<img src="http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/6922/dswiikr2.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
Well it looks kinda bleak for some people on the DS front, Drone Tactics & the Narnia could be worth playing though. Those who have loads of Nintendo Points be prepared to spend them and WiiWare launches and there are some very nice looking games on display.
<!--coloro
urple--><span style="colorurple"><!--/coloro--><b><u>Read to know when a game could be dumped:</u>
These dates are what retailers say is out unless stated otherwise, sometimes they make dates up for pre-ordering purposes. These dates could also be "shipping dates" which usually means that that's the date when games get shipped to stores so a game could either be in stores on that day or after. Some games may get delayed some others not listed may appear but at the moment of posting these are correct. Also just because a game is released in stores it doesn't mean that they'll appear on our internets but NA titles usually appear on our 'nets Wednesday night UK time. I love you with mouth.
I've tried to find ALL releases but I do sometimes miss some. Only games NOT already released in English are featured.</b><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<b>Description of what the stamps mean</b>
These are just my opinions, its best to try all the games yourself as some games that I don't like, others do.
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <-- Awarded to games that show promise or have had a lot of effort put into them. They may not end up to be that good but at least the developers bothered to put effort into them
<img src="http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/7927/voidrt7.png" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <-- Awarded to games that I know will either be bad or are just quickly made games with a lack of style or effort.
<!--coloro:red--><span style="color:red"><!--/coloro--><!--sizeo:5--><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->DS<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->13th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Drone Tactics</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Turn Based Strategy
<b>Developer:</b> Success <b>Publisher:</b> Atlus Co.
Been wanting this since I saw the Japan release <b>Konchuu Wars</b> and thankfully those sexy folks at Atlus are bringing it to us.
Transported to an alien world, you find yourself in the middle of a great conflict. An army of evil Drones is on the march, threatening to obliterate the land of Cimexus. Its inhabitants now turn to you to lead them in battle against the Black Swarm. Each level offers new challenges, and taking full advantage of each Drone’s unique specialties will be the difference between success and defeat!
I doubt it'll set the world on fire but like Rondo of Swords it'll be a good game and should tie us over until FF Tactics AA2. The scores seem a bit average right now, famitsu didn't like it that much but then the same was said about Rondo of Swords and that was enjoyable.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=jfvveJe07-Q" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/59/ME0000945916_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/13/ME0000941304_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/13/ME0000941308_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->15th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> RPG
<b>Developer:</b> Fall Line Studios <b>Publisher:</b> Disney Interactive Studios
Another week and another movie game, and again it looks like this could be good, well according to those who have played it.
Revisit the rich, fantasy land of Narnia. Based on the second Walt Disney and Walden Media film of the epic Narnia series, Prince Caspian finds Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter whisked back to Narnia to help drive out the cruel King Miraz.
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian debuts DGamer, Disney Interactive Studios' innovative new technology that provides a fun, connected game community for Disney video game fans. With DGamer, players earn content, interact and chat with others on Nintendo DS through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or on a computer through the Disney.com website.
Apparently it has a unique battle system <a href="http://uk.ds.ign.com/articles/867/867224p1.html" target="_blank">(see the IGN preview for that)</a> and will use try to use all of the DS features well. Sounds like a lot of work has gone into this game, lets see what happens though I can't say it interests me.
<a href="http://uk.media.ds.ign.com/media/950/950660/vids_1.html" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/870/870147/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080428040228010_640w.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/870/870147/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080428040231385_640w.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/870/870147/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspain-screens-20080428040046077_640w.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Dungeon of Windaria</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region</b> Japan <b>Genre:</b> Dungeon Crawler
<b>Developer:</b> Compile Heart <b>Publisher:</b> Compile Heart
Fairly retro looking but then it is based on a 22 year old anime (or Japanese cartoons to those who aren't afraid of the word "cartoon").
Its yet another generic Japanese dungeon crawling RPG! Dungeons are randomly generated and all that stuff. Fans of these games will like it, others won't. Japans critics say its not very good.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=98i_Xi1nGNU" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/93/ME0000939347_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/93/ME0000939349_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/93/ME0000939345_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Luminous Arc 2: Will</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region</b> Japan <b>Genre:</b> Turn Based Strategy
<b>Developer:</b> Image Epoch <b>Publisher:</b> Marvelous Interactive Inc.
