Dec. 21, 2006
This year Santa is getting some competition from another jolly guy with a big belly and a red cap. We're talking about video game icon Mario™, of course. As a special holiday surprise for Wii™ owners from Nintendo, the original Super Mario Bros. ™ game for the Nintendo Entertainment System® will appear in the Wii Shop Channel and be downloadable for 500 Wii Points™. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the game. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets.
The classic game will make Christmas morning extra special, just as it did more than two decades ago. Super Mario Bros. reigns as perhaps the best-known and most-played game on any video game system in history. More than 40.2 million copies of the game found their way into homes worldwide. In addition to Super Mario Bros., other top-notch offerings available on Dec. 25 include:
* Street Fighter® II: The World Warrior (Super NES®, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): This game revolutionized the fighting-game genre with characters that had unique fighting skills, speed, special moves and unique endings.
* Super Castlevania® IV (Super NES, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Simon Belmont uses his trusty whip to fight the powers of evil on his way to Dracula's Castle.
* Toe Jam & Earl™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): Two fun-loving aliens crash on Earth and must find 10 pieces of their spaceship so they can get back home to Planet Funkotron.
* R-TYPE® (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): This is a completely faithful port - right down to the character details - of the famous shooting-game masterpiece.
Games available on Jan. 1 include:
* Baseball (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Play nine innings of fierce sandlot competition with classic NES graphics.
* Urban Champion™ (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Don't let the big, bad bully of the neighborhood push you around! Players fight for the right to walk the street.
In just five weeks the library of classic games available through the Wii Shop Channel has grown to 33 titles. Every Monday at 9 a.m. Pacific, Nintendo adds more classic games to the channel.
Retrieved from: http://press.nintendo.com/articles.jsp?id=10831
Friday, December 22, 2006
Where to find Wii component cables, and how much you'll pay
Playing your Wii on a nice television makes the playing experience so much better than that cheap thing you found in the dumpster, but unfortunately you're stuck in blur city with the included composite cables. Component cables make the whole experience look a lot better, and just yesterday I picked up a set from Best Buy. I was going to make a post proclaiming that you could in fact find Wii component cables at Best Buy, until today I saw a post over at Gizmodo that did me one better: they list all the places to find them, as well as what you'll pay. Take a look:
* Wii Component Cables [PlayAsia - $9]
* Mad Catz Component Cables [Mad Catz - $19]
* Official Component Cables [Amazon - $19]
* Nintendo Wii Component Cables [Nintendo - $29]
* EBGames Component Cables [EBGames - $49]
* React Component Cables [Best Buy - $24]
* Griffin Component Cables [Best Buy - $59!]
* ASiD Component Cables [Frys - $39]
* Blaze Component Cables - $10 (Out of stock) [Superufo]
* Psyclone Component Cables [Circuit City - $59!]
That's an impressive list, and I'd like to give a lot of thanks to them for putting this together. I did, however, check for the React cables on Best Buy's website, and they said that not only were they sold out, but that local pickup was unavailable. I then went to my local store and there they were. It just goes to show that sometimes you have to brave brick and mortar stores to get what you want.
Retrieved from: http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2006/12/20/6361
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Wii Interview with Reggie Fils-Aime's Nintendo Chief
Critical Hit: Reggie Fils-Aime's Pledge to Nintendo Wii Owners--Read My Lips. 'No New Game Drought.'
In the downslope of Orson Welles' career, the actor-writer-director was less known for his seminal films than for his role as a TV pitchman for Paul Masson Vineyards, wherein he would sonorously intone "We will sell no wine before its time." Substitute games for wine, and he could well have been speaking of Nintendo, whose previous consoles have notoriously gone months between significant first-party games. (Google "Nintendo drought" and you'll get more than 190,000 results.) Now comes word from the U.K. gaming site CVG that two highly anticipated Wii titles-Metroid Prime 3: Corruption and Mario Galaxy-won't be released until October 2007 at the earliest.
We have no way of determining the credibility of CVG's report, which it attributes to "reliable sources close to Nintendo." But it reminded us of an interview that we conducted with Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime in October, where he freely made a "Read my lips" pledge that Wii owners would not endure the same software droughts they had on prior Nintendo machines. Here's our exchange on that point:
NEWSWEEK: Let's look at first-party software for a minute. As evidenced by software sales, gamers who purchase Nintendo platforms do so primarily to play Nintendo-developed games. But from the Nintendo 64-era on, Nintendo has a history of repeatedly delaying key titles, creating long droughts between the AAA games for which its fans bought the hardware. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, your flagship title for the Wii, is in fact a long-delayed Gamecube game that has been moved over to the Wii, as has Super Paper Mario. So how can you assure gamers that are considering a Wii--keeping in mind that they've heard such promises before--that they won't endure the same droughts between AAA first-party titles that they suffered on the Nintendo 64 or the Gamecube?
Reggie Fils-Aime: The way I answer that question is with three very real examples. First, Zelda: Twilight Princess, on Wii, is arguably the best game we've ever made. Period. It is fantastic. It's been essentially made, from the core essence of that game, to be perfect for Wii. And yes, while its development started as a Gamecube title, the fact is the Wii version plays fundamentally different. A consumer can buy the Wii version and the Gamecube version and have two fundamentally different experiences. Now certainly, the Gamecube version of Zelda is fantastic. But the Wii version of Zelda is without peer.
The second example I point out is Metroid Prime 3, which is a from-the-ground-up creation of Metroid for the Wii system. That title is going to come out early in 2007. That will give us fantastic momentum coming off of the launch, and will certainly be an example of how there will be no new game drought for this system.
The third example I would give you is Mario Galaxy, another from-the-ground-up Wii game that we are strategically timing the launch to make sure that we continue driving momentum through 2007. So N'Gai, how do I answer the question, "Will there be no drought," and "How will we make sure that there are fantastic titles for Wii?" The answer is Zelda, Metroid and Mario. Which is a pretty darn good lineup.
So are you willing to make a "Read my lips" pledge right here?
I thought I just did.
All right. I'll be checking in with you when these titles actually ship.
[Chuckles] Exactly.
Retrieved from: http://ncroal.talk.newsweek.com/default.asp?item=395614
In the downslope of Orson Welles' career, the actor-writer-director was less known for his seminal films than for his role as a TV pitchman for Paul Masson Vineyards, wherein he would sonorously intone "We will sell no wine before its time." Substitute games for wine, and he could well have been speaking of Nintendo, whose previous consoles have notoriously gone months between significant first-party games. (Google "Nintendo drought" and you'll get more than 190,000 results.) Now comes word from the U.K. gaming site CVG that two highly anticipated Wii titles-Metroid Prime 3: Corruption and Mario Galaxy-won't be released until October 2007 at the earliest.
We have no way of determining the credibility of CVG's report, which it attributes to "reliable sources close to Nintendo." But it reminded us of an interview that we conducted with Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime in October, where he freely made a "Read my lips" pledge that Wii owners would not endure the same software droughts they had on prior Nintendo machines. Here's our exchange on that point:
NEWSWEEK: Let's look at first-party software for a minute. As evidenced by software sales, gamers who purchase Nintendo platforms do so primarily to play Nintendo-developed games. But from the Nintendo 64-era on, Nintendo has a history of repeatedly delaying key titles, creating long droughts between the AAA games for which its fans bought the hardware. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, your flagship title for the Wii, is in fact a long-delayed Gamecube game that has been moved over to the Wii, as has Super Paper Mario. So how can you assure gamers that are considering a Wii--keeping in mind that they've heard such promises before--that they won't endure the same droughts between AAA first-party titles that they suffered on the Nintendo 64 or the Gamecube?
Reggie Fils-Aime: The way I answer that question is with three very real examples. First, Zelda: Twilight Princess, on Wii, is arguably the best game we've ever made. Period. It is fantastic. It's been essentially made, from the core essence of that game, to be perfect for Wii. And yes, while its development started as a Gamecube title, the fact is the Wii version plays fundamentally different. A consumer can buy the Wii version and the Gamecube version and have two fundamentally different experiences. Now certainly, the Gamecube version of Zelda is fantastic. But the Wii version of Zelda is without peer.
The second example I point out is Metroid Prime 3, which is a from-the-ground-up creation of Metroid for the Wii system. That title is going to come out early in 2007. That will give us fantastic momentum coming off of the launch, and will certainly be an example of how there will be no new game drought for this system.
The third example I would give you is Mario Galaxy, another from-the-ground-up Wii game that we are strategically timing the launch to make sure that we continue driving momentum through 2007. So N'Gai, how do I answer the question, "Will there be no drought," and "How will we make sure that there are fantastic titles for Wii?" The answer is Zelda, Metroid and Mario. Which is a pretty darn good lineup.
So are you willing to make a "Read my lips" pledge right here?
I thought I just did.
All right. I'll be checking in with you when these titles actually ship.
[Chuckles] Exactly.
Retrieved from: http://ncroal.talk.newsweek.com/default.asp?item=395614
Wii Games use Weather Channel
If its raining in your region and your playing Madden football it will be raining. Switch your region to a snowy one and it will be snowing.
A nice easter egg for Wii players.
A nice easter egg for Wii players.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Wii Virtual Console Release Info: Rumor
Nintendo Entertainment System
Baseball Nintendo December 18, 2006 E
Tennis Nintendo December 25, 2006 E
Urban Champion Nintendo December 25, 2006 E
Dr. Mario Nintendo January 1, 2007 E
Duck Hunt Nintendo January 8, 2007 E
Excitebike Nintendo January 15, 2007 E
Hogan's Alley Nintendo January 22, 2007 E
Ice Climber Nintendo January 29, 2007 E
Kid Icarus Nintendo February 5, 2007 E
Kirby's Adventure Nintendo February 12, 2007 E
Punch-Out!! Nintendo February 19, 2007 E
Pro Wrestling Nintendo February 26, 2007 E
Super Mario Bros. Nintendo March 5, 2007 E
Super Mario Bros. 2 Nintendo March 12, 2007 E
Wild Gunman Nintendo March 19, 2007 E
Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Donkey Kong Country Rare/Nintendo December 25, 2006 E
Hagane: The Final Conflict Red Entertainment January 1, 2007 E
Kirby Super Star Nintendo January 8, 2007 E
Kirby's Dream Land 3 Nintendo January 15, 2007 E
Pilotwings Nintendo January 22, 2007 E
Street Fighter II:The World Warrior Capcom January 29, 2007 T
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars Squaresoft February 5, 2007 E
Super Mario World Nintendo February 12, 2007 E
Super Metroid Nintendo February 19, 2007 E
Tin Star Software Creations February 26, 2007 E
Uniracers Nintendo March 5, 2007 E
Nintendo 64
AeroFighters Assault Paradigm December 25, 2006 E
Beetle Adventure Racing Paradigm/EA January 8, 2007 E
Mario Kart 64 Nintendo January 25, 2007 E
Mario Party Hudson Soft February 12, 2007 E
Star Fox 64 Nintendo February 26, 2007 E
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Nintendo March 12, 2007 E
Sega Genesis
Space Harrier II Sega December 18, 2006 E
ToeJam & Earl Sega December 25, 2006 E
TurboGrafx-16
Dungeon Explorer Hudson Soft December 25, 2006 E
Military Madness Hudson Soft January 15, 2007 E
R-Type Irem/Hudson Soft February 26, 2007 E
Retrieved from: Play-nintendo.com
Nintendo Wii will be getting a Final Fantasy exclusive
Recently Square-Enix has announced the latest installment of Dragon Quest on the DS and it seems like they are giving Nintendo a tremendous amount of support contrary to last gen. But there is even a bigger game that Square will be releasing on Nintendo's home console the Wii, Final Fantasy. From a Square rep. we have recieved a tip that a Final Fantasy is being developed as I type this out. It won't be a sequal to the latest FF's but rather it will be similar to the DS's FF3 and can be said to be a port/remake. This is great news to all Wii owners!
Retrieved from: Randomnewz.blogspot.com
Wii Virtual Console Game Release 12/18
From Nintendo.com:
Tennis (NES®, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Players slam a serve, fire a blazing backhand and smash a forehand volley on their way to winning the victory cup. Players can choose between five different levels of difficulty, ranging from Beginner all the way up to Advanced. If players want to become true champs, they should be ready to show off their most brilliant lobs and most powerful smashes. Play a singles match or grab a partner for doubles, and then choose an opponent. Players control the moves in tennis action so intense, they'll almost believe they're at center court.
