Pop-Powered Adventures Bubble Up through the Clay

With summer just around the corner, this Monday finds an especially hot mix of downloadable game offerings for the WiiWare and Nintendo DSiWare services, as well as for the Virtual Console. Nintendo DSi users can become world-famous pop stars or use a new photo application to view their pictures in interesting new ways. Wii owners can transform into bubble-bursting dragons or hunt for melons on a mysterious island. And be sure to check out this week's Virtual Console debut, which features clay figures and stop-action animation to create a comedic twist to the street fighting genre.

Nintendo DSiWare
American Popstar: Road to Celebrity (Gameloft, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone – Comic Mischief, 800 Nintendo DSi Points): This is your enthralling and interactive success story as a young hopeful in the music milieu. The adventure begins when you get the chance to audition at your Hollywood high school. But the road to celebrity isn't an easy one: Your secret crush is also auditioning, and so is your evil rival. This unique mix of music-themed gaming and social adventure will let you show your talents to the world, take your best photo with the Nintendo DSi system's built-in camera and meet lots of people who may help you build your career. You're about to become the greatest pop star in the world. Talk, share activities and be friendly or unfriendly with numerous characters. Customize your character's name and appearance, and develop skills and personality through your actions. Four musical mini-games include Guitar, Singing, Drums and Dance. Record your voice, take your own photos and sign autographs.

Photo Clock (Nintendo, 1 player, 200 Nintendo DSi Points): Photo Clock allows you to enjoy the photos taken with your Nintendo DSi Camera application in a new way. Watch your images appear on the top screen of your Nintendo DSi system according to your chosen display settings (specific photos or all photos; in order or randomly displayed). Select from either an analog or digital clock, using the system's internal clock or offsetting the time however you like. Program up to three alarms – with snooze functionality for those who need it – and assign them a preset ring or use a sound created in Nintendo DSi Sound. Experience all the enjoyment of a photo album while ensuring you won't lose track of the time.

WiiWare
BUBBLE BOBBLE Plus! (TAITO, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone – Comic Mischief, 600 Wii Points): BUBBLE BOBBLE Plus! is a simple yet exhilarating action game where you control the bubble-blowing dragons Bub and Bob, trapping enemies in bubbles and then popping them. You can play all 100 of the Standard Mode rounds, which faithfully recreate the nostalgic arcade game, or try 100 new Arrange Mode rounds, which allow up to four players to play on stages with exciting new features such as new enemies and stage layouts. There are also Super Mode rounds for you to enjoy. Determine the true ending by solving puzzles hidden on each stage to defeat the final boss. In Ranking Mode, players with broadband Internet access can use the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service to compete with players from around the world. Enjoy an additional 100 rounds and face off against new boss characters by purchasing “Expert Mode 1” and “Expert Mode 2” add-on content.

ADVENTURE ISLAND The Beginning (Hudson Entertainment, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone – Cartoon Violence and Comic Mischief, 800 Wii Points): ADVENTURE ISLAND The Beginning comes to the Wii console with exciting new skills and elements. Learn how to use new skills while exploring Adventure Island from coast to coast. Search for Golden Melons hidden throughout the stages and mini-games. When obtaining Golden Melons, you'll be able to purchase various items to help you on your adventure. These items can increase your attack power or enable you to reach places you couldn't get to before. Fulfill certain requirements while playing in any of the modes to achieve a “Master Higgins Feat” and you'll be awarded a Master Higgins costume.

Virtual Console
Clay Fighter (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, Rated T for Teen – Comic Mischief and Mild Cartoon Violence, 800 Wii Points): In this zany 2-D fighter, it's just another day for a humble traveling circus troupe when a meteor crash-lands in their camp. The otherworldly orb, made entirely out of interstellar clay, contaminates all the circus employees, turning them into bizarrely superpowered versions of themselves. Choose from among the unique clay creatures, such as Bonker, the cheerfully manic clown, or Blue Suede Goo, the mild-mannered Elvis impersonator turned violent vocalist. Master their “Claytalities,” like the operatic Helga's deadly high note and Bad Mr. Frosty's fists of snowball fury!

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access 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 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.

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's Newest Star Shines in The Legendary Starfy

The newest hero on the block might not seem like a powerhouse at first blush, but don't let him hear you say that. Starfy has long been a five-pointed hero in Japan. The Legendary Starfy, a new game now available for the portable Nintendo DS and Nintendo DSi systems, marks Starfy's U.S. debut and proves that good looks and toughness make a star-studded match.

