• Wii News & Updates (incl. Nintendo DS)

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Wii owners will find their blue lights glowing today, as Nintendo released an update to the Wii Menu, reaching Firmware Update version 3.2 in less than two years.

The new update provides yet another method of notification for system updates. In addition to the glowing blue light when the console is turned off while connected to the Internet, and the messages in the bottom-right corner of the Wii Menu, the Disc Channel will display an alert when a game is in the console.
"Once installed," read the system update message, "if a Game Disc is inserted into the Wii console and an update is required, a notification message will be displayed across the Disc Channel alerting you to update your system."

If a Wii owner's console is updated to the latest version(s), the Disc Channel's game animation will display as normal.
Players can turn Slot Illumination on bright, dim, or completely off, if so desired by going to Slot Illumination located within the Options/Settings on the Wii Menu.

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The 2008 Game Developers Conference has honored Nintendo with a Game Developers Choice Award. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass for Nintendo DS won for Best Handheld Game of the Year. The game continues to enjoy strong momentum in the U.S., with more than 1.1 million copies sold since its Oct. 1, 2007, release.

Nintendo received nominations in three categories: Best Game of the Year (Super Mario Galaxy), Best Handheld Game of the Year (The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass), and Best Game Design (Super Mario Galaxy). The awards were presented during an annual ceremony the night of Feb. 20, 2008, at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco. The awards are among the highest honors in game development, acknowledging excellence in game creation.

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CVG (Computer and Video Games) has gathered a list of all the titles coming to WiiWare including Boom Blox, Pop, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles.
Check them out at: http://computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=183726

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Wired has some video wrap-ups of the interviews including Sakurai's input on Brawl at GDC 2008 (Game Developer Conference).
Check them out at: http://blog.wired.com/games/2008/02/video-...up-gu.html#more

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GameTrailers has a better version of the Mario Kart Wii trailer shown at GDC.
Check it out here (in HD): http://www.gametrailers.com/player/30941.html
or Standard Definiton: http://www.gametrailers.com/player/30938.html

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Nintendo of Europe recently confirmed in an official Mario Kart Wii posting that players will actually be able to communicate with each other via pre-written text chat (like Brawl), even outside of matches.
The statement released by Nintendo of Europe mentions that "you can create rooms for friends to join and even text chat while you're waiting for other racers."

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Nintendo seems to be joining in with the rest of the console movement when it comes to online play. At GDC, Nintendo announced that they will soon offer the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Pay And Play service. This will be implemented on some games, which will tack on a service charge for playing online. The specific pricing details were not announced nor what initial games will feature it, but Wii points will be used in order to pay for the service. This will happen with some online games on both Wii and DS. Games that feature the Pay and Play service will be given a special square-shaped red-orange marking that reads "Pay-And-Play" replacing the traditional WFC logo.

*Basically, games that have the blue Wi-Fi logo are free to play online while the red ones are Pay-And-Play.

On top of that, it was confirmed that Nintendo will finally allow downloadable content for Wii games. This applies to disc-based games, WiiWare titles, and so on. The new content will be available for purchase through the games that feature DLC. Perhaps this will finally allow us to download songs for GHIII, and hopefully it will be in place by the time Rock Band is released on our platform.

Source

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House of the Dead 2, 3 Return Extreme Mode Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Zkja4ZyaRU

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According to the latest issue of Japanese magazine Famitsu, Capcom is planning a remake of the prequel game Resident Evil 0 for the Wii in Japan. Resident Evil 0 first appeared on the GameCube in 2002.

The developers will rework the game's control scheme entirely for the Wii Remote, although the exact method of control is unknown. At the time of publish, no media exists that indicates a change in camera perspective from the original GameCube version.
Capcom has released two Resident Evil games for Nintendo's latest home console so far: Resident Evil 4: Wii Edition, an enhanced port the GameCube thriller featuring redone controls, content from the PlayStation 2 version and a lower price; and Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles, which focuses on shooting with the Wii Remote in first-person perspective rather than exploration.
Famitsu confirmed that it'll be out on store shelves by summer of 2008.

"Yes, this title exists… for Japan. There are no plans for a Western release for the title at this time. And now, I’ll bet we see all sorts of complaints about that fact, after pages of outrage on that the title even exists with people telling us to “go to Hell� or how we "suck". We simply can not win" - Christian Svensson, Capcom



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Datel just announced FreeLoader for Wii, a disc-based solution for bypassing the Wii’s region lock on games. The software is now available at the official Codejunkies website for $19.99.

The Wii FreeLoader, according to Datel, works on all current firmwares, but Nintendo may attempt to block the product in a future update — if the past is any indication that is.
Datel themselves say that when a foreign disc is inserted, firmware upgrades are disabled. Datel also seems to believe that their product is future-proof as well. They should be releasing more information on the subject soon.

Now avilable @ Codejunkies: http://us.codejunkies.com/Products/Wii-Fre...__EF000593.aspx
Pre-Order @ Play-Asia: http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-4akx-4...oader-84-p.html

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// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Today brings a release on Wii Shop's Virtual Console.


Super Turrican
Super NES®
1 player
Rated E 10+ for Everyone 10 and Older – Fantasy Violence
800 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Turrica...urrican_1_and_2

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The official Japanese Wii site has opened its WiiWare page. Right now, it’s just a little hub page showing off some of the games that will hit the service. Click over to check it out.

http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/features/wiiware.html

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XGen Studios has launched the official site for their WiiWare debut, Defend Your Castle - a reinvention of the company's popular flash game.

Official website: http://www.xgenstudios.com/defend-your-castle/

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It looks like Wii Wheel will be getting its own single packaging for Europe. No price has yet been set on it though.

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Datel tells us some more details on their product FreeLoader for Wii.

…we can confirm that on every occasion that the product is used when the disc is inserted in the console that it allows the usage of any imported Wii game discs and disables the console from been able to update its firmware, if the disc is removed after been inserted and reinserted this will again enable the console to update its firmware but still allow the usage of the any imported Wii game discs.

Now avilable @ Codejunkies: http://us.codejunkies.com/Products/Wii-Fre...__EF000593.aspx
Pre-Order @ Play-Asia: http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-4akx-4...oader-84-p.html

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Some new screens of Resident Evil/Biohazard 0 [Wii edition] is available at:
http://dol.dengeki.com/data/news/2008/3/3/...837c4128ef.html

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Pre-order your copy of Super Smash Bros. Brawl at CircuitCity to get a $10 gift card.
GameStop/EB are offering free Fast Shipping for pre-orders on Brawl and will start shipments to online orders on March 10th the following Monday.

Also, GameStop are doing their own Brawl Tournaments starting midnight launch at participating stores.
Find out more at the site:
http://www.gamestop.com/gs/ssbb/tournament/default.asp

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Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga blog.
See you all next week when BRAWL hit stores shelves in North America!


// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Brawlers! I bet you all are duking it out in Super Smash Bros. Brawl right now With Friends/Random online as well as offline, unlocking all the characters, collecting trophies, stickers, music tracks, and uploading your own custom stages, screenshots, and video footage to your buddies.

If anyone would like to join, I've set up a public chat on Skype where Brawlers can trade codes and run battles with voice chats. You can download Skype at www.skype.com whether it is via your PSP, Laptop/PC, Internet Tablet, or any mobile device, and just add my Skypename: rothsothy

Or just simply enter in the following URL: http://www.skype.com/go/joinpublicchat?sky...AG83ncyp8Ogrv3n


Today's release on our Wii Shop's Virtual Console include the following.


DoReMi Fantasy: Milon's DokiDoki Adventure
Super NES
1 player
Rated E for Everyone - Alcohol Reference and Comic Mischief
900 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DoReMi_Fantas...iDoki_Adventure
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaiPrrBBLD8


Puyo Puyo 2: Tsuu
Sega Genesis
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone
900 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puyo_Puyo_Tsu
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cHkxadIMfg

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Josh from WiiFolder.com has uploaded a footage of the new 'Terebi no Tomo' Channel, better known as the 'TV Friend' or TV Guide Channel which is now released for the Japanese Wii, in action.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIFkVISJbAE



Basically, you can watch stations providing users with an Electronic Program Guide (EPG) that updates over the internet from Japan's G-Guide service where you search by genre or keyword, then bookmark them as favorite.
- can also share with Friend or other users of the console
- Alert/Notifications sends email / SMS / or posts a message on the Wii's Message Board to notify when a user-scheduled program is about to run 30min prior to.
- The Wii Remote is obviously used as the semi-universal remote to change channels, adjust volume, and switch between the Wii and TV inputs
- a female voice that guides you through the IR calibration process via the Wiimote speaker

Official Wii Site: http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/features/tv_no_tomo/

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Reports states a small percentage of gamers are having the same issues running Super Smash Bros. Brawl on their Nintendo Wii consoles within hours of the game's North American release just like what happened to a few gamers in Japan.

"Super Smash Bros. Brawl utilizes a double-layer disc which has a large memory capacity. A very small percentage of Wii consoles may have trouble consistently reading data off this large capacity disc if there is some contamination on the lens of the disc drive. Nintendo has specialized cleaning equipment that can resolve this problem. (Please do NOT attempt to clean the lens yourself, as you may damage the system.)"

Gamers who are in trouble can fill out a request for repair form on the following link and be sent a specialized cleaning unit to remedy this issue. Beyond this, no other means of repair have been outlined.

Customer Service and Repair page: http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/repair/re...orm_us_ssbb.jsp

Surely, this might not be due to people having their modchipped consoles? Who knows. But some have found solutions by deleting the data file from the Wii's memory and creating a new one, warning that it may delete all process of the saved game.

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Well, I'm off to Brawl. You guys can come join our chat on Skype if you like.
I might be adding more to the news later in the week if I'm not too busy.

Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga.
See you later! \:D/


// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Today's release of classic titles on the Wii Shop's Virtual Console include the following.


Spelunker
NES
500 Wii Points
Rated E for Everyone
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spelunker_%28video_game%29


SUPER R-TYPE
SNES
800 Wii Points
Rated E for Everyone, with Mild Violence
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_R-Type

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North American Wii releases this week:
House of the Dead 2 & 3 Return Wiki
George of The Jungle IGN
Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 IGN
Sega Superstars Tennis Wiki
Worms: A Space Oddity Wiki
WWII Aces IGN

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North American Nintendo DS releases this week:
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates Wiki
Nanostray 2 Wiki
Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 IGN
Insecticide Official Site
George of The Jungle IGN
Disciples II Official Site
Lost In Blue 3 Wiki
Diary Girl GameSpot
Sega Superstars Tennis Wiki
Go Pets: Vacation Island IGN
Championship Pony IGN
Suzuki Super-bikes II: Riding Challenge IGN
Homie Rollerz IGN

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Apparently since the latest Wii system update (3.2) the system will not connect to a Belking router.

Belkin F5D7230-4 ver. 4000

Here's a quote from the Support page at Nintendo website:

Due to firmware updates and newer versions of this router, information on this page may not be the most current. We recommend that you ensure your router has the most current firmware update installed. Check with the router manufacturer for the most current information.

If you need help locating the settings described on this page, or have questions on how to adjust them, refer to the router’s manual, the router’s manufacturer, or the internet service provider that installed your router.

Important Note: Our experience has shown that this router is likely to be incompatible with connecting the Wii console online.


http://www.support.nintendo.com

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McBacon from NeoGaf compiled a list of characters, stages, music, etc. on SEGA Superstar Tennis

Sonic the Hedgehog Series
Characters:
Sonic (Speed), Shadow (Speed), Amy (All Round), Tails (Spin), Dr Eggman (Power)
Courts
Sonic the Hedgehog (Green Hill Zone), Sonic the Hedgehog (Eggman Robot Room)
Music: Court 1
Seaside Hill, Ocean Palace, System Screen Select, Green Hill Zone
Music: Court 2
Final Fortress, Bullet Station, Egg Fleet, Scrap Brain Zone
Mini Game
Avoid bombs and lightning balls that robots send at you, collect rings

Super Monkey Ball Series
Characters:
AiAi (Spin), MeeMee(Spin)
Courts
Super Monkey Ball
Music
Jungle, Storm, Monkey Fight, Bowling
Mini Game
Send banana/monkey balls through gates

NiGHTS Series
Characters:
NiGHTS (All Round), Reala (All Round)
Courts
NiGHTs
Music
Sweeping Seashore, The Amazing Water, She Had Long Ears, Paternal Horn,
Mini Game
None

More @ NeoGaf

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The latest issue of Japanese publication Dengeki reveals details on the items, battles, enemies and exploration element of upcoming RPG title, Fragile: Farewell Ruins of the Moon.

- Wii Remote's IR used as a flashlight
- Wii Remote's speaker act as microphone that amplifies sounds in environment; useful for detecting invisible ghosts, demon whispers before attack
- Battles happen in real-time to heighten the sense of nervous tension while exploring
- areas to explore include a hotel, amusement park, train station and underground shopping center
- Seto set to discover why all of the people vanished

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fragile:_Fare...ins_of_the_Moon
Official website: http://fragile.namco-ch.net/

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Pinball Hall of Fame: The Williams Collection
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhiUEQ6sbOE

Destroy All Humans: Big Willy Unleashed review
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zow3VuAXU6M

Duel Love gameplay footage
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3YxRG-52T4

Head-tracking demo from GDC '08 for Steven Speilberg's Boom Blox
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vd296bxdi30


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Meritline is having a sale now 50% off all Wii accessories by using the following code.
Coupon Code: WII50POFF
Expire: 03/19/2008

Direct page: http://www.meritline.com/nintendo-wii-accessory.html

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Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga blog.
Later! \:D/

// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Today's North American release of classic games on the Wii Shop's Virtual Console include the following.