Can't say the first one set my world on fire but it was alright, though completely generic and devoid of ideas.
The Forbidden War Begins..In an age when a power called "magic" supports everyday life and civilization itself, peace is supported by the queen's knights and the Rave magic council. The Kingdom of Kalnava has a clandestine program that is researching an easier way to use magic. The story starts at the point when the Kingdom had just successfully completed their research into such a tool. Breaking a long-standing oath not to use magic in conflicts, the society of witches start a new war.
Expect more of the same. No date for a release outside of Japan just yet but it'll happen.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=wy4D_F1aii8" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/86/80/ME0000868059_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/86/80/ME0000868058_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/86/80/ME0000868057_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
Also out in Japan are:
1500DS Spirits Vol. 10: Igo
Nanatsuiro * Drops: Touch de Hajimaru Hatsukoi Monogatari
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->15th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Top Trumps: Doctor Who</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/7927/voidrt7.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> Europe <b>Genre:</b> Card
<b>Developer:</b> Ironstone Partners <b>Publisher:</b> Eidos
I wasn't gonna write this up but I'm too pissed off not to. So its a fucking Top Trumps card game...sigh. Well as the standard dullard Top Trumps game there are also surprise surpirse MINI GAMES, which includes battling the Cyber Controller or testing your Time Lord wits in the Memory Matrix
For those who don't know, Top Trumps is more about luck than any skill or strategy. You pick a card, if its attributes are higher than the one you are up against then win, if not...fail. Now the developers claim that you'll have to be strategic and stuff so lets hope its not the same old boring Top trumps formula. According to the developers "a Slitheen can use their Chameleon ability to disguise itself as another card", which kinda sounds alright if for the fact that they don't actually have that ability in the series.The style of the game actually follows that boring flash like animation episode that was on the super stupid kids show "Totally Doctor Who", and you play as the Doctor (duh!), Martha (thank god its not Donna) and Captain Jack Harkness. Perhaps Jack's special abilities on his card includes turning someone gay or making someone of a different species want a special little bum from him...I dunno.
Ideally I'd prefer an adventure game which has action segments and that you can play various incarnations of the Doctor in different time zones, each action has an reaction with the future, kinda like in Day of the Tentacle. Sadly being the BBC, they always let people who don't have a clue do their games instead of a company who would. Anyone remember Edd the Duck? It was a fucking Rainbow Islands rip off! Robot Wars? Don't get me started.
There are other Doctor Who games, all are pretty abysmal but Doctor Who and the Mines of Terror was pretty decent and matched its subject matter. No screens or anything, Eidos don't even feature it on their website but no doubt the license will make this shift millions over here on the DS, PC, PS2 & mobile, perhap that'll make Eidos think "hot tits lets make a proper game!", only for them to make some sort of piece of foulness that is just mini games. I'll await thebobevils own rantings on this game.
<!--coloro:red--><span style="color:red"><!--/coloro--><!--sizeo:5--><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->WiiWare<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
This week WiiWare launches in the North American regions, while we'll know what is available for launch, Nintendo have said that they may not tell us until a day or so before so I'll try my best to make sure I feature the ones we do know. Everyone's Pokemon Ranch, Toki Tori, Protothea, Star Soldier R, Gyrostarr & Major League Eating where said to be on launch but according to Nintendo they are not.
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->12th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Country Building RPG
<b>Developer:</b> Square Enix <b>Publisher:</b> Square Enix
The game tells the story of what happened after the original Crystal Chronicles. The Little King of the subtitle, who lost his kingdom due to the events of the first game, gains from the crystals the power to build things. He uses this to revive his fallen kingdom.
Its also the first game available on Wii or WiiWare where you pay for downloadable content. Can't say I approve of getting people to pay for missing bits in games but then I'm cheap.