The Legendary Starfy asks players to help Starfy make his way through a variety of challenges in and around the ocean. Starfy is on a quest to help a mysterious character named Bunston, who crashed through Starfy's ceiling. Players must figure out how to navigate Starfy to the end of each stage by swimming, jumping and bouncing him over, under and through obstacles.

"Starfy makes a great addition to Nintendo's roster of iconic characters," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Starfy's underwater adventures have long been enjoyed by fans in Japan, and his U.S. debut is sure to provide families with hours of summer fun."

Starfy's abilities keep players engaged and bad guys running for cover. His Star Spin, for example, lets him burst through walls and barriers, or power through strong ocean currents. When Starfy teams up with Bunston, he can change into four powerful forms that help him overcome any hindrance and defeat enemies who dare to float in his way. Starfy can become Monstar, a dragon that spits fire; Starpedo, an Arctic seal with acrobatic abilities; Starfright, a spooky specter or Roostar, a super-squawking chicken that lays sonic eggs.

The Legendary Starfy also includes multiplayer options that let up to four friends or family members link up and play a variety of fun mini-games. Players can also team up to play through many of the game's stages cooperatively as Starfy and his sister, Starly. There's enough action to keep everyone busy during summer travel excursions. Starfy's ready for action anytime, anywhere.

For more information about The Legendary Starfy , visit www.Starfy.com.

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Epic Mickey Wii concept art

A few months back there were rumors of Warren Spector, a designer famed for titles like Deus Ex, working on a Mickey Mouse/Disney platformer game. Concept art from this has now made it onto the web.

Codenamed "Epic Mickey", the art direction is pretty dark stuff and doesn't seem like the kind of thing Disney would be up for.

They'll do anything to hang onto visitors these days.

Epcot's seen better times.

The studio behind Epic Mickey is called Junction Point, the online resume of one of their developers (Tony Pulham) states the game is/was intended for Wii:

Without confirmation either way, it may be that "Epic Mickey" never made it past the concept stages and could have been canned. Here's hoping that's not the case though.

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Bakugan Toys'R'Us edition

A new press release from Activision says that a special edition of Bakugan Battle Brawlers will be available in Toys'R'Us stores.

This version will have a slightly modified box art (pictured), but the differences don't stop there. Exclusive in-game characters are present too. Namely these ones:

Ravenoid: A humanoid looking Bakugan completely covered in armor. Uses his large wings to swoop down upon his opponents in battle. His large, clawed feet can also squeeze victims in a vice-like grip.Manion: An enigmatic sphinx with golden armor protecting his head, back and forearms. Using a huge wingspan, he can attack from above. His ultra sharp claws can also tear at any enemies.

Bakugan fans can preorder this special edition online at the Toys'R'Us website, currently priced at $49.99.

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Do the Math - Animal Apps, Toppling Towers and Hungry Penguins

Fans of the popular Animal Crossing series can enjoy a pair of downloadable—and practical—debuts this week via the Nintendo DSiWare service. Whether you're telling time or doing arithmetic, these handy applications will give your daily number-crunching a critter-friendly boost. A new WiiWare game also takes a fun peek into the animal kingdom, while the latest Virtual Console release sends players underwater for classic Commodore 64 action.

Nintendo DSiWare
Animal Crossing Calculator (Nintendo, 1 player, 200 Nintendo DSi Points): Need to figure out what you owe Tom Nook or the amount in your savings account? Animal Crossing Calculator features the full functionality of a traditional calculator, including a Memory key and the ability to display up to 13 digits, adding a layer of atmosphere unique to Animal Crossing. Use the Unit Converter to turn one unit of measure into another (such as length, weight, volume and age), or track the history of calculations you've performed. Listen to the Animalese pronunciation of numbers when you press them, and watch for a favorite Animal Crossing character to appear when your result meets certain criteria. Get ready for an inventive and practical way to experience the charm of Animal Crossing.
Animal Crossing Clock (Nintendo, 1 player, 200 Nintendo DSi Points): Enjoy the atmosphere of Animal Crossing in a whole new way with Animal Crossing Clock. Select from either an analog or digital clock and set up to three alarms (with snooze functionality for those who need it). Make your own Town Tune or use sounds created in Nintendo DSi Sound, then assign them to the alarms you've set. Use the system's internal clock or offset the time however you like. Then sit back and watch as different characters from Animal Crossing appear and the color of the sky changes as time passes. You'll never miss an important appointment with one of your Animal Crossing friends again.