KING'S KNIGHT
NES
1 player
Rated E for Everyone - Mild Fantasy Violence
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King%27s_Knight


POWERBALL
SEGA Genesis
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone - Mild Fantasy Violence
800 Wii Points
YouTube: http://youtube.com/watch?v=V9RSvUmKr8g

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North American releases for Wii this week:

Obscure: The Aftermath Wiki, Official Site
Octomania Wiki, YouTube
Opoona Wiki, Official Site
Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk IGN

North American releases for Nintendo DS this week:

Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword Wiki, Official Site
Harvest Moon DS Cute Wiki
Backyard Baseball 2009 GameSpot
Plushees GameSpot


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There's a new firmware update a few days ago that updates the Wii Shop Channel is preparation for the launch of WiiWare.
It also fixes the slow updates on the Weather Channel as well. Now we'll be able to see a more accurate temperature in real-time supported by weathernews.
Though be careful since there have been reports that it has made certain homebrew games unplayable.
By the way, Freeloader still works after the new update. It's just an early April Fool's joke if you have read that the Freeloader stops working after updating.

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There have been confirmations and denials of this upcoming game for Wii called X-Blades, but nothing official yet. For now, check out the batch of new screens at the link below.

http://wiiz.fr/article.php?a=17023

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/X-Blades

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Sonic Chronicles [NDS] screenshots:
http://www.gemaga.com/2008/03/24/bioware-s...g-first-screens

Do Not Try [NDS] screenshots:
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/game/docs/20080324/miteha.htm

Doraemon DS [NDS] screenshots:
http://www.jeux-france.com/news25483_video-doraemon-ds.html

Valkyrie Profile: The Accused One [NDS] screenshots:
http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1214202_1407.html

Okami [Wii] artwork:
http://wiiz.fr/article.php?a=17013

Sonic Unleashed [Wii] leaked video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrD-g4Oj7IE
More info @ Sonic Stadium

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Namco is looking into the development of arcade titles which link up with the Wii, exchanging data between the home and arcade. Sadly, the site did not elaborate. When Namco announced a few weeks back that it would be closing off 60 of its Japanese arcade centers, it put the blame on a number of factors, including the popularity of the Wii. A recent report from Asahi.com suggests, however, that the new rival game industry markets may be getting cozy before any fighting gets under way.

More @ IGN

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The latest issue of Japanese magazine Famitsu has revealed Namco Bandai's latest project for Nintendo Wii: Sky Crawlers.

Based on the Japanese novel series by Hiroshi Mori, SKy Crawlers will follow the adventures of a young troupe of fighter pilots in an alternate history world. The first book, "The Sky Crawlers", is currently being adapted as a feature anime film by Production I.G. While set in the same world as the books, the Wii "Sky Crawlers" will sport an original storyline.

The team responsible for Ace Combat 6 is handling Sky Crawler's development. According to the Famitsu article, the Wii Remote will be used as the throttle while the Nunchuk will act as the control wheel.

Screenshots @ Wiiz.fr

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sky_Crawlers

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Message from makers of Rock Band [Wii]:

Regarding downloadable content: During Rock Band for the Wii development Harmonix focused on making the core gameplay experience as solid and enjoyable as possible while tailoring it specifically to the strengths of the platform. The Wii version still contains the robust four-player band experience and all the fun at the core of other versions of Rock Band. However, because the Wii's online capabilities and potential have yet to be fully realized, we wanted to wait before we explored online functionality for Rock Band to ensure that players get the high-quality of online performance they’ve come to expect. - EA/Harmonix statement

North American Release Date: June 22, 2008
Package Price: $169.99
No. of Songs: 63 (incl. 5 bonus Wii songs)

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_Band_%28video_game%29

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KORG DS-10 Synthesizer [NDS]

The Korg-approved DS-10 synthesizer from AQ Interactive now headed for the DS in Japan. As you can see for yourself in the video after the break, like Jam Sessions, the synthesizer is anything but a game, with it boasting two patchable virtual synths with two oscillators each, a drum machine, a sequencer, and a full range of effects, to name but a few features. You'll also apparently be able to wirelessly link up several systems to play together or simply exchange sounds and songs, although you'll apparently have to make do without MIDI support. Hitting Japan on July 25th for ¥4,800, or just under $50.

YouTube KORG DS-10 #001: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rorBOzwR3Tc
YouTube KORG DS-10 #002: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQcp2Mkt_-A

Official Site: http://www.aqi.co.jp/product/ds10/
Pre-order Japanese version @ Play-Asia, ShopNCSX

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Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates on my Xanga blog.
See you all next week! \:D/


// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
This week's release of classic games on Wii Shop's Virtual Console:


Cruis'n USA
Nintendo 64
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone
1,000 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cruis%27n_USA


Wonder Boy
Sega Master System
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone—Comic Mischief
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonder_Boy_%28video_game%29

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Last week, Nintendo launched its anticipated WiiWare service in Japan, but North American gamers won't see it until May 12th, 2008.
Currently available WiiWare games are priced between 500 Wii Points and 1500 Wii Points (in the case of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King). Additional downloadable content has also been announced for several games, with My Life as a King seeing extra content priced between 100 to 300 Points.

Details @ http://wii.kombo.com/article.php?artid=11678
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wiiware

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April Fool's video from IGN:
*The Legend of Zelda Motion Picture Trailer: *Must see!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtM5E5Nu3LQ

Screeshots and preview for Star Wars: The Force Unleashed [Wii]:
http://www.gamepro.com/nintendo/wii/games/...ws/173588.shtml

Mario Kart Wii [Wii] European trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4oquHWBpLY

WWE Smackdown vs RAW 2009 [Wii] screens, previews, etc.:
http://wii.ign.com/objects/142/14242659.html

Pro Evo Soccer 2008 [Wii] French trailer:
http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/x4vwdf

New Boom Blox [WiiWare] screenshots:
http://wiiz.fr/article.php?a=17119

Defend Your Castle [WiiWare] trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EBKOybfZqI

Star Solider R [WiiWare] gameplay:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weIZwc2H32A

Pokemon Farm [WiiWare] Japanese trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJTRMPYnQOE

Dr. Mario's Virus Buster [WiiWare] Japanese trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JdGXjRmBVM

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King Trailer [WiiWare] trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWqUB0bnS-8
trailer 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7WZNtNW-kI

Japanese debut trailer for The Sky Crawlers [Wii]:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb43TxPMFM0
gameplay video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vB-PtFRj6Yo

New trailer for Battle of the Bands [Wii]:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEVokatT3_4

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Guitar Hero: Aerosmith
In Activision’s upcoming Guitar Hero add-on, they will bring the history of Aerosmith to life on video game consoles. While the game will be using the same engine as Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, it will have new characters and venues. The new characters will be, naturally, all of Aerosmith. You will be able to play as Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton and Brad Whitford along with the rest of the fictional Guitar Hero regulars. The new venues will showcase various moments of Aerosmith’s legendary career, such as their performance at the 2001 Super Bowl Halftime Show.

