo platform. Without further ado,...
Interview WayForward on Shantae's Past, Present and Future
Some "pretty big surprises" in store for Pirate's Curse this Fall
With the release of Shantae (originally a Game Boy Color title) this week we touched base with WayForward's Creative Director and founding member, Matt Bozon, and he kindly agreed to a quick-fire interview before he jetted off to Comic-Con. This is a series that, despite being just...
Review Donkey Kong (Wii U eShop / NES)
Klassic Kong
This month marks the 30th anniversary of the initial Japanese launch of the Nintendo Family Computer, more popularly known around the world as the Famicom. Among the landmark console’s launch titles was Donkey Kong, a port of the arcade hit that began Nintendo’s launch into video game history. Now, just in time for the anniversary...
Review Super Mario Bros. 2 (3DS eShop / NES)
Sweet dreams are made of these
By now we all know the story of Super Mario Bros. 2: concerns about the Japanese sequel to the original Super Mario Bros. kept it from release in North America and Europe. Different reasons have been given over time, from the game being too difficult to it simply not demonstrating enough creativity to keep gamers...
Review Vegas Stakes (Wii U eShop / SNES)
Jackpot winner or total craps?
Nothing says “SNES classic” like a high-stakes trip to a menagerie of Las Vegas casinos. You’re invited to bust open the bank account for a night of potentially irresponsible entertainment as you hop from game to gambling game with your crew of potentially irresponsible friends. Even if a 1993 rendition of...
News Club Nintendo Rewards Updated for July
Do a barrel throw!
A sky-climbing star, a rank-climbing boxer, barrel rollers and a barrel thrower are all up as Club Nintendo rewards this month in North America, if you have the coins. The following titles will be available until 4th August: Aura-Aura Climber — 100 Coins Donkey Kong ‘94 — 100 Coins Super Punch-Out!! — 150 Coins Star Fox...
Nintendo Download 4th July (Europe)
Pilotwings returns, X Zone madness, Game Gear goodies and more
It's Monday morning, and it's that time again for European download gamers. This week's download goodies are confirmed, including a Super NES title that we think will be popular, a chaotic retail release on 3DS and plenty more besides. Let's get down to the details, shall we? Wii U...
June2013
Review Mario Bros. (Wii U eShop / NES)
Definitely not super
If you've ever been curious about Mario and Luigi's actual credibility as plumbers, you'll want to look all the way back to 1983's Mario Bros., the game which established pipe-cleaning as their true vocation and served as something of a bridge between arcade sensation Donkey Kong and early platforming masterpiece Super Mario...
Review Dr Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine (3DS eShop / GG)
Emphasis on the “mean”
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine is somewhat of an anomaly. It's a Puyo Puyo puzzle game that takes place in the Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog - a short lived but wildly popular television series from the mid-90s - universe, but the blue blur is completely absent. Instead, the only hero here is you, a presumably...
Review Sengoku 3 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Third time's the charm
While SNK was far more well known for its one-on-one fighting games, it did toss out a few beat 'em ups along the way. Some of the attempts were better than others: Sengoku 3 is one such example. It basically takes many of the solid gameplay perks of the first two games and amps things up considerably. Toss in a fresh coat of...
Nintendo Download 13th June (Europe)
Animal Crossing arrives, along with Game Gear goodies and more
It's Monday, so it's time to see what we have lined up for this week's Nintendo Download update in Europe, minus any E3 surprises, of course. One of the year's most anticipated 3DS retail titles finally lands, along with the latest Famicom Anniversary Promotion game and a lot of Game...
News Don't Expect Retro Games to Play in New Animal Crossing Releases
Now go virtually play outside!
Back in the days of the GameCube Animal Crossing, when friends swapped memory cards and Tom Nook in a sweater vest was only a vague wisp that haunted the edges of our dreams and/or nightmares, players could find virtual NES consoles that contained emulated classics such as Pinball and Balloon Fight. Since then,...
