If you head on over to the Japanese Mario Galaxy 2 site they have posted tons of new information. They have now confirmed 2 Player Co-Op, allowing a second player to control a Luma to help out Mario during the adventure. They have also posted new videos showing off new levels/gameplay. In other Mario Galaxy news, the UK Nintendo Magazine has revealed a new power-up... Cloud Mario! Not much is known about this new power, but it looks like Mario will be able to create cloud platforms to use to his advantage! Mario Galaxy 2 will be released in the US on May 23rd, so its only a little more then a month now!
Somewhat ironically, a while back Super Mario RPG was rated/leaked by the OFLC. Since then, we've been waiting for any word on when the title will be released in North America or PAL regions. Unfortunately, we still don't have that news.
However, Nintendo of Japan announced that the game will hit their VC service this Friday, so it can't be long until it makes it way over here!
I can't believe Nintendo is still using the Wii Would Like to Play slogan to advertise their games. Stick with what works I guess.
Three supposed commercials for Super Smash Bros. Brawl have appeared on YouTube. Two of them look somewhat real, and one just looks unbelievably fake. One of the commercials is posted here, and the two others are posted after the break.
Super Mario Galaxy is the latest Mario platformer to be released, and it is gathering critical acclaim from many sources. It's Mario's first outing on Wii, and things are a bit different this time around. Read on to see our thoughts.
...according to Gamestop at any rate. Now we all know that Galaxy is, in fact, rated E for everyone. But it seems GS is sending out automated messages to it's customers telling them that it is rated M for Mature. The following video has the audio from one of the calls. Please note, that while it does get quieter when they say the name of the game, that is a common thing for Gamestop calls.
What do you make of that? Anyone that has been in the N+ chat room the past few days knows that lutherjw and I have had some problems with Gamestop and Galaxy. Seems like they should get their act together eh?
This is DotEd, reporting on location at DustyButton's secret rebel base. [/nerd] Just a regular Virtual Console update this week. But don't forget, last week we got Super Mario Bros. 3, probably to hype this week's release of Super Mario Galaxy in the US, along with a Mario Contest. Ok, just go download Super Mario Bros. 3 again.
[/IMG]N + Volleyball NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points Step onto the court in one of the first volleyball games ever made. Select either the men's or women's competition, choose from one of eight available countries to represent, and prepare for some intensely fun game play. The straightforward controls include all the moves you'll need to effectively direct your six-person team. Take some time mastering them in the training mode, though, because you'll need all the practice you can get when competing against challenging computer opponents. If you feel like some multiplayer action, take on a friend in the two-player mode and see whose skills are more polished. Block, set and spike your way to victory.
N + AXELAY® Super NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone – Mild Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points Mysterious aliens have invaded the Earth-like planet of Corliss, slowly draining the planet's resources. Take control of the prototype Axelay ship and use its wide range of advanced weaponry to battle enemy forces. Play through multiple stages of action —from other planets to space stations — all on your way to destroying the alien headquarters. You are Corliss' last line of defense, so be careful not to be too distracted by the excellent graphics (including great scrolling effects) and rocking music. Pilot the Axelay using Konami's famously tight play control and experience what many consider to be a classic of the shooter genre.
N + BLUE'S JOURNEY NEOGEO, 1-2 players, rated E for Everyone – Comic Mischief, 900 Wii Points The planet of Raguy has been invaded by the Daruma tribe, changing it from a beautiful and peaceful place into one filled with pollution. Released in 1991, this horizontally scrolling action game tells the story of an insectarian named Blue and his quest to save the planet and keep its inhabitants from being turned into slaves. Use Blue's main weapon, a leaf, to flip enemies onto their heads and then throw them at other members of the Daruma tribe, defeating anyone in your way. Additional weapons, such as bombs and boomerangs, are also available, or you can collect flowers to purchase other special items like honey or swim fins. Blue also has the special ability to change his size at will — if he's too big to fit in a particular area, then shrink him. The bright, colorful graphics, combined with lots of hidden items to find, ensure an enjoyable experience with plenty of replay value. Help Blue muster all his strength and eliminate the Daruma tribe.
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!
I can only guess that Nintendo is releasing what they call in their official press release the "Greatest Game of All Time" this week in preparation for next week's release of Super Mario Galaxy. But, what are they going to release next week?
[/IMG]N + Super Mario Bros. 3 NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points Remember when no one had ever heard of a Tanooki Suit or knew that Bowser™ had a clan of Koopalings? The game that made these things common knowledge is also considered by many to be one of the best ever made. Bowser and the Koopalings are causing chaos yet again, but this time they're going beyond the Mushroom Kingdom into the seven worlds that neighbor it. Now Mario and Luigi™ must battle new enemies, returning favorites and a new Koopaling in each unique and distinctive world on their way to ultimately taking on Bowser himself. Luckily for the brothers, they have more power-ups available than ever before. Fly above the action using the Super Leaf, swim faster by donning the Frog Suit or defeat enemies using the Hammer Bros. Suit. Use the brand-new overworld map to take the chance to play a minigame in hopes of gaining extra lives or to find a Toad's House where you can pick up additional items. All this (and more) combines into one of gaming's most well-known and beloved titles—are you ready to experience gaming bliss?
