6 July 2009
by Ferry

New video game releases week 27, 2009

Here’s a list of this weeks game releases. The most popular titles are The Bigs 2 on multiple platforms and Street Fighter IV on PC. On the downloadable games front we’ve got today’s Wii Shop and DSiWare titles BIT.TRIP CORE, Bust-A-Move Plus, Heracles Chariot Racing, California Games, Asphalt 4: Elite Racing, Art Style: BASE 10, as well as Tales of Monkey Island: Launch of the Screaming Narwhal via Telltalegames.com (on Tuesday), and Battlefield 1943 on Xbox Live Arcade (updates Wednesday) and a day later it will appear on PlayStation Network, plus there’s Hotel Giant 2 on GameTap Gold (updates Thursday).

Monday:
BIT.TRIP CORE - $6 (Wii Shop)
Bust-A-Move Plus - $6 (Wii Shop)
Heracles Chariot Racing - $8 (Wii Shop)
California Games - $5 (Wii Shop)
Asphalt 4: Elite Racing - $8 (DSi Shop)
Art Style: BASE 10 - $5 (Wii Shop)

Tuesday:
BioShock and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Bundle (Xbox 360, PS3, PC)
CID The Dummy (PS2, PSP)
Europa Universalis Rome Gold (PC)
Street Fighter IV (PC)
Tales of Monkey Island: Launch of the Screaming Narwhal - $9 (PC via Telltalegames)
The Bigs 2 (Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, Wii, PSP)

Wednesday:
Battlefield 1943 - $15 (Xbox Live Arcade)

Thursday:
Battlefield 1943 - $15 (PlayStation Network)
Hotel Giant 2 (PC via GameTap Gold)

Friday:
Agatha Christie: Peril at the End House (PC)
The Hardy Boys: The Perfect Crime (PC)

6 July 2009
by Ferry

On Wii Shop and DSiWare today: BIT.TRIP CORE, Bust-A-Move Plus, Heracles Chariot Racing, California Games, Asphalt 4: Elite Racing, Art Style: BASE 10

Nintendo downloads this week: With BIT.TRIP CORE, Nintendo crosses the 100-game mark in its ever-growing WiiWare game library. Other WiiWare offerings this week will have players bursting bubbles and racing in chariots, whether solo or with friends. Nintendo DSiWare welcomes a new Art Style title and a unique auto racing game. While a classic Commodore 64 title will have Virtual Console users tearing it up California style.

Nintendo has now added these new/classic games to the Wii Shop Channel and Nintendo DSi Shop. The games go live at 9AM Pacific time. Users with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card can be purchased at retail locations or Amazon (see Card on the right).

Where available, we’ve included videos of each of today’s games. Either for nostalgia’s sake or so you can see if any new game is to your taste.

This week’s new WiiWare games are:

BIT.TRIP CORE
Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points = $6
Description: BIT.TRIP CORE continues the BIT.TRIP saga in this retro-arcade-style game. BIT.TRIP CORE adds up to an exciting action/rhythm game that’s best played while zoning out on the tunes and letting the visuals swallow you whole. The experience is inspired by games from the ’80s, but with a modern twist. The game play is entirely new to the series, leaving the single-axis controls of BIT.TRIP BEAT behind in favor of the ability to control two axes. If the difficulty gets you down, grab a friend and play cooperatively with two-player multiplayer. Make it to the end and you’ll have journeyed one step further to completing your BIT.TRIP.

Bust-A-Move Plus!
Publisher: Taito
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points = $6
Description: BUST-A-MOVE Plus! is a simple but hugely addictive puzzle game in which you must try to burst a multi-colored mass of bubbles with your very own bubble launcher. Every time you make a group of three or more bubbles of the same color, they pop. There are two game modes available: 1P Puzzle (players tackle the game’s 135 stages in pursuit of a new high score or best time) and Battle (players take on friends or computer-controlled opponents). If that doesn’t satisfy your passion for popping, there are a total of 270 extra stages waiting for you in the two add-on-content packs, available for purchase on the Wii Shop Channel. BUST-A-MOVE Plus! is simple to get into and deep enough to keep you coming back for more.