Nintendo Download 6th June (North America)
A New Leaf is turned, Wii U goes retro, discounts and Neo Geo goodness
It's Nintendo Download time once again, North America, with your goodies a little scaled back compared to the extravagances of last week. Alongside confirmation that there'll be extensive footage and coverage from the upcoming E3 Nintendo Direct on the eShop platforms, we have a...
News Club Nintendo's June Rewards Bring Out More Retro Goodies
Including one of the greatest platformers ever made
It's that time again, North America, when you're tempted to part with your hard-earned Nintendo coins in exchange for a free download game, and for Europeans to unite as one and say "why don't we get monthly game offers?" In any case, there are four new games to consider if you have a Wii U, Wii or...
May2013
Nintendo Download 30th May (Europe)
Classic Zelda, the Denpa Men return, hyper speed and more
Due to a public Holiday in various countries, we didn't receive the Nintendo Download as early as normal. Thankfully we now have the translated line-up from Germany for your reading pleasure below. It's mostly about the Wii U and 3DS this week, with retro and new delights to enjoy, while the...
Review Kirby's Dream Land 3 (Wii U eShop / SNES)
Third time's the charming
Kirby’s Dream Land 3 is the epitome of a lovable gaming experience. Carefree and popping with irresistible charm, this SNES platformer builds off the two previous Game Boy entries in the series and fulfills the potential they introduced. That doesn’t mean the core mechanics have suddenly become nuanced or up to par with...
Review Kirby Super Star (Wii U eShop / SNES)
Dedede-lightful
Kirby Super Star is a smorgasbord of creativity, as if the developers at HAL Laboratory had a game jam for two weeks straight and came out on the other side with a beautifully disheveled collection of Kirby’s best. Nine sub-games, ranging from one-button tests of reflex to multi-hour adventures, are stuffed onto the SNES with no...
Review The King of Fighters '99 (Wii / Neo Geo)
Different, but still impressive
The King of Fighters is a series that's long been a staple of the Neo Geo platform. But with a few new twists and added bells and whistles, the developers have kicked things up a notch. While not as revered as its predecessor, considered by many to be the pinnacle of the series, King of Fighters '99 still adds enough...
Nintendo Download 16th May (North America)
Super inexpensive Metroid, scares, soldiers, retro classics and more
It's that time, North America, and you've undoubtedly got a particularly meaty lineup this week. All three Virtual Console services have new content, and the region gets a special retro Mario offer on the Wii U. There's also a stone-cold classic for 30 cents, along with quite a few...
News Eternal Darkness Will "Definitely" Be Discussed For The Wii U, Say Precursor Games
Let's not get our hopes up
We reported last week that Shadow of the Eternals - the "spiritual successor" to GameCube spook-'em-up title Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem - would make its way to the Wii U next year should its crowdfunding campaign prove to be a success. We know developer
News Club Nintendo Rewards Updated for May
The fresh batch brings giant, talking, castle-impaling swords
It’s that time when Club Nintendo’s North American branch clears its shelf and refreshes its selection of downloadable rewards. Mario’s first foray into the RPG realm is up for the taking on the Wii Shop — which can also be redeemed via the Wii Mode on Wii U — as is a...
Nintendo Download 9th May 2013 (Europe)
Moving Minis, an adventurous starship, a commando, retro goodies and more
It may be a Bank Holiday in some parts, but the European Nintendo Download waits for no-one, with this week's update being a fairly meaty offering featuring every current platform. We have some high-profile arrivals on the 3DS eShop, an assortment of retro treats and even a...
Review Super Mario World (Wii U eShop / SNES)
Everybody wants to rule the World
Right from the six-note melody that opens the first stage, you can tell there's something special about Super Mario World. This is the Super Nintendo launch title that set the bar impossibly high for day-one releases, created the magic that games such as Super Mario 64, Sonic Adventure, and Luigi's Mansion have...
Review Sengoku (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
An interesting twist on the beat 'em up genre
Given the popularity of arcade titles like Final Fight and Double Dragon, the beat 'em up genre was a big draw in arcades during the late eighties and early nineties. Hoping to cash in on some of this success, SNK created its own unique take on the genre with Sengoku for its Neo Geo system. While the...
