Alex Kidd and Secret Command on EU VC

Two golden oldies from the Sega Master System have hit the Virtual Console service in Europe and Australia today.

Alex Kidd: The Lost Stars (Master System)Secret Command (Master System)

Note that Secret Command is also known as "Secret Commando", and was at some stage turned into "Rambo: First Blood Part II" by altering the title screen and changing the main sprite.

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Mario and Sonic Head to the Slopes in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games

SEGA Corporation and Nintendo Co., Ltd today announced that two of the biggest video game heroes, Mario and Sonic, will be coming together again, this time taking their rivalry to the snow and ice in another officially licensed Olympic-themed smash hit Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games. Heading to stores late in 2009 on the Wii home video game system and Nintendo DS, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games will take players to Vancouver, Canada, host city of the official 2010 Olympic Winter Games. This gaming experience invites players of all ages and skill sets to face-off in some of the most intense winter competitions available for the Nintendo platforms.

Developed by SEGA of Japan, under the guidance of Shigeru Miyamoto, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games will take players to lifelike Olympic venues where they can choose from a legendary cast of playable characters, including new faces to the series to be revealed later this year. Following the phenomenal worldwide popularity of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, which has sold over 10 million copies worldwide, this fresh gaming experience will feature completely new Olympic Winter Games events from the official competition schedule including Alpine Skiing and Speed Skating with more events announced throughout the year.

Tailored to the specific system controls, Nintendo DS and Wii gamers will enjoy completely unique experiences thanks to each platform having its own specific gameplay features and modes. Players of all skill levels will enjoy the intuitive controls of both the Wii and Nintendo DS systems, in both single and multiplayer gaming modes. The Wii game will offer an even richer multiplayer experience offering co-op and competitive gameplay where the Nintendo DS brings an intense competitive element using the Nintendo DS wireless capabilities. Additionally, one of the new features to be found in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is the inclusion of the Wii Balance Board which can be used in some events featured in the Wii version, allowing for a more interactive and realistic gaming experience.

Published by SEGA across Europe and North America, and published by Nintendo in the Japanese market, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is again licensed through a worldwide partnership with International Sports Multimedia (ISM), the exclusive interactive entertainment software licensee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

"We are extremely happy to again team up with Nintendo and ISM on what promises to be another global success." says Naoya Tsurumi, CEO, SEGA of America and SEGA Europe. "Sonic will partner with Mario once more beneath the spotlight of the legendary Olympic Games. Together they will face new athletic challenges that will provide gamers with more of the exciting experiences unique to this series."

"SEGA has been a valued publishing partner of Nintendo for many years and Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is the ultimate representation of that relationship," said Reggie Fils-Aime, president and COO, Nintendo of America. "We look for this game to continue the tradition its predecessor started by bringing new events, new characters, and new gameplay experiences to fans worldwide."

"To once again have Mario and Sonic and friends compete in Olympic sports and events in a winter setting is tremendously exciting for the Olympic Movement and the millions of gamers worldwide who enjoyed the characters’ previous match up", says Raymond Goldsmith, Chairman & CEO of ISM.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games will be in stores late 2009. For more information about the game, please visit www.sega.com or www.olympicvideogames.com. For any assets, please visit the SEGA FTP site at http://segapr.segaamerica.com.

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Two WiiWare Games and One Virtual Console Game Added to Wii Shop Channel

If you've got a taste for the eclectic, check out this lively lineup of additions to the Wii Shop Channel. One new WiiWare title combines brisk winter sports with pulverizing power-ups, while another blends intuitive puzzle dynamics with various multiplayer options. Meanwhile, a classic Virtual Console game invites you to assume the role of a certain adventurous hedgehog. With diverse releases like these, players of all stripes are sure to find something they'll love.

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

WiiWare
Snowboard Riot (Hudson Entertainment, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Fantasy Violence, 1,000 Wii Points): This snowboard racing and battle game can be enjoyed by multiple players and is compatible with the Wii Balance Board accessory. In an intense scramble for first place, guide your character down the slopes while snatching up items to attack and defend against rivals along the way. Up to four players can battle and participate in various ranking modes via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

LONPOS (Nintendo, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Wii Points): Looking for a puzzle game that anyone can play, but still offers plenty to master? Look no further than LONPOS, with its straightforward premise and large variety of puzzles to solve. Each puzzle revolves around a rectangular playing field of 55 spaces. Using a set of 12 pieces, the goal is to place every piece into the playing field, filling it completely. The higher the level, the more pieces you'll need to fit correctly into the playing field. Challenge yourself with two single-player modes or bring a friend to compete against or cooperate with. When you think your skills are worthy, use Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection to check out how you compare with other LONPOS players or download additional puzzles and backgrounds. (Router and broadband access required for online play. For more info, go to www.nintendo.com.)

Virtual Console
Sonic Chaos (SEGA MASTER SYSTEM, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): Play as Sonic or Tails in Sonic Chaos, which was originally made for the SEGA MASTER SYSTEM. Dr. Eggman (a.k.a. Dr. Robotnik) has stolen the Red Chaos Emerald to create nuclear weapons. This has thrown the remaining Chaos Emeralds off balance, causing them to transport to a parallel universe. As a result, Sonic's home, South Island, is sinking into the ocean. Speed through various levels in your crusade for the six Chaos Emeralds. Perform Strike Dashes and Super-Peel Outs as Sonic, or Spin Dash and Fly as Tails, and restore order in Sonic Chaos.

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.
For the latest WiiWare games, click here.
Click here for a list of games available on Virtual Console.

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Rabbids want to win core gamers

According to Jacque Exertier from Ubisoft, their latest Rabbids title is a significant departure from the mini-game fests we're used to, and core gamers should get something out of Rabbids Go Home.

" Core Nintendo gamers should enjoy the controls and variety in gameplay as well as the open progressive structure. We're working to make Rabbids Go Home easy to learn, hard to master, in the finest Nintendo tradition ".

The latest edition of the official Nintendo magazine offers up some new details on the game:

There are 6 hub worlds, 20 environments and over 50 missions.Around 100 different humans featured, based on stereotypes.Verminators and Vermi-dogs are the primary enemies.Verminators set traps to catch the Rabbids, but are scared of them.Collectible items hidden throughout the levels.Collect regular items to gain new abilities.New game mechanics are introduced regularly.15 hours worth of gameplay.Storyline is advanced using cutscenes.Music is crazy, slapstick comedy used in familiar Rabbid style.At the end of each mission you flush your items down a toilet.Multiplayer to feature in some capacity, but no details yet.Locations include an airport, builder's yard, graveyard, museum, office and a supermarket.Mario Kart Wii and Super Mario Galaxy quoted as "games of inspiration".

Reports say Ubisoft took almost a year to decide in which direction to go with this Rabbids title, let's hope it results in a winner.