The game is set to contain somewhere between thirty and forty songs and will have five different venues. The first two songs in each tier will be songs by bands that influenced or were influenced by Aerosmith; the rest of the tier will be all Aerosmith songs. Apparently 60% of the songs will be by Aerosmith, while the rest will be by other bands ranging from Lenny Kravitz to Run-DMC. Last but not least, the popular boss battles of Guitar Hero III will also make a return, but they will be changed a little bit to address gamer’s concerns from the previous incarnation.

The game is being developed by Vicarious Visions (the same team that made the Wii version of Guitar Hero III), and is currently set for a June 29th release.

Confirmed Songs
Tier 1 - Venue: Nipmuc Regional High School
All The Young Dudes - Mott The Hoople*
The Dream Police - Cheap Trick
Make It - Aerosmith
Uncle Salty - Aerosmith
Encore: “Draw the Line� - Aerosmith

Tier 2 - Venue: Max’s Kansas City
I Hate Myself for Loving You - Joan Jett
All Day and All of the Night - The Kinks*
Movin’ Out - Aerosmith
No Surprize - Aerosmith
Encore: Sweet Emotion - Aerosmith

Tier 3 - Venue: The Orpheum Theatre
Complete Control - The Clash
Personality Crisis - New York Dolls*
Livin’ on the Edge - Aerosmith
Ragdoll - Aerosmith
Encore: Love in an Elevator
Kings and Queens - Aerosmith
Mama Kin - Aerosmith
Walk This Way - Aerosmith
Dream On – Aerosmith

* - represents cover

Other Confirmed Bands
The Black Crowes
Lenny Kravitz
Run-DMC
Stone Temple Pilots
Deep Purple
The White Stripes

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guitar_Hero_Aerosmith
Official Website: http://www.guitarherogame.com/ghaerosmith/

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Forgot to show this one last week.



Guitar Hero: On Tour [Nintendo DS] will be exclusive to the Nintendo DS and will be developed by Vicarious Visions. The game will come with a brand new peripheral and feature more than 20 songs for sure. It will follow the GH tradition of Career modes and Multiplayer modes. 6 characters will be avaliable to choose from, two of them are exclusive to Guitar Hero On Tour!

The new peripheral being called "the guitar grip" which will be plugged into the GBA slot. You will strum using the touch screen with four fret buttons being fingered. A price has yet to be set for the summer’s release, and is now available for pre-order at the official website.

Soure: http://ds.ign.com/articles/860/860511p1.html
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7MhXbhr27E
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guitar_hero_on_tour
Official website: http://guitarheroontour.com/

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Square Enix has revealed that Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo's Dungeon will be released as a Wii-exclusive title in North America on July 8. The game lets players explore a mysterious town whose inhabitants have lost their memories, and it's up to Chocobo and Cid to explore caves of memories created by a strange boy named Raffaello in order to help restore their memories.

Chocobo's Dungeon utilizes the Wii's motion sensing controller, and promises an intricate story complete with a versatile job system and challenging turn-based battles. The game will also offer a host of mini-games and support for online card battles. Look for the game on store shelves in mid-July for a retail price of .99.

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy...obo%27s_Dungeon
Official Website: http://www.chocobo.com/tokiwasure

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Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga or Multiply blog.
See you all next week! \:D/


// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Today's release on the Wii Shop's Virtual Console include the following.


Yoshi's Cookie
NES
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoshi%27s_Cookie


Bases Loaded
NES
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bases_Loaded_%28video_game%29

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This week's North American releases for Wii:
Baroque Wiki, Official Site
Minicopter: Adventure Flight GameSpot

This week's North American releases for Nintendo DS:
Black Sigil: Blade of the Exiled GameSpot

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IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 7th, 2008 - Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today announced Trauma Center®: Under the Knife 2 for Nintendo DS(tm), a direct sequel to the 2005 smash hit. The fast-paced medical action that made the handheld original a classic is back, along with all of your favorite Trauma Center characters. Rejoin Derek and Angie as they deal with the unpredictable aftereffects of GUILT. With numerous enhancements, including new difficulty modes and new operations, handheld surgeons have a lot to be excited about.

Trauma Center: Under the Knife 2 is currently scheduled to release on July 1.

Visit the official Trauma Center: Under the Knife 2 website:
http://www.atlus.com/tcutk2

YouTube trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwU2EKJ9Tzo

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Fans clamored for it, and Telltale Games has delivered: Sam & Max: Season One is officially coming to Nintendo Wii this fall.

The first season is comprised of six episodes, which will be compiled to one Wii disc. The Adventure Company (a branch of DreamCatcher Interactive) is handling publishing the game in North America, while JoWood tends to the European release.

There's been no word of additional content for the Nintendo Wii compilation.

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_%26_Max_Season_One
Official website: http://www.telltalegames.com/samandmax

-----------------
A press release from Square Enix has revealed that Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo's Dungeon will be released as a Wii-exclusive title in North America on July 8. The game lets players explore a mysterious town whose inhabitants have lost their memories, and it's up to Chocobo and Cid to explore caves of memories created by a strange boy named Raffaello in order to help restore their memories.

Chocobo's Dungeon utilizes the Wii's motion sensing controller, and promises an intricate story complete with a versatile job system and challenging turn-based battles. The game will also offer a host of mini-games and support for online card battles. Look for the game on store shelves in mid-July for a retail price of 39.99.

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy...obo%27s_Dungeon
Official Japanese website: http://www.chocobo.com/

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Speed Racer [Wii] screenshots:
http://www.wiitalia.it/2008/04/07/speed-racer/
Speed Racer [NDS] screenshots:
http://www.ndsitalia.it/2008/04/07/speed-racer-screenshots/

The Incredible Hulk [Wii] screenshots:
http://media.wii.ign.com/media/900/900969/imgs_1.html

Korg DS-10 [NDS] footage:
http://www.sonicstate.com/news/shownews.cfm?newsid=6299

Rumor: Waninkoko has posted a video of the Virtual Console Hack at elotrolado.net
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXpHoNOtP_U

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Capcom launches OkamiArt.com, a place for Galleries, Wallpapers, Fan Art, Amaterasu, Characters, Contests of the action-adventure video game Okami to be re-released for Wii in the next coming week on April 15th, 2008 at the retail price of $39.99.

URL: http://www.okamiart.com
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Okami

-----------------

Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga or Multiply blog.
See you all next week when Okami [Wii] arrives! \:D/


// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
^ iluvnumandoil, depends on what part of the Wii that wants to be "hacked" or modified. Adding modchip, running homebrew off the SD card, and most recently someone has figured out a way to hack the Virtual Console.