Space Harrier II™ (Sega Genesis, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Fantasyland has been taken over by destructive forces, and a call for help comes from deep in the universe. Space Harrier is quick on the scene, armed with his laser, to defeat wave after wave of destructive forces through 12 thrilling stages, with a dangerous boss waiting at the end of each round.
Military Madness™ (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): Military Madness is a futuristic simulation game that throws the player into the middle of a war on the moon's surface. The rules are simple, making it easy for newcomers to enjoy the thrills of this war-strategy game. Players can see easy-to-understand, detailed instructions from the Title screen. Military Madness is also turn-based, allowing players to devise their strategy before they move. To top it off, the units players have for each stage are already decided, allowing them to concentrate on commanding. Use the terrain and surround enemies to claim victory. Fight through all 16 stages and thwart the enemy's ambitions!
Friday, December 15, 2006
Wii-mote Strap Replacement Program
Nintendo is offering to replace the original version of the wrist straps for the Wii Remote with a newer version. Because Wii consoles shipped starting in early December already utilized the newer version of the strap, you will need to determine which version of the strap you have before ordering a replacement. To view the difference between the original and the new version of the strap, please click here.
If you have an original version of the strap, please complete the form below to get a replacement (also, to ensure you continue to have a fun & safe experience, please read our Safety Information for Playing Wii by clicking here).
Once your replacement wrist strap has shipped, you will receive a confirmation email from Nintendo. We expect to begin shipping replacement straps around December 21st. It will take 5 to 9 days for delivery depending on your location. Please do not contact Nintendo regarding your replacement wrist strap until after that time period has passed.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your interest in our products.
Form can be found here: http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/strapreplace.jsp
If you have an original version of the strap, please complete the form below to get a replacement (also, to ensure you continue to have a fun & safe experience, please read our Safety Information for Playing Wii by clicking here).
Once your replacement wrist strap has shipped, you will receive a confirmation email from Nintendo. We expect to begin shipping replacement straps around December 21st. It will take 5 to 9 days for delivery depending on your location. Please do not contact Nintendo regarding your replacement wrist strap until after that time period has passed.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your interest in our products.
Form can be found here: http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/strapreplace.jsp
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Wii Wireless Sensor Bar
# Uses Wii Standard 3-8 foot ideal range
# Setup and use in seconds with 1 button design
# On / Off switch with Red LED indicator
# 48+ hrs of gameplay battery life
# Adhesive strip on bottom for easy mounting
# Uses 9 Volt battery (extended life)
# Designed, produced, and tested in America!
# No more tripping over the cord!
MSRP: $24.99 + $5.99S&H
Your can order them from here: http://www.wirelesssensorbar.com/
Monday, December 11, 2006
Wii Virtual Console Game Releases: 12/11/06
Dec. 11, 2006
Later today Nintendo will add four new classic games to the popular Wii™ video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The four new titles will be added at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo will add new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Ice Hockey (NES®, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Ice Hockey is hard-hitting, fast-action competition that re-creates all the excitement of the sport from faceoffs to penalty shots. Players pass the puck and shoot to score while using defensive tactics, including fake shots and ice brawls to crush adversaries. It's up to the player to find the best strategy to win the game – finesse or power.
Gunstar Heroes™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): The Gunstar 9 planet was peaceful for many years until the vicious dictator, Colonel Red, kidnapped the Gunstar twins' older brother and used mind control to make him his slave. Players face many different enemies and bosses while battling to stop the dictator from unleashing "Golden Silver the Destructor" with apocalyptic consequences.
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points):
Dr. Robotnik is stamping out music and fun in Mobius with his giant robotizing Mean Bean Steaming Machine. Before he turns all the citizens of Beanville into robots, players must save the day by gathering up beans in matching colors and defeating Robotnik's guards.
Alien Crush™ (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): Alien Crush is a fan-favorite pinball game that features a sinister sci-fi theme. Play through a two-level playing field that comes to life with pulsating alien creatures. Rack up a high enough score, clear the board of these extraterrestrials and discover secret bonus stages. The game features realistic pinball action, complete with a tilt function and two selectable soundtracks. Do you have what it takes to fight back against this alien infestation?
Retrieved from: Nintendo.com
Later today Nintendo will add four new classic games to the popular Wii™ video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The four new titles will be added at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo will add new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Ice Hockey (NES®, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Ice Hockey is hard-hitting, fast-action competition that re-creates all the excitement of the sport from faceoffs to penalty shots. Players pass the puck and shoot to score while using defensive tactics, including fake shots and ice brawls to crush adversaries. It's up to the player to find the best strategy to win the game – finesse or power.
Gunstar Heroes™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): The Gunstar 9 planet was peaceful for many years until the vicious dictator, Colonel Red, kidnapped the Gunstar twins' older brother and used mind control to make him his slave. Players face many different enemies and bosses while battling to stop the dictator from unleashing "Golden Silver the Destructor" with apocalyptic consequences.
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine™ (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points):
Dr. Robotnik is stamping out music and fun in Mobius with his giant robotizing Mean Bean Steaming Machine. Before he turns all the citizens of Beanville into robots, players must save the day by gathering up beans in matching colors and defeating Robotnik's guards.
Alien Crush™ (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): Alien Crush is a fan-favorite pinball game that features a sinister sci-fi theme. Play through a two-level playing field that comes to life with pulsating alien creatures. Rack up a high enough score, clear the board of these extraterrestrials and discover secret bonus stages. The game features realistic pinball action, complete with a tilt function and two selectable soundtracks. Do you have what it takes to fight back against this alien infestation?
Retrieved from: Nintendo.com
Win a Nintendo Wii from Opera
Be a master storyteller using Opera Mini this holiday! We want you to tell us a photo bloggin' story from beginning to end. We've set out some simple ground rules:
* Snap minimum 10-, maximum 20 pictures
* A title for the story is required
* No other text is allowed
* Upload them to your blog
* Post a link to your story here
* Submit your contribution by January 7th, 2007
The winners will then be determined by a community vote in this thread.
Here are the prizes:
1st place: Nintendo Wii
2nd place: Nintendo DS Browser Card
3rd place: Opera goodies (brOwse me t-shirt, Opera Messenger Bag and more)!
Don't have Opera Mini on your phone? Click here to download it.
Good luck!
Retrieved from:
Opera.com
* Snap minimum 10-, maximum 20 pictures
* A title for the story is required
* No other text is allowed
* Upload them to your blog
* Post a link to your story here
* Submit your contribution by January 7th, 2007
The winners will then be determined by a community vote in this thread.
Here are the prizes:
1st place: Nintendo Wii
2nd place: Nintendo DS Browser Card
3rd place: Opera goodies (brOwse me t-shirt, Opera Messenger Bag and more)!
Don't have Opera Mini on your phone? Click here to download it.
Good luck!
Retrieved from:
Opera.com
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Wii will upscale Gamecube games to 480p VIDEO
While we were playing around with the cable we tried loading up a older Gamecube game that supports 480p output in the Wii to see if the Wii would in fact scale the game up to 480p. Watch the video above to see our trial in action. For those of you that can't or don't want to watch the video, the Wii did in fact scale the game up to 480p instead of 480i. When the game was first loaded it asked if we wanted to run it in 480p mode we said yes and the results were positive. There was certainly a difference although not quite as dramatic difference as LoZ: TP has when changing between component and composite but an improvement none-the-less.
Retrieve from: Youtube and Bonafidereviews.com
Saturday, December 9, 2006
Nintendo Retracts 1M Wiis in U.S. Statement
Yesterday Nintendo of America issued a release trumpeting the success of their portables, Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS, which sold 641K and 918K units respectively according to the latest NPD figures. All told, when combining Wii sales, DS sales, GBA sales and GameCube sales, Nintendo sold 2.1 million of the 3.9 million video game systems sold in the U.S. during November, capturing 55 percent of the market.
Interestingly, if a recent press release correction is any indication, Nintendo may not be as sure that they will sell one million Wiis in the U.S. in 2006 as previously thought. The Wii sold at a rate of more than 70,000 a day for the seven days represented in NPD's November data, and Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime has said that Nintendo would have one million Wiis in the U.S. in early December, with two million shipped by mid-January.
Today, however, Nintendo of America alerted the media that its statement from yesterday which read, "Despite spot shortages in some locations, well more than a million Wii systems will be available in the United States by the end of the year," has been retracted and should be ignored.
So what does this mean? Nintendo did not say why that statement should be disregarded, but one can only assume that either they are having more difficulty with manufacturing than they let on, or perhaps more likely, they are sufficiently satisfied with the U.S. launch numbers and want to divert some of the shipments to Japan and Europe, which haven't been allocated quite as many systems (especially Europe).
Retrieved from: Gamedaily.com
Interestingly, if a recent press release correction is any indication, Nintendo may not be as sure that they will sell one million Wiis in the U.S. in 2006 as previously thought. The Wii sold at a rate of more than 70,000 a day for the seven days represented in NPD's November data, and Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime has said that Nintendo would have one million Wiis in the U.S. in early December, with two million shipped by mid-January.
Today, however, Nintendo of America alerted the media that its statement from yesterday which read, "Despite spot shortages in some locations, well more than a million Wii systems will be available in the United States by the end of the year," has been retracted and should be ignored.
So what does this mean? Nintendo did not say why that statement should be disregarded, but one can only assume that either they are having more difficulty with manufacturing than they let on, or perhaps more likely, they are sufficiently satisfied with the U.S. launch numbers and want to divert some of the shipments to Japan and Europe, which haven't been allocated quite as many systems (especially Europe).
Retrieved from: Gamedaily.com
Friday, December 8, 2006
Thursday, December 7, 2006
Four Virtual Console Games Tomorrow
According to a Nintendo press release, four new Virtual Console games will be released tomorrow at 9 a.m. Pacific Time. The games include the following:
Donkey Kong Jr.
1-2 players, 500 Wii Points
Based on the popular arcade game in the 1980s, Donkey Kong Jr. is the sequel to Donkey Kong. Players play as Junior, Donkey Kong's son, to rescue his imprisoned father from Mario. Using vines and chains, players gather keys to open up the imprisoned ape.
Victory Run
1 player, 600 Wii Points
Based on the TurboGrafx16 game, Victory Run is a rally racing game, made up of eight tracks across the world. The game offers upgradeable parts such as tires, gears, engines, suspensions and brakes. Driving on rough courses and hitting obstacles will cause damage to individual parts.
Columns
1-2 players, 800 Wii Points
Based on the Sega Genesis title, Columns is set similar to Tetris but with three same-colored blocks needed to be aligned rather than full rows. Sets of multicolored gems drop from the top of the screen and can be rearranged with the press of a button.
Ristar
1 player, 800 Wii Points
Based on the Sega Genesis title, Ristar is an adventure game set in the Valdi System of outer space, comprised of seven planets. Ristar uses extendable arms to combat Greedy, a space pirate.
According to Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime, the Virtual Console will be updated with anywhere from one to five titles every Monday, with ten titles to appear every month beginning January 2007.
Retrieved from: Thewiire.com
Donkey Kong Jr.
1-2 players, 500 Wii Points
Based on the popular arcade game in the 1980s, Donkey Kong Jr. is the sequel to Donkey Kong. Players play as Junior, Donkey Kong's son, to rescue his imprisoned father from Mario. Using vines and chains, players gather keys to open up the imprisoned ape.
Victory Run
1 player, 600 Wii Points
Based on the TurboGrafx16 game, Victory Run is a rally racing game, made up of eight tracks across the world. The game offers upgradeable parts such as tires, gears, engines, suspensions and brakes. Driving on rough courses and hitting obstacles will cause damage to individual parts.
Columns
1-2 players, 800 Wii Points
Based on the Sega Genesis title, Columns is set similar to Tetris but with three same-colored blocks needed to be aligned rather than full rows. Sets of multicolored gems drop from the top of the screen and can be rearranged with the press of a button.