Heracles Chariot Racing
Publisher: Neko Entertainment
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) – Comic Mischief
Price: 800 Wii Points = $8
Description: The famous Heracles has taken on a challenge like none he has ever faced. Our hero will have to beat his opponents in a race across mythological kingdoms and be the first to reach the top of Mount Olympus. You can play as Heracles and help him return the sacred trophy, or play as one of the other varied mythological characters from Satyr to Poseidon and claim the prize for yourself. Race through three racing cups across 10 courses set in five mythic landscapes. Use awesome fantasy weaponry to defeat your opponents: tridents, fireballs, Zeus’s lightning rods and more. Get your friends together for intense two-to-four-player split-screen multiplayer action in Championship, Single Race or Battle mode.

This week’s new Virtual Console game is:

California Games
Original platform: Commodore 64
Publisher: Commodore Gaming
Players: 1-5
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points = $5
Description: Welcome to California, home of the most radical sports in the world. You’re about to hit the beaches, parks and streets of the Golden State to go for trophies in everything from surfing to bike racing. California Games gives you the hottest sports and the most aggro competition. You even have to pick your own sponsor. So pull on those kneepads – you’re about to get into the most fun you’ve had since Mom hid your skateboard. California Games is going to take you from surf to the turf, from the pipe to the parks.

This week’s new DSiWare games are:

Asphalt 4: Elite Racing
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) – Mild Violence
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points = $8
Description: For the racing elite, the world is their racetrack. Choose among 28 dream cars and motorcycles from the world’s most prestigious manufacturers. Then race your way through eight of the most renowned cities, fully rendered in 3-D. Control your speed machine with either standard or touch-screen controls for precision driving. Photos taken with the Nintendo DSi Camera can be used as your personal icon or can appear throughout the various environments, including the garage where you can customize and tune your vehicles. From New York to Shanghai, Paris to Dubai, you’ll weave a course through busy streets in six kinds of races plus four-player Multiplayer mode. Avoid police, demolish competitors and pass the leader to win. You’ll need to floor it at every straightaway and push every drift to the limit to stay one step ahead and become the ultimate VIP of urban racing.

Art Style: BASE 10
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points = $5
Description: Art Style: BASE 10 is a game of numbers. Your goal is simple: create combinations equaling 10 by sliding numbers around the playing field. Move them horizontally or vertically, but be careful not to create an unusable non-number in the process. Choose from one of three modes: eliminate a set amount of numbers as quickly as possible in ZEROSUM MODE; get rid of prearranged groups of numbers in as few moves as possible in PUZZLE MODE; or continue removing numbers until your game is over in INFINITE MODE. In addition, you can challenge an opponent to a two-player wireless battle in VS MODE and see whose number-crunching skills reign supreme. If you think you’re a master with numbers, the straightforward yet challenging world of Art Style: BASE 10 gives you the opportunity to prove it in a unique way.

Meanwhile Europe’s celebrating another Japanese/U.S. import Hanabi Festival from July 3-24, 2009. The new games include: Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen (SNES), Pulseman (Sega Mega Drive), Kirby’s Dream Land 3 (SNES), MUSHA (Sega Mega Drive), Bomberman ‘94 (Turbografx-16), Smash Table Tennis (NES), Zoda’s Revenge: StarTropics II (NES), Detana Twin Bee (Turbografx-16). Watch this trailer to see them all.

6 July 2009
by Ferry

Gaming News you might’ve missed in week 26

Up first: Machima.com’s Inside Gaming covers game news you might’ve missed last week. They do it in a nice, brief video format. The Dead Pixel details the latest news, reviews, and trailers in his own irreverent style.

In week 26, 2009, he talks about: No LAN for you, faction transaction and an attempt to hit the entertainment beat. Did I mention this show was random?

5 July 2009
by Ferry

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger review video

BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger is a 2D one-on-one fighting game by ARC System Works (the makers of Guilty Gear.) Produced by Guilty Gear producer Toshimichi Mori, the game features an all-original cast (including many weapon fighters) and uses a four-button control scheme (weak, medium and strong attacks plus an EX button which makes your character perform unique special attacks.) The fighting system is based around players being able to continue combos when opponents are in a down state. On the defensive side, you’ll have a number of ways of getting back up when downed, so you don’t get pummeled by combo attacks. BlazeBlue employs the Type X2 arcade board and mixes 3D characters and 3D backdrops.

For its North American release, the Limited Edition package (available while first-run supplies last) includes a two-disc original soundtrack that contains 48 tracks, bonus video disc containing basic tutorials and expert advice, and limited edition packaging. A few weeks later in July the regular edition will come out.