April2013
Review Ice Climber (Wii U eShop / NES)
Slippery controls are on thin ice
Ice Climber, despite the self-explanatory title, is more complex than a cursory glance would suggest. Popo the parka-toting lad (and identical twin Nana in the multiplayer mode) must scale thirty-two vertically scrolling mountains to rescue a large number of delicious eggplants, using only wits and indestructible...
Nintendo Download 25th April 2013 (North America)
Free Rayman, Mega Man, a colourful commando and more
It's that time, Nintendo Download fans in North America, when you can cast your gaze over the downloadable treats coming your way. After last week's somewhat epic list, this week we have a much smaller range of options to chew over. One of them is a free part of a rather awesome looking Wii U...
Interview Marc Franklin - Nintendo of America
We chat with Nintendo's head PR honcho about 3DS, Earthbound and Zelda
Between test drives of a selection of Nintendo's 2013 line-up, including The Legend of Zelda 3DS, Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D and Animal Crossing: New Leaf, we had the chance to catch up with Nintendo of America's PR wizard Marc Franklin to talk about w
Nintendo Download 25th April 2013 (Europe)
A legendary Rayman freebie, brawling gods, Mega Man and more
A little later than normal this week, Nintendo of Europe has told us what to expect in this week's Nintendo Download update. No news of any Wii U Virtual Console games — though that doesn't necessarily mean they're not coming — but plenty of titles to choose from including some free,...
News Wii U Virtual Console Will Arrive Shortly After Next Week's System Update
Time for the real deal
So far we've seen glimpses of the Wii U Virtual Console, courtesy of the Famicom Anniversary celebrations bringing us one classic a month for just £0.30/$0.30. And yet, following next week's system update, the real thing will arrive and bring regular retro downloads to the system. As we've already experienced, the VC titles...
Review NAM-1975 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
War is heaven
Although NAM-1975 was an early Neo Geo release, it's certainly not short on fun. Released in 1990, it took a simple shooting approach and built an interesting war theme around it. Simple mechanics and a level of playability that wasn't too common in the genre made for an amazing gameplay experience. Now SNK Playmore is bringing back...
Feature Ten SEGA Mega Drive / Genesis Games We Want on the Wii U Virtual Console
They skipped Wii VC, so now their time has come
Earlier this week we were rather pleased the share the news, based on a couple of sources, that Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse looks set to come to Wii U. It's unclear whether it'll be a straight-up re-release (on the Virtual Console) or a remastered port, but whatever the case it's a SEGA...
Nintendo Download 4th April 2013 (Europe)
A puzzling chick, chaotic aliens, Mega action and more
Now that the long Holiday weekend is over the video game world's wheels start spinning once again, starting today with Nintendo of Europe's weekly download update details. It's a busy week with every download store having some new content on offer, so let's get started. Wii U eShop: Toki Tori...
March2013
Review Art of Fighting 3: The Path of the Warrior (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Third time's a charm?
Art of Fighting sprang onto the Neo Geo arcade scene in 1993 and brought with it several innovations that would become a staple of future Neo fighting titles. For one thing the game featured huge character sprites, some spanning nearly the height of the screen. It also introduced the now famous SNK zoom system that would keep...
Review Punch-Out!! Featuring Mr. Dream (Wii U eShop / NES)
Heavy Hitter
Boxing is a fascinating sport. Two human beings enter the ring, then skilfully and tactfully beat the tar out of one another using nothing but their own gloved fists. It’s the perfect fodder for a video game, and that’s exactly why the Punch-Out!! series is such a classic. Originally released in North America as Mike Tyson's...
Nintendo Download 21st March 2013 (North America)
Luigi goes on a spooky quest, Pokémon go exploring, Zen Pinball and more
It's Thursday, and time for your Nintendo Download update, North America. This week we have an oft-demanded Wii U download that finally makes it across the Atlantic, two major retail offerings, a couple of discounts and some extra download goodies. Check out all of the details...
Review The King of Fighters '98 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
The best there ever was
For many 2D fighting game fans, The King of Fighters '98 represents the zenith of the series; the crowning glory of the only rival lineage to truly bloody the nose of Capcom's genre-defining Street Fighter. It's not hard to see why this is the case; the game looks stunning, has a massive roster of characters and boasts one...