Ristar
1 player, 800 Wii Points
Based on the Sega Genesis title, Ristar is an adventure game set in the Valdi System of outer space, comprised of seven planets. Ristar uses extendable arms to combat Greedy, a space pirate.
According to Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime, the Virtual Console will be updated with anywhere from one to five titles every Monday, with ten titles to appear every month beginning January 2007.
Retrieved from: Thewiire.com
Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
Wii Wiikly Newsletter
Get Wiikly Sent Directly To Your Wii
The Wiikly newsletter contains Wii-related news, release announcements, photos for doodling on in your photo channel, and a lot more. Sign up just so you can come home and see your Wii disc slot glowing blue! :) Add Wiikly@gmail.com to your Wii address book to sign up.
Retrieved from: http://www.wiikly.net/
Wii Virtual Console Notification
To be able to receive notifications of new Virtual Console games on the Wii Console, simply add vc@darkain.com to your Address Book.
Notes:
* It may take upwards on an hour for the initial approval notification message
* Currently for US shop channel only
Notes:
* It may take upwards on an hour for the initial approval notification message
* Currently for US shop channel only
Wii runs GameCube homebrew
Using a variety of exploits, the homebrew community has finally struck gold and figured out how to get it all going on the Wii. With a SD card, Action Replay for the GameCube and SD card adapter for the GameCube, one can plug in their card into a computer, use some of that homebrew magic and get GameCube homebrew running on the console. Of course, this could very well be a problem for Nintendo if folks use this exploit to run emulators (they will and, more than likely, are), bypassing the Virtual Console to play any ROM they wish.
Retrieved from: Nintendowiifanboy.com
Wii-mote as a bluetooth mouse
A video showing someone using the Wii-mote as a mouse on a laptop. Some veiwers have indicated that you could also script it to go faster/slower, or for the lights to be on/off or do nothing.
A link to more details of original poster: LiquidIce's Nintendo Wii Hacks
Sunday, December 3, 2006
Wii Sports Codes
Change bowling ball color
As The screen is fading to black for bowling, hold down the control pad until it fades to bowling for these colors:
Code Effect
Control Pad Up Blue Ball
Control Pad Right Gold Ball
Control Pad Down Green Ball
Control Pad Left Red Ball
Contributed By: zeldafreak104
Change the tennis court
To change the tennis court to the blue practice court, press and hold (2) at the warning screen that shows after selecting characters.
Contributed By: MrJonson
Play Golf without maps or meters
To disable the power meter, map, and the wind speed indicator, press and hold (2), then make a selection at the "Select a Course" screen.
Contributed By: MrJonson
Unlockables
Getting pro in either tennis or boxing
If you get pro, which is over 1000 points, then in either sport, the reward is a bigger audience, and all of your Miis that aren't being played get put into the audience. If you make a bunch of random Miis, they will all be there.
Contributed By: Sgt_Raymo
Special Bowling Ball
Get to pro level to unlock a bowling ball with diamond designs on it.
Contributed By: Linkburger
Easter Eggs
Scare Crowd in Bowling
To scare the crowd while bowling, start the regular motion for bowling and let go on the backswing. The ball will fly backwards and the crowd will scream and jump.
Contributed By: Jghake
Glitches
Knock down other players pins in bowling
(This is best done on 2 player mode but I hear its possible by yourself)
In bowling, if you aim your arrow to the very end of the lane, then move your character to the end aswell, you can throw the ball onto the other players lane, most likly it will go in their gutter, but if your talented enough, you can get it to knock down their pins. This even coiunts on your score!
Contributed By: DarkRyou
91 Pin Strike in Power Bowling Training
To get an automatic 91 pin strike in the last round of Power Bowling, Throw the ball on the right or left rail (depending on if you are right or left handed) so that it stays on it the whole time. If it reaches the end without falling off, you will hear a "click" and an explosion. Then all the pins will fall down from the shockwave. NOTE: This only works on the last round.
Contributed By: Mingy Jongo
Pitch Underhand
While pitching, press 2 before throwing. To return to normal pitching press 1
Contributed By: eagle905
Retrieved from: Gamefaqs.com
As The screen is fading to black for bowling, hold down the control pad until it fades to bowling for these colors:
Code Effect
Control Pad Up Blue Ball
Control Pad Right Gold Ball
Control Pad Down Green Ball
Control Pad Left Red Ball
Contributed By: zeldafreak104
Change the tennis court
To change the tennis court to the blue practice court, press and hold (2) at the warning screen that shows after selecting characters.
Contributed By: MrJonson
Play Golf without maps or meters
To disable the power meter, map, and the wind speed indicator, press and hold (2), then make a selection at the "Select a Course" screen.
Contributed By: MrJonson
Unlockables
Getting pro in either tennis or boxing
If you get pro, which is over 1000 points, then in either sport, the reward is a bigger audience, and all of your Miis that aren't being played get put into the audience. If you make a bunch of random Miis, they will all be there.
Contributed By: Sgt_Raymo
Special Bowling Ball
Get to pro level to unlock a bowling ball with diamond designs on it.
Contributed By: Linkburger
Easter Eggs
Scare Crowd in Bowling
To scare the crowd while bowling, start the regular motion for bowling and let go on the backswing. The ball will fly backwards and the crowd will scream and jump.
Contributed By: Jghake
Glitches
Knock down other players pins in bowling
(This is best done on 2 player mode but I hear its possible by yourself)
In bowling, if you aim your arrow to the very end of the lane, then move your character to the end aswell, you can throw the ball onto the other players lane, most likly it will go in their gutter, but if your talented enough, you can get it to knock down their pins. This even coiunts on your score!
Contributed By: DarkRyou
91 Pin Strike in Power Bowling Training
To get an automatic 91 pin strike in the last round of Power Bowling, Throw the ball on the right or left rail (depending on if you are right or left handed) so that it stays on it the whole time. If it reaches the end without falling off, you will hear a "click" and an explosion. Then all the pins will fall down from the shockwave. NOTE: This only works on the last round.
Contributed By: Mingy Jongo
Pitch Underhand
While pitching, press 2 before throwing. To return to normal pitching press 1
Contributed By: eagle905
Retrieved from: Gamefaqs.com
Friday, December 1, 2006
No Mario Galaxy until Christmas 2007?
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has said that North American gamers can expect Mario's first Wii adventure, Super Mario Galaxy in shops between the end of March and next Christmas, in an interview with MTV.com.
The Nintendo boss also revealed when we can expect the next "meaty adventure" game for Wii Metroid Prime: Corruption, which will apparently arrive with the next batch of big releases following WarioWare: Smooth Moves and Wii Play in January, and Mario Party 8 in March.
In the interview Reggie also commented on Nintendo's plans for Virtual Console releases, explaining that "on every Monday, you can expect between one and five titles... essentially on an ongoing basis," So at the very least we'll have one Mario game to play before next Christmas, old or new.
Credit: Mtv.com
Retrieved from: Computerandvideogames.com
The Nintendo boss also revealed when we can expect the next "meaty adventure" game for Wii Metroid Prime: Corruption, which will apparently arrive with the next batch of big releases following WarioWare: Smooth Moves and Wii Play in January, and Mario Party 8 in March.
In the interview Reggie also commented on Nintendo's plans for Virtual Console releases, explaining that "on every Monday, you can expect between one and five titles... essentially on an ongoing basis," So at the very least we'll have one Mario game to play before next Christmas, old or new.
Credit: Mtv.com
Retrieved from: Computerandvideogames.com
Wii Boxing Moves List
I saw that there really hasn't been any general consensus on the movements necessary to use the different moves in Wii Boxing. Well, my roommate and I sat at a victory screen for about an hour so we could have unlimited time to figure out the various attacks. Here's what we got out of it. This is by no means a complete job. If anyone finds something wrong with a move, or can't get it to work consistently, or has a better way of doing it, please share. If I publish the FAQ, I will make ABSOLUTELY SURE you get credit for it. So, here's what I have so far:
High Guard: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck vertically, then tilt both controllers inward toward your body to cover face.
Mid Guard: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck parallel to ground, then tilt both controllers inward if still not covering center of body.
Left Dodge: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck vertically, then tilt both controllers to your left.
Right Dodge: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck vertically, then tilt both controllers to your right.
Right High Jab: Hold Wiimote vertically, with controls facing yourself, and jerk it forward with the wrist. Helps to keep arm stationary, and just let the Wiimote fall forward.
Right Mid Jab: Hold Wiimote parallel to ground, and jerk downward. Again, keep arm stationary and just push Wiimote downward with wrist.
Right High Hook: Hold Wiimote vertically, with controls facing yourself, and rotate it quickly to the left, as in this (please forgive my ASCII art):
BEFORE:
____
| D |
| A |
| 1 |
| 2 |
AFTER:
___________
|D A 1 2|
Right Uppercut: Hold Wiimote parallel to ground, and then jerk upward. It's the exact opposite movement from the Right Mid Jab.
Right Low Hook: Hold Wiimote parallel to ground, but turn it 90 degrees COUNTER-CLOCKWISE so that the face of the Wiimote is looking out to your left, then jerk it in the direction of the face of the controller. It's exactly like the right uppercut, except the entire motion is rotated to the left 90 degrees.
Left High Jab: Hold Nunchuck up vertically so that the analog stick is facing you, and then jerk it forward. Just like Right High Jab.
Left Mid Jab: Hold Nunchuck parallel to ground, and jerk it downward. Just like the Right Mid Jab.
Left Uppercut: Hold Nunchuck parallel to ground, and jerk it upward. Just like Right Uppercut
Left Hook: Hold Nunchuck parallel to ground, but turn it 90 degrees CLOCKWISE so that the face of the controller is looking out to your right, then jerk it in direction of the face of controller. Basically just like the Right Mid Hook.
I honestly haven't been able to find a real way of doing a Left High Hook, and really haven't seen one, honestly.
I've also noticed that some sequences of punches come out more quickly than others - I'd also like to include these special combos in the FAQ as well. However, I don't have enough info for that portion, yet. That's where your input would be very welcome! Actually, input is the reason why I'm posting this. I'd like you to tell me whether these moves work for you as well. If we can get a consensus on this, then I can began building the actual document itself, detailing combos and strategies and such. Also, if any of you have better ASCII skills than me (which is to say, all of you), and are willing to lend a hand, ASCII drawings of these movements would be invaluable to someone trying to learn the moves. So, just throwing that out there.
Credit to: CrimsonMemory
High Guard: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck vertically, then tilt both controllers inward toward your body to cover face.
Mid Guard: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck parallel to ground, then tilt both controllers inward if still not covering center of body.
Left Dodge: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck vertically, then tilt both controllers to your left.
Right Dodge: Hold Wiimote and Nunchuck vertically, then tilt both controllers to your right.
Right High Jab: Hold Wiimote vertically, with controls facing yourself, and jerk it forward with the wrist. Helps to keep arm stationary, and just let the Wiimote fall forward.
Right Mid Jab: Hold Wiimote parallel to ground, and jerk downward. Again, keep arm stationary and just push Wiimote downward with wrist.
Right High Hook: Hold Wiimote vertically, with controls facing yourself, and rotate it quickly to the left, as in this (please forgive my ASCII art):
BEFORE:
____
| D |
| A |
| 1 |
| 2 |
AFTER:
___________
|D A 1 2|
Right Uppercut: Hold Wiimote parallel to ground, and then jerk upward. It's the exact opposite movement from the Right Mid Jab.
Right Low Hook: Hold Wiimote parallel to ground, but turn it 90 degrees COUNTER-CLOCKWISE so that the face of the Wiimote is looking out to your left, then jerk it in the direction of the face of the controller. It's exactly like the right uppercut, except the entire motion is rotated to the left 90 degrees.
Left High Jab: Hold Nunchuck up vertically so that the analog stick is facing you, and then jerk it forward. Just like Right High Jab.
Left Mid Jab: Hold Nunchuck parallel to ground, and jerk it downward. Just like the Right Mid Jab.
Left Uppercut: Hold Nunchuck parallel to ground, and jerk it upward. Just like Right Uppercut
Left Hook: Hold Nunchuck parallel to ground, but turn it 90 degrees CLOCKWISE so that the face of the controller is looking out to your right, then jerk it in direction of the face of controller. Basically just like the Right Mid Hook.