Should sell shitloads and make both Nintendo & Square Enix richer than before, I hope its good and worth all the monies.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=UWqUB0bnS-8" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937393_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937393_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937395_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937395_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/95/17/ME0000951737_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/95/17/ME0000951737_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Dr. Mario Online RX </b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Puzzle
<b>Developer:</b> Arika <b>Publisher:</b> Nintendo
You know what Dr Mario is right? Pills fall down, line the pills up with the viruses of the colour as the pill, win.
This title features WFC, where you can either play a random player from anywhere in the world or play against someone who has your friend code, your friend won't even need the game as they will be given a limited VS mode to download. Sometimes Nintendo makes me cry with the sucky stuff they do (like not letting us runs stuff off SD cards) and sometimes they do something so damn good like that. As well as WFC, there is also 1-4 player modes for you to play at home with people you know. Also included is the Virus Buster game from Brain Training 2 where you use the Wiimote to point and drag the pills.
For 1000 points this is a damn good deal.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=_bqBiODYlz0" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937421_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937421_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937420_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937420_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/88/17/ME0000881734_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/88/17/ME0000881734_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>LostWinds</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Adventure/Platformer
<b>Developer:</b> Frontier Developments <b>Publisher:</b> Frontier Developments
Well this is a pretty game for a WiiWare title, hell its prettier than most normal Wii titles and its under 43MB.
From IGN: In LostWinds, you play as Toku, aboy who is able to harness the power of the wind to travel through sprawling 2D-style levels solving puzzles and vanquishing enemies. While the character is controlled with the nunchuk's analogue stick, he isn't directly capable of executing very many manoeuvres. He can run in both directions, he'll automatically jump when he reaches ledges and automatically climb up nearby platforms, and that's really all there is to it. The major mechanics lay not with the nunchuk but the Wii remote, whose IR pointer is used to accurately control the powers of the wind. That is, you point the Wii remote at the screen, press the A button, and draw various wind paths about the stages to accomplish unique tasks and complete clever challenges.
Its said to be under 1000 points and is getting very very strong previews that are saying its the best game on WiiWare. Also apparently its only 3 hours long, but for $10 thats not too bad see most $39 games are around 3-10 hours long, if that.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=3qFbxm2Da4k" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949766_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949766_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949765_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949765_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949762_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949762_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Defend Your Castle</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Strategy?
<b>Developer:</b> XGen Studios <b>Publisher:</b> XGen Studios
Well this is a fun game, it was free on the PC but this Wii version has had a complete overhaul with enhanced physics and particle effects as well as many gameplay elements tame.
The Barbarian hordes have amassed their forces once again to challenge your domain. Will you and your court rise to the challenge, or stand aside as the invaders raze your castle to the ground?
A 4 Player co-op mode has been added to improve the lifespan of the game and you can also challenge your friends (not via WFC sadly) and for only 500 points its a damn fine bargain as a lot of previews are saying that it plays a lot better then the web game and is a worthy addition to the WiiWare library. It is also a game that won't end, you'll just continue to make your kingdom strength better and better while the hordes of attackers increase.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=4EBKOybfZqI" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034718709_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034718709_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/855/855932/new-wiiware-game-defend-your-castle-20080229102007472_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/855/855932/new-wiiware-game-defend-your-castle-20080229102007472_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034720944_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034720944_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Critter Round-Up</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Adventure/Platformer
<b>Developer:</b> Konami <b>Publisher:</b> Konami
Apparently this game has been described as Zoo Keeper meets Qix.
Critter Round-Up is a puzzle game for up to four players. Players are challenged with building fences to separate different critter species into their own area, while avoiding predators and other mischievous animals attempting to stop you from rounding them up. Players can corral exotic critters from five environments encompassing 50 levels, with gameplay modes including a co-op Adventure Mode as well as special co-op challenges for up to four players. There's also a Marathon Mode that supports up to four layers on a nearly infinite number of levels, as well as a collection of Critter Games, an entertaining selection of mini games such as Snowball Soccer and Predator Rampage.