News There's A New Turrican Game Inbound, But Super Turrican Is Off The Table
News of a new entry is sullied by the removal of the SNES version from the Virtual Console
The latest issue of German Retro Gamer magazine has revealed that a new entry in the Turrican series is on its way. Turrican Rebirth will be a 2D shooter with a heavy emphasis on customisation, allowing players to make their own weapons and stages to share...
Nintendo Download 7th March 2013 (North America)
A Nano Assault, falling down a well, wild ATV racing and much more
It's Nintendo Download day, North America, which is particularly good news if you own a 3DS or like a bit of Neo Geo retro action on Wii — if you only have a DSi or Wii U, never mind. It's a packed lineup for the big N's current handheld, with a broad range of download-only and...
Nintendo Download 7th March 2013 (Europe)
Assaulting a virus, life-saving fishing and classic run 'n gun action
Nintendo is on the ball this week Europe, sending sweet download news our way as we awake from our slumber. The list this week is a rather small one, but the mix of new, old and revamped old franchises arguably represents quality over quantity. The goodies for 3DS and Wii are...
February2013
Review World Heroes 2 Jet (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Jet setter
Speed upgrades became all of the rage during the early fighting game craze during the early '90s — Capcom practically made a living at it for a while. So when arcade gamers began complaining about the sluggish speed of World Heroes 2, SNK did the logical thing and borrowed a page from Capcom's book. When World Heroes 2 Jet burst onto...
News The European Version Of F-Zero On Wii U Virtual Console Comes With 60Hz Support
Nintendo does listen, after all
If you're a European gamer then you'll no doubt be aware of how TV standards can impact the way games play. Back in the days of the SNES, NES and Mega Drive, EU gamers were saddled with slower versions of existing software. This is because Japanese and American TVs used the NTSC standard, while in Europe the PAL...
Nintendo Download 14th February 2013 (North America)
Hitting the streets with Wii U, going digging, time travelling and more
It may be the most loved up day of the year and an occasion for Nintendo Direct madness, but we still have a download update to deal with. Nintendo delayed the details slightly while Reggie Fils-Aime and company did their thing, but now we know about a Wii U app and a mixture of...
News Paper Mario, Kirby Super Star and More Join Club Nintendo Rewards
Sucking up your coins
It's Club Nintendo Rewards time again, North American gamers, with more downloadable goodies becoming available in exchange for some treasured gold coins. This month offers a mixture of retro Virtual Console treats and some DSiWare titles, detailed below. Bird & Beans — 100 Coins Metal Torrent — 150 Coins Paper Mario...
Review Metal Slug 4 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Fourth time a charm?
If there's one thing that can be said with any degree of certainty, it's that SNK's Metal Slug series always remained fairly consistent over the course of their releases. The gameplay remained pretty much the same, with little more than a few tweaks here and there for good measure. Metal Slug 4 was developed by Korean firm Mega...
Nintendo Download 7th February 2013 (North America)
Ken is raging, the Blue Bomber returns, concentration testing and more
Nintendo has confirmed what download delights are coming to North America this week, and it's certainly a diverse range. We have a download-only retail game on Wii U — if you can tolerate the term — some retro goodness and a long-awaited demo joining a major retail release on...
Feature Wii U Blockbusters - What to Play While You Wait
If in doubt, go retro
The start of a new Nintendo generation is always cause for excitement for many, with the promise of new entries in the company’s greatest franchises often enough to convince many to buy the system on day one. But with Wii U, Nintendo kept very quiet about its big franchises, and when the system arrived we had little idea of...
Nintendo Download 7th February 2013 (Europe)
North Star action, fire fighting, Sonic transforming, something a bit Mega and more
Update: Fist of the North Star: Ken’s Rage 2 on the Wii U eShop has now been officially added to this week's set of downloadable delights. It's a dreary Monday morning, but we at least have some Nintendo Download news to keep Europeans happy. There's a range of...