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WiiWare and Virtual Console charts

Time once again to check in on the Top 20 Charts for downloadable games on Wii.

World of Goo has moved up into a well-deserved first place in the WiiWare listings, while Mario, Link, DK and Sonic pretty much have the VC chart covered.

WiiWare ChartWorld of GooMy AquariumTetris PartyMy Pokemon RanchOnslaughtDr Mario Online RxPool Revolution: Cue SportsBrain ChallengeBit.Trip BeatFun Fun MinigolfDefend Your CastlePop Them, Drop Them SAMEGAMEBonsai BarberEquilibrioTarget Toss Pro: BagsFinal Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a KingSandy BeachWild West GunsMidnight BowlingBomberman BlastVirtual Console ChartSuper Mario Bros 3Super Mario BrosSuper Punch OutSuper Mario WorldSuper Mario Bros 2The Legend of ZeldaPunch OutSuper Mario 64Pac-ManMario Kart 64The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of TimeDonkey Kong CountryDonkey KongSuper Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven StarsSonic the Hedgehog 2The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the PastGalagaPaper MarioExcitebikeTecmo Bowl


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Supervillain RPG leak?

The interwebs are awash with reports about leaked information concerning an RPG game exclusive to the Wii. Tom Swogger, an employee at Supervillain Studios posted this on his online resume:

" At Supervillain Studios I did several props for the Wii title Order Up then began work on environments and effects for an unannounced rpg, also on the Wii ".

The same site also has two pieces of artwork from the unannounced game:

This game may not come out until 2010.

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Pirates and Pitfalls Send Masterful Mixed Messages

The new Nintendo DSi system has been on store shelves for just a week now. Today Activision's Mixed Messages becomes the first third-party downloadable game for the new system. Mixed Messages is a game of electronic telephone that can accommodate a whopping 21 players. On the WiiWare side, fans will find a game based on the popular Pop-Up Pirate toy that might have players sticking virtual swords into their Mii characters. And classic character Pitfall Harry Jr. makes his debut on the Virtual Console.

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card can be purchased at retail locations. All Nintendo Points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Wii Shop Channel or the Nintendo DSi Shop. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems. This week's new games are:

Nintendo DSiWare
Mixed Messages (Activision, 2-21 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Nintendo DSi Points): Mixed Messages is the hilarious party game of mixed-up miscommunication. Sketch a picture to capture your friends' sentence, or try to figure out what in the world they've drawn. You might start with, "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" and end up with "A crazy surfer outruns flying sticks of dynamite while his fans cheer!" Two to 21 players take turns writing sentences and drawing pictures to pass along a message. This isn't a game about winning and losing - it's all about the funny miscommunications that happen along the way. You'll laugh when you see just how wacky things can get. Get together with your friends and mix it up.
Master of Illusion Express: Shuffle Games (Nintendo, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 200 Nintendo DSi Points): Master of Illusion Express titles are mind-boggling magic tricks pulled from the popular Nintendo DS game. Learn the illusions, practice up and amaze your friends. Master of Illusion Express: Shuffle Games will boggle your audience members' minds as they try to figure out how you know exactly what they're thinking. Also included is the bonus Vanishing Card trick, which the Nintendo DSi system performs for your enjoyment.

WiiWare
Party Fun Pirate (TOMY Corporation, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone - Comic Mischief, 500 Wii Points): Based on the popular Pop-Up Pirate toy, players take turns thrusting swords into a barrel that holds your captain captive, trying to see who can insert the most swords into the barrel. Thrust a sword into the wrong hole and you'll send your captain flying, which means it's game over for you! Unique Wii features add to the excitement, making for a fun-filled party game. Try swapping out the captain and putting your custom Mii character in the barrel for some real laughs!

Virtual Console
Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure (Sega Genesis, 1 player, Rated T for Teen - Animated Violence, 800 Wii Points): Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure is a side-scrolling action game in which you play adventurer Pitfall Harry Jr. in search of his father, Pitfall Harry. Pitfall Harry has been taken captive by the dreaded warrior spirit Zakelua: Lord of Evil. Armed with only a trusty sling and his father's journal, young Harry Jr. must now venture into the unknown to rescue him … before it's too late! Bungee jump and boomerang your way to safety as you battle through treacherous Mayan jungles, waterfalls and deserted mines. With 13 levels of fast, gripping action, you will need to be attentive and quick - or prepare to die …

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access.
For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com or NintendoDSi.com.
For the latest WiiWare games, click here.
Click here for a list of games available on Virtual Console.

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Nintendo Fan Network Delivers Enhanced Features for 2009 Mariners Season

During the baseball season, Nintendo will offer Seattle Mariners fans and visitors to Safeco Field new ways to enjoy America's favorite pastime. To enliven the fan experience, Nintendo has joined forces with ESPN to deliver enhanced interactive features to the Nintendo Fan Network, including ESPN's up-to-the-minute news and analysis, as well as closed-captioning of PA announcements. The entire experience is delivered to fans' Nintendo DS systems through an exclusive Wi-Fi network. Since it debuted in 2007, the Nintendo Fan Network has provided stadium-goers the ability to access information, chat with other fans and even order concessions by using Nintendo DS systems.

Via the Nintendo Fan Network, ESPN will deliver fans Mariners-related news, general sports news and headlines, fantasy sports news and updates, baseball columns from ESPN's leading columnists, and ESPN Zoom Game, a photo-matching game for sports.

In addition to new features from ESPN, the free Nintendo Fan Network service offers live video broadcast and interactive trivia and games, as well as real-time scores of other baseball games in progress. For added convenience, the Nintendo Fan Network also offers live weather and traffic information, and the unique ability to order food and beverages for delivery directly to the fan's seat, all with a tap of the stylus on the Nintendo DS system.

Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing, says, "Whether you're watching live video, ordering food from your seat or checking scores, the Nintendo Fan Network enhances the game-day experience for families and baseball enthusiasts alike." Howard Lincoln, CEO of the Seattle Mariners, adds, "Our goal is to provide the best possible fan experience at Safeco Field. The Nintendo Fan Network gives users access to features and information that allow them to get the most out of their visit to the ballpark."

"ESPN has a long heritage of embracing emerging media platforms to deliver unique experiences to fans," said John Zehr, senior vice president, digital media production and product development. "Our collaboration with the Nintendo Fan Network is a direct extension of the ESPN mission to enliven the sports experience, no matter how or where fans are consuming sports."

In honor of the new Nintendo DSi system, the third iteration of the best-selling Nintendo DS, the Nintendo Fan Network will also offer for the first 150 requesters at each home game a free Nintendo DSi rental for in-game use during the first three months of the season. Launched in North America on April 5, Nintendo DSi lets users customize and personalize their hand-held gaming experiences like never before. With the goal of transforming the way people access, experience, create and share content, the Nintendo DSi comes with two built-in cameras and new audio recording and playback functions.