^ v_23, yeah grab Okami which is very much like Twilight Princess. It will be out tomorrow. Read on or check my previous posts to find more info on it. You can transfer your Mii from the Wii Remote to the PC, and use a program like Mii Manager to organize them. Otherwise, you can create a new one at www.MiiEditor.com

^ Yeah, Mario Kart Wii will definitely by my main Wii game until the next Zelda hits.

Today's release of classic games on the Wii Shop's Virtual Console include the following.


Fantasy Zone
Sega Master System
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fantasy_Zone


Mega Turrican
Sega Genesis
1 player
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older-Fantasy Violence
800 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mega_Turrican

-----------------
This week's North American releases for Wii:
Okami Official Site, Wiki
Summer Sports: Paradise Island GameSpot IGN
Emergency Mayhem Wiki

This week's North American releases for Nintendo DS:
Teenage Zombies IGN
Rondo Of Swords IGN
Double Sequence IGN

-----------------
According to VideoGamer [UK],

We have already shown you that Mario Kart Wii came in at #1 on the UK sales charts, but here’s some more info on the stellar sales…

- eighth fastest selling video game in UK history.

- Sales were greater than first week sales of Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, Super Mario Galaxy, Mario Strikers, Mario Party 8 and Super Paper Mario combined

Source

----------------
The Nintendo DS has officially outsold the Sony Playstation 2 lifetime sales in Japan.
These totals are for Japan only:

Nintendo DS - 22160000
Playstation 2 - 21220000

Sources: GFData, VGChartz
-----------------
The Develop 100 ranks "The world’s most successful game studios" based on the revenues earned by their product(s) at UK retail. Jumping to the top of the list for 2007 is Nintendo, its titles earning £129.83 million ($256 million) and having a massive lead over the £68.78 million ($136 million) belonging to (Number 2?) EA Canada.

Source
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The Wii will be launching in Korea on April 26th, 2008, and will cost 220,000 Won. Eight titles will be available at launch, including Wii Sports (system sold by itself), Wii Play, Super Swing Golf 2, Zack & Wiki, and more to be announced. Nintendo of Korea has teamed with Korean actor Won Bin to promote the system.

-----------------
Emergent Technologies have just announced that Sadness, Polish-based developer Nibris' black-and-white psychological thriller for the Nintendo Wii, is being built using their Gamebryo engine.

Source
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadness_%28video_game%29
Official website: http://www.nibris.net/
Trailer: IGN
----------------


Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga or Multiply blog.
See you all next week when Mario Kart Wii arrives (Sunday)! \:D/

// Roth
 

iluvnumandoil

sarNie OldFart
i have mario kart already on the wii..but if they already hack the actual console wouldnt it already be on the wii forum i check it everyday
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Do you mean the new Mario Kart Wii or Mario Kart 64 [VC]?
The new one has online multi-player.

I don't write much on hack stuff, but I do know about it. I can provide the info on that subject, but not publicly. ;)

-------------
Amazing release today, the Wii Shop has just released River City Ransom (one of my favorite NES titles), and Phantasy Star III.

I uploaded my own gameplay footage of River City Ransom [VC] on YouTube which I believe to be the first on there (US version at least):
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWdOCQDOL1Y[/youtube]


River City Ransomâ„¢
NES®
1-2 players
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older-Mild Suggestive Themes and Mild Violence
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_City_Ransom


Phantasy Starâ„¢ III Generations of Doom
Sega Genesis
1 player
Rated E for Everyone-Mild Fantasy Violence
800 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phantasy_Star...rations_of_Doom

------------
The 5 bonus songs are revealed for Rock Band [Wii]

Dirty Little Secret - The All-American Rejects
Don't Look Back in Anger - Oasis
Roam - The B-52's
Rockaway Beach - The Ramones
Roxanne - The Police


------------
GameSpot's got some hands-on gameplay on some upcoming Wii, DS, and WiiWare titles.
Including Mario Kart Wii, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King, Samba de Amigo, Guitar Hero: On Tour, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, Space Invaders Extreme, Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Darkness, World of goo, Boom Blox, etc.

GameSpot @ Gamers' Day 2008: Nintendo

------------
A portion of TRMK interview with Ed Boon about Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe states there may possibly be a version for Wii.

Interview @ http://www.trmk.org/games/mortal_kombat_vs...amers_day_2008/

------------
A new WiiWare title has been confirmed: Last Flight.

You gonna play a culinary critic on board in a plane infested by vampires.
You will be armed with a blessed whip and you will have to drive a stake through their hearts to kill the vampires. You can only carry 4, so when you need some new ones, you gonna build them with objects around you.

Blobber Team is in charge of the development and they've chosen a cell-shaded graphics presentation for this slasher game. Last Flight should come for Q1 2009.



Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Last_flight
Source

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IGN has got an exclusive first look at an upcoming futuristic first-person shooter for Wii, The Conduit, being developed by High Voltage who promises to push the limits of the system.



Screenshots and video demonstration available @
Source

High Voltage's Official Website: http://www.high-voltage.com/
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Conduit

------------

I'll be sure to add some more later on in the week.
Catch up on previous Wii News & Updates at my Xanga or Multiply.
See you all later while I dig more into River City Ransom! \:D/


// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg


Midnight launches for Mario Kart Wii are also being held at Sam's Club, and I believe Toys 'R' Us stores TONIGHT!



Wiis are to be in full stock this Sunday at Toys 'R' Us and Circuit City stores.


North American releases this week:
Wii
Mario Kart Wii (w/ Wii Wheel) Official Website, Wiki
Wild Earth: African Safari IGN
Battle of the Bands IGN
Target Terror IGN
Heavenly Guardian IGN

Nintendo DS

The World Ends With You Official Websites (NA, JP, EU), Wiki
Dream Pinball 3D IGN
River King: Mystic Valley IGN
Mazes of Fate IGN

---------------
Biohazard 0 (Resident Evil 0) [Wii] Japanese Debut Trailer:
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/33250.html

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resident_Evil_Zero

---------------
Quote from Nintendo president that there will not be a price cut for Wii.

"Our earnings projection for the year is not based on hardware price cuts, and I don’t think we are going to need them." - Nintendo President, Satoru Iwata

Source

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Unreal Tournament 3 - Super Mario Bros. Mod:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKbfvUiTHnI[/youtube]

Grand Theft Auto on NES
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYq66pasAac[/youtube]

---------------

See you all next week when we start our engines in Mario Kart Wii. GO~! \:D/


// Roth
 

XCappy

Mr. Char
Go get your Mario Kart Wii copy quickly ;)

I did the mistake to wait a little longer. Here (France) is stock-out...
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
Yeah, iluvnumandoil, you're going to need to have a modchip installed inside your Wii console in order for game backups to work. I'd recommend getting the WiiKey. You'll find some more info by searching it up on Google.