I honestly haven't been able to find a real way of doing a Left High Hook, and really haven't seen one, honestly.
I've also noticed that some sequences of punches come out more quickly than others - I'd also like to include these special combos in the FAQ as well. However, I don't have enough info for that portion, yet. That's where your input would be very welcome! Actually, input is the reason why I'm posting this. I'd like you to tell me whether these moves work for you as well. If we can get a consensus on this, then I can began building the actual document itself, detailing combos and strategies and such. Also, if any of you have better ASCII skills than me (which is to say, all of you), and are willing to lend a hand, ASCII drawings of these movements would be invaluable to someone trying to learn the moves. So, just throwing that out there.
Credit to: CrimsonMemory
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Rumor: More Wiis and PS3s Hitting Retail Sunday?
We got two separate tips today from our retail chain connection, both with info on forthcoming Wii and PlayStation 3 shipments. First, let's check in with our Circuit City pals:
Also, every Circuit will be getting 5-40 PS3's across this week (before 12/1) and next week (between 12/1 and 12/6). My store is getting 26 across both weeks, which is once again above the average. The PS3's will be both 20 and 60 GB models. Mostly 60 GB's at roughly a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio. The PS3's are supposed to be sold upon receipt, so people might want to check their local store's truck schedule.
Sounds dangerously promising! But what about elsewhere?
Our Target retail spy had this to say:
Since we can't verify this with 100% accuracy (or the blog standard 89% accuracy), we'll call this info "rumor" for now.
Now I'm giving you this information out of the kindness of my heart, dear reader. But if I show up at the Sunset Boulevard Circuit City on Sunday and come out sans Wii or PS3, I'm going to tear every one of you a new one. I'm not sure yet what fresh orifice it is I'll be tearing, but you probably won't like it.
Retrieved from: Kotaku.com
I work at Circuit City and we're supposed to be doing a company wide re-launch of the Wii on Sunday, December 3rd. My store is getting 54 units, which is slightly above the average of 40 or so, and every Circuit is getting between 15 and 132 consoles.
Also, every Circuit will be getting 5-40 PS3's across this week (before 12/1) and next week (between 12/1 and 12/6). My store is getting 26 across both weeks, which is once again above the average. The PS3's will be both 20 and 60 GB models. Mostly 60 GB's at roughly a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio. The PS3's are supposed to be sold upon receipt, so people might want to check their local store's truck schedule.
Sounds dangerously promising! But what about elsewhere?
Our Target retail spy had this to say:
You guys shouldn't have a problem getting a Wii on sunday. Target has gotten about 50 each for Sunday. Most stores have sold them early, but if the stores where you guys are haven't you should be fine.
Since we can't verify this with 100% accuracy (or the blog standard 89% accuracy), we'll call this info "rumor" for now.
Now I'm giving you this information out of the kindness of my heart, dear reader. But if I show up at the Sunset Boulevard Circuit City on Sunday and come out sans Wii or PS3, I'm going to tear every one of you a new one. I'm not sure yet what fresh orifice it is I'll be tearing, but you probably won't like it.
Retrieved from: Kotaku.com
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
NES and SNES Controller Adapters for Nintendo Wii
Check it out here: http://www.retrousb.com/wii.html
o Authenticity of original controllers with the simpilicity of Wii
o Plugs directly into the GameCube ports
o No drivers to install or update
o Use with any Virtual Console or GameCube game
Shipping Jan 2007: Add a NES port to your Wii! Use your finger memory and your own NES controller to play Virtual Console games. Authentic gameplay unmatched with other controllers. Get 2 or more RetroPorts to play multiplayer games with friends. Plugs directly into the GameCube ports on your Wii.
Shipping Q1 2007: Add a SNES port to your Wii! Use your own SNES controller to play Virtual Console games the way it was originally designed. Authentic gameplay unmatched with other controllers. Get 2 or more RetroPorts to play multiplayer games with friends.
o Authenticity of original controllers with the simpilicity of Wii
o Plugs directly into the GameCube ports
o No drivers to install or update
o Use with any Virtual Console or GameCube game
Shipping Jan 2007: Add a NES port to your Wii! Use your finger memory and your own NES controller to play Virtual Console games. Authentic gameplay unmatched with other controllers. Get 2 or more RetroPorts to play multiplayer games with friends. Plugs directly into the GameCube ports on your Wii.
Shipping Q1 2007: Add a SNES port to your Wii! Use your own SNES controller to play Virtual Console games the way it was originally designed. Authentic gameplay unmatched with other controllers. Get 2 or more RetroPorts to play multiplayer games with friends.
Nintento to sell 4 million Wii units before end of the year
Nintendo Co. Ltd. is on track to meet its target of selling 4 million units of its Wii game console globally by the end of the year, with the potential for exceeding that goal limited only by manufacturing constraints, Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime said on Wednesday.
"All systems are go for reaching the 4-million target we have in our financials by December 31," he said at the Reuters Media Summit in New York. "We will sell everything we make so now it's simply a manufacturing thing."
Retrieved from: Reuters.com
"All systems are go for reaching the 4-million target we have in our financials by December 31," he said at the Reuters Media Summit in New York. "We will sell everything we make so now it's simply a manufacturing thing."
Retrieved from: Reuters.com
Nintendo wants GoldenEye back
MTV's Stephen Totilo recently grilled Nintendo's Reggie Fils-Aime about all things Wii. When questioned, the NoA president didn't hold back his desire to see GoldenEye returned to Nintendo's platform, revealing to Totilo, "Suffice it to say we would love to see [GoldenEye on Virtual Console], so we're exploring all the rights issues."
So how far is Nintendo willing to "explore"? If GoldenEye is to enjoy its homecoming, royalties could certainly be owed to Microsoft, which now owns developer Rare, and Activision, which scooped up the Bond license earlier this year. Judging by Reggie's comments -- "the pain is worth the gain" -- Nintendo may be willing to cut those checks.
Virtual Console Adds Three
November 28, 2006 - Last night, Super Star Soldier, a Hudson Soft Turbografx-16 shooter, was made available for download on the Virtual Console. Two more titles were added this afternoon. Ecco the Dolphin and the original Golden Axe, classic Sega Genesis action games, are now available.
Downloading Super Star Soldier costs 600 Wii Points (US$6). The Genesis titles run a bit higher at 800 Wii Points (US$8) each.
While we love the idea of the Virtual Console, it should be noted that for 20 bucks you can get the Sega Genesis Collection on PS2. The recently released budget title includes 32 Sega games. Of course, you can't play these on your Wii. Therein lies the rub.
New Virtual Console titles are expected each Monday with roughly 30 total titles being made available by the end of this year.
Retrieved from: Wii.ign.com
Downloading Super Star Soldier costs 600 Wii Points (US$6). The Genesis titles run a bit higher at 800 Wii Points (US$8) each.
While we love the idea of the Virtual Console, it should be noted that for 20 bucks you can get the Sega Genesis Collection on PS2. The recently released budget title includes 32 Sega games. Of course, you can't play these on your Wii. Therein lies the rub.
New Virtual Console titles are expected each Monday with roughly 30 total titles being made available by the end of this year.
Retrieved from: Wii.ign.com
Monday, November 27, 2006
Wii Skins
To show our love for the Wii, we developed exceptional Wii skins, with maximum coverage and a precision fit to avoid huge gaps between panels. Our premium thin materials cover both sides of the console, so it's gorgeous in or out of the stand.
More Wii Skins found here: www.decalgirl.com
Wii Sells 600,000 in one week!
Retrieved from: www.videogamesblogger.com
Nintendo’s new Wii video game system sold through to more than 600,000 consumers in the Americas in just its first eight days of availability. That’s a rate of nearly one per second continuously since the November 19 launch.
Including just first-party software and accessory sales, Wii instantly has become a $190 million business in the Americas.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, a favorite of avid gamers, already has achieved sales of more than 454,000 units in the Americas, representing more than 75 percent of all hardware purchasers.
“Even with sales already in excess of 600,000 units, demand continues to exceed supply, as it’s clear this is one of the ‘gotta-have’ products for the holiday season,” says Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. “We’ve shipped retailers several times the amount of hardware the other company was able to deliver for its launch around the same time — and we still sold out.
Given the inclusive nature of Wii game play, we’re seeing this new form of video gaming is already a huge hit with gamers and newcomers alike. It continues to be a phenomenal launch.”
During the Thanksgiving holiday shopping weekend, there was plenty of conversation across the nation about the high demand for the Wii system, with the acknowledgment that if you see one, you’d better buy it.
The system also is succeeding in its stated mission of reinvigorating current players, while attracting new ones. Every Wii system includes the five-game Wii Sports software, which is the talk of the Internet, featuring countless reports on how previously devout non-gamers have suddenly been converted via the amazing new way games are experienced using the system’s remarkable controller. At the same time, the masterful
Licensees, pleased not only with the sales performance of the Wii, but also its creative development capabilities, are publicly sharing their comments:
“Madden NFL 07 is a great example of how the Wii gives players a whole new experience on their favorite games,” says EA Studio President Paul Lee. “EA’s creative teams are working to build more Wii features into some of our most popular franchises.”
“The creativity we’ve been able to unleash on the Wii system with our game Red Steel has been eye-opening for our development teams,” explains Ubisoft President Laurent Detoc. “Having the opportunity to design and develop entirely new game-play experiences using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk is both exciting and rewarding.”
Classic games also are proving to be a hit on Wii, which offers downloadable access to 20 years of the best of Nintendo, Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx16 hits via the system’s Virtual Console feature.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Wii Component Cable
Retrieved from Engadget
Those HDTV owners lucky enough to have a Wii may well know the sting of the Wii component cable shortage; with the ~$2 part (cost, not retail) fetching upwards of $100 on eBay, we think Blaze may have just saved the day with its $6.71 3rd party Wii component cables. Unfortunately even those are on backorder until this Thurdsay, the 30th, and even then you have to buy it from the same totally unimpeachable operation that brought you the Wii glove. So either way it looks like your ass is going to be rocking the 480i until further notice.
Those HDTV owners lucky enough to have a Wii may well know the sting of the Wii component cable shortage; with the ~$2 part (cost, not retail) fetching upwards of $100 on eBay, we think Blaze may have just saved the day with its $6.71 3rd party Wii component cables. Unfortunately even those are on backorder until this Thurdsay, the 30th, and even then you have to buy it from the same totally unimpeachable operation that brought you the Wii glove. So either way it looks like your ass is going to be rocking the 480i until further notice.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Wii FAQ
FAQ From: Engadget.com
# How loud is the Wii?
We'd say of the next gen consoles, the order of loudness goes: Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360. Though that's not necessarily fair since the Wii and the PS3 are both pretty much completely silent from more than a foot away. To put it in perspective, the only console we can tell whether it was left on is the Xbox.
# Can you connect and play media from a USB hard drive?
Our USB drive turns on when we plug it in -- it's obviously USB -- but nothing happens. Right now there's no support for USB storage, including playback of photos, music, or movies, nor saving channels or games to the device. Bummer.
# Is it possible to attach an external keyboard, mouse, etc. to the USB ports on the back of the Wii?
Yeah, you can attach them, but they don't actually do anything. Kind of a bummer, too, since using that on-screen keyboard of theirs is kind of a pain -- we often aim off our letter when pressing the A button to type.
# Does the Wii upconvert non-Wii games?
If you've got the component cables you can "upscale" old games to 480p / EDTV. Not that it's going to look any better, but the display doesn't change back 480i or anything.
# Which audio / video / image formats work with the Wii?
The manual states it works only with JPEG images, MP3 audio, and motion JPEG movies. We found it worked with all of the above, and unfortunately nothing but. We tested pretty much everything, including BMP, GIF, TIF, PSD, and PNG images; OGG, AAC, AAC lossless, WMA, WMA lossless, MP3, FLAC, AIF, and WAV audio; and XviD, WMA, H.264, and every other variety of movie could think of to throw at it.
# When you insert an SD card into Wii with photos and videos on, do they need to be converted to display/save onto Wii?
Nope, but it does only read JPEG, MP3, and motion JPEG (MOV) files.