For more information about how to experience Nintendo Fan Network, please go to www.NintendoFanNetwork.com or visit one of the kiosks located near sections 127 and 143 inside Safeco Field.

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Catch my DRiiFT

Konami has announced a top-down racer called DRiiFT for WiiWare. The game has up to 8 players racing around a series of courses on the same screen.

DRiiFT features12 tracks (themes are City, Snow, Hills and Oasis).Single player races.6 modes of multiplayer.Customizable vehicles.Team races.

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DRiiFT is expect for release in July, screenshots are now up.

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Six Nintendo DSiWare Titles, One WiiWare Game and One Virtual Console Game Added to Shop Channels

This week marks the launch of Nintendo DSi, the third iteration of the nation's top-selling portable video game system. Along with it comes the grand opening of the Nintendo DSi Shop, an online store where players can redeem Nintendo DSi Points for a wide variety of games and applications, including Nintendo DSiWare titles. Just as the WiiWare service does for Wii owners, the Nintendo DSiWare service delivers an ever-growing library of cool new downloadable content for Nintendo DSi users, with new games added on Mondays.

For this first edition of Nintendo Download, we're pleased to highlight the latest additions to both the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel. You'll find six Nintendo DSiWare titles to choose from, including a free Web browser that lets Nintendo DSi owners access the Internet with a swipe of the stylus. Wii users, meanwhile, will see a fun new WiiWare game that's compatible with the Wii Balance Board (sold separately with Wii Fit), plus a classic exploration game for the Virtual Console.

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card can be purchased at retail locations. All Nintendo Points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems. This week's new games are:

Nintendo DSiWare
Nintendo DSi Browser(Nintendo, 1 player, 0 Nintendo DSi Points): Get on the Web with ease using the Nintendo DSi Browser. Powered by Opera, this simple-to-use Web browser is made specifically for the Nintendo DSi system, providing a seamless and intuitive browsing experience that makes the most of the system's touch controls and two-screen interface. Check e-mail, get the latest news updates and more – wherever a wireless Internet connection is available. Just grab your stylus and start surfing.

Bird & Beans (Nintendo, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 200 Nintendo DSi Points): In Bird & Beans, you control Pyoro, a small bird with an elastic tongue and an insatiable appetite for beans. Scramble to catch beans that fall from the sky, racking up points as you go. The farther away the bean, the more points it's worth. Beware any beans that are missed – they'll leave a hole in the ground that can't be crossed, potentially trapping Pyoro. Bird & Beans also features a second version that enables Pyoro to spit seeds at high speed, bringing down more beans than ever before. This fun and fast-paced game requires skill and strategy to master, and always leaves you wanting to play just one more time.

Master of Illusion Express: Funny Face (Nintendo, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 200 Nintendo DSi Points): Master of Illusion Express titles are mind-boggling magic tricks pulled from the popular Nintendo DS game. Learn the illusions, practice up and amaze your friends. Master of Illusion Express: Funny Face uses your Nintendo DSi system as a prop in a card trick. Draw a face on the touch-sensitive screen and astound your audience as the face tells them which playing card they picked. Also included is the bonus Vanishing Card trick, which the Nintendo DSi system performs for your enjoyment.

Art Style: AQUIA (Nintendo, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Nintendo DSi Points): Dive into Art Style: AQUIA, a fast-paced underwater puzzle game that asks you to think fast and move even faster. Help a scuba diver reach the ocean's floor by matching three or more colored blocks horizontally or vertically. The more blocks you match, the faster the diver will descend. Fail to clear blocks and the diver's air supply will start to run out, causing darkness to creep in from above and cloud your vision. Race against time in TIMED DIVE, dive deep in FREE DIVE mode or visit the AQUARIUM to view various sea creatures. Like every game in the Art Style series, AQUIA features elegant design, polished graphics and pick-up-and-play controls, creating an experience that focuses purely on fun and engaging game play.

WarioWare: Snapped! (Nintendo, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone – Comic Mischief, 500 Nintendo DSi Points): Wario returns with more manic action made especially for the Nintendo DSi system. WarioWare: Snapped! uses the built-in Nintendo DSi Camera to make players the star of the show by placing them right into fast-paced mini-games. Take part in wacky challenges simply by moving your face and body as you travel along four wild roller coasters, hosted by Wario and his pals. Beat the mini-games using motions ranging from large to small, or play with a friend for even more fun. Wario even has a few tricks up his sleeve.

Brain Age Express: Math (Nintendo, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Nintendo DSi Points): In this math-focused edition of the popular Brain Age series, players can enjoy a mix of new and familiar exercises, including Change Maker, Triangle Math, Sum Totaled and Multi Tasker. A new Themes mode includes drawing, photography and voice acting challenges, letting you share your creativity with friends and family. And if you need a break from your routine, the always-enjoyable Virus Buster makes its return.

WiiWare
EQUILIBRIO (DK-GAMES, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): In EQUILIBRIO, you must finish a series of levels by moving a ball toward an exit. To move the ball, hold the Wii Remote controller horizontally and turn it to tilt the playfield. You can also play using the Wii Balance Board (sold separately with Wii Fit). The ball is fragile, so don't let it fall too far, and be sure to avoid deadly obstacles such as spikes and acid pools. The difficulty of the game adjusts according to your skill. Will you be tough enough to complete all 64 levels?

Virtual Console
Uncharted Waters: New Horizons (Super NES, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone – Mild Cartoon Violence, Simulated Gambling, 800 Wii Points): Uncharted Waters: New Horizons is a game set in the Age of Discovery, the golden era of European global exploration during the early 16th century. There are six different characters to choose from, all with different backgrounds and different motivations. Once you've chosen a character to play, you're free to sail the world's oceans as you wish, visiting a variety of exotic ports and making thrilling new discoveries.

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com or NintendoDSi.com.

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Nintendo to Set Summer '09 Ablaze with Wii Motionplus and Wii Sports Resort

Nintendo is setting the stage for a blockbuster summer with the announcement of two hotly anticipated product releases. The new Wii MotionPlus accessory will hit U.S. retailers on June 8, taking the motion-sensing controls of the popular Wii system to new levels of precision and performance. What's more, these control enhancements will be on vibrant display when the Wii Sports Resort game launches on July 26, offering a beach-themed follow-up to the groundbreaking Wii Sports game. Wii Sports comes packed with the Wii console. It grew into a worldwide phenomenon and continues to attract millions of new players to the world of video games. Each Wii Sports Resort game comes packed with a single Wii MotionPlus accessory.