Out of the WiiWare titles this week, this looks the weakest but it could surprise us.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=sA2fpgxVMS4" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937409_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937409_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937408_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937408_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937407_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937407_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<b>EDIT 12th May 2008:</b>
According to various sources this is the final launch list for WiiWare:
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King - 1500
LostWinds -1000
Defend Your Castle - 500
<a href="http://www.vc-reviews.com/games/wiiware/pop" target="_blank">Pop</a>- 700
<a href="http://www.vc-reviews.com/games/wiiware/vip_casino_blackjack" target="_blank">V.I.P. Casino: Blackjack</a> -700
<a href="http://www.vc-reviews.com/games/wiiware/tv_show_king" target="_blank">TV Show King</a> - 1000
No Dr Mario or Critter Round-Up according to them, Gamestop list Toki Tori & Major League Eating: The Game but they're probably wrong and not bothered to update their release lists.
My recommendations are LostWinds & Defend Your Castle as not only do they sound good but apparently are the best games.
<!--coloro:red--><span style="color:red"><!--/coloro--><!--sizeo:5--><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->Wii<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->13th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Decca Sports</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Sports
<b>Developer:</b> Hudson <b>Publisher:</b> Hudson
Hudson attempts its own WiiSports title. To me it looks like those shovelware titles where you just play one sport, only with slightly more polish and with lots of games. The trailer makes it look fun thought so I guess we'll wait and see on this one. Events include: Beach Volleyball, Snowboard Cross, Badminton, Basketball, Curling, Figure Skating, Archery, Supercross, Soccer and Kart Racing.
Reviews in Japan say its terrible.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=8vSQM5ye2TY" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931672_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931672_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931670_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931670_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/92/35/ME0000923564_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/92/35/ME0000923564_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>We Ski</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Skiing
<b>Developer:</b> Namco Bandai <b>Publisher:</b> Namco Bandai
Look look! You can use the Wii Board for something other than WiiFit! Yep you can use the board as you would your skis (kinda) while using the Wiimote and nunchuck as those as those stick things. Of course you don't need the board as the game can be played with just standard Wii controls.
We Ski features an entire mountain to explore, complete with a ski school, freestyle skiing, moguls and slaloms, photography, and a variety of other events. Players can even try their hand at night skiing while enjoying the spectrum of fireworks that colour the sky. Up to four skiers can test their skills on more than a dozen runs from the bunny slopes to the most challenging Black Diamonds. Players can ski using their own Mii or create a new character with a host of customizable options including changeable face and body types. Boosting the customization feature, additional skis, poles, goggles, and costumes can be unlocked.
Japan reviewers says that this game was pretty good.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=UA5rAnkhz6Q" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/087/943748_20080328_screen001.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/087/943748_20080328_screen001.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen003.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen003.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen001.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen001.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->15th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Action Adventure
<b>Developer:</b> Travellers Tales <b>Publisher:</b> Disney Interactive Studios
Another movie game, this one is based more on the movie than the book.
The game allows players to assume the role of 20 different characters from the film, including non-human Narnians. In addition, the game supports two-player, drop-in/drop-out cooperative gameplay and includes a level that is unique from both the novel and the film. This level, which is set between the events of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" and "Prince Caspian," takes place at the castle of Cair Paravel and tells the story of how Narnia fell to the Telmarine hordes.
The last game was actually pretty decent and by Travellers Tales so expect this game to be much better than most movie games.
Screens and videos are not from the Wii version but its said to be close.
<a href="http://uk.media.wii.ign.com/media/950/950657/vids_1.html" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://xbox360media.ign.com/xbox360/image/article/860/860702/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080319104456942_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://xbox360media.ign.com/xbox360/image/article/860/860702/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080319104456942_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094741099_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094741099_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094733943_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094733943_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
Well it looks kinda bleak for some people on the DS front, Drone Tactics & the Narnia could be worth playing though. Those who have loads of Nintendo Points be prepared to spend them and WiiWare launches and there are some very nice looking games on display.