January2013
Nintendo Download 31st January 2013 (North America)
An awakening, a puddle, underwater exploration and more
While this week's Nintendo download update for Europe is rather modest, albeit with a long-awaited Wii U release, you lucky North Americans have a broad range of content across every platform. There are demos, retail downloads and some interesting new and retro options, so let's get right to...
News You Can't Use Your Wii Virtual Console Saves With the Wii U Virtual Console
Quelle surprise!
Last week, Nintendo confirmed that the Wii U would be getting its very own Virtual Console service, allowing owners to play retro classics from yesteryear. If you're a longstanding Wii owner who likes to play NES, SNES and Mega Drive games, you may be wondering to yourself if all those hours of effort you put into The Legend of...
Talking Point The Wii U Virtual Console Trial Campaign's Advertising Role
Simple but effective
Among the many announcements in yesterday's Wii U Direct, only one had an immediate impact on console owners, with the Wii U Virtual Console Trial Campaign launching right after the broadcast. Balloon Fight is now available to download with some Wii U-exclusive features — which we'll get to later — and the release schedule...
News Balloon Fight On Wii U Reportedly Running At 50Hz in Europe
Oh, Nintendo
So, Balloon Fight is available in exchange for some loose change right now on the Wii U eShop. That's good. The download in Europe is apparently continuing the trend seen on Wii and is running at 50 Hz. That's most definitely bad. For those of you outside of Europe and unaware, back in the old days — prior to the GameCube era —...
News Nintendo Reveals Plans For Wii U Virtual Console
Games being coded from the ground up, will be playable on GamePad
The rumours were true - today, Nintendo confirmed its plans for the Wii U Virtual Console during the Wii U Direct presentation. Following a spring system update, the Virtual Console service will launch on the Wii U. NES and SNES games will be
Rumour Today's Nintendo Direct To Focus On Wii U Virtual Console
GameCube games also coming?
One of the biggest questions regarding Nintendo's online strategy for the Wii U revolves around Virtual Console releases, and how they're going to be made available on the new platform. Today's Nintendo Direct - which is focused on Wii U software and developments - could well be related to a Virtual Console announcement...
Nintendo Download 10th January 2013 (Europe)
A fractured soul, kung fu, blasting ninja masters and a Zombi demo
It's that time again, Europe, with Nintendo confirming details for this week's download update on its online platforms. 3DS, DSi and Wii are all catered for with a mixture of long awaited releases and some unexpected arrivals, while all is quiet — apart from a demo — on the Wii U...
News Virtual Console Games Will Eventually Be Playable On Wii U GamePad Alone
Nintendo still working towards getting the Virtual Console set up on Wii U
The Wii U eShop has been hailed by a number of small developers as an exciting new platform on which to publish games; however, since the system's launch the eShop hasn’t seen a significant growth due to few new titles emerging. Many people have also been wondering what is...
Review Shock Troopers 2nd Squad (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Trigger happy
Much like the original Shock Troopers game, 2nd Squad is very much inspired by the early days of arcade gaming, when overhead run-and-gun titles like Capcom's Commando were in vogue. While the game has a very Metal Slug feel to it, the multi-directional scrolling and 360 degree movement and firing make for quite an intense and engaging...
Review World Heroes 2 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Global gathering
ADK’s World Heroes series is one of the Neo Geo’s lesser-known fighting dynasties, and is usually pushed to one side when people get all nostalgic about the likes of King of Fighters, Art of Fighting, Samurai Shodown and Fatal Fury. This is probably because the franchise never really took itself all that seriously; the cast was...
News SNES Classic SimCity Removed From Wii Virtual Console
Nintendo bowing to pressure from EA?
According to a post on NeoGAF, the Super Nintendo version of SimCity is no longer available on the North American Virtual Console. No official line has been given for the removal, but we would imagine it has something to do with EA owning the SimCity license now. This isn't the first time that software has been...
December2012
Nintendo Download 27th December 2012 (North America)
Fluidity, tough old-school challenges, wizards and the impossible
It's here, the post-festive Nintendo Download bonanza. Whether it's an actual bonanza is up to you, but there's a broad variety of new and old titles, with everything but the Wii U getting new content. That's right, North America, no shiny high-def pinball in the update today, but...