# What are the load times for the games?
Nothing at all unusual for a disc-based console. Considering it's loading less data than the PS3 or Xbox 360, we might've liked to see those load times shaved down a bit. But it's nothing unreasonable, and doesn't clock into the minutes territory.
# Is the sensor bar setup tough (does it require a level or anything like that)?
Not at all. Just rest it on top of or below your TV. If it keeps falling off (like ours did) you can use the double-sided tape on the bottom and stick it into place.
# How does the Wii work on a smaller TV?
Very well; we hooked it up to the smallest TV we could possibly find, a 13-incher, and even put the sensor bar way off to the side and it worked beautifully.
# Is it hard to aim on the smaller TV?
Not at all. It's like playing any games on a smaller screen: you're never going to be able to pick up the same level of detail and accuracy as on a larger display, but it still works great.
# How decent is the callibration for the Wii?
Very decent, and extremely easy. In fact, there's no calibration at all, just put the sensor bar on or below your TV, set the option for its location, and you're off.
# Is the sensor bar really that distracting?
Huh? Not really, it's pretty benign; we didn't even notice it. You might pay more attention to it if it's mounted on a wall (if you're using a projector), but it's very low profile and unobtrusive.
# What happens if you put a disc in upside down?
Nothing in the channel page; in the Disc channel, however, you get a simple cannot read disc error message. Our discs came out fine and unscratched.
# In the unboxing video, what were those "decals" plastic things?
That's actually a sensor bar stand and a clear Wii stand support.
# How long do the Wii batteries last? Are they rechargeable? Nunchuck change the battery life much?
They just take AA batteries, so your mileage may vary. They're not rechargeable out of the box, and the nunchuck feeds off the Wiimote's power. We've been playing for a week or more now on the stock batteries with no problems, but who knows if they'll die today, tomorrow, or two months from now.
# What does the Sync button do?
It allows you to sync wireless peripherals (Wiimote, etc.) to your system, like an Xbox 360. Nothing more or less.
# Is the Wii controller REALLY Bluetooth-compliant, or is it simply RF? What happens if you try to pair it with a Bluetooth 2.0EDR capable PC?
It is indeed. And unlike the PS3, since it has that sync button you can make it go into discoverable mode. We tried and found the Wiimote, but we were unable to pair with the device. For those curious, its Bluetooth device name was Nintendo RVL-CNT-01 -- different from its official model number RVL-003.
# How loud is the Wii?
We'd say of the next gen consoles, the order of loudness goes: Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360. Though that's not necessarily fair since the Wii and the PS3 are both pretty much completely silent from more than a foot away. To put it in perspective, the only console we can tell whether it was left on is the Xbox.
# Can you connect and play media from a USB hard drive?
Our USB drive turns on when we plug it in -- it's obviously USB -- but nothing happens. Right now there's no support for USB storage, including playback of photos, music, or movies, nor saving channels or games to the device. Bummer.
# Is it possible to attach an external keyboard, mouse, etc. to the USB ports on the back of the Wii?
Yeah, you can attach them, but they don't actually do anything. Kind of a bummer, too, since using that on-screen keyboard of theirs is kind of a pain -- we often aim off our letter when pressing the A button to type.
# Does the Wii upconvert non-Wii games?
If you've got the component cables you can "upscale" old games to 480p / EDTV. Not that it's going to look any better, but the display doesn't change back 480i or anything.
# Which audio / video / image formats work with the Wii?
The manual states it works only with JPEG images, MP3 audio, and motion JPEG movies. We found it worked with all of the above, and unfortunately nothing but. We tested pretty much everything, including BMP, GIF, TIF, PSD, and PNG images; OGG, AAC, AAC lossless, WMA, WMA lossless, MP3, FLAC, AIF, and WAV audio; and XviD, WMA, H.264, and every other variety of movie could think of to throw at it.
# When you insert an SD card into Wii with photos and videos on, do they need to be converted to display/save onto Wii?
Nope, but it does only read JPEG, MP3, and motion JPEG (MOV) files.
# What are the load times for the games?
Nothing at all unusual for a disc-based console. Considering it's loading less data than the PS3 or Xbox 360, we might've liked to see those load times shaved down a bit. But it's nothing unreasonable, and doesn't clock into the minutes territory.
# Is the sensor bar setup tough (does it require a level or anything like that)?
Not at all. Just rest it on top of or below your TV. If it keeps falling off (like ours did) you can use the double-sided tape on the bottom and stick it into place.
# How does the Wii work on a smaller TV?
Very well; we hooked it up to the smallest TV we could possibly find, a 13-incher, and even put the sensor bar way off to the side and it worked beautifully.
# Is it hard to aim on the smaller TV?
Not at all. It's like playing any games on a smaller screen: you're never going to be able to pick up the same level of detail and accuracy as on a larger display, but it still works great.
# How decent is the callibration for the Wii?
Very decent, and extremely easy. In fact, there's no calibration at all, just put the sensor bar on or below your TV, set the option for its location, and you're off.
# Is the sensor bar really that distracting?
Huh? Not really, it's pretty benign; we didn't even notice it. You might pay more attention to it if it's mounted on a wall (if you're using a projector), but it's very low profile and unobtrusive.
# What happens if you put a disc in upside down?
Nothing in the channel page; in the Disc channel, however, you get a simple cannot read disc error message. Our discs came out fine and unscratched.
# In the unboxing video, what were those "decals" plastic things?
That's actually a sensor bar stand and a clear Wii stand support.
# How long do the Wii batteries last? Are they rechargeable? Nunchuck change the battery life much?
They just take AA batteries, so your mileage may vary. They're not rechargeable out of the box, and the nunchuck feeds off the Wiimote's power. We've been playing for a week or more now on the stock batteries with no problems, but who knows if they'll die today, tomorrow, or two months from now.
# What does the Sync button do?
It allows you to sync wireless peripherals (Wiimote, etc.) to your system, like an Xbox 360. Nothing more or less.
# Is the Wii controller REALLY Bluetooth-compliant, or is it simply RF? What happens if you try to pair it with a Bluetooth 2.0EDR capable PC?
It is indeed. And unlike the PS3, since it has that sync button you can make it go into discoverable mode. We tried and found the Wiimote, but we were unable to pair with the device. For those curious, its Bluetooth device name was Nintendo RVL-CNT-01 -- different from its official model number RVL-003.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Wii Launch NYC: 5,000 Wiis in Times Square
From: Gizmodo
We're here in either one of the best or one of the worst places on the planet, depending on your perspective—Times Square in NYC. The Wii launch party is set to start in about 3 hours, and by my estimation there are at least 1,000 people lined up. Word on the line is that there are 5,000 Wiis inside the store waiting to be snatched up, so there should be a lot less violence and bloodshed come midnight compared to what we saw earlier this week with the PS3 frenzy. Check
back for more reports from this agoraphobics nightmare throughout the
evening.
More NYC mayhem after the jump.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Wii Component Cable Info
The Wii Component Video Cable allows you to hook your Wii console system to a high-definition TV (HDTV) or enhanced-definition TV (EDTV) to view 480p progressive output. 480p progressive output displays at a higher resolution than standard 480i resolution. Please check Wii software packaging to see if the game can be viewed with 480p progressive output.
Please note that your TV must be a high-definition TV (HDTV) or enhanced-definition TV (EDTV) to view 480p output. You will also be required to change your Wii settings from Standard TV (480i) to EDTV/HDTV to view 480p. Check page 44 in your Wii console system 'Channels & Settings' manual.
You cannot see Wii progressive display output when the Wii console system is hooked to a TV using any other kind of cable.
Retrieved from: http://store.nintendo.com
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
WIISEEKER finds Stores and release numbers
So you want to find the best store around you to pick up a Nintendo Wii this weekend? Well with this website you don't need to go from Wal-mart to Target to Best Buy to others stores frantically in search of the smallest lines - all you need to do is type in your zip code, and it pulls up all the stores in your area, and the exact number of Wiis they have in inventory. I've already mapped out my Saturday night, Sunday morning of line waiting for Wii, hurry up and make your plans.
Wii: The Total Story
Full article at: Wii.ign.com
Full technical specifications, price, release date, and much more.
Introducing Nintendo Wii...
Nintendo's new generation console, which was formerly codenamed Revolution, is now simply named Wii. For the record, it's pronounced like "we," despite the different and deliberately odd spelling. Nintendo announced the official name of Wii on April 27, 2006. The announcement can be read by clicking right here. The official Wii announcement trailer can be downloaded right here.
The Wii brand is designed to accentuate the console's unique controller (as represented by the 'ii' in the title) and its ability to bring gamers of all types together, hence the name "we."
The Wii system is the fruit of a new Nintendo philosophy that is determined to emphasize original and fresh gameplay endeavors over dramatically enhanced graphic presentations. Whereas both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 are designed from the ground up to deliver more detailed, high-definition graphics, Wii's biggest innovation lies with a potentially revolutionary new controller and not raw horsepower. It is this controller, dubbed the Wii remote (or Wii-mote for short), which truly distinguishes the Big N's new platform from its competitors.
Technical Breakdown
The Wii system has been designed to be "small, quiet and affordable," according to Nintendo. The machine, available at launch in glossy white, is just 8.5 inches long, 6 inches wide and less than two inches thick (the exact dimensions are 157mm x 215.4mm x 44mm.) The Big N is fond of comparing the system to the size of roughly three stacked DVDs. Wii can be placed horizontally or vertically. The console is roughly twice as powerful as a GameCube, putting it in horsepower territory beyond Xbox, but well shy of Xbox 360. Tech specs do not tell the whole story, which is probably why Nintendo itself has chosen not to provide intricate breakdowns for Wii's CPU and GPU. Bearing that in mind, here's everything we know about the console's internal makeup:
-729 MHz IBM PowerPC "Broadway" CPU
-243 MHz ATI "Hollywood" GPU
-24MBs "main" 1T-SRAM
-64MBs other 1T-SRAM
-512MBs internal flash memory
-3MBs texture memory on GPU
-Built-in 802.11b/g Wi-Fi capability
-One SD memory card bay
-AV multi-port: S-video, composite, component
-Analog (left/right) audio / DPLII
-Four GameCube controller ports
-Two GameCube Memory Pak slots
-Two USB 2.0 ports
-Compatible with up to four wireless Wii-motes
-Self-loading media drive
-Accepts 12cm Wii and 8cm GCN discs; no DVD movies
The specs are good and fine, but they do little to paint Nintendo's full plan for Wii. The Big N hopes its new platform will captivate the elusive non-gamer market. To do this, Wii will come packed with a number of extra features - some of which branch out of games-only territory.
The specs are good and fine, but they do little to paint Nintendo's full plan for Wii. The Big N hopes its new platform will captivate the elusive non-gamer market. To do this, Wii will come packed with a number of extra features - some of which branch out of games-only territory.
Back of the Wii console: Two USB 2.0 ports, a sensor bar slot, multi-AV port and a power plug
The machine utilizes an always-on standard known as WiiConnect24. The service keeps the system in awake mode even as gamers sleep through the night. WiiConnect24 works hand-in-hand with the Wii Channel system to deliver users up-to-date news reports and weather forecasts, as well as new game downloads and other data.
In addition, using Wii's Virtual Console, users can download classic games to their system. Players will have access to more than 20 years of classic games on beloved platforms including NES, SNES, N64, TurboGrafx 16 and Sega Genesis, among others. Virtual Console games will cost between $5 and $10 depending on the title.
Wii will be able to wirelessly connect to Nintendo's popular DS handheld.
Although Nintendo is focused on Wii's Wi-Fi Connection, which delivers wireless access to online games and Web browsing, among other things, users who do not own a wireless router will be able to connect a separately sold USB 2.0 LAN adapter to the machine, at which point they can plug in a network Ethernet cable and gain online access.
Click here to learn all about the Wii-mote and attachmentsNintendo's new generation console has been designed from the beginning to be affordable and so as a result it will be cheaper than any competitor. Unlike either Microsoft's Xbox 360 or Sony's PlayStation 3, Wii will also come packed with a game - or, depending upon how you view it, multiple games. Wondering what we're talking about? Let's get down to the nitty-gritty.
What's in the Box?