<!--coloro
urple--><span style="colorurple"><!--/coloro--><b><u>Read to know when a game could be dumped:</u>These dates are what retailers say is out unless stated otherwise, sometimes they make dates up for pre-ordering purposes. These dates could also be "shipping dates" which usually means that that's the date when games get shipped to stores so a game could either be in stores on that day or after. Some games may get delayed some others not listed may appear but at the moment of posting these are correct. Also just because a game is released in stores it doesn't mean that they'll appear on our internets but NA titles usually appear on our 'nets Wednesday night UK time. I love you with mouth.
I've tried to find ALL releases but I do sometimes miss some. Only games NOT already released in English are featured.</b><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<b>Description of what the stamps mean</b>
These are just my opinions, its best to try all the games yourself as some games that I don't like, others do.
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <-- Awarded to games that show promise or have had a lot of effort put into them. They may not end up to be that good but at least the developers bothered to put effort into them
<img src="http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/7927/voidrt7.png" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <-- Awarded to games that I know will either be bad or are just quickly made games with a lack of style or effort.
<!--coloro:red--><span style="color:red"><!--/coloro--><!--sizeo:5--><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->DS<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->13th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Drone Tactics</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Turn Based Strategy
<b>Developer:</b> Success <b>Publisher:</b> Atlus Co.
Been wanting this since I saw the Japan release <b>Konchuu Wars</b> and thankfully those sexy folks at Atlus are bringing it to us.
Transported to an alien world, you find yourself in the middle of a great conflict. An army of evil Drones is on the march, threatening to obliterate the land of Cimexus. Its inhabitants now turn to you to lead them in battle against the Black Swarm. Each level offers new challenges, and taking full advantage of each Drone’s unique specialties will be the difference between success and defeat!
I doubt it'll set the world on fire but like Rondo of Swords it'll be a good game and should tie us over until FF Tactics AA2. The scores seem a bit average right now, famitsu didn't like it that much but then the same was said about Rondo of Swords and that was enjoyable.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=jfvveJe07-Q" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/59/ME0000945916_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/13/ME0000941304_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/13/ME0000941308_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->15th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> RPG
<b>Developer:</b> Fall Line Studios <b>Publisher:</b> Disney Interactive Studios
Another week and another movie game, and again it looks like this could be good, well according to those who have played it.
Revisit the rich, fantasy land of Narnia. Based on the second Walt Disney and Walden Media film of the epic Narnia series, Prince Caspian finds Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter whisked back to Narnia to help drive out the cruel King Miraz.
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian debuts DGamer, Disney Interactive Studios' innovative new technology that provides a fun, connected game community for Disney video game fans. With DGamer, players earn content, interact and chat with others on Nintendo DS through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or on a computer through the Disney.com website.
Apparently it has a unique battle system <a href="http://uk.ds.ign.com/articles/867/867224p1.html" target="_blank">(see the IGN preview for that)</a> and will use try to use all of the DS features well. Sounds like a lot of work has gone into this game, lets see what happens though I can't say it interests me.
<a href="http://uk.media.ds.ign.com/media/950/950660/vids_1.html" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/870/870147/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080428040228010_640w.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/870/870147/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080428040231385_640w.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/870/870147/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspain-screens-20080428040046077_640w.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Dungeon of Windaria</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region</b> Japan <b>Genre:</b> Dungeon Crawler
<b>Developer:</b> Compile Heart <b>Publisher:</b> Compile Heart
Fairly retro looking but then it is based on a 22 year old anime (or Japanese cartoons to those who aren't afraid of the word "cartoon").
Its yet another generic Japanese dungeon crawling RPG! Dungeons are randomly generated and all that stuff. Fans of these games will like it, others won't. Japans critics say its not very good.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=98i_Xi1nGNU" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/93/ME0000939347_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/93/ME0000939349_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/93/ME0000939345_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Luminous Arc 2: Will</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region</b> Japan <b>Genre:</b> Turn Based Strategy
<b>Developer:</b> Image Epoch <b>Publisher:</b> Marvelous Interactive Inc.
Can't say the first one set my world on fire but it was alright, though completely generic and devoid of ideas.
The Forbidden War Begins..In an age when a power called "magic" supports everyday life and civilization itself, peace is supported by the queen's knights and the Rave magic council. The Kingdom of Kalnava has a clandestine program that is researching an easier way to use magic. The story starts at the point when the Kingdom had just successfully completed their research into such a tool. Breaking a long-standing oath not to use magic in conflicts, the society of witches start a new war.