When used with specially designed games, Wii MotionPlus tracks players' movements in finer detail and with greater accuracy than ever before, building upon the innovative wireless function of the motion-sensing Wii Remote™ controller. Even the slightest twist of the wrist or turn of the body is replicated exactly on the TV screen, allowing users to become even more immersed in Wii game play. Designed for easy attachment to the Wii Remote controller, the Wii MotionPlus accessory will be offered at an MSRP of $19.99.

Wii Sports Resort takes the inclusive, fun and intuitive controls of the original Wii Sports to the next level, introducing a whole new set of entertaining and physically immersive activities. With the deep control enhancements of Wii MotionPlus, veteran Wii users and newcomers alike can enjoy unprecedented gaming precision as they cruise on a water scooter, duel with swords, throw a Frisbee and much more. Wii Sports Resort and Wii MotionPlus will be offered together at an MSRP of $49.99.

"Wii MotionPlus represents a new evolution in video game control. The variety of fun games in Wii Sports Resort show off its incredible precision," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Developers around the world are busy working on new ways to incorporate Wii MotionPlus controls into inventive experiences for consumers."

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com. For more information about Nintendo, visit www.Nintendo.com.

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Deca Sports 2 moves its body online

Hudson Entertainment has revealed their game Deca Sports 2 will allow players to compete online over the Wi-Fi connection. Mike Pepe, Hudson's marketing director commented:

" Due to the massive popularity of sports games on the Nintendo Wii, demand for in-game variety and online gameplay has never been greater. With online play and ten new sporting events, we believe Deca Sports 2 will delight fans and new players alike ".

You heard it here first, sports fans. Deca Sports 2 is coming out this Fall.

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Pirates a poppin' on WiiWare

It's that time of the week again. The latest downloadable games on Wii in North America are:

Pop-Up Pirate (WiiWare)Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure (Genesis)

Technically, Pop-Up Pirate has been renamed "Party Fun Pirate" for the US release, but meh.

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Nintendo's Wii Play Surpasses 10 Million Units Sold in the United States

Wii Play , a collection of nine mini-games, has now sold more than 10 million units in the United States alone since its debut in February 2007, according to figures released today by the independent NPD Group, which tracks video game sales in the United States. Wii Play, now the top-selling software on all consoles and portable systems in the United States, comes packaged with a Wii Remote controller.

" Wii Play mini-games are fun and they get people playing together," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Even if you believe people are buying Wii Play solely for the controller, that indicates that there are now more than 10 million people who have an extra Wii Remote controller in their homes. When added to the 12.7 million Wii Remote controllers that have sold separately, this reinforces the growing 'social gaming' trend we have been seeing where friends and family use their Wii games as a social hub – both in person and online."

Wii system sales were up about 74 percent over February 2008, and Wii and Nintendo DS finished February as the top-selling hardware systems. Wii sold nearly 753,000, bringing its lifetime U.S. sales to nearly 19 million, while Nintendo DS sold nearly 588,000 for a lifetime U.S. total of nearly 29 million.

Nintendo DS demonstrated continued strength, as "evergreen" games like Mario Kart DS (launched November 2005) and New Super Mario Bros. (launched May 2006) again placed among the top sellers for February. The strong showing for Nintendo DS hardware and software demonstrates continued consumer interest in the portable system as the United States preps for the April 5 launch of the Nintendo DSi system, the third iteration of the hardware.

Five games made for Nintendo systems finished in the top 10 best-sellers of February. These include Wii Fit at No. 1 with nearly 644,000 sold, Wii Play at No. 2 with nearly 386,000 sold, Mario Kart Wii at No. 6 with nearly 263,000 sold, Mario Kart DS at No. 8 with nearly 145,000 sold and New Super Mario Bros. at No. 9 with more than 144,000 sold.

Third-party Wii and Nintendo DS games also posted strong sales, with titles from LucasArts, Ubisoft, Majesco, Disney Interactive Studios, Electronic Arts and Activision/Blizzard all placing in the top 30 for the month.

For more information about Nintendo, please visit www.Nintendo.com.

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Nintendo President Announces Wii Storage Solution, New Zelda game and 50 Million Global Wii Shipment

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata today revealed surprises for consumers and an expanded palette of video game development opportunities for the industry during his keynote address at the Game Developers Conference. Iwata announced a new storage solution for Nintendo’s Wii home console and showed video highlights of a new Nintendo DS game from The Legend of Zelda™ franchise.

Video game developers now have expanded opportunities given that worldwide shipments for the Wii system surpassed 50 million units and worldwide shipments for the Nintendo DS franchise are at more than 100 million units. Iwata said, “It is in the power of game developers to invent things that gamers have never seen – or even imagined – before.”

Nintendo also noted several key initiatives that are on the way for consumers, some of which are available at the Nintendo GDC booth.

Nintendo DSi

The new portable Nintendo DSi system goes on sale in the United States on April 5. For the first six months after launch, consumers who buy the system and connect to the Nintendo DSi Shop will automatically receive 1,000 Nintendo DSi Points, which can be redeemed for downloadable Nintendo DSiWare™ games and applications through the Nintendo DSi Shop. In order to receive the free Nintendo DSi Points, consumers must access the Nintendo DSi Shop by Oct. 5, 2009, and the Nintendo DSi Points can be redeemed at any time after that (wireless broadband access required). Similar to how the WiiWare service works in the Wii Shop Channel, the Nintendo DSi Shop will feature a variety of downloadable Nintendo DSiWare™ games and applications. These games and applications will be available at four different price categories: free, 200 points, 500 points, and 800+ points. Consumers can purchase Nintendo DSi Points in the Nintendo DSi Shop with a credit card or by purchasing a Nintendo Points Card™ at retail locations for redemption in the Nintendo DSi Shop. All points from one Nintendo Points Card will need to be redeemed at the Nintendo DSi Shop. Nintendo Points Card will start to become available at select retail locations beginning Apr. 5. Iwata gave conference attendees a glimpse into some of the upcoming Nintendo DSiWare games and applications such as Moving Memo (name not final) and WarioWare ™ : Snapped! . Moving Memo (name not final) lets users create animated digital flipbooks of their own design, while WarioWare: Snapped! uses Nintendo DSi Camera functionality for a fresh gaming experience. On the show floor, conference attendees are able to experience some of the Nintendo DSiWare games and applications that will be available soon. Bird & Beans ™ and Art Style ™: Aquia ™ are fun mini games that will be perfect to play on-the-go.

Nintendo DS & Nintendo DSi Software

The new The Legend of Zelda™: Spirit Tracks game that Iwata announced will utilize the intuitive touch control of Phantom Hourglass in an all new adventure that will please longtime Zelda fans while keeping the game accessible to all DS owners. The concept behind this Zelda game includes utilizing a steam locomotive to travel around the world, switching Phantom and Link to explore the dungeons, and solving puzzles using new items.