N + Alien Soldier™ Sega Genesis, 1 player, Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older –Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points As Epsilon-Eagle, you are an alien soldier who has been genetically engineered to produce maximum intelligence and strength. You were once a member of the criminal organization Scarlet, but when you decided to break from the group, you were forced into a showdown with Scarlet's new leader Xi-Tiger, who kills a hostage in his attempt to destroy you. Now it's up to you to take revenge against the bad guys in this side-scrolling action game! Choose from six different weapons and battle the bosses of Scarlet until you reach the final confrontation with the ultimate secret weapon!
N + Power Golf TurboGrafx16, 1-3 players, Rated E for Everyone, 600 Wii Points Power Golf sports a perfect combination of simple-yet-realistic controls and beautiful graphics. Swing away on 18 lush holes in one of three different game modes: the single-player STROKE PLAY mode and the multiplayer MATCH PLAY and COMPETITION modes. Enter tournaments as one of three different characters—beginner, intermediate and advanced. Wind strength and the slope of the green add extra challenges to each hole. Compete against other players in the standard NORMAL MATCH or ante up one of your clubs in the unique CLUB MATCH. Up to three players can play in COMPETITION mode, and a handicap feature is included to help novice players pull off breathtaking shots just like their advanced rivals.
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!
You may have heard this already, but Super Mario Galaxy demos should now be in retailers across the USA. I just called my area GameStop to confirm and they do have it in the demo unit. My area is usually the last to get anything, so chances are most retailers have it available. From what I've heard, this is the full game, not just a demo, so I'm heading out tonight to go play it!
On a related note, all Wii kiosks should now feature tethered controllers (as pictured) so you shouldn't have to give your ID just to demo the game. That means all you under-age Mario lovers out there should have no problem getting your dirty little paws on the game.
Wow, the last coupleofupdates 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). [/IMG]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 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! Toasty.
Big fan of baseball in Wii Sports? Longing for a baseball only game featuring .... I don't know .... a certain plumber? Never fear, Super Mario Stadium Baseball is (soon to be) here.
It was announced at today's Nintendo conference that Super Mario Stadium Baseball will be released on the Wii soon, and our friends at JeuxFrance have the first screenshots.
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Check after the break for the full collection of official screenshots.
Man, I thought the last update was crazy. This week takes the latest European Virtual Console update a few steps further by landing 3 popular NEOGEO fighting titles on North American shores. Three. NEO. GEO. Fighting. Three. It's a great day to be a retro arcade enthusiast, and a terrible day to be a hardware collector. What once would have cost you well over $1,000.00 can now be picked up for 900wp per title. I hope no one ever complains about the price of NEOGEO games on Virtual Console. I'm not saying they're the best value... it's just, some people sold babies for this stuff. ...I miss Timmy.
[http://opera.oslocity.org/caps/capslock.jpg][/IMG]N + FATAL FURY NEOGEO, 1-2 players, rated T for Teen - Violence, 900 Wii Points Released in 1991 and one of the longest-running series in the fighting-game genre, this title introduced players to Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard and Joe Higashi. Select one of the three and visit many locations as your chosen fighter engages in numerous street fights around the fictional city of South Town. If you're good enough, you'll eventually take on Billy Kane and then his boss, the notorious crime lord Geese Howard. Use each fighter's own finishing maneuver and battle in two different planes on the screen, one in the foreground and the other farther away in the background. The game also features a two-player mode that is well known for its unique setup, which allows fighters to both fight and help each other. Do you have what it takes to win the King of Fighters tournament?
N + WORLD HEROES NEOGEO, 1-2 players, rated T for Teen - Animated Blood, Violence, 900 Wii Points A fighting game released in 1992 featuring eight characters, including Hanzo, Janne and Rasputin, modeled on historical figures from throughout the ages. The fighters compete against each other to become the world's toughest combatant, with players using a setup consisting of only three buttons (one each for punching, kicking and throwing). Adding to this unique system is the fact that the strength of your offensive blow depends on how long the button is pressed and held. Along with regular match styles, Death Match mode is also available and features mines, electrified ropes and other dangerous objects in the battle arena that can change conditions during the fight or damage players. Enjoy the wide range of combat forms as you take on history's best!
N + ART OF FIGHTING NEOGEO, 1-2 players, rated T for Teen - Animated Blood, Violence, 900 Wii Points This fighting game, released in 1992, began the story of the Sakazaki family and Robert Garcia, further developed in two later sequels. Yuri Sakazaki has been abducted by Mr. Big to punish her father, Takuma, and her brother, Ryo. To rescue her, Ryo and Robert must take on numerous enemies around South Town, eventually reaching the mysterious Mr. Karate. The passion of the game's creators is evident in the unique game-play elements introduced. These include an energy gauge that is depleted every time a fighter uses a special maneuver, Desperation Attacks that are usable only when a fighter's health is low and camera zooming that adjusts on the fly as fighters move around the stage. All these features ensure that players use strategy and tactics, rather than simply mash buttons. Adding to the mix are little touches such as characters showing cuts when they are injured and voice-over samples during cut scenes. Can you perfect the art of fighting and save Yuri?
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!
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!
[/IMG]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 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!
When you close it with a page open, then open it that page automagically opens? On the program toolbar go through: Opera > Settings > Preferences. In the "General" tab, you will see "Startup". Select how you want that to operate ;)