The Wii system comes packaged with one Wii-mote, one nunchuk attachment, a Wii stand (which supports the system in its vertical position), an AC adaptor, a composite audio/video cable, a sensor bar, a sensor bar stand, and two AA batteries for the controller. In the US and Europe, Wii will also come bundled with a copy of Wii Sports, a five-game compilation (on one disc) that features such titles as Wii Sports Tennis, Baseball, Bowling, Golf and Boxing. In Japan, however, Wii Sports will be sold separately for approximately 4800 yen.
The Price
Wii will retail for $249.99 in the US, £179 in the Europe and 25,000 yen in Japan.
The Release Date
Wii is scheduled to release first in America in order make the Thanksgiving time frame, which Nintendo considers critical for the US market. The console will go on sale in the US on November 19 - two days after Sony releases PlayStation 3.
Wii will release in Japan on December 2.
The console will go on sale in Europe on December 9.
Finally, Wii will launch in Australia on December 7 for $399.95.
Wii Console Numbers
Although Nintendo is releasing Wii after PlayStation 3, the company is not worried about the competition. When quizzed on the subject, company executives dismissed PS3, saying that not only was it an altogether different videogame console, but that Sony wouldn't have enough units ready this holiday to provide a worthy challenge. Whereas around 400,000 PlayStation 3s are expected to hit in America this November, NOA president Reggie Fils-Aime recently confirmed that it would "absolutely" have more Wii systems ready from day one.
Nintendo expects to ship 4 million Wii units globally by the end of the year, with North American territories (America, Canada and Mexico) getting the largest chunk.
Games and Controllers
Nintendo will be pricing its Wii games at $49.99 and is recommending that its third party contributors do the same. This is $10 cheaper than many games for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
Players will be able to separately buy additional Wii-mote and nunchuk controllers, as well as the classic controller, as soon as the system launches. The Wii-mote will cost $39.99. The nunchuk unit will cost $19.99. And the classic controller will cost $19.99.
What do Wii game boxes look like?
Click here to see the official Wii box art for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
Full technical specifications, price, release date, and much more.
Introducing Nintendo Wii...
Nintendo's new generation console, which was formerly codenamed Revolution, is now simply named Wii. For the record, it's pronounced like "we," despite the different and deliberately odd spelling. Nintendo announced the official name of Wii on April 27, 2006. The announcement can be read by clicking right here. The official Wii announcement trailer can be downloaded right here.
The Wii brand is designed to accentuate the console's unique controller (as represented by the 'ii' in the title) and its ability to bring gamers of all types together, hence the name "we."
The Wii system is the fruit of a new Nintendo philosophy that is determined to emphasize original and fresh gameplay endeavors over dramatically enhanced graphic presentations. Whereas both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 are designed from the ground up to deliver more detailed, high-definition graphics, Wii's biggest innovation lies with a potentially revolutionary new controller and not raw horsepower. It is this controller, dubbed the Wii remote (or Wii-mote for short), which truly distinguishes the Big N's new platform from its competitors.
Technical Breakdown
The Wii system has been designed to be "small, quiet and affordable," according to Nintendo. The machine, available at launch in glossy white, is just 8.5 inches long, 6 inches wide and less than two inches thick (the exact dimensions are 157mm x 215.4mm x 44mm.) The Big N is fond of comparing the system to the size of roughly three stacked DVDs. Wii can be placed horizontally or vertically. The console is roughly twice as powerful as a GameCube, putting it in horsepower territory beyond Xbox, but well shy of Xbox 360. Tech specs do not tell the whole story, which is probably why Nintendo itself has chosen not to provide intricate breakdowns for Wii's CPU and GPU. Bearing that in mind, here's everything we know about the console's internal makeup:
-729 MHz IBM PowerPC "Broadway" CPU
-243 MHz ATI "Hollywood" GPU
-24MBs "main" 1T-SRAM
-64MBs other 1T-SRAM
-512MBs internal flash memory
-3MBs texture memory on GPU
-Built-in 802.11b/g Wi-Fi capability
-One SD memory card bay
-AV multi-port: S-video, composite, component
-Analog (left/right) audio / DPLII
-Four GameCube controller ports
-Two GameCube Memory Pak slots
-Two USB 2.0 ports
-Compatible with up to four wireless Wii-motes
-Self-loading media drive
-Accepts 12cm Wii and 8cm GCN discs; no DVD movies
The specs are good and fine, but they do little to paint Nintendo's full plan for Wii. The Big N hopes its new platform will captivate the elusive non-gamer market. To do this, Wii will come packed with a number of extra features - some of which branch out of games-only territory.
The specs are good and fine, but they do little to paint Nintendo's full plan for Wii. The Big N hopes its new platform will captivate the elusive non-gamer market. To do this, Wii will come packed with a number of extra features - some of which branch out of games-only territory.
Back of the Wii console: Two USB 2.0 ports, a sensor bar slot, multi-AV port and a power plug
The machine utilizes an always-on standard known as WiiConnect24. The service keeps the system in awake mode even as gamers sleep through the night. WiiConnect24 works hand-in-hand with the Wii Channel system to deliver users up-to-date news reports and weather forecasts, as well as new game downloads and other data.
In addition, using Wii's Virtual Console, users can download classic games to their system. Players will have access to more than 20 years of classic games on beloved platforms including NES, SNES, N64, TurboGrafx 16 and Sega Genesis, among others. Virtual Console games will cost between $5 and $10 depending on the title.
Wii will be able to wirelessly connect to Nintendo's popular DS handheld.
Although Nintendo is focused on Wii's Wi-Fi Connection, which delivers wireless access to online games and Web browsing, among other things, users who do not own a wireless router will be able to connect a separately sold USB 2.0 LAN adapter to the machine, at which point they can plug in a network Ethernet cable and gain online access.
Click here to learn all about the Wii-mote and attachmentsNintendo's new generation console has been designed from the beginning to be affordable and so as a result it will be cheaper than any competitor. Unlike either Microsoft's Xbox 360 or Sony's PlayStation 3, Wii will also come packed with a game - or, depending upon how you view it, multiple games. Wondering what we're talking about? Let's get down to the nitty-gritty.
What's in the Box?
The Wii system comes packaged with one Wii-mote, one nunchuk attachment, a Wii stand (which supports the system in its vertical position), an AC adaptor, a composite audio/video cable, a sensor bar, a sensor bar stand, and two AA batteries for the controller. In the US and Europe, Wii will also come bundled with a copy of Wii Sports, a five-game compilation (on one disc) that features such titles as Wii Sports Tennis, Baseball, Bowling, Golf and Boxing. In Japan, however, Wii Sports will be sold separately for approximately 4800 yen.
The Price
Wii will retail for $249.99 in the US, £179 in the Europe and 25,000 yen in Japan.
The Release Date
Wii is scheduled to release first in America in order make the Thanksgiving time frame, which Nintendo considers critical for the US market. The console will go on sale in the US on November 19 - two days after Sony releases PlayStation 3.
Wii will release in Japan on December 2.
The console will go on sale in Europe on December 9.
Finally, Wii will launch in Australia on December 7 for $399.95.
Wii Console Numbers
Although Nintendo is releasing Wii after PlayStation 3, the company is not worried about the competition. When quizzed on the subject, company executives dismissed PS3, saying that not only was it an altogether different videogame console, but that Sony wouldn't have enough units ready this holiday to provide a worthy challenge. Whereas around 400,000 PlayStation 3s are expected to hit in America this November, NOA president Reggie Fils-Aime recently confirmed that it would "absolutely" have more Wii systems ready from day one.
Nintendo expects to ship 4 million Wii units globally by the end of the year, with North American territories (America, Canada and Mexico) getting the largest chunk.
Games and Controllers
Nintendo will be pricing its Wii games at $49.99 and is recommending that its third party contributors do the same. This is $10 cheaper than many games for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
Players will be able to separately buy additional Wii-mote and nunchuk controllers, as well as the classic controller, as soon as the system launches. The Wii-mote will cost $39.99. The nunchuk unit will cost $19.99. And the classic controller will cost $19.99.
What do Wii game boxes look like?
Click here to see the official Wii box art for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii)
Retrieved from: GameSpy Zelda Review
After 35 hours or so of caffeine-fueled anarchy, I'm finally ready to write my review. I've had the pleasure of reviewing the last three Zelda titles over the past eight or so years, and even though my favorite incarnation remains A Link to the Past on the SNES, I'm thoroughly satisfied with what The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has managed to achieve. We all know that the game started out life as a GameCube project, and this much is still evident in the final Wii product. While it might not have the graphical grunt behind it offered by the likes of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, there's no doubt in my mind that Nintendo has once again crafted a video game that will be remembered for years to come. Link's back and his adventure on the new shiny Wii hardware is nothing short of an instant classic.
There will be no spoilers written here, but if you truly only need to know whether the game rocks hard, just take a look at the score and be safe in the knowledge that it does. Up until now, I had previously only played through until the end of the second dungeon. But after running a critical path through the entire game, there's no doubt that this is the longest Zelda game ever made. I can easily see the playtime rising to the 60-hour mark if you try to accomplish everything that the game has to offer -- and trust me, you'll want to. Given the epic size of the game, it's important to note that there's very little redundancy. You'll not find yourself being forced to do a lot of unnecessary running or riding (remember sailing around in Wind Waker?) thanks to the excellent warping system, and on the whole, the game feels very refined.
Life for Link begins in his small rural hometown of Ordon. Spending his days as a ram wrangler, things begin to get a little weird when strange monsters are spotted on the borders of the village. Link is tasked with taking a journey to the main city in Hyrule to consult with the folks there about the recent troubles. As you'd expect, a series of events begin to unfold that lead Link on a fantastical journey as he starts to uncover a sinister plot taking place in an alternate Twilight dimension. Will Princess Zelda know what to do? Who is the evil King of the Twilight and what does he want? And is Link destined to become the savior of the free peoples of Hyrule? It's up to you to take control and find the answers to these questions in your own sweet time.
So essentially, what you're playing is a port of the GameCube version of Twilight Princess that's been retooled for the Wii. The biggest difference is of course the addition of the new motion-sensitive control scheme. I'm happy to report that the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk do an incredibly admirable job of making the game a lot of fun to play. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that this is a preferable method of controlling the game than a regular joypad. Movement, exploration and combat are highly accurate and if you fail or die, it's not the system's fault, but rather your own. I know this has been the biggest concern for many Zelda lovers and gamers in general, but I can't overstate this enough -- the Wii makes for a superb Zelda gaming experience.
The lands of Hyrule are split up into a number of different provinces. Each province gradually becomes unlocked after you hit certain milestones in the game. It might be by the completion of one of the nine dungeons, and there's always a ton of stuff to see and do. There are lots and lots of NPCs to interact with -- some will give out much-needed hints, and others might open up new mini-game challenges. The Twilight dynamic of the game is a nice twist on the proceedings, too. When sent into the Twilight zones, Link transforms into wolf form and this in itself opens up new abilities, combat moves and methods of progression. For example, Link can talk to animals while in wolf form, whereas before he could not.
There are many memorable characters in the game, but easily the best of these is the spooky little imp-like individual, Midna. Her story is a mystery initially, but she proves to be an invaluable helper and hint-giver throughout the game, making for a new dynamic over and beyond the previous games in the series. There are a lot of series' staples found in Twilight Princess as well as some great new additions. Fans of the series will feel right at home with the combat system (Z-targeting is an absolute must) and the traditional mythology of dungeon crawling, money and item gathering, and item usage. It wouldn't be a true Zelda game without some of the classic themed dungeons, so all those players out there who got stuck in Ocarina's notorious Water Temple should start quaking in their boots!
The item and inventory system is well-executed, as is the in-game map system. Up to four items can be selected and mapped to the Wii Remote's B-button and D-pad at any one time, while the up direction on the D-pad is reserved for communication with Midna only. Link starts out with very little in terms of items and weapons, but it won't be long before sword and shield are at your command, along with some decent stop-gap secondary weapons like the slingshot, Gale Boomerang and the Hero's Bow. The game eases you into combat slowly, and makes sure you have a firm grasp of the Z-targeting system along with dodging, back-flipping and rolling around. Later in the game, you'll be facing off against some pretty hardcore mid-bosses and big bosses, but you'll never be put in the position of not being able to beat them -- it just might take a little time to figure out the best course of attack.