Wii

As the library of downloadable WiiWare and Virtual Console games continues to grow, Wii owners have asked Nintendo to provide easy, expanded storage space. Starting today, Wii owners will be able to save downloaded WiiWare, Virtual Console video games, and Channels directly to High Capacity SD cards, in addition to SD memory cards. To play games that have been saved to SD cards, consumers will be able to select and launch them from an SD Menu icon on the Wii Menu. (Note that when launching games or channels from an SD card, an equivalent amount of internal Wii memory is required. To clear space from the internal memory, users can transfer games or channels from the Wii Menu to the SD card). This feature is included in the latest version of the Wii System Menu Update, which owners will receive immediately after performing a system update today. Gamers will be glad to have that additional storage space, as the Virtual Console will expand to include the arcade versions of classic third-party games like STARFORCE by Tecmo Ltd., and Mappy, Gaplus and Tower of Druaga by Namco Bandai Games Inc. starting today. Upcoming games Punch-Out!! and Excitebots: Trick Racing are available to play at Nintendo’s booth. Excitebots: Trick Racing , a new and refreshing take on the classic Excitebike series from the arcade and NES days, is slated to launch on April 20, while a new game in the classic Punch-Out!! series will be on store shelves on May 18.

WiiWare

To highlight new development opportunities for independent developers, Iwata unveiled a game for the WiiWare downloadable game service called Rock N’ Roll Climber ™, which uses the Wii Balance Board accessory to help users simulate the experience of rock climbing. The game is being developed by Vitei.

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com. For more information about Nintendo, visit www.Nintendo.com.

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Feel-ing scared?

A new horror title called Feel is in development for Wii in Japan. It's being headed up by Takashi Shimizu, the director behind scary movies like "The Grudge". The game is said to loosely follow one of the Ju-on films released in 1999.

Some basic details have emerged:

1 or 2 players can take part.Wiimote used for torchlight and other items.Game is currently 60% complete.Should be released this Summer.

As always, there's a good chance it will stay in Japan and never grace our shores.

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Cute Monster Hunter G commercial

This is a Japanese TV commercial for Monster Hunter G published by Capcom. I couldn't tell you what's going on, but it's still all kinds of funny.

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Wii & Nintendo DS Set New Industry Records

Before 2008, no video game system had ever been purchased by ten million Americans in a single year. But according to independent sales data released today by the NPD Group, the Wii console from Nintendo did just that, even during these economic times, with 2008 unit sales of 10.17 million. The Nintendo DS portable handheld system came in a close second, with 2008 unit sales of 9.95 million. Each of them broke the previous yearly unit sales record set in 2007 by Nintendo DS with sales of 8.52 million.

Consequently, Wii represented 55% of all next generation home console sales in 2008, while Nintendo DS claimed 72% of all portable system sales in 2008.

"Our type of entertainment has now moved to the point where there is no longer a question that if you offer consumers an expanded definition of what a video game can be, and deliver that idea with quality and affordability in mind, millions of new people will start playing video games," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Concepts like Wii Fit, Guitar Hero, and Rock Band never would have seemed feasible just a few years ago, and now they're driving growth for our the entire industry."

NPD data released for December and all of 2008 also included the following:

•The industry's top 4 selling games of 2008 were: Wii Play at No. 1, Mario Kart Wii at No. 2, , Wii Fit at No.3, and Super Smash Brothers Brawl, at No. 4
•Industry annual revenues jumped 19% in 2008 over 2007, and Nintendo products were responsible for 99% of those additional retail dollars.
•Nintendo DS set another industry record for system sales in any month, with 3.04 million units sold in December.
•Wii broke its own monthly record, set in December 2007, by selling 2.14 million units last month.
•In December, Nintendo titles filled 20 of the top 30 spots on the best-seller list. Six games made for Nintendo systems placed in the top 10, including Wii Music for Wii (No. 9), which has now sold 865,000 units following its launch in October 2008, and Mario Kart DS for the Nintendo DS (No. 7), which has sold a total of 4.3 million units 38 months after launch.
•Activision's Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and Guitar Hero World Tour, and MTV Games/EA's* Rock Band Special Edition Bundle all sold more units on Nintendo platforms than any other platforms in 2008.
•More 3rd party units were sold for Wii than any other home consoles in December for the 2nd consecutive month.
•For the year, more than 132 million games were sold in America for play on Nintendo systems.

For more information about Nintendo, visit www.Nintendo.com.

* Rock Band is published by MTV Games and Electronic Arts serves as the distributor

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The Mind is Mightier than the Sword in Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon for Nintendo DS

Nintendo DS system owners take note – the next game to engage your brain has arrived: Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon. A unique strategy adventure, the game grants players full control over a powerful fighting force in a captivating fantasy setting, putting virtual tacticians to the test as they implement creative battle strategies, improve the skills of their warriors and outthink their opponents on the way to glory and victory.

The Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon video game lets players alternate turns with opponents, moving their units to attack enemies on the battlefield and advance to more advantageous locations. There are dozens of units with different weapons and magic spells to wield, each with their own strategic benefits: high-flying Pegasus Knights move effortlessly over varied terrain, Archers can attack from a distance with their bows and arrows, and unarmed Curates use healing staves to help the wounded. Using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and local wireless play modes, players can now test their skills against opponents, borrow units from others to use in their armies, talk with friends using the built-in Nintendo DS microphone and even use in-game currency to buy rare and powerful items from the Online Shop.

Building upon the series' storied history, Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon tells the tale of Marth, a young prince with wisdom and valor beyond his age. Marth has appeared in the Super Smash Bros. series and has earned a loyal fan following, but Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon marks his first appearance in a Fire Emblem game in the United States.

"Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon gives Nintendo DS owners the kind of thought-provoking experience that they crave, letting them guide a team of warriors to victory through cunning battle tactics and shrewd strategy," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Giving players the option to do battle alone at their own pace or compete with others online in head-to-head skirmishes, Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon offers countless hours of game play in an engaging setting that everyone can enjoy."

For more information about Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon, visit www.Fire-Emblem.com.

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Pokémon Platinum Version Makes Its U.S. Debut

The March 22 launch of the Pokmon Platinum Version video game for the Nintendo DS system is almost upon us, and Pokmon fans are already buzzing with anticipation. This new game in the storied franchise brings a host of new features, including the mysterious new Distortion world, never-seen-before forms of powerful Pokmon, exciting online games in the new Wi-Fi Plaza and strategic battles that are the hallmark of the main Pokmon game series.

"The Pokmon franchise has been a force since it came to the United States more than 10 years ago," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "To date, our two most recent games in the core Pokmon series, Pokmon Diamond and Pokmon Pearl, have sold more than 5.3 million in the United States alone. Pokmon Platinum Version brings fans a set of new challenges, fun and entertainment."