This week's North American release on the Wii Shop's Virtual Console is..


Double Dragon
NES
1-2 players
Rated Everyone 10+ — Mild Violence
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double_Dragon_%28video_game%29

------------
We have a public chat set up on Skype for those interested in finding people to race in Mario Kart Wii or fight in Brawl.
Link

or just simply add my Skypename: rothsothy
and I'll add you to the chat.

------------
TIME is holding their annual Top 100 most influential person, and Shigeru Miyamoto has landed the number 1 spot.
Check up on his profile and/or cast your vote at:
Source

------------
Excerpts from TIMEonline interview:

Nintendo guru Shigeru Miyamoto realizes there are parallels to be drawn between Wii Fit and real, live actual exercise, so he wants to make sure you understand that there’s no substitute for going outside and "moving around."

"Spending too long, staying in and playing any video game is not good,� said Miyamoto. “I always tell my children to get out on a sunny day and I, myself, went jogging in Central Park yesterday. But I do my stretching on Wii Fit. They work together."

"Web-enabled Wii Fit Balance boards will be hooked up to the internet to enable users to compete live against anyone, anywhere. If Miyamoto has his way, we’ll all be doing press-ups at dawn and comparing ourselves with millions of others."

Full interview at:
Source

--------------


White GameCube controllers are now available at Play-Asia.
Some comparison photos of the item:
http://i30.tinypic.com/359gvug.jpg
http://i28.tinypic.com/28ruab.jpg
http://i29.tinypic.com/20th3m0.jpg
http://i26.tinypic.com/f44v34.jpg

*courtesy of cvxfreak @ NeoGaf forums

---------------
For those who have recently purchased Okami [Wii], you may have noticed the IGN logo watermark on the front cover.

Capcom is now offering new cover arts free of charge. There are 3 unique covers to choose from.
http://www.capcom.com/artredemption/

*US and Canada only.
Europe gets an official release date for Okami [Wii] on June 13th, 2008.

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Okami

While you're at it, Capcom also has just released an 8-Bit leaping Mega-Man T-shirt at their shop.
Hurry while supplies last!

----------------
Last but not least, Grand Theft Auto IV is making quite a stir all over, and has finally kicked The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time off the number 1 spot for #1 Best Rated Video Game of All-Time over at GameRankings.
It's not too common that I talk about other games beside Wii/DS games, but I did mention Halo 3 before and this deserves a mention as well.
I fully recommend it for all current Xbox360 and PS3 owners and soon for PC (I hope).
Have a great gaming week! I'll see you all in the next. \:D/


// Roth
 

iluvnumandoil

sarNie OldFart
the mod chip only works if your serial # below 135 and if it over you need d2c key ..my wii is modify...do you know how to dump iso file?
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
^You need a specific DVD-ROM drive to dump the ISO. Search on eBay and you will find.

--------------
Let's welcome the launch of WiiWare for North America! \:D/

WiiWare, which launches today, provides a service for the Wii much like Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network do for those other systems: it gives developers a lower-cost means of distribution, which is vital to independent developers on a shoestring budget, and it gives gamers a means to purchase games without leaving the living room. Next-Gen.biz sat down with David Braben of Frontier (LostWinds), Dave Grossman of Telltale Games (Strong Bad's Cool Game For Attractive People), and Bill Swartz of Mastiff (Major League Eating: The Game), to hear about their experiences in working for the platform.

The developers' general consensus seems to be that the primary reason to use WiiWare over XBLA or PSN is the controller; that WiiWare distribution is good for small development teams; that the Wii's memory limitations aren't an issue; that WiiWare pricing is a secret Nintendo blood ritual; and that while WiiWare might eventually get loaded down with crap, their game won't be among it.

WiiWare Launch Titles:
FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a King (Square Enix, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone – Mild Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, 1,500 Wii Points): FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a King takes a legendary franchise and launches it into the realm of simulation gaming. Players are challenged to rebuild a kingdom, leading its young king on a path of discovery through an adventure bristling with mystery and intrigue.

LostWinds (Frontier Development, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone – Mild Fantasy Violence, 1,000 Wii Points): A fresh, enchanting platform adventure that puts the power of the wind in the palm of your hand – from raging tornados to the gentlest breeze. You’ll wield your Wii Remote™ controller to power Toku’s jumps and glides, suspend and smash enemies, meet friends and solve puzzles using LostWinds’ novel, intuitive and playful control system.

Defend your Castle (XGen Studios, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone – Cartoon Violence, 500 Wii Points): Defend your Castle takes place on a grassy plain surrounded by invaders. You are the commander of your castle, and it is your duty to fling the invading enemies sky-high, watching them plummet to their demise. As you progress, add powerful spells and upgrades to your arsenal for repelling the attacks. How long can you hold them off?

Pop (Nnooo, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 700 Wii Points): Pop bubbles to score points and stop the timer from running out. Pop can be enjoyed by anyone – casual gamers can simply play to pop bubbles and keep the game moving, whereas advanced players will need to pick their shots rapidly and accurately and generate combos to maximize their score.

V.I.P. Casino: Blackjack (High Voltage Software®, Inc., 1-4 players, Rated T for Teen – Simulated Gambling, 700 Wii Points): V.I.P. Casino: Blackjack re-creates the casino experience, with fully animated players and a realistic Las Vegas dealer. Single players can increase their bankrolls, while multiple players can engage in a head-to-head mini-blackjack tournament.

TV Show King (Gameloft, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): TV Show King transforms your living room into a real TV quiz show studio where you’ll face the challenge of answering more than 3,000 questions across six different categories. Compete against family and friends and use your Wii Remote controller in original ways to make it to the finals to see who can win the greatest amount of cash in one final, deciding duel.

To celebrate today’s launch of the new WiiWare™ downloadable game service for Wii™, there will be no Virtual Console™ games added today. But don’t worry – next week the Wii-kly Update will be back to its regular Monday schedule, bringing Wii owners information about the best classic Virtual Console titles and coolest new WiiWare games.

I've uploaded a couple of my own gameplay footage of Lost Winds on YouTube.
1. Intro play and Story:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRfeWtkmuoM&fmt=18[/youtube]

2. Skip onto Gameplay:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGFklWBQDmo&fmt=18[/youtube]


--------------
Last week's update on the Virtual Console catalog include the following.


Pokemon Puzzle League
Nintendo 64
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone
1,000 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pokemon_Puzzle_League


Renegade
NES
1-2 players
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older – Mild Violence
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renegade_%28video_game%29

--------------
Due to finals this past week, I haven't been up to par with updating, so by mid-week I'll be back on track. Thank you for your patience! \:D/



// Roth
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
WiiWare (What is WiiWare?)