Expect more of the same. No date for a release outside of Japan just yet but it'll happen.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=wy4D_F1aii8" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/86/80/ME0000868059_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/86/80/ME0000868058_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" /> <img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/86/80/ME0000868057_2.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />
Also out in Japan are:
1500DS Spirits Vol. 10: Igo
Nanatsuiro * Drops: Touch de Hajimaru Hatsukoi Monogatari
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->15th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Top Trumps: Doctor Who</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/7927/voidrt7.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> Europe <b>Genre:</b> Card
<b>Developer:</b> Ironstone Partners <b>Publisher:</b> Eidos
I wasn't gonna write this up but I'm too pissed off not to. So its a fucking Top Trumps card game...sigh. Well as the standard dullard Top Trumps game there are also surprise surpirse MINI GAMES, which includes battling the Cyber Controller or testing your Time Lord wits in the Memory Matrix
For those who don't know, Top Trumps is more about luck than any skill or strategy. You pick a card, if its attributes are higher than the one you are up against then win, if not...fail. Now the developers claim that you'll have to be strategic and stuff so lets hope its not the same old boring Top trumps formula. According to the developers "a Slitheen can use their Chameleon ability to disguise itself as another card", which kinda sounds alright if for the fact that they don't actually have that ability in the series.The style of the game actually follows that boring flash like animation episode that was on the super stupid kids show "Totally Doctor Who", and you play as the Doctor (duh!), Martha (thank god its not Donna) and Captain Jack Harkness. Perhaps Jack's special abilities on his card includes turning someone gay or making someone of a different species want a special little bum from him...I dunno.
Ideally I'd prefer an adventure game which has action segments and that you can play various incarnations of the Doctor in different time zones, each action has an reaction with the future, kinda like in Day of the Tentacle. Sadly being the BBC, they always let people who don't have a clue do their games instead of a company who would. Anyone remember Edd the Duck? It was a fucking Rainbow Islands rip off! Robot Wars? Don't get me started.
There are other Doctor Who games, all are pretty abysmal but Doctor Who and the Mines of Terror was pretty decent and matched its subject matter. No screens or anything, Eidos don't even feature it on their website but no doubt the license will make this shift millions over here on the DS, PC, PS2 & mobile, perhap that'll make Eidos think "hot tits lets make a proper game!", only for them to make some sort of piece of foulness that is just mini games. I'll await thebobevils own rantings on this game.
<!--coloro:red--><span style="color:red"><!--/coloro--><!--sizeo:5--><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->WiiWare<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
This week WiiWare launches in the North American regions, while we'll know what is available for launch, Nintendo have said that they may not tell us until a day or so before so I'll try my best to make sure I feature the ones we do know. Everyone's Pokemon Ranch, Toki Tori, Protothea, Star Soldier R, Gyrostarr & Major League Eating where said to be on launch but according to Nintendo they are not.
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->12th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Country Building RPG
<b>Developer:</b> Square Enix <b>Publisher:</b> Square Enix
The game tells the story of what happened after the original Crystal Chronicles. The Little King of the subtitle, who lost his kingdom due to the events of the first game, gains from the crystals the power to build things. He uses this to revive his fallen kingdom.
Its also the first game available on Wii or WiiWare where you pay for downloadable content. Can't say I approve of getting people to pay for missing bits in games but then I'm cheap.
Should sell shitloads and make both Nintendo & Square Enix richer than before, I hope its good and worth all the monies.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=UWqUB0bnS-8" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937393_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937393_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937395_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/73/ME0000937395_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/95/17/ME0000951737_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/95/17/ME0000951737_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Dr. Mario Online RX </b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Puzzle
<b>Developer:</b> Arika <b>Publisher:</b> Nintendo
You know what Dr Mario is right? Pills fall down, line the pills up with the viruses of the colour as the pill, win.