On March 21, Nintendo will host a blowout launch celebration for the game at the Nintendo World store in New York. Pokmon fans will be able to demo and purchase the game a day before it's available in other retail stores. Rockefeller Plaza will become a Pokmon fan's paradise with a myriad of Pokmon activities, including game-play kiosks showing off the game and its online capabilities, the "Pokmon Platinum Plunge," where Pokmon fans will get a chance to win a copy of the Pokmon Platinum Version video game, and opportunities to take photos with their favorite Pokmon characters.

Consumers enjoy Pokmon games, in part, for both their social aspect and their re-playability. For instance, in the new Wi-Fi Plaza, up to 20 players with wireless broadband access from around the world can connect together to experience mini-games, take part in parades and even see a fireworks show. And players who visit the Global Terminal can post their Pokmon for trade to other players around the world. This allows for a greater variety of Pokmon that a player can collect, and also allows players to get Pokmon from other countries, which have become sought-after by many fans. Also the new Global Terminal allows players to use a new item, the Vs. Recorder, to save and post "videos" of their best battles online for everyone to see.

For more information about Pokmon Platinum Version, visit www.PokemonPlatinum.com.

New Nintendo DS Game’s Unique Beat Sends Players to Rhythm Heaven
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New Nintendo DS Game's Unique Beat Sends Players to Rhythm Heaven

When you hear a catchy tune, you probably find yourself tapping your fingers in rhythm to the beat. If you can do that, you'll be a natural for Rhythm Heaven , a new game that is now available for the portable Nintendo DS system. Rhythm Heaven asks you to tap, hold and flick your stylus on the touch screen as you keep the beat in more than 50 rhythm-based mini-games. It's hard not to crack a smile as you enjoy the game's unique visual style and infectious game play.

" Rhythm Heaven represents another example of how Nintendo creates new experiences that surprise and delight people," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "The game exudes a simple charm and captures an endearing quality that makes it very appealing to all types of players."

The fun look and feel of Rhythm Heaven make it unlike any other music-themed title on the market. The game stakes out its own distinctive territory in the genre by combining rhythmic sounds with entertaining hand-held challenges. For instance, the Glee Club mini-game features a chorus of three characters. You are in control of one of them and must tap the touch screen at the right time to keep the group singing properly. Sing at the wrong time and you make the other members of your group noticeably sad.

You control Rhythm Heaven entirely with the stylus, though in different ways: One mini-game asks you to flick the stylus across the touch screen on the beat to shoot a bolt through a nut, while another requires you to tap the screen at just the right moment to make monkeys dance to music. The different taps and flicks make everything happen. As the action builds and the songs get faster, the difficulty level ramps up to give you additional challenges.

With its emphasis on keeping the beat, Rhythm Heaven provides a fun, hands-on experience that players can enjoy on the go. You can pick it up and play for just a few minutes or keep coming back to it again and again. Rhythm Heaven represents another of Nintendo's games that has appeal to a wide spectrum of players. People new to video games will be able to pick it up and understand what to do instantly, but veterans will enjoy the incredible variety of challenges on their quest to unlock and master every aspect of the game.

Be sure to watch for the new Rhythm Heaven commercials starring Pop superstar Beyonc. The first of Beyonc's two commercials for Nintendo is currently running on a variety of networks, including Adult Swim, Comedy Central, FX, MTV and VH1, and can be seen on www.RhythmHeaven.com.

Remember that Rhythm Heaven , as with nearly the entire library of 850+ Nintendo DS-compatible games, also can play on the new Nintendo DSi system, which launched in the United States on April 5.

For more information about Rhythm Heaven , visit www.RhythmHeaven.com.

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New Nintendo DSi Ushers in Era of Personalization and Sharing

On April 5, Nintendo launches Nintendo DSi™, the third iteration of the best-selling portable video game system and the latest evolution in hand-held gaming. Nintendo DSi gives new and veteran gamers the ability to customize, personalize and share their experiences with friends and family. Two built-in, interactive cameras let people snap and modify photos, while recorded sounds can be played and manipulated in interesting and imaginative ways. Also on April 5, Nintendo will launch the Nintendo DSi Shop, a new online storefront where users can redeem Nintendo DSi Points to download an ever-growing variety of inventive games and applications. Nintendo DSi will be available in the United States in Blue or Black at an MSRP of $169.99.

"The concept of entertainment is clearly expanding to enable self-expression and creation in ways never before possible," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Nintendo DSi is loaded with software to help people do exactly that. It's not just about the cameras or audio playback, but what people can do with these features that makes Nintendo DSi such an enjoyable game system."

Beyond the creative user experience, these features also give developers the tools to create new games and applications not previously possible. In the same way that WiiWare™ has given developers big and small a way to deliver their most original games directly to Wii™ users, Nintendo DSiWare™ provides access to the latest and most inventive hand-held games from a variety of studios and genres. Here are the Nintendo DSiWare titles that will be available when the Nintendo DSi Shop launches:

• WarioWare™: Snapped! – Using the built-in Nintendo DSi camera, this outrageous title puts players right at the center of fast-paced mini-games, challenging them to race the clock and get a peek at Wario's photo album.
• Bird & Beans™ – Using an elastic tongue, players must scramble to collect falling beans. The harder a bean is to catch, the more points it's worth.
• Brain Age™ Express: Math – In this math-focused edition of the popular Brain Age series, players can enjoy a mix of new and familiar training exercises. A new Themes mode also lets Nintendo DSi users experiment with images and voice recordings in fun, unusual ways.
• Master of Illusion™ Express: Funny Face – This game uses your Nintendo DSi as a prop in a card trick. Draw a face on the touch screen and astound your audience as the face tells them which playing card they picked.
• Art Style™: AQUIA™ – The newest addition to the eye-popping Art Style series, this mesmerizing underwater puzzle game challenges players to help a scuba diver reach the ocean floor by matching a series of colored blocks.

In addition to a diverse, constantly expanding lineup of DSiWare game titles, visitors to the Nintendo DSi Shop can also download the free Nintendo DSi Browser to enjoy portable access to the Internet. Powered by Opera, this simple-to-use application makes use of the Nintendo DSi system's dual-screen display to provide fast, intuitive Web browsing.

As an incentive to get people connected and enjoying the online content, consumers who buy a Nintendo DSi system and connect it to the Nintendo DSi Shop by Oct. 5, 2009, will automatically receive 1,000 Nintendo DSi Points. (Visit dsioffer.nintendo.com for more details.) Software in the Nintendo DSi Shop will be available at four price points: free, 200 points, 500 points and 800+ points. Users can purchase additional Nintendo DSi Points in the Nintendo DSi Shop or via a Nintendo Points Card sold at retail locations. Nintendo DSi Points will be available in increments of 2,000 at an MSRP of $19.99.