News EarthBound Creator Confirms Something Is In The Pipeline
Looks set to be a re-release
The EarthBound series, known as Mother in Japan, has only ever had one game released in North America way back in 1995 when EarthBound (Mother 2) emerged on the Super Nintendo. The game has a large cult following in North America and is incredibly popular in Japan. Creator of the series, Shigesato Itoi, has confirmed...
Review Real Bout Fatal Fury (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
In the beginning...
After several releases in the Fatal Fury franchise, SNK decided to create a sub-series with the release of Real Bout Fatal Fury. The game didn't deviate too far from the experience that fans had come to expect, but there was a certain intensity and flair that needed to be explored and perhaps that was the reasoning behind the...
Nintendo Download 13th December 2012 (North America)
Crimson RPG questing, ninja action, world music and more
It's time for another Nintendo Download update, and this one brings with it quite a few titles on all platforms. There are some retail goodies, the conclusion of the Guild01 trilogy, a long awaited 3DS Virtual Console release and more. Let's get on with it, shall we? 3DS download software:...
Review BurgerTime (Wii Virtual Console / NES)
Burger building bonanza
When the coin-op release of BurgerTime hit arcades in 1982, it was praised for its quirky theme and wildly unique gameplay design. Given the game's popularity at the time, it garnered a port on just about every home game system and personal computer of the period. The NES release came a bit later, but it was a fairly accurate...
Nintendo Download 6th December 2012 (North America)
Titanic murders, mighty bombs, burgers and retail goodies
It's Nintendo Download update time, and this week brings a rather lengthy list of titles for North America. All four systems are covered, with quite a few retail games making their download début, so let's get on with it. 3DS download software: Murder on the Titanic (Joindots GmbH, $7.99)...
Nintendo Download 6th December 2012 (Europe)
UPDATE: Wario 3 joins Denpa men, hyper mighty switching and a paper adventure
After a few days of suspense — the release day of EU download details varies every week — we finally know what to expect in the Wii U, 3DS, DSi and Wii online stores this week. All four systems are accounted for, which should warm up any Nintendo gaming Europeans...
November2012
Review Ninja Master's: Haō Ninpō Chō (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Something old, something new
Not only were there a huge number of fighting games throughout the lifespan of the Neo Geo system, there was also a serious amount of variety in the styles and executions of those games. While most Neo Geo fans will associate developer ADK with its popular World Heroes series, it was its final release for the system,...
Nintendo Download 22nd November 2012 (North America)
Mallo returns, Link has an adventure, spirits are hunted and more
It's Thursday, which only means one thing here on Nintendo Life - it's download update time. This week sees a return for a popular 3DS eShop IP, a classic NES title, a long awaited DSiWare release and some other goodies. Nintendo's press release only mentions the Wii U eShop games...
Nintendo Download 22nd November 2012 (Europe)
Flying, dressing up, fighting spirits and more
There was a certain big release over in North America at the weekend, but fear not Europeans! You get to find out what downloads are coming first, so that's one-up right there. We have a 3DS launch title flying in as a retail download, as well as offerings on every platform; you can check out the...
News Donkey Kong Country Trilogy To Be Pulled From Wii Virtual Console
Donkey Gone-ga
According to an image uploaded onto Twitter by Daan Koopman (@NintenDaan), Nintendo is to remove Donkey Kong Country and its SNES sequels from the European Wii Virtual Console this month, on 25th November. The following games will be removed: Donkey Kong Country Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest
Review Sengoku 2 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Transformations and annihilations
SNK may have dedicated a large portion of their efforts to the one-on-one fighting genre, but occasionally they would branch out into other game types, sometimes with rather successful results. The original Sengoku was praised for its unique use of character transformations, but the play controls weren't always the...
Nintendo Download 8th November 2012 (North America)
Paper Mario, Pokédex, dress up witches and dragons
It's that time again, when we drop everything we're doing to fire up the 3DS eShop, DSi Shop and maybe, on occasion, the Wii Shop. Yes, it's the Nintendo Download update, and this week has a mixture of retail treats, a demo and some lesser known download titles. Let's get to it. 3DS Download...
