N +

One of each today.

WiiWare

SPOGS Racing™ (D2C Games™, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Cartoon Violence, 1,000 Wii Points):

Coming at you full throttle is SPOGS Racing, an all-new racer from D2C Games featuring classic arcade racing, pick-up-and-play controls, all-new racing vehicles and Crash N' Grab™ instant upgrades. Jump in, gear up and modify your ride on the fly as you compete head-to-head for a totally outrageous arcade racing experience on your Wii console. Whether you're a casual gamer or hardcore racer, SPOGS Racing features fun for all and is a must-have download for your WiiWare digital game library.

Virtual Console

KING OF THE MONSTERS (NEOGEO®, 1-2 players, Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older-Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points):

Released by SNK in 1991, KING OF THE MONSTERS is an action/fighting game that features city-destroying battles between huge monsters. Choose one of six monsters and travel around Japan, stopping to fight in various famous cities with the aim of becoming the ultimate winner. In addition to punches, kicks and other regular moves, each character has the ability to use more devastating maneuvers, like throwing flames and shooting laser beams, to defeat opponents. Wrestling elements are also incorporated, as you must completely exhaust your opponent and get a three-count to pin him and be victorious. Along with the player-versus-computer game, multiplayer options allow you and a friend to enjoy one-on-one matches and two-on-two tag-team matches against the computer. Take on the challenge and claim the title of King of the Monsters.

The updated list of EUVC games can be found here, along with the NAVC games here, and the Japan VC games here.

The updated list of North American Wii Ware titles can be found here.

Wow, the last couple of updates to the Virtual Console have been really strong. If not in content (it's still a matter of taste), you've got to at least recognize the potential. The US and Europe finally saw the addition of the NEOGEO platform, an update that Japan had long before us (along with a few other minor platforms) that opens the gates to more libraries of unbelievably well made classics. Many of which can be considered new titles to those who never had a sweet arcade (they seemed to fade fast in the 90's when home consoles locked in 3D graphics), a rich best friend or uncle (lets face it, almost NOBODY owned a NEOGEO, be we all "knew a kid who knew a kid"), or even a clue that these games existed at all (that's ok, I barely know you exist).
So you'd think Nintendo would pace itself, and really let it sink in, throw a few more NES and Genesis rounds in the pipeline before ANNOUNCING ANOTHER SYSTEM. Ok, so it's technically more TurboGraphx-16, but the TurboDuo is kind of like TG16 in the same way Sega CD is still a Genesis, or how Sub-Zero is sorta like Scorpion (and Reptile, ERMAC, Smoke, Noob Saibot, etc.) There, that should satisfy those who would argue about it. No, really though, the point is, MORE software potential, on a rare platform, today. And their kicking it off with the system's original pack-in game which happens to be one of the most heralded Shooters ever.
N + Ninja Gaiden II™: The Dark Sword of Chaos
_{Editor note: When I had this game as an LK, I thought it was pronounced "Chowse"}
NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Mild Violence, 500 Wii Points
_{In Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword of Chaos, a new villain, Ashtar, is revealed. Take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa and rescue Irene Lew, a former CIA agent, from Ashtar. Destroy the Sword of Chaos, a weapon of great power forged from the bone of a demon. Use techniques such as the Fire Wheel or the Windmill Throwing Star and attack while holding on to walls and ladders. Use the most innovative technique of all - the ability to create Shadow Clones, orange shadow versions of Ryu that will constantly follow him, repeating previous actions (moving or attacking) in a delayed cycle. Once again defeat henchmen, creatures and bosses with new fighting techniques and even more weapons as you progress through multiple stages on your way to destroying Ashtar, Jaquio and the Realm of Chaos.}

N + Metal Marines®
Super NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points
_{Set in the near future, most of Earth's land has been disintegrated in the chaos of the Anti-matter War. This real-time strategy game portrays the Colonies' Allied Force - the Metal Marines - in their epic struggle against General Zorgeuf and the Imperial Federation, who are bent on world domination. Commanding the Metal Marines across a series of battles, the player must strategically allocate resources, ready supplies, manage funds and move troops in an effort to outwit and outmove the opponent. The real-time battle system rewards split-second decisions and adaptability in the struggle for military superiority. Unlike most turn-based strategy games, Metal Marines engrosses the player in a fast-paced and frantic battle in which both sides advance simultaneously. A constant eye must be kept on enemy movements to maintain a formidable defense and not miss the perfect chance to strike. Strategic foresight and quick judgment hold the key to victory.}

N + Gate of Thunder
TurboGrafx16 (TurboDuo), 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points
<sub>The legendary sci-fi shooter is back! Gate of Thunder is a horizontal side-scrolling shooter that places you in control of special undercover agent Hawk, whose mission is to stop the deadly army of Obbellon fighters. Jump into the action as Hawk gets aboard his ship, the Hunting Dog, and heads out toward the enemy. Blast through stages while effectively using all three of the weapons at your disposal and receiving support from ally Wild Cat ships. Switch through equippable power-up options on the fly to change the direction of your attack. You'll have to blast in front of and behind you to survive all seven stages. Hard-core shooting-game fans looking for a challenge can select HARD or DEVIL mode to experience even more intense action!