Critter Round-Up (Konami, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone – Comic Mischief, 1,000 Wii Points): The critters have escaped, and the barnyard is in chaos! It’s up to you to quickly corral the animals in this puzzle-action challenge. You’ll have to mend fences in a hurry to keep all the critters safe and satisfied. But the fun doesn’t stop with the farmland; more than 50 challenging levels take you to several exotic locations, including the outback, the icy Arctic and more. There’s even a series of minigames for when the critters get you down: Snowball Soccer, Predator Rampage, Chicken Catch and Fence Trap. Up to four players can compete or cooperate as the critters run wild. So roll up those sleeves and grab a friend—those critters won’t catch themselves.
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critter_Round-Up


Star Soldier R (Hudson Entertainment, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone – Fantasy Violence, 800 Wii Points): Star Soldier R is a new kind of shooter where players aim for the best scores within a two- or five-minute time limit. Develop various scoring strategies, and pump out those points within the breakneck time frame. Assembled in record time to counter the advance of a powerful enemy, the mysterious Brain Forces, the “Caesar� starfighter takes off to fight for the very future of mankind. Shoot down countless enemies, upgrade your ship to the max with power-ups hidden throughout the levels and wage an all-out assault against the core of the enemy fortress. Combining the excitement of shoot-’em-ups with in-depth scoring strategies, this state-of-the-art competitive shooter will keep you coming back for more. Upload your best scores with Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection, and pit your skills against the world’s best fighter pilots from the comfort of your living room. Hone your skills and show the world who’s boss.
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Soldier_R

Virtual Console (What is Virtual Console?)


SKYKIDâ„¢
NES®
1-2 players
Rated E for Everyone – Mild Cartoon Violence
500 Wii Points
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sky_Kid


------------------
Nintendo Channel
Introducing the Nintendo Channel, an interactive guide to what's new in the world of Nintendo - now available for easy download to your Wii from the Wii Shop Channel. Watch trailers, mini-documentaries, product demonstrations, and gameplay videos. Browse the game guide pages to get useful information about your favorite games on Wii and Nintendo DS. You can even click to buy straight from your Wii, if you have the Internet Channel installed. The DS Download Service lets you download game demos right onto your Nintendo DS.

View video demonstration at the official page:
http://us.wii.com/viewer_channel.jsp?vid=9

------------------

Nintendo’s new Wii Fit™, launching today, combines fun and fitness in ways that will have people getting up off their couches, moving around, having fun and maybe even breaking a sweat. Wii Fit gets everyone pumped up about making enjoyable physical activities a part of their daily routines. Wii Fit even tracks users’ progress, which lets people see how they have improved while challenging them to better their scores and stay motivated to keep going.

At an MSRP of $89.99, Wii Fit comes packaged with the Wii Balance Boardâ„¢ accessory, a precisely engineered platform that senses both weight and shifts in movement and balance. The Wii Balance Board connects wirelessly to the Wiiâ„¢ console and serves as the centerpiece for more than 40 fun activities that challenge users in areas like yoga, aerobics, strength training and balance. Helpful virtual trainers in the game talk users through the different activities and make suggestions for improvement.

"Wii Fit will get you moving whether you’ve been playing video games for years or this is your first time," said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Wii Fit is easy for anyone to try and is yet another example of how Nintendo continues to expand the world of video games to new audiences."

To celebrate the launch of Wii Fit, Nintendo is holding an interactive release party today for the public in the southwest corner of New York’s Central Park, near the Merchants’ Gate. "We’re looking for everyone to ‘get on board’ and get excited about their fitness," said celebrity trainer Ashley Borden, who will be on hand to do personal Wii Fit demos and training.

Wii Fit, which has sold more than 2 million in Japan, starts with a simple measurement that calculates an adult user’s Body Mass Index, or BMI. From there, the Wii Balance Board accessory can be used as a platform for twirling a virtual Hula Hoop®, shredding on a virtual snowboard, performing leg extensions or doing a downward-facing dog yoga pose. Wii Fit contains a wide variety of fun games and physical activities that target the body’s core.

Different people in the same household can use Wii Fit and track their progress separately. Users’ Mii™ caricatures even reflect their fitness levels and change as people become more proficient at the activities.

Wii is the first video game system ever included in the President’s Challenge, a program of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports that encourages all Americans to make physical activity a part of their daily lives. Wii Fit builds on that honor by encouraging people to keep their bodies moving.

Wii Fit is available today exclusively at the Nintendo World store in New York, and will be at retail stores across the country May 21.

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 Fit, visit WiiFit.com.

Here's a photo from the Wii Fit launch event that's happening right now at Nintendo World Store (NYC):


---------------
 

RS Trax

sarNie Egg
^ LOL, my job is to inform people of what's available on Wii in the convenience of their favorite forum. A lot of people are either too lazy to turn on their systems to check themselves to realize there's something worth checking out or just aren't aware. I would post news on all major consoles including the Xbox360 and PS3, but that would take up so much time, so I decided to concentrate on one company. I was hoping this Wii thread would inspire someone else from the forums to create news threads for the other consoles, but I guess it didn't really go off too well or is just not very well updated.

^ Not that I can find, all Wii Shop titles aren't revealed unless the publisher decides to announce a press release for that specific title or unless the info is leaked. Otherwise, you'll have to wait for Monday morning every week to find out. But you can check to see if ESRB has even rated that game you're waiting for. Usually when ESRB updates it means the game's coming soon for release.

The Wii Shop releases are different regionally, and this thread is based on the North American releases, of course, but some Japanese releases are mentioned. If in case the game you're looking for is released on a foreign system, you can try changing your Country/Language in the Wii option settings.

Here are the lists of Virtual Console releases so far:
Japan
North America
Europe
Australia
South Korea

------------------
WiiWareâ„¢ (What is WiiWare?)

Dr. Mario® Online Rx (Nintendo, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): The doctor is in! Mario™ takes a break from his adventuring ways and once again dons his stethoscope for a new generation of germ-battling mayhem. In addition to the classic mode of using vitamins to exterminate viruses, you’ll find two battle modes and an online multiplayer mode where you can hone your skills against players from around the world. Feel like challenging a friend who doesn’t have Dr. Mario Online Rx? Then the WiiWare-exclusive Friend Battle Demo is just what the doctor ordered. Or maybe you’d like some help taking on those nasty viruses? Try out Virus Buster, where four players can simultaneously move capsules simply by pointing at them with a Wii Remote™ controller. Any way you look at it, Dr. Mario Online Rx is a prescription for fun that everyone can enjoy.
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dr._Mario_Online_Rx

Family Table Tennis (Aksys Games, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): It’s time for some good old family fun, and what’s more fun than table tennis? Just like a real family, choose your character from a cast of four, which includes Daddy, Mommy, Sarah and Billy. There are four table tennis-tastic stages where it doesn’t matter if you’re an indoors or outdoors table-tennis player. Pick your poison from a gymnasium, a forest park, a beach or even an amusement park. Choose from Single or Versus mode, or select a minigame to play. In Versus mode, you and a friend can play against each other to see who is the better table-tennis player. And if Single and Versus modes aren’t enough, select between three minigames, which include Target Table Tennis, Thrilling Table Tennis and Matching Table Tennis. The appealing cell-shaded graphics and endearing music, on top of the super-fun game play, will have you and your family playing from morning till night. Get your paddles ready.
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Table_Tennis

Virtual Consoleâ„¢ (What is Virtual Console?)