The story takes place in the 13th hierarchical city, Kagutsuchi, the Librarium regulates the amazing power of Armagus, a fusion of magic and technology. Currently they are after a wanted criminal named Ragna The Bloodedge, also known as Death, who wants to destroy the Librarium. Due to Ragna possessing a powerful form of Armagus known as the Azure Grimoire, people far and wide are after not only his bounty, but his grimoire as well. This is where our story begins.

Beneath its strange title and candy-colored veneer lies a legitimate threat to Street Fighter’s crown. Watch the BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger video review:

Article continues »

5 July 2009
by Ferry

Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker review video

Together with pop music legend Michael Jackson, Sega developed the “Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker” 2D single player beat ‘em up / action-platformer for the Sega Master System back in 1989, as well as a year later on Sega Genesis and in Arcades.

The back of the box describes the game as follows: “Michael!” Katy’s voice rings out — you’ve found her! But more children are still lost! Can you stop the psycho mastermind Mr. Big and his goon squad before they kidnap all of the kids? You can, if you’re Michael Jackson! Moonwalk on muggers, lean on meanies, and pop the punks! Outfight, outjump, outdance! Move like only Michael can, to the beat of Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, and Bad! No bad guy can last through Michael’s Star Magic! Punch down gangsters in Club 30. Rumble in the streets. Swing, spin and kick past graveyard ghouls. Chill in the coverns, then sizzle ‘em with ultra-tech weapons in Mr. Big’s hideout. Experience the baddest video game ever. Defy physics with Michael’s dancing! You never lose your cool. See it and be it — Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker!

The man, the myth, the legend… THE GAME! The start of this video review is rather disrespectful towards MJ considering the cases against him always ended with court judging him not quilty. But you should still watch this Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker review to see the game in action. I played this back in the day and it’s as fun as it looks!

Note: Michael Jackson is credited for both the game’s concept and design.

4 July 2009
by Ferry

Top 5 game sales per system worldwide in week 26, 2009

What are the best-selling games in America, Japan, and Europe (UK, France, Germany) this week? Thanks to Amazon online sales data here are the games that are the hottest right now. Think of it as a games weather report.

Nintendo Wii
North America: 1. Wii Fit (Nintendo), 2. EA Sports Active (Electronic Arts), 3. Mario Kart Wii (Nintendo), 4. Guitar Hero World Tour Band Kit (Activision), 5. Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 Wii MotionPlus Bundle (Electronic Arts).

Japan: 1. Wii Sports Resort including Wii MotionPlus (Nintendo), 2. EA Sports Grand Slam Tennis (Electronic Arts), 3. Wii Fit (Nintendo), 4. Parallel of Haruhi Suzumiya - SOS Team Heroes Collection (Sega), 5. Mario Kart Wii (Nintendo).

Europe: 1. EA Sports Active (Electronic Arts), 2. Wii Fit (Nintendo), 3. Mario Kart Wii (Nintendo), 4. My Fitness Coach (Ubisoft), 5. EA Sports Grand Slam Tennis with Wii MotionPlus Accessory (Electronic Arts).

Xbox 360
North America: 1. Guitar Hero World Tour Band Bundle (Activision), 2. Gears of War 2 (Microsoft), 3. BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger Limited Edition (Aksys), 4. Fight Night: Round 4 (Electronic Arts), 5. Call of Duty: World at War (Activision).

Japan: 1. BlazBlue (Arc System Works), 2. X-Blades including Stategy Guide (Ubisoft), 3. BioShock - Platinum Collection (2K), 4. Gears of War - Platinum Collection (Microsoft), 5. Prototype - North American Import Version (Activision).

Europe: 1. Prototype (Activision), 2. Call of Duty: World at War (Activision), 3. Gears of War 2 (Microsoft), 4. Call of Juarez: Bound In Blood (Ubisoft), 5. Fight Night Round 4 (Electronic Arts).

PlayStation 3
North America: 1. BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger Limited Edition (Aksys), 2. Infamous (Sony), 3. Fight Night: Round 4 (Electronic Arts), 4. Grand Theft Auto IV (Rockstar), 5. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots - Greatest Hits (Konami).

Japan: 1. Atelier Rorona: Arland no Renkinjutsushi - Limited Edition (Gust), 2. BlazBlue (Arc System Works), 3. Valkyria Chronicles - The Best of PlayStation 3 (Sega), 4. Demon’s Souls (Sony), 5. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots - The Best of PlayStation 3 Edition (Konami).