For a list of all games on the NAVC (with Retro Reviews) head here
The list of EUVC games can be found here
Japanese Virtual Console list kickyhere!</sub>
Toasty.

This Update is CRAZY! Two practically unheard of games in North America, Two games that unless you're a crazy die hard gamer already, you've NEVER had the chance to play! Today! .... ..Fahoobugawdz!

N + Super Mario Bros.™: The Lost Levels™
NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone, 600 Wii Points
_{Originally released in Japan as Super Mario Bros.® 2, this game has previously made only brief cameo appearances in the Western Hemisphere. Now available on the Virtual Console™ in all of its original splendor, Mario fans will appreciate the familiar look and feel of the game, while finding that its updated game play creates an entirely new challenge. No longer content just to wear different-colored overalls, Mario and Luigi also possess different skill sets: Mario can stop quicker, while Luigi can jump higher. In addition to the classic enemies already known to fans worldwide, there are also Poison Mushrooms, backward Warp Zones, and the occasional wind gust (which can help or hinder your progress) to take into account. And if that's somehow not enough, expert players can go looking for the game's secret worlds. So get ready to put your Mario skills to the ultimate test, and save the Princess again. Just don't be surprised if she's in another castle.}

N + Sin & Punishment™
Nintendo 64, 1-2 players, rated T for Teen – Blood, Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, 1,200 Wii Points
<sub>Created by the legendary development studio Treasure, this is a game that hard-core gamers and fans of Japanese imports recognize as one of the finest Nintendo 64 titles to have never previously reached North American shores. Its unique combination of English voice-overs with Japanese subtitles (preserved in this version) has only added to the enthusiasm for its eventual release here. Experience the frenetic pace of a classic shooter, while choosing from a variety of options and a number of different skill levels until you are ready to take on the full-blown challenge of Turbo Hard mode. Not to be outdone by the action, however, the intriguing story line gives the game its soul and draws you even further into the mix. Set in the near future, on an overpopulated Earth starved for resources, players uncover the intriguing mystery of two teenagers (Saki and Airan) and their battle against the Ruffians as they advance through level after level of nonstop action. Take a deep breath, gather your energy and prepare to see why this game is so highly praised.

For a list of all games on the NAVC (with Retro Reviews) head here
The list of EUVC games can be found here
Japanese Virtual Console list kickyhere!</sub>

Better late than never. Sick and working like a dog, I almost forgot to publish this post! This week, Nintendo threw 4 games up on the Virtual Console, probably to entice all the Americans with Monday off for Labor Day. It's called Labor Day and everyone has off from work... Pfft...
N + Adventure Island - AKA, the movie Crank.
NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Comic Mischief, 500 Wii Points
_{A mysterious tropical paradise known as Adventure Island is the setting for this side-scrolling action game. The evil Witch Doctor has kidnapped Tina, the true love of Master Higgins. To save her, you must safely guide Master Higgins through eight perilous stages - including dense forests and creepy caves - while defeating all of the enemies in your path. Each area is made up of four rounds filled with enemies determined to stop you in your tracks. In addition, as time passes, Master Higgins's vitality is automatically drained. To keep going, he must eat constantly by grabbing fruit, milk and whatever other goodies he can as he races toward his goal. Sometimes eggs containing miraculous items like axes to throw at enemies or honey that grants temporary invincibility will appear. Use items skillfully to help you clear the areas. At the end of each area you'll face the Witch Doctor, who you must defeat to advance. Go, Master Higgins, go!}

N + Donkey Kong Jr. Math
NES, 1-2 players, rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points
_{Learning can be fun, especially when you play along with Donkey Kong Jr. Practice addition, subtraction, multiplication and division by directing Junior, a cute little monkey who must climb up and down vines to collect numbers and math symbols to solve the math problems his father gives him. Compete with a friend in a race to solve problems in Game A or add more challenge with Game B. Of course, you can also practice on your own. This game is perfect for younger players who are looking for a fun and easy way to develop their math skills.}