This title features WFC, where you can either play a random player from anywhere in the world or play against someone who has your friend code, your friend won't even need the game as they will be given a limited VS mode to download. Sometimes Nintendo makes me cry with the sucky stuff they do (like not letting us runs stuff off SD cards) and sometimes they do something so damn good like that. As well as WFC, there is also 1-4 player modes for you to play at home with people you know. Also included is the Virus Buster game from Brain Training 2 where you use the Wiimote to point and drag the pills.
For 1000 points this is a damn good deal.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=_bqBiODYlz0" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937421_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937421_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937420_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937420_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/88/17/ME0000881734_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/88/17/ME0000881734_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>LostWinds</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Adventure/Platformer
<b>Developer:</b> Frontier Developments <b>Publisher:</b> Frontier Developments
Well this is a pretty game for a WiiWare title, hell its prettier than most normal Wii titles and its under 43MB.
From IGN: In LostWinds, you play as Toku, aboy who is able to harness the power of the wind to travel through sprawling 2D-style levels solving puzzles and vanquishing enemies. While the character is controlled with the nunchuk's analogue stick, he isn't directly capable of executing very many manoeuvres. He can run in both directions, he'll automatically jump when he reaches ledges and automatically climb up nearby platforms, and that's really all there is to it. The major mechanics lay not with the nunchuk but the Wii remote, whose IR pointer is used to accurately control the powers of the wind. That is, you point the Wii remote at the screen, press the A button, and draw various wind paths about the stages to accomplish unique tasks and complete clever challenges.
Its said to be under 1000 points and is getting very very strong previews that are saying its the best game on WiiWare. Also apparently its only 3 hours long, but for $10 thats not too bad see most $39 games are around 3-10 hours long, if that.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=3qFbxm2Da4k" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949766_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949766_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949765_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949765_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949762_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/94/97/ME0000949762_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Defend Your Castle</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<img src="http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/687/approvege0.png" border="0" class="linked-image" />
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Strategy?
<b>Developer:</b> XGen Studios <b>Publisher:</b> XGen Studios
Well this is a fun game, it was free on the PC but this Wii version has had a complete overhaul with enhanced physics and particle effects as well as many gameplay elements tame.
The Barbarian hordes have amassed their forces once again to challenge your domain. Will you and your court rise to the challenge, or stand aside as the invaders raze your castle to the ground?
A 4 Player co-op mode has been added to improve the lifespan of the game and you can also challenge your friends (not via WFC sadly) and for only 500 points its a damn fine bargain as a lot of previews are saying that it plays a lot better then the web game and is a worthy addition to the WiiWare library. It is also a game that won't end, you'll just continue to make your kingdom strength better and better while the hordes of attackers increase.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=4EBKOybfZqI" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034718709_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034718709_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/855/855932/new-wiiware-game-defend-your-castle-20080229102007472_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/855/855932/new-wiiware-game-defend-your-castle-20080229102007472_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034720944_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/864/864735/defend-your-castle-20080404034720944_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Critter Round-Up</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Adventure/Platformer
<b>Developer:</b> Konami <b>Publisher:</b> Konami
Apparently this game has been described as Zoo Keeper meets Qix.
Critter Round-Up is a puzzle game for up to four players. Players are challenged with building fences to separate different critter species into their own area, while avoiding predators and other mischievous animals attempting to stop you from rounding them up. Players can corral exotic critters from five environments encompassing 50 levels, with gameplay modes including a co-op Adventure Mode as well as special co-op challenges for up to four players. There's also a Marathon Mode that supports up to four layers on a nearly infinite number of levels, as well as a collection of Critter Games, an entertaining selection of mini games such as Snowball Soccer and Predator Rampage.
Out of the WiiWare titles this week, this looks the weakest but it could surprise us.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=sA2fpgxVMS4" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937409_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937409_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937408_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937408_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937407_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/74/ME0000937407_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<b>EDIT 12th May 2008:</b>
According to various sources this is the final launch list for WiiWare:
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King - 1500
LostWinds -1000
Defend Your Castle - 500
<a href="http://www.vc-reviews.com/games/wiiware/pop" target="_blank">Pop</a>- 700
<a href="http://www.vc-reviews.com/games/wiiware/vip_casino_blackjack" target="_blank">V.I.P. Casino: Blackjack</a> -700
<a href="http://www.vc-reviews.com/games/wiiware/tv_show_king" target="_blank">TV Show King</a> - 1000
No Dr Mario or Critter Round-Up according to them, Gamestop list Toki Tori & Major League Eating: The Game but they're probably wrong and not bothered to update their release lists.