Nintendo Download 8th November 2012 (Europe)
Pokédex, 3D surfing, cake slicing and troopers
Details of this week's European update have arrived, and they're perhaps not the night sky fireworks we'd hope for at this time of year. There's still some variety across all platforms and a long awaited app arrives, though the price may surprise some. 3DS Download Software: Pokédex 3D Pro...
Review Shock Troopers (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Don't think, just shoot!
While the run-and-gun genre generally evolved into the side-scrolling blast-a-thons we all know and love, there were a few titles during the early arcade days that took a more overhead perspective like Capcom's popular Commando arcade release. It was this direction that developer Saurus took when it came time to put together...
Nintendo Download 1st November 2012 (North America)
Freakiness, fast gnomz, hidden objects and cake slicing
While some Nintendo Download updates, particularly in recent weeks, are full of juicy and exciting options, we're not sure that this is one of those occasions. Both DSi and 3DS are covered with a mixture of titles, but Wii is left out entirely; no, there isn't even a Neo Geo fighter to keep the...
October2012
News The Famicom's Biggest Rival Is 25 Years Old
NEC's groundbreaking PC Engine comes of age
It makes us feel very old to say it, but NEC's popular 8-bit PC Engine console turned 25 yesterday. Better known in the US as the TurboGrafx-16, the system launched in Japan on October 30th, 1987 (yes, we know we're a day late with this) - a time when the Famicom was enjoying a period of total and utter...
Nintendo Download 1st November 2012 (Europe)
Monsters, samurai, spaceships and dragons
It's that time again when we cross our fingers and hope for some downloadable treats from Nintendo, hoping against hope that we aren't subjected to tricks instead. This week is a mixed bag, with promising, awful and mystery downloads available across all platforms, so let's get to it. 3DS Download: Monster...
Nintendo Download 25th October 2012 (North America)
Liberation, a NightSky, puzzles, free extras and plenty of monsters
The Nintendo Download update has had some good weeks in recent times, and following today's Nintendo Direct we finally have the information on today's offerings; it looks like this is another one that'll have something for everyone. With DLC, a demo, a retail release and a number of...
Nintendo Download 25th October 2012 (Europe)
Heavy Fire and Mighty Bomb Jack make for slim pickings - thank goodness for Layton
Ouch. Not much in the way of downloadable goodness this week, with just three games available - all of which are 3DS-based and one of which is a retail download. Aside from some downloadable videos and a smattering of DLC, there's not much else to report. 3DS Retail...
Review The Last Blade 2 (Wii Virtual Console / Neo Geo)
Last Blade Part Deux
When the original Last Blade title was released it took weapons-based fighting in 2D to new heights with its fluid play controls and intense fighting action. Not wanting to rest on its laurels, SNK soon put together a sequel that didn't try to really overhaul anything, but rather stuck to tweaking a few minor aspects of the...
Nintendo Download 18th October 2012 (North America)
Time to get stylish, pose for the camera, go fishing, fly a spaceship and more
North America has enjoyed some busy Nintendo Download updates of late, with plenty of variety to choose from. This week is no exception with something for everyone, and the odd surprise, so let's get on with it. 3DS Download: Sparkle Snapshots 3D (Nintendo, $5.99) —...
News Ghosts 'n' Goblins Coming To 3DS eShop Next Week
Ready to make your blood boil?
It may not be that Mega Man game you were hoping for (and thank god it's not Mega Man Xover), but Capcom has just announced that the NES version of Ghosts 'n' Goblins will be making its way onto the 3DS eShop on 25th October in America. This soul-crushing side-scroller hit arcades ba
Nintendo Download 18th October 2012 (Europe)
Mega Man goes portable, Mad Dogs, free Mutant Mudds DLC and more
While last week brought Pokémon dreaming and long-awaited samurai action to Europe, this week's update aims for the surprise factor. The upcoming 25th Anniversary of a certain Blue Bomber is celebrated, sort of, a retro light-gun game get's a second chance on the 3DS eShop, while the...