Nintendo DSi allows users to create and share unique moments using a number of distinctive features. Two cameras – one pointing at the user when the system is open, one facing away – let people take photos and manipulate them with 10 built-in "lenses" including Distortion, Graffiti and Mischief. The cameras inspire creativity by letting users personalize their photos and trade them wirelessly with friends and family. The Nintendo DSi Sound application lets people put their own spin on their music with the ability to play and manipulate AAC sound files accessed from an SD card. These sonic tweaks are not saved or stored – they're meant for having fun on-the-fly, changing the pitch or playback speed of a clip with a simple touch of the stylus.

Nintendo DSi features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about Nintendo DSi, visit www.NintendoDSi.com.

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One WiiWare Game and Two Virtual Console Games Added to Wii Shop Channel

Are you immune to this season's rampant basketball fever? If so, the Wii Shop Channel invites you and your friends to set up an action-packed tournament of your own with a fresh crop of downloadable games. This week brings an instantly irresistible puzzle game to the ever-expanding WiiWare library, plus a pair of classic TurboGrafx16 import titles for the Virtual Console – one a vintage vertical-scrolling shooter, the other featuring the beloved Bomberman. Draw up your brackets, grab those Wii Remote controllers and shoot for the top spot.
Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

WiiWare
Pop'Em Drop'Em SAMEGAME (Hudson Entertainment, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): SAMEGAME is a simple yet engrossing puzzle game where you must clear matching blocks in sets of two or more. Score high by clearing out more blocks at once. If you manage to clear the entire grid, you can keep on playing with a whole new layout. Getting rid of all those blocks is the key to racking up points. Adjust the difficulty level in a one-player game by trying different grid sizes and multiple colors. Up to four players can face off in any one of three multiplayer modes. “Fame Game,” the most straightforward choice, is similar to the one-player version. “Shame Game” turns the tables by forcing players to go for the lowest score. “Blame Game” is a free-for-all as everyone vies for blocks on one big grid. Choose from different block styles, background graphics and music to customize your playing experience.

Virtual Console
Bomberman'94 (TurboGrafx16, 1-5 players, Rated E for Everyone—Comic Mischief, 700 Wii Points): Bomberman has arrived to restore peace on the planet, which has been split into five parts by an evil hand. In addition to the nine members of the Bomber Family, the character Rooi shows up to lend a hand. Jump on the eggs that appear from destroyed soft blocks and you can ride one of five types of Rooi. Each Rooi has different special abilities—use them well and you'll ride to victory.
DETANA TWIN BEE (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone—Mild Cartoon Violence, 700 Wii Points): It's the popular vertical-scrolling shooter renowned for its cute and comical world. Here come Twinbee and Winbee on a mission to save the planet from evil alien invaders. Standing in their way are six stages full of goofy enemies. Play as Twinbee in single-player mode, or team up with Winbee in two-player cooperative mode. With powerful attacks like Big Shot, or Twin Attack and Burst Attack in two-player mode, there's plenty of sting in their arsenal. Use your Shot to transform Bells into items with various effects. Stock up on these bad boys to expand your attack range and really have a blast.

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.
For the latest WiiWare games, click here.
Click here for a list of games available on Virtual Console.

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The Conduit box art update

Some new Wii box arts for you to take a look at, starting with The Conduit.

This is the European version of Cursed Mountain.

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Majora's Mask and DSi hits Europe

It's a good day for Europeans, as the much awaited Majora's Mask hits the Virtual Console.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask (N64)

Not only this, but the Nintendo DSi handheld has been released in Europe too, bringing with it a number of titles to DSiWare.

Art Style: AQUITEArt Style: CODEBirds & BeansPaper PlaneWarioWare Snapped!Opera DSi browser (free)


Bubble Bobble WiiWare for Europe

Nintendo's Wii Music Strikes a Chord with Music Educators

Nintendo's new Wii Music game is spreading from the family room to the classroom, thanks to newly formed collaborations with select schools and educators. To help inspire students and promote an active appreciation for music, Nintendo is working with teachers to incorporate Wii consoles and Wii Music software into their lesson plans to offer teachers a unique tool for creativity and improvisation.

Nintendo's collaborators in this effort include MENC: The National Association for Music Education, which is recognized as the world's largest arts education organization and as a teaching resource for all levels from preschool to graduate school. MENC will help teachers in 51 cities across the nation integrate Wii Music into their curricula, making use of the game's 60-plus instruments and fun array of tutorial exercises in rhythm, tempo and song structure.

"The goal of Wii Music is to inspire people of all ages to enjoy music," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "By partnering with educators and bringing Wii Music into their classrooms, we hope to give students a memorable, hands-on experience that helps them discover their own creative voice."

The Wii console's motion-sensing controls allow Wii Music users at any experience level to step up and jam, whether playing solo or as part of a group. Using the wireless Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers, players make simple, intuitive movements to strum a guitar, play a trumpet or bang a drum.

"At any grade level, it's essential to provide students with the tools and encouragement they need to be creative," said John J. Mahlmann, executive director of MENC. "We look forward to collaborating with Nintendo to drive awareness and advocacy for music education through Wii Music."

Some teachers already have begun to incorporate Wii Music into their lesson plans.

"Wii Music has brought a renewed excitement to music class for students from first grade to fifth, myself and even some of the classroom teachers," said Helen A. Krofchick, a music teacher at Doby's Mill Elementary School in Lugoff, S.C. "I love how many music standards can be covered in such a short time. Students also have to use language skills, spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination. We have a school very supportive of the arts and Wii Music has empowered our program even more. Any system that is educational and can add a love of music to children's lives should be in every classroom."

Other collaborating and partner organizations currently include San Francisco's Blue Bear School of Music and New York's Opus 118 Harlem School of Music. Teachers in these programs will use Wii Music to build students' familiarity with technology while bolstering their ability to create and improvise. Experts in the field of music say getting kids interested in music at an early age can help build a lifelong appreciation.

"The joy of playing music is something that should be experienced by everyone, regardless of age, talent-level or experience," said Joe Lamond, President & CEO of NAMM, the National Association of Music Merchants. "Research shows that more than 82 percent of people who don't currently play a musical instrument wish they did. Wii Music can help address this by providing a positive introduction for millions of people who might not otherwise be inclined to try."

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com. For more information about Wii Music, visit www.WiiMusic.com.

For more information about Nintendo, visit www.nintendo.com.

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Pikmin and Mario Power Tennis Lead Nintendo’s New Play Control! Lineup

Pikmin and Mario Power Tennis Lead Nintendo's New Play Control! Lineup

Unique motion-sensing controls have already helped to make Wii the nation's top-selling video game console. With today's launch of the New Play Control! series from Nintendo, Wii owners can use those same fun, intuitive controls to discover – or rediscover – some of the coolest and most well-received games made famous on the Nintendo GameCube system, each updated with a new wireless, active control scheme and a widescreen presentation.