WiiWare
Penguins & Friends - Hey! That's My Fish! (Gammick Entertainment, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Wii Points): The penguins are hungry and need your help. Catch all the fish you can before someone steals them from you. Strategy is fundamental in this exciting game. Keep moving ahead of the other penguins so you don't get trapped, and try to get to the ice floes that hold more fish. One to four players can play Penguins & Friends at the same time, provided they can handle the polar cold. The board is made up of ice blocks with a set number of fish under them. The ice blocks are hexagonal and form a structure like a beehive. The starting position of the ice blocks can change, creating different game boards.

Virtual Console
Tower Toppler (Commodore 64, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): Weird things are happening on Planet Nebulus. Someone or something has begun building huge towers on the sea floor without a construction license. Your mission is to ascend each of the eight cylindrical towers, passing various obstacles along the way, and to trigger the tower's destruction mechanism to demolish the evil threat. Praised upon its original 1987 release for its graphical innovation, this is considered to be the most outstanding game from Hewson. Don't miss out on this classic favorite.

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access 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 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.

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 Celebrates First Anniversary of WiiWare Downloadable Game Service

WiiWare, the downloadable video game service for Nintendo's Wii home console, launched one year ago today. It arrived with a promise to provide a venue for game developers to showcase their ideas, while delivering to consumers the newest, most interesting games available at accessible prices, directly through the Wii Shop Channel in their Wii consoles. With 81 games in its library, WiiWare ensures that there's something for everyone. But beyond quantity, WiiWare offers quality games and experiences for all types of Wii owners.

WiiWare removes barriers that make console game development expensive, and helps developers connect directly with consumers. WiiWare games have been created by more than 40 different development studios, from large companies to small startups. In fact, more than half the games in the WiiWare library were created and self-published by small independent studios, many with five or fewer employees.

"The first anniversary of our WiiWare service is a milestone that marks how far the service has come and how much great content is currently available," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "We encourage everyone to get their Wii consoles connected to the Internet so they have access to the full range of WiiWare games."

Nintendo's roster of quality WiiWare games stands as an example of what creative minds can accomplish. Titles range from completely original creations to names that are instantly familiar and beloved. Just look at a small sampling of what has been accomplished in just one year's time:

• World of Goo from 2D BOY won numerous industry awards after showing that a small development team with a big idea could make an incredible physics-based goo construction game.
• Tetris Party from Tetris Online, Inc., introduces a new version of the classic game, complete with multiplayer options, new game modes and support for the Wii Balance Board (sold separately with Wii Fit).
• Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People from Telltale Games, the first episodic series on a console, is a hilarious five-part adventure game series featuring the popular Homestarrunner.com characters.
• The critically acclaimed retro-styled BIT.TRIP BEAT from Aksys Games and Gaijin Games reminds longtime video game fans of their gaming roots
• LIT from WayForward Technologies is a stylish horror action puzzle that has players fending off creepy – and creeping – darkness.
• The beautifully enchanting LostWinds from FRONTIER lets players use the Wii Remote controller to control the power of the wind.
• Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King from SQUARE ENIX brings a unique adventure from the hugely popular franchise to WiiWare.
• Mega Man 9 from CAPCOM returns a classic franchise to its old-school, retro looks and lets players relive the glory days of gaming.
• Dr. Mario Online Rx from Nintendo brings online multiplayer game play to everyone's favorite virus-busting puzzle game.
Bonsai Barber from Nintendo is the first-ever first-person grooming game that requires players to give haircuts to a colorful cast of oddball and demanding plant-based characters.

Looking ahead, consumers can anticipate yet another year of interesting WiiWare games, including:

• Cave Story from Nicalis, arguably the best-known indie game of all time. Cave Story takes players into a world where a race of rabbit-like creatures runs free on a serene island.
• Icarian Kindred Spirits from Over the Top Games, where players control Nyx, an enigmatic winged girl, who must descend from heaven in search of her missing friend Icarus.
• Super Meat Boy from Team Meat, an indie game in which players take the role of a cube of raw meat who must save his princess from the clutches of evil.
• BIT.TRIP CORE from Aksys Games, the follow-up to the well-reviewed BIT.TRIP BEAT with a similar graphic style and rhythm component, but featuring a completely different retro game mechanic.
• Final Fantasy IV: The After Years from SQUARE ENIX, the long-awaited sequel to Final Fantasy IV that takes place over a series of nine episodes.

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 www.Nintendo.com.

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

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Rabbids go lunar

Another short clip featuring a Raving Rabbid (or Lapins Cretins as they appear to be called in France).

Maybe the moon isn't as Rabbid-friendly as they thought.

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