Horse riding plays a greater role in Twilight Princess than previous games, and Epona's representation is handled well. The controls are decent and fighting and maneuvering are well-implemented. There's never a shortage of areas to explore, and questing to find every single collectable item or power-up is a huge undertaking. You'll be able to collect fragmented heart containers (you'll need five pieces to form one full heart container this time) along with special hidden glowing bugs, fish and all manner of other stuff, too. The scope is truly magnificent. Speaking of fish, there's essentially an entire full-length game dedicated to catching crazy numbers of different and unique fish. This sometimes comes across as more of a Remote-enabling gimmick than anything else, but completists will love taking some time out for a spot of virtual haddock-reeling. You might even get a surprise reward or two for your piscine-based tomfoolery.
Twilight Princess is a great-looking game. On one hand, it has its graphical problems stemming from the GameCube development cycle (blurry textures, comparatively low-res characters, etc.), but the artistic direction more than makes up for these issues. I ended up playing through about 75 percent of the game using the standard composite cables that ship with the Wii, until I managed to snag some component cables towards the end. The difference in quality, clarity and imagery between the quite frankly subpar composite signal and the sexy 480p component signal was night and day. A sharper, more vibrant image enhanced the game experience significantly, so if you have the means, I highly recommend using component input.
I was delighted to hear that the musical score and sound effects were of the same high standard as Wind Waker, with new implementations on classic Zelda themes adding greatly to the nostalgia factor. The sound is pumped out in sweet Pro Logic II via the stereo cables and again, if you've got the means, it'll sound much better than just regular stereo.
In the end, there's no way that The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess disappoints. It's an excellent addition (and homage to Ocarina) to the franchise, and you'll have an enormous amount of fun playing it from start to finish. Get over the fact that the Wii's hardware is simply not as powerful as the other next-gen machines and get into the fact that Twilight Princess is one of the best games you'll play this year. If you've been on the fence in any capacity, then please rest assured that you'll not be disappointed. I'm looking forward to checking out the GameCube version later next month, but I'm having a hard time imagining it being any better than the Wii interpretation. Nintendo's flagship game has finally arrived and you better damned well appreciate it. It's ultimately fantastic.
After 35 hours or so of caffeine-fueled anarchy, I'm finally ready to write my review. I've had the pleasure of reviewing the last three Zelda titles over the past eight or so years, and even though my favorite incarnation remains A Link to the Past on the SNES, I'm thoroughly satisfied with what The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has managed to achieve. We all know that the game started out life as a GameCube project, and this much is still evident in the final Wii product. While it might not have the graphical grunt behind it offered by the likes of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, there's no doubt in my mind that Nintendo has once again crafted a video game that will be remembered for years to come. Link's back and his adventure on the new shiny Wii hardware is nothing short of an instant classic.
There will be no spoilers written here, but if you truly only need to know whether the game rocks hard, just take a look at the score and be safe in the knowledge that it does. Up until now, I had previously only played through until the end of the second dungeon. But after running a critical path through the entire game, there's no doubt that this is the longest Zelda game ever made. I can easily see the playtime rising to the 60-hour mark if you try to accomplish everything that the game has to offer -- and trust me, you'll want to. Given the epic size of the game, it's important to note that there's very little redundancy. You'll not find yourself being forced to do a lot of unnecessary running or riding (remember sailing around in Wind Waker?) thanks to the excellent warping system, and on the whole, the game feels very refined.
Life for Link begins in his small rural hometown of Ordon. Spending his days as a ram wrangler, things begin to get a little weird when strange monsters are spotted on the borders of the village. Link is tasked with taking a journey to the main city in Hyrule to consult with the folks there about the recent troubles. As you'd expect, a series of events begin to unfold that lead Link on a fantastical journey as he starts to uncover a sinister plot taking place in an alternate Twilight dimension. Will Princess Zelda know what to do? Who is the evil King of the Twilight and what does he want? And is Link destined to become the savior of the free peoples of Hyrule? It's up to you to take control and find the answers to these questions in your own sweet time.
So essentially, what you're playing is a port of the GameCube version of Twilight Princess that's been retooled for the Wii. The biggest difference is of course the addition of the new motion-sensitive control scheme. I'm happy to report that the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk do an incredibly admirable job of making the game a lot of fun to play. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that this is a preferable method of controlling the game than a regular joypad. Movement, exploration and combat are highly accurate and if you fail or die, it's not the system's fault, but rather your own. I know this has been the biggest concern for many Zelda lovers and gamers in general, but I can't overstate this enough -- the Wii makes for a superb Zelda gaming experience.
The lands of Hyrule are split up into a number of different provinces. Each province gradually becomes unlocked after you hit certain milestones in the game. It might be by the completion of one of the nine dungeons, and there's always a ton of stuff to see and do. There are lots and lots of NPCs to interact with -- some will give out much-needed hints, and others might open up new mini-game challenges. The Twilight dynamic of the game is a nice twist on the proceedings, too. When sent into the Twilight zones, Link transforms into wolf form and this in itself opens up new abilities, combat moves and methods of progression. For example, Link can talk to animals while in wolf form, whereas before he could not.
There are many memorable characters in the game, but easily the best of these is the spooky little imp-like individual, Midna. Her story is a mystery initially, but she proves to be an invaluable helper and hint-giver throughout the game, making for a new dynamic over and beyond the previous games in the series. There are a lot of series' staples found in Twilight Princess as well as some great new additions. Fans of the series will feel right at home with the combat system (Z-targeting is an absolute must) and the traditional mythology of dungeon crawling, money and item gathering, and item usage. It wouldn't be a true Zelda game without some of the classic themed dungeons, so all those players out there who got stuck in Ocarina's notorious Water Temple should start quaking in their boots!
The item and inventory system is well-executed, as is the in-game map system. Up to four items can be selected and mapped to the Wii Remote's B-button and D-pad at any one time, while the up direction on the D-pad is reserved for communication with Midna only. Link starts out with very little in terms of items and weapons, but it won't be long before sword and shield are at your command, along with some decent stop-gap secondary weapons like the slingshot, Gale Boomerang and the Hero's Bow. The game eases you into combat slowly, and makes sure you have a firm grasp of the Z-targeting system along with dodging, back-flipping and rolling around. Later in the game, you'll be facing off against some pretty hardcore mid-bosses and big bosses, but you'll never be put in the position of not being able to beat them -- it just might take a little time to figure out the best course of attack.
Horse riding plays a greater role in Twilight Princess than previous games, and Epona's representation is handled well. The controls are decent and fighting and maneuvering are well-implemented. There's never a shortage of areas to explore, and questing to find every single collectable item or power-up is a huge undertaking. You'll be able to collect fragmented heart containers (you'll need five pieces to form one full heart container this time) along with special hidden glowing bugs, fish and all manner of other stuff, too. The scope is truly magnificent. Speaking of fish, there's essentially an entire full-length game dedicated to catching crazy numbers of different and unique fish. This sometimes comes across as more of a Remote-enabling gimmick than anything else, but completists will love taking some time out for a spot of virtual haddock-reeling. You might even get a surprise reward or two for your piscine-based tomfoolery.
Twilight Princess is a great-looking game. On one hand, it has its graphical problems stemming from the GameCube development cycle (blurry textures, comparatively low-res characters, etc.), but the artistic direction more than makes up for these issues. I ended up playing through about 75 percent of the game using the standard composite cables that ship with the Wii, until I managed to snag some component cables towards the end. The difference in quality, clarity and imagery between the quite frankly subpar composite signal and the sexy 480p component signal was night and day. A sharper, more vibrant image enhanced the game experience significantly, so if you have the means, I highly recommend using component input.
I was delighted to hear that the musical score and sound effects were of the same high standard as Wind Waker, with new implementations on classic Zelda themes adding greatly to the nostalgia factor. The sound is pumped out in sweet Pro Logic II via the stereo cables and again, if you've got the means, it'll sound much better than just regular stereo.
In the end, there's no way that The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess disappoints. It's an excellent addition (and homage to Ocarina) to the franchise, and you'll have an enormous amount of fun playing it from start to finish. Get over the fact that the Wii's hardware is simply not as powerful as the other next-gen machines and get into the fact that Twilight Princess is one of the best games you'll play this year. If you've been on the fence in any capacity, then please rest assured that you'll not be disappointed. I'm looking forward to checking out the GameCube version later next month, but I'm having a hard time imagining it being any better than the Wii interpretation. Nintendo's flagship game has finally arrived and you better damned well appreciate it. It's ultimately fantastic.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Wii Component Cables Update
From: Wii Component Cables Update by: Matt Casamassina
November 8, 2006 - We recently caught up with Nintendo of America's vice president of marketing and corporate affairs, Perrin Kaplan, to chat about all things Wii. Our first question was naturally related to how we might come by the hotly sought after component cables for the console - a hurdle that haunts our dreams. Nintendo previously announced that the cables would be able to purchase online, but now we have further clarification. This is a snippet from the conversation:
IGN Wii: What's up with Wii component cables? When can we get them, and how?
Perrin Kaplan: The component cable is going to be sold online and it's also going to be at three retailers. So Circuit City, GameStop and Best Buy. They'll have it online and they'll have it at retailers.
IGN Wii: Oh great, so you'll be able to walk in and buy them at those retailers? Fantastic.
Perrin Kaplan: Yeah. And we did that just because we knew that you were being really grumpy about it. Just kidding! But we knew you were really worried about it.
November 8, 2006 - We recently caught up with Nintendo of America's vice president of marketing and corporate affairs, Perrin Kaplan, to chat about all things Wii. Our first question was naturally related to how we might come by the hotly sought after component cables for the console - a hurdle that haunts our dreams. Nintendo previously announced that the cables would be able to purchase online, but now we have further clarification. This is a snippet from the conversation:
IGN Wii: What's up with Wii component cables? When can we get them, and how?
Perrin Kaplan: The component cable is going to be sold online and it's also going to be at three retailers. So Circuit City, GameStop and Best Buy. They'll have it online and they'll have it at retailers.
IGN Wii: Oh great, so you'll be able to walk in and buy them at those retailers? Fantastic.
Perrin Kaplan: Yeah. And we did that just because we knew that you were being really grumpy about it. Just kidding! But we knew you were really worried about it.
Nintendo answers Virtual Console questions
Retrieved from: CVG Website
So without further ado, check out the Q&A, then sit tight and do your best not to go insane in the wait for the Wii launch on December 8.
Do N64 games on Virtual Console have the rumble feedback compatibility?
Advertisement:
Nintendo: The rumble feature is not supported on N64 games downloaded to the Virtual Console.
Multiplayer games - will these now incorporate an option to allow the second/third/fourth player to connect over the internet to play, as some PC emulators have made possible?
Nintendo: All games will be faithful recreations of the original versions so they will not feature new functions like multiplayer or internet play if the original title did not.
Will the Wii iron out all slow-down that existed in old games, including the 2D formats? It would be great to play all the old games at a silky-smooth framerate, but some retro gamers, for some reason, consider the slowdown to a part of the game's old-school appeal.
Nintendo: The Virtual Console games faithfully reproduces the original game in all areas, including content, movement and expressions. Principle programming, characters, sound etc. have not been changed.
Being as the Wii classic controller cannot be used to play GameCube games, will Nintendo continue to produce and sell GameCube controllers?
Nintendo: No plans have been announced to date. But Nintendo GameCube accessories are still available from all good retailers.
How configurable will controls be? The N64, with its C-buttons, effectively had six face buttons. The VC controller only has 4. How will this mapping work?
Nintendo: Controller layouts will be determined on a game-by-game basis and detailed in the electronic manual.
Will their be any price difference between buying Wii Points through the online Wii Shop Channel and via retail stores?
Nintendo: Wii points will cost the same online as they do in retail. They can be purchased on the Wii Shop Channel using all major credit cards. 2000 points cards will cost €20 (£14) both online and in shops.
Will there be a published release schedule of VC games or will they just come out as and when?
Nintendo: More Virtual console games will be announced at a later date. New Virtual Console titles will be added in 2007 and beyond creating a constantly growing library of games.
How large (in storage terms) will VC games be? At present what is the average size for games on each of the formats?