New Play Control! Pikmin and New Play Control! Mario Power Tennis are the first two games in this new series, taking all the action and imagination of the originals and giving them a new control scheme. Not only do both new games make use of Nintendo's simple-to-use Wii Remote controller, but they're also presented for the first time ever in an eye-pleasing 16:9 widescreen format.

“On all of its platforms, Nintendo has consistently delivered irresistible games that fans can enjoy for years on end,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “With the New Play Control! series, we're giving Wii users new ways to tap into some great titles using the latest and greatest controls.”

New Play Control! Pikmin puts players in the role of Captain Olimar, a space traveler who's stranded on a strange alien planet. Only an army of quirky creatures called Pikmin can help him repair his ship and survive the elements. With New Play Control! enhancements, players can now maneuver and command up to 100 Pikmin with a point of the Wii Remote controller, dodging obstacles and foes while working toward a heroic escape. Visit www.Pikmin.com to learn more.

New Play Control! Mario Power Tennis finds Nintendo's superstar plumber storming the court for some outrageous tennis action, joined by a roster of his unpredictable pals. Building on the skills they've honed with the Wii Sports video game, players can now use the Wii Remote controller like a tennis racket to make characters hit forehand or backhand, applying spin and charging up to perform devastating special moves. Seasoned pros can even attach the Nunchuk controller for added precision as they play their way through traditional matches, mini-games and crazy Gimmick Courts. Visit www.MarioTennis.com to learn more.

Forthcoming New Play Control! titles include New Play Control! Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, scheduled for release on May 4. Whereas the original version had players beating on a pair of bongos to drive Donkey Kong through wild jungle activities, the New Play Control! edition lets players use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers to enjoy the game's rollicking rhythmic challenges.

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit Wii.com.

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One WiiWare Game and One Virtual Console Game Added to Wii Shop Channel

LEGO Rock Band confirmed

The slide pictured below was meant to be shown at the Game Developers Conference '09, in a keynote by Harmonix's Dan Teasdale. It had to be pulled because it accidentally reveals the existence of LEGO Rock Band.

LEGO Rock Band is rumored to be under development by Traveller's Tales and, if this slide is anything to go by, should hit retail sometime this year.

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Bubble Bobble WiiWare for Europe

Three WiiWare games hit the Wii shopping experience in Europe and Australia today, fans of the zany Bub and Bob should be especially pleased.

Bubble Bobble Plus (WiiWare)Equilibrio (WiiWare)Family & Friends Party (WiiWare)

Have a great weekend and check back on Monday for the US releases.

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One WiiWare Game and One Virtual Console Game Added to Wii Shop Channel

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

WiiWare
Bonsai Barber (Nintendo, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone-Comic Mischief, 1,000 Wii Points): The village residents are hungry for the latest in foliage fashion, and it's up to you, the new barber, to fix them up. Use the tools of your trade: scissors, clippers, spray can, and more in this humorous, first-of-its-kind "first-person-groomer" game. Bonsai Barber features a colorful cast of 12 intriguing customers, including a temperamental shallot starlet (don't call her an onion), an oddball strawberry boffin, a cactus cowboy, a daredevil carrot, and a suave banana with top-secret clearance. Each day, five customers arrive to test your stylistic skill. If the customer requests a specific style, you'll plow that furrow, or you can rely on your expertise to pick from more than 30 popular fashions. Or, why not turn over a new leaf? Be creative and see how they react. They're a demanding bunch, so if you miss an appointment, you'll hear about it-on your Wii Message Board. If you do a good job, you may receive a gift or even a postcard from an exotic destination as your happy customers travel to distant lands and show off their exquisite coifs.

Virtual Console
Super Punch-Out!! (Super NES, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Wii Points): Featuring the tight game play and humor the series is known for, this sequel to the NES classic sees Little Mac return to the ring with the World Video Boxing Association belt once again at stake. Slug your way through the grueling, sweat-pounding matches of the Minor, Major and World Circuits as you face off against some of Little Mac's greatest rivals, such as Bear Hugger, Bald Bull and Super Macho Man. With a cast of new challengers waiting, do you have what it takes to identify their unique patterns and exploit their weaknesses? Go to your corner and come out fighting, but remember what Doc Louis would say: "It's not about brawling-it's about finesse!"

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access.
For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.
For the latest WiiWare games, click here.
Click here for a list of games available on Virtual Console.

Robocalypse Beaver Defense on WiiWare
One WiiWare Game and One Virtual Console Game Added to Wii Shop Channel

One WiiWare Game and One Virtual Console Game Added to Wii Shop Channel

In like a lamb and out like a lion, or vice-versa? Whether March finds you digging out from a late-winter blizzard or reeling in the spring thaw, the fun is both mild and wild at the Wii Shop Channel. Even the littlest lambs in your household can take part in a cool new family-friendly WiiWare game, while strategy-loving gamers will be roaring like lions as they battle evil foes in a classic Virtual Console title.

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:

WiiWare
Family & Friends Party (Gammick Entertainment, 1-8 players, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): Have fun with all your friends and family as you take on some very exciting challenges. This is an interactive board game for as many as eight players of all ages. The goal is to be the first to complete a series of challenges. During each turn, a challenge will be played by one or two players per team depending on the type of challenge you've been given. (Other players on your team can still help and support you). There are six different "Single" challenges that must be played cooperatively by members of the same team. Family & Friends Party can also suggest "Versus" challenges, which must be played competitively by all teams at the same time.

Virtual Console
Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen (Super NES, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Wii Points): It's up to you to defeat the Empire. It's been nearly a quarter of a century since the Zetegenian Empire first conquered the Kingdoms of Zenobia with a wrath of fear and bloodshed. You are the leader of a band of rebels who've fought to preserve the last shred of honor in this desperate time of treachery. Manage the ranks of a full-blown rebel army, complete with hundreds of characters, magic items, weapons and mystical Tarot cards. You must succeed in ousting the evil usurpers-your fate, and that of the entire population, depends on it.

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.
For the latest WiiWare games, click here.
Click here for a list of games available on Virtual Console.

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Robocalypse Beaver Defense on WiiWare

Coming sometime in Summer 2009, Vogster Entertainment has announced a new tower-defense style game for WiiWare. Robocalypse: Beaver Defense features a madcap storyline from the writers behind Spongebob Squarepants.

In essence it's a follow-up to the original Robocalypse, a real-time strategy game which was released on the DS last year.

This new WiiWare outing will include:

Upgradable skills, weapons, hero units and defenses.Single player mode.Up to 4-way multiplayer.

Robocalypse: Beaver Defense will be released both in the US and in Europe. Some screenshots are already up.

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