City Connection™ (NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone - Comic Mischief, Tobacco Reference, 500 Wii Points): Based on the arcade hit, a young man born in California sets out to tour famous sites and cities around the world. As he drives the highways surrounding these locations, the road is painted white as proof of his visit. Only once all sections of the road have been painted will he move on to the next location in his world tour. Not surprisingly, the local police will chase the driver and do their best to stop him from completing his goal. In addition, cats roam the highways and spikes lie in wait for unsuspecting drivers. To combat these dangers, the driver’s customized car can jump, fire cans of oil and collect balloons to warp to a new stage. It’s the ultimate road trip.
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_Connection


Metal Slug (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated T for Teen - Blood, Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released in 1996 by SNK, Metal Slug is a side-scrolling military-action game. Players control Marco and Tarma, both members of the special-ops force Team Peregrine Falcon (commonly known as Team PF), and battle their way through stage after stage of intense action. The goal is to try to overthrow General Morden and win back the stolen weapon, the Metal Slug. Players must blast through waves of enemies and machines (while also jumping over any obstacles in the way) to advance through the stages. It’s not as hopeless as it might sound, though—weapons such as heavy machine guns, shotguns, rocket launchers and flamethrowers, as well as the Metal Slug itself (which appears frequently in the game), will make the battle easier. Take on General Morden with a friend to lighten your load and ramp up the excitement even more.
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_Slug

*Due to my Wii being out of memory, I'm not able to download any new WiiWare or VC games this week.
But if I were to pick one for this week, it would be Dr. Mario Online Rx which is a classic puzzle built on the same engine as Tetris: Grand Master. Also, the neat thing about it is you can send demos to your Wii friends to try and play 2P online. Sort of invitation-only thing.

-----------------
This week's North American Wii releases:
Monkey King: The Legend Begins Wiki; 1UP
Emergency Heroes 1UP
Death Jr Root of Evil Wiki; 1UP

This week's North American Nintendo DS releases:
Super Dodgeball Brawlers Wiki; 1UP; YouTube

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Alright, time for some old news.

LostWinds is becoming quite popular, and is still my current favorite WiiWare title.
Now there are new screenshots and artwork of the next episode here at:
http://www.wiiz.fr/article.php?a=17999

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Samba de Amigo [Wii] details

- 40 songs, most new, some from the Dreamcast version
- Some of the modes: solo, quick-play, classic, battle, survival, hustle, mini-games, and more
- online rankings included
- 2 player local multiplayer (co-op or versus)

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samba_de_Amigo#Wii_version

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Try out the online flash demo of English of the Dead, coming soon to Nintendo DS (Japan):
http://eod.sega.jp/taiken/

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Metal Slug 7 trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bpCBXJTXh8

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Daigasso! Band Brothers DX details, Wii connectivity

- download a "Speaker Channel" to your Wii, via the Wii Shop channel
- Speaker Channel allows you to play your music through the TV
- no confirmation on price of channel, may be free
- upload compositions to a server in order to share your work with others

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daigasso%21_Band_Brothers_DX

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New Nintendo DS Lite colors are arriving for the summer.
Red, Turquoise and Green Nintendo DS Lites hitting shelves across Europe on 13 June 2008 and Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What To Eat? arriving on 20 June 2008.

Source

For North America, we will be getting the Metallic Rose version of the Nintendo DS Lite, this time as a single release without the Nintendogs pawprint on the front. You can watch the promotional commercial featuring America Ferrera and Carrie Underwood on the Nintendo Channel.

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So the clues of that full moon on last month's issue of Nintendo Power was actually leading to the new Castlevania.
Konami finally announced Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia for Nintendo DS which will due out Fall 2008.

Press:
Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia exclusively for Nintendo DS™. Introducing the all-new Glyph attack system, players will be able to use special attack combinations as they attempt to defeat Dracula and his horde. Also introduced to the series are new outdoor locales ranging from forests to the ocean, giving players the chance to explore outside of Dracula’s Castle. Developed by legendary Castlevania producer Koji “Iga� Igarashi, Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia is poised to set a new standard for side scrolling action on DS™.

"We have always felt that the Castlevania franchise has been an excellent fit on Nintendo DS, and based on the popularity of the DS classics, Dawn of Sorrow and Portrait of Ruin, our fans agree,� said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. “We fully expect Order of Ecclesia to ignite the fan base once again as it combines the classic Castlevania gameplay with an all-new combat system and outdoor environments."

In Order of Ecclesia players take the role of a member of the Ecclesia, an organization that has sworn to defeat the evil forces of Dracula. By using the new Glyph attack system, players can unleash more than 100 different combinations to battle Dracula’s minions throughout 20 explorable areas. Utilizing the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection™, players can choose to compete head-to-head, or trade items and equipment they have found while exploring the environments. Multiple endings that can be unlocked depending on how the player completes the game adds even more replay value to the game with plenty of addictive exploration, combat and items to discover.

Developed by Konami, Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia is planned for release on Nintendo DSâ„¢ in Fall 2008. For more information on the games, please visit: www.konami.com.

Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castlevania:_Order_of_Ecclesia
Official Website: http://www.konami.jp/gs/game/dracula_ds3/

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Mega Man Zero: Official Complete Works (art book) hits stores today. UDON, the guys who have worked on many a project related to and for Capcom, including the art for the upcoming Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix, are releasing an English version of the same book in America, which will be available in stores on May 28th. Capcom has begun taking orders for it, as well as Amazon, and you may be able to order it through outlets such as Barnes & Noble, Waldenbooks, or even your local comic book store (be sure to check first, just to be sure).

Capcom Store

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Attenton! For those who are looking forward to something mature on Wii, look no further. SEGA has teamed up with Clover Studios (the guys who made No More Heroes) who are now Platinum Games. There was a leaked video of their upcoming M-rated action title on YouTube, and I was able to catch a glimpse of it before they took it down the next couple of minutes. Now it has been officially released in full quality.

I present to you.. MadWorld.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/34108.html?type=

Rated M for Mad. \:D/

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High Voltage Software has a full trailer for their upcoming M-rated FPS title, The Conduit, exclusively for Wii.

http://wii.ign.com/dor/objects/14248157/th...ler_051608.html

@ 1:50
Enough said..

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Check up on previous Wii News & Updates on my Xanga, Multiply, and now Blogger/Blogspot!
See you all next week! \:D/


// Roth
 
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