Nintendo: Games vary in size but approximately NES games will be 1MB, SNES 5MB and N64 32MB.
How will VC games be organised on the channels page? Will each game be an individual channel or can users group say all the titles of one format (SNES) or all the titles of one series (Zelda)?
Nintendo: Each VC title downloaded will be displayed as an individual channel. Users may move these channels around to suit them.
So without further ado, check out the Q&A, then sit tight and do your best not to go insane in the wait for the Wii launch on December 8.
Do N64 games on Virtual Console have the rumble feedback compatibility?
Advertisement:
Nintendo: The rumble feature is not supported on N64 games downloaded to the Virtual Console.
Multiplayer games - will these now incorporate an option to allow the second/third/fourth player to connect over the internet to play, as some PC emulators have made possible?
Nintendo: All games will be faithful recreations of the original versions so they will not feature new functions like multiplayer or internet play if the original title did not.
Will the Wii iron out all slow-down that existed in old games, including the 2D formats? It would be great to play all the old games at a silky-smooth framerate, but some retro gamers, for some reason, consider the slowdown to a part of the game's old-school appeal.
Nintendo: The Virtual Console games faithfully reproduces the original game in all areas, including content, movement and expressions. Principle programming, characters, sound etc. have not been changed.
Being as the Wii classic controller cannot be used to play GameCube games, will Nintendo continue to produce and sell GameCube controllers?
Nintendo: No plans have been announced to date. But Nintendo GameCube accessories are still available from all good retailers.
How configurable will controls be? The N64, with its C-buttons, effectively had six face buttons. The VC controller only has 4. How will this mapping work?
Nintendo: Controller layouts will be determined on a game-by-game basis and detailed in the electronic manual.
Will their be any price difference between buying Wii Points through the online Wii Shop Channel and via retail stores?
Nintendo: Wii points will cost the same online as they do in retail. They can be purchased on the Wii Shop Channel using all major credit cards. 2000 points cards will cost €20 (£14) both online and in shops.
Will there be a published release schedule of VC games or will they just come out as and when?
Nintendo: More Virtual console games will be announced at a later date. New Virtual Console titles will be added in 2007 and beyond creating a constantly growing library of games.
How large (in storage terms) will VC games be? At present what is the average size for games on each of the formats?
Nintendo: Games vary in size but approximately NES games will be 1MB, SNES 5MB and N64 32MB.
How will VC games be organised on the channels page? Will each game be an individual channel or can users group say all the titles of one format (SNES) or all the titles of one series (Zelda)?
Nintendo: Each VC title downloaded will be displayed as an individual channel. Users may move these channels around to suit them.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Guide to finding a Nintendo Wii at Launch
Article from: Wiiloaded.com Website
Read This Before You Line Up
Missed the EB Games/Gamestop and Toys R Us preorders? Do not worry, this guide will help you find that Nintendo Wii that you're searching for on November 19th, aka launch day.
With the Wii's Preorder demand much higher than original expected and the hype surrounding the Wii (not to mention eBay resellers), the Wii may be harder to find than originally expected, in spite of the record 1 million consoles available at launch.
With all of this demand, and long lines for preorders, how could you possibly expect to find a Wii on launch? Without just a little effort, you probably cannot. However, this guide will give you a way to play Wii sports that Sunday with the least inconvenience.
First of all, don't bother calling EB Games or Gamestop. They are sold out. According to reports, these companies (which have merged into one) waited until they received the initial delivery numbers before preordering, and reserved exactly that many. They do not expect to have extra units after their reserves are picked up. Gamestop and EB are thus ranked "No Chance".
Toys R Us generally does not sell it's entire cache of consoles through preorders. Most people will assume they did, or even forget that Toys R Us carries video games, and thus the line can be very thin. Do remember, though, that they have already preordered a significant number of consoles, and may not have many available for sale. Depending on your area, though, you may want to save this one as a last resort if you miss the midnight releases at other retailers, as after those midnight consoles are sold out, a line will form at any retailer that will be selling them in the morning. Toys R Us generally opens at 10am or Noon on Sunday, depending on your area, so Toys R Us earns the "Last Chance" ranking. UPDATE: If the rumors hold any truth, TRU may have only reserved 20% of their stockpile and may still have more units per store than ANY other retailer. If true, this would upgrade the Toys R Us ranking from "Last Chance" to "Best Chance"!
Wal-Mart, if you have one in your area, may not be a bad choice. They receive a large number of consoles, and are usually open 24 hours a day, thus you do not have to sit outside in the freezing cold. Many will even hand out tickets early and allow you to shop around until midnight. Due to this reason, though, you may have to show up during the early afternoon to claim your spot. To avoid cold overnight queues, this may be worth it. Wal-Mart is ranked as the "Stay Warm" headquarters.
Target, the retailer that jumped the gun and began offering accessories before everyone else, they may be building hype for the release. Or, since they are not opening early for the release, could be the best place to line up after missing the midnight lines. Target, then, receives the "Second Chance" ranking.
Best Buy is also offering midnight releases (UPDATE: Apparently they are only opening one hour early), but be warned; this is a popular place to camp out for consoles. This will be the first place most people go to line up, and you will likely see a line formed by 2pm on Saturday, if not sooner. However, you'll find a lot of video game fans here, so if you have a DS and a lawn chair, this may be the place to be. If you're reading this, you probably do not have anything better to do on a Saturday night than take on strangers at Mario Kart and Metroid Prime: Hunters. Thus Best Buy gets the "Most Fun" rank.
Circuit City is joining the lineup as a midnight releaser as well. Depending on how prominent the store is in your area, this line could fill up fast or could be easily overlooked. Take a look at how popular the Circuit City is in your area for video games, and make a decision based on that. Circuit City gets the "Wildcard".
Sam's Club and Costco are generally not known for video games, but they do offer them! As you must have a membership to purchase anything, the expense is greater, but this greatly reduces the number of people to compete against. Also note that they generally only offer bundles, but the bundles may be a good deal. Do not be surprised if one retailer offers a Wii with a spare controller and nunchuk for $299, a savings of $10 over purchasing separately. They do not open until morning, but a wait of less than two hours is possible due to these two being overlooked. Expect the line to be made of an older crowd, usually resellers and parents. Also note that if you're looking for a PlayStation 3, "business" members are allowed to shop earlier than other members on weekdays (such as November 17th), so investing in a business membership may be worth it. Sam's Club and Costco get the "Most Overlooked" rank.
A few points to consider, which might make a few lines a deal maker or deal breaker. If you're going to be outside, bring a chair, blanket, warm clothing, cooler with food/water, and something to occupy yourself, such as a DS or a good book (yeah right!). A cell phone can keep you in contact with others. Plot out how far it is to a bathroom. You don't want to walk two miles just for that. A close by fast food restaurant might be a huge bonus, as you can send one person to pick up warm food for everyone in the line.
Look around your area. Do some retailers have locations off the beaten path? Those may be the best place to wait. Sure, the more popular a store is, the more consoles it will get, but that also means the more people will be waiting there. One thing is for sure. Do not wait for November 18th to plan everything out. Get a group of friends that can call each other and give status reports of lines forming around town. Nobody wants to wait a long time, but you don't want to show up to late either, do you?
If you do miss the launch, do not worry. Nintendo is expected to deliver 4 million before Christmas, though if demand increase, Nintendo may be able to answer with more units. Thus, even with the Wii becomes the hottest selling video game system ever (and we expect it to), you should be able to find one with minimal effort to place under your tree.
Read This Before You Line Up
Missed the EB Games/Gamestop and Toys R Us preorders? Do not worry, this guide will help you find that Nintendo Wii that you're searching for on November 19th, aka launch day.
With the Wii's Preorder demand much higher than original expected and the hype surrounding the Wii (not to mention eBay resellers), the Wii may be harder to find than originally expected, in spite of the record 1 million consoles available at launch.
With all of this demand, and long lines for preorders, how could you possibly expect to find a Wii on launch? Without just a little effort, you probably cannot. However, this guide will give you a way to play Wii sports that Sunday with the least inconvenience.
First of all, don't bother calling EB Games or Gamestop. They are sold out. According to reports, these companies (which have merged into one) waited until they received the initial delivery numbers before preordering, and reserved exactly that many. They do not expect to have extra units after their reserves are picked up. Gamestop and EB are thus ranked "No Chance".
Toys R Us generally does not sell it's entire cache of consoles through preorders. Most people will assume they did, or even forget that Toys R Us carries video games, and thus the line can be very thin. Do remember, though, that they have already preordered a significant number of consoles, and may not have many available for sale. Depending on your area, though, you may want to save this one as a last resort if you miss the midnight releases at other retailers, as after those midnight consoles are sold out, a line will form at any retailer that will be selling them in the morning. Toys R Us generally opens at 10am or Noon on Sunday, depending on your area, so Toys R Us earns the "Last Chance" ranking. UPDATE: If the rumors hold any truth, TRU may have only reserved 20% of their stockpile and may still have more units per store than ANY other retailer. If true, this would upgrade the Toys R Us ranking from "Last Chance" to "Best Chance"!
Wal-Mart, if you have one in your area, may not be a bad choice. They receive a large number of consoles, and are usually open 24 hours a day, thus you do not have to sit outside in the freezing cold. Many will even hand out tickets early and allow you to shop around until midnight. Due to this reason, though, you may have to show up during the early afternoon to claim your spot. To avoid cold overnight queues, this may be worth it. Wal-Mart is ranked as the "Stay Warm" headquarters.
Target, the retailer that jumped the gun and began offering accessories before everyone else, they may be building hype for the release. Or, since they are not opening early for the release, could be the best place to line up after missing the midnight lines. Target, then, receives the "Second Chance" ranking.
Best Buy is also offering midnight releases (UPDATE: Apparently they are only opening one hour early), but be warned; this is a popular place to camp out for consoles. This will be the first place most people go to line up, and you will likely see a line formed by 2pm on Saturday, if not sooner. However, you'll find a lot of video game fans here, so if you have a DS and a lawn chair, this may be the place to be. If you're reading this, you probably do not have anything better to do on a Saturday night than take on strangers at Mario Kart and Metroid Prime: Hunters. Thus Best Buy gets the "Most Fun" rank.
Circuit City is joining the lineup as a midnight releaser as well. Depending on how prominent the store is in your area, this line could fill up fast or could be easily overlooked. Take a look at how popular the Circuit City is in your area for video games, and make a decision based on that. Circuit City gets the "Wildcard".
Sam's Club and Costco are generally not known for video games, but they do offer them! As you must have a membership to purchase anything, the expense is greater, but this greatly reduces the number of people to compete against. Also note that they generally only offer bundles, but the bundles may be a good deal. Do not be surprised if one retailer offers a Wii with a spare controller and nunchuk for $299, a savings of $10 over purchasing separately. They do not open until morning, but a wait of less than two hours is possible due to these two being overlooked. Expect the line to be made of an older crowd, usually resellers and parents. Also note that if you're looking for a PlayStation 3, "business" members are allowed to shop earlier than other members on weekdays (such as November 17th), so investing in a business membership may be worth it. Sam's Club and Costco get the "Most Overlooked" rank.
A few points to consider, which might make a few lines a deal maker or deal breaker. If you're going to be outside, bring a chair, blanket, warm clothing, cooler with food/water, and something to occupy yourself, such as a DS or a good book (yeah right!). A cell phone can keep you in contact with others. Plot out how far it is to a bathroom. You don't want to walk two miles just for that. A close by fast food restaurant might be a huge bonus, as you can send one person to pick up warm food for everyone in the line.
Look around your area. Do some retailers have locations off the beaten path? Those may be the best place to wait. Sure, the more popular a store is, the more consoles it will get, but that also means the more people will be waiting there. One thing is for sure. Do not wait for November 18th to plan everything out. Get a group of friends that can call each other and give status reports of lines forming around town. Nobody wants to wait a long time, but you don't want to show up to late either, do you?
If you do miss the launch, do not worry. Nintendo is expected to deliver 4 million before Christmas, though if demand increase, Nintendo may be able to answer with more units. Thus, even with the Wii becomes the hottest selling video game system ever (and we expect it to), you should be able to find one with minimal effort to place under your tree.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