N + Landstalker: The Treasures of King Nole™
Sega Genesis, 1 player, rated E for Everyone - Mild Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points
_{After hearing of the legendary treasure of King Nole, the elvish treasure hunter Nigel undertakes a quest to gather various pieces of the famed loot. His journey takes him through Mercator Island's villages, caves and dungeons that hold King Nole's riches. Along the way, he'll have to help the inhabitants of the island while fighting against the treachery of Duke Mercator, who is searching for the treasure as well. A variety of obstacles and foes will try to deter Nigel, who must use all his wits and skills to defeat Duke Mercator and uncover the secret of King Nole's treasure.}

N + Bonk 3: Bonk's Big Adventure
TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, rated E for Everyone - Comic Mischief, 600 Wii Points
<sub>The hard-headed hero is back for more side-scrolling action in the third installment of the popular Bonk series. It's up to Bonk once again to thwart the plans of the relentless evil King Drool. There are seven rounds scattered throughout the Dinosaur Kingdom, each one filled with fun contraptions and comical enemies. Grab a Flower Copter or exchange 16 Smileys at the end of each round to play up to eight different bonus stages. Or you can change the size of Bonk by grabbing the new red or blue candy items. Depending on the situation, you can change your size to bonk your way through a dead end or to get a hard-to-reach item. And if that's not enough, you can grab a friend and put your heads together to defeat King Drool in the new two-player mode.

For a list of all games on the NAVC (now with added Retro Review goodness) head here
The list of EUVC games can be found here
Now check out the Japanese Virtual Console list kickyhere!</sub>

Excite-Trucking along through our Month of Metroid we finally have another of one of the highest rated games of all time on the Virtual Console: Super Metroid. Surprisingly, Shinobi III, another well-liked game appears at it's side, man they could have released Super Metoid and two dog turds and I don't think people would have complained, so to also add two more legit games is kicky solid.
_{Oh how I long for dog turds on the Virtual Console! Anyone find any games that were actually poop?}

N + Super Metroid
Super NES, 1 player, rated E for Everyone – Mild Violence, 800 Wii Points
_{The Space Pirates, merciless agents of the evil Mother Brain, have stolen the last Metroid from a research station, and once again Mother Brain threatens the safety of the galaxy. Samus Aran must don her awesome array of high-tech weaponry to retrieve the deadly Metroid hidden deep within the cave-riddled planet Zebes. Super Metroid features excellent graphics, with a huge variety of enemies and worlds to explore. The side-view action will be familiar to many players, only now there are new weapons and items, including the Grappling Beam, which allows Samus to swing across large chasms, and the X-Ray Scope, which reveals secret passages.}

N + Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master
Sega Genesis, 1 player, rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older – Animated Blood, Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points
_{In this thrilling sequel to The Revenge of Shinobi, Joe Musashi finds that Neo Zeed – the crime syndicate he believed he had wiped out two years earlier – is indeed still alive and well. The return of Neo Zeed and its leader, the mysterious Shadow Master, forces Musashi to return from exile and confront the growing evil. As the Shinobi, the master of long-forgotten Oboro Ninjitsu martial arts, Musashi must utilize all his powers to overcome his various enemies. Thanks to his considerable combat skills and special Ninjitsu moves, only the Shinobi can thwart Neo Zeed and vanquish the Shadow Master.}

N + Neutopia
TurboGrafx16, 1 player, rated E for Everyone – Mild Fantasy Violence, 600 Wii Points
<sub>In this action role-playing game, you take control of a brave boy who sets off on a journey to rescue the kidnapped princess and reclaim the eight medallions that were stolen by the evil demon, Dirth. You'll need to rely on your magic compass and information you've gathered to find entrances to labyrinths and defeat the bosses in them. Solve puzzles, avoid traps, move blocks and destroy walls to uncover secret rooms in the labyrinths. Carefully use your map to uncover hidden treasure and powerful equipment. Travel the land, underground, sea and sky on your quest to recover the medallions. With a save function, the right difficulty level and a system that doesn't include experience points, this is truly an RPG that anyone can enjoy.

For a list of all games on the NAVC (now with added Retro Review goodness) head here. The list of EUVC games can be found here and check out the Japanese Virtual Console list kickyhere!</sub>

Today one of my all time favorite SNES games hit the Virtual Console in the US, Canada, Mexico, and ....does Greenland count?
Can you guess which one is the SNES game?

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Castlevania for NES [wiki], 1 player, 500 Wii Points

The Legend of the Mystical Ninja for Super NES [wiki], 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points

Shockman for TurboGrafx16 [wiki], 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points

Use the Full North American List to argue supremecy on the go with Opera Mini and add N+ to your feeds for Work Time Fun.