My recommendations are LostWinds & Defend Your Castle as not only do they sound good but apparently are the best games.
<!--coloro:red--><span style="color:red"><!--/coloro--><!--sizeo:5--><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo-->Wii<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->13th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>Decca Sports</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Sports
<b>Developer:</b> Hudson <b>Publisher:</b> Hudson
Hudson attempts its own WiiSports title. To me it looks like those shovelware titles where you just play one sport, only with slightly more polish and with lots of games. The trailer makes it look fun thought so I guess we'll wait and see on this one. Events include: Beach Volleyball, Snowboard Cross, Badminton, Basketball, Curling, Figure Skating, Archery, Supercross, Soccer and Kart Racing.
Reviews in Japan say its terrible.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=8vSQM5ye2TY" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931672_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931672_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931670_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/93/16/ME0000931670_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/92/35/ME0000923564_2.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://media.cnetnetworks.fr/gamekult-com/images/photos/00/00/92/35/ME0000923564_2.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>We Ski</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Skiing
<b>Developer:</b> Namco Bandai <b>Publisher:</b> Namco Bandai
Look look! You can use the Wii Board for something other than WiiFit! Yep you can use the board as you would your skis (kinda) while using the Wiimote and nunchuck as those as those stick things. Of course you don't need the board as the game can be played with just standard Wii controls.
We Ski features an entire mountain to explore, complete with a ski school, freestyle skiing, moguls and slaloms, photography, and a variety of other events. Players can even try their hand at night skiing while enjoying the spectrum of fireworks that colour the sky. Up to four skiers can test their skills on more than a dozen runs from the bunny slopes to the most challenging Black Diamonds. Players can ski using their own Mii or create a new character with a host of customizable options including changeable face and body types. Boosting the customization feature, additional skis, poles, goggles, and costumes can be unlocked.
Japan reviewers says that this game was pretty good.
<a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=UA5rAnkhz6Q" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/087/943748_20080328_screen001.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/087/943748_20080328_screen001.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen003.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen003.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen001.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2008/062/943748_20080303_screen001.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><!--coloro:blue--><span style="color:blue"><!--/coloro-->15th May<!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec--><!--colorc--></span><!--/colorc-->
<!--sizeo:4--><span style="font-size:14pt;line-height:100%"><!--/sizeo--><b>The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian</b><!--sizec--></span><!--/sizec-->
<b>Region:</b> US <b>Genre:</b> Action Adventure
<b>Developer:</b> Travellers Tales <b>Publisher:</b> Disney Interactive Studios
Another movie game, this one is based more on the movie than the book.
The game allows players to assume the role of 20 different characters from the film, including non-human Narnians. In addition, the game supports two-player, drop-in/drop-out cooperative gameplay and includes a level that is unique from both the novel and the film. This level, which is set between the events of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" and "Prince Caspian," takes place at the castle of Cair Paravel and tells the story of how Narnia fell to the Telmarine hordes.
The last game was actually pretty decent and by Travellers Tales so expect this game to be much better than most movie games.
Screens and videos are not from the Wii version but its said to be close.
<a href="http://uk.media.wii.ign.com/media/950/950657/vids_1.html" target="_blank">Video Link</a>
<a href="http://xbox360media.ign.com/xbox360/image/article/860/860702/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080319104456942_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://xbox360media.ign.com/xbox360/image/article/860/860702/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-20080319104456942_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094741099_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094741099_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a> <a href="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094733943_640w.jpg" target=_blank title="Click to view full size"><img src="http://ps3media.ign.com/ps3/image/article/869/869137/the-chronicles-of-narnia-prince-caspian-screens-20080424094733943_640w.jpg" height="150" alt="User posted image" /></a>