Europe: 1. Fight Night Round 4 (Electronic Arts), 2. Call Of Juarez: Bound In Blood (Ubisoft), 3. Infamous (Sony), 4. LittleBigPlanet (Sony), 5. Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 (Electronic Arts).

PlayStation 2 Article continues »

4 July 2009
by Ferry

Mario loses a life. Play him off, keyboard cat

If you’re a retro gamer, you’ve no doubt heard the NES game’s Super Mario Bros. game over tune. But have you heard the Super Keyboard Cat Bros. version?

I didn’t think so.

Here’s the latest internet meme, Keyboard Cat, real name Fatso. Who took piano lessons and now plays the keyboard with all the cool of a true jazz artist. And it just so happens to make for the perfect tune for someone who just embarrassed themselves.

Watch Keyboard Cat in 2D 8-bit style, playing off poor Mario as he loses a life.

Here’s the original Keyboard Cat in case you’re not familiar.

3 July 2009
by Josh

Official TMNT: Smash Up character list for the Wii game

10 playable TMNT: Smash Up characters have been confirmed for the roster of the upcoming Wii-exclusive fighting game/brawler that plays similar to Super Smash Bros. Brawl. It will be released in North America on September 22nd and in Europe on September 25th, 2009.

In the game players will battle on interactive, stages that feature many environmental hazards and interactive elements, from gushing water that will push you off-stage to swingable poles. Each character has their own unique moves and attacks. The game is not based on a previous Turtles license which gives the developers liberty to draw from all previous Turtles material. The storyline meanwhile is being penned by TMNT co-creator Peter Laird.

The list of playable characters:

1. April O’Neil (Voiced by Veronica Taylor)
2. Casey Jones (Voiced by Marc Thompson)
3. Donatello (Voiced by Sam Riegel)
4. Foot Ninja
5. Leonardo (Voiced by Michael Sinterniklaas)
6. Master Splinter (Voiced by Darren Dunstan)
7. Michelangelo (Voiced by Vinnie Penna)
8. Raphael (Voiced by Greg Abbey)
9. Shredder (Voiced by Scottie Ray)
10. Utrominator

The most wanted characters:

* Bebop
* Rocksteady
* Krang
* Super Shredder
* Slash
* Baxter Stockman
* Metalhead
* Usagi Yojimbo
* General Traag
* Leatherhead
* Tokka
* Rahzar
* The Rat King
* Who do you want to see added as a playable character?

Here is a LIVE video of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Smash Up in action.

As the game draws closer to release we’ll update this list with confirmed characters.

3 July 2009
by Josh

Mafia Wars hits 4 million users

Mafia Wars from Zynga, the free social-networking multiplayer browser-based RPG game that you can play via Myspace, Facebook, Yahoo Games and on your iPhone, etc., has passed the 4 million users mark!

This makes it one of the most popular social networking online titles. According to Gamasutra, the number of daily players taking part in the game has doubled over the last three months.

And although the game is free, microtransactions are offered which allow the company to make some direct cash. Zynga also believes that microtransactions are helping the game on its way to becoming a true “cult classic”.

Zynga itself has even been building its own company just like in the game. They recently added game designer Brian Reynolds of Alpha Centauri and Rise of Nations fame as their “chief designer”.

I’m actually surprised that the game has only reached 4 million. Given that every single young person I know seems to play it and other games of its type fairly regularly.

Via Gamasutra

3 July 2009
by Josh

Dragon Ball game publishing rights go from Atari to Namco Bandai

Namco Bandai Games America has made a major announcement; The company has secured the Dragon Ball franchise publishing rights from former rights-holder Atari.

This is huge because in 2008, the Dragon Ball franchise made up nearly half of Atari’s sales.

The rights that Namco Bandai now owns stretches to all consoles and handhelds and will begin in January of 2010. The deal with rights-holders Toei Animation and FUNimation will last for five years, so Namco Bandai will be publishing Dragon Ball games until 2015!

Although the rights don’t officially start until 2010 for Namco, nonetheless they actually will be publishing a few Dragon Ball games before then, proving how far out of favor Atari has fallen with the license holders. Namco will publish Dragon Ball: Raging Blast on Xbox 360 and PS3, Dragon Ball: Revenge of King Piccolo for Wii and Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans for DS this Fall.