Rooster hat returns as pre-order bonus for Scribblenauts Unlimited

When DS owners pre-ordered the original Scribblenauts back in 2009, they were treated to one of the most charming bonuses ever: a rooster hat. Modeled after protagonist Maxwell's adorably awesome headwear, the rooster hat has been providing gamers everywhere with some much-needed warmth throughout the cold winter seasons over the past couple of years.

Scribblenauts Unlimited is en route to the Wii U, 3DS, and PC, and it looks to be the biggest entry in the series yet. To make things even more exciting, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment has announced that individuals who pre-order the upcoming puzzler at GameStop will be treated to their very own rooster hat. That's right, it's back!

The Scribblenauts Unlimited rooster hats come in three flavors. You've got the traditional red Maxwell hat, a blue doppleganger hat, and Lily's pink hat. In case you're wondering, Lily is the latest addition to the series cast, and she'll be joining Maxwell in the game's co-op mode.

It's not all rooster hats, though. Also announced was an upcoming 3DS bundle, which will include a copy of Scribblenauts Unlimited, a pencil-shaped stylus, and a Maxwell silicone case.

An exact launch date hasn't been officially announced yet, but you can stay tuned for more on that as we get the details from Warner Bros. and 5th Cell. I can't wait to own my second rooster hat!

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Rooster hat returns as pre-order bonus for Scribblenauts Unlimited

Read More

What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/30/2012

It's Nintendo Thursday, people! Seriously, I think that should be the official name. I mean, it certainly makes sense. Anyway, we've got some new eShop and DSiWare titles today. Sadly, there's nothing on the Wii, but I suppose this batch of portable downloads will have to do.

"Kill animals!" That's the message Nintendo is shooting your way with Outdoors Unleashed: Africa 3D. You can hunt for your prey in this downloadable title for $3.99. If you're more animal conscious, though, why not drive like a madman in SpeedX 3D, a racer that's also priced at $3.99?

If you're feeling nostalgic, you can instead check out the much more enticing Toki Tori, which also sports a $3.99 price tag. This is a downloadable port of the Game Boy Color original, and it looks pretty darn charming. Not in the market for a new eShop title or a trip back in time? You say you're feeling a little cheap? Well, if that's the case, you'll be glad to know that you can download the free demo of Theatrhythm Final Fantasy.

Last is DSiWare with a 2D shmup titled Escape the Virus: Shoot 'em Up. That one will run you 200 DSi Points ($1.99 for you 3DS shoppers). And that's this week's downloads. I might just give ol' Toki Tori a buy right now.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/30/2012

Read More

Animal Crossing releasing for 3DS in 2013

Animal Crossing is arriving for 3DS in North America next year.

The life simulation game will launch a bit earlier, in November of this year. In the new version, you act as the major of your own town, giving you control over its growth and community. A number of new customization options are available, as well.

Nintendo of America revealed via Twitter that the game will release in the first half of 2013. It has yet to be given an official name.

The first Animal Crossing debuted in America in 2002 for GameCube.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Siliconera]

Via: Animal Crossing releasing for 3DS in 2013

Read More

Nintendo announces playable Wii U games at PAX Prime

Fans attending PAX Prime later this week will have a chance to go hands-on with Nintendo's Wii U console, the co

Detailing their plans for the game expo, Nintendo confirmed several upcoming games for the Wii U, including Pikmin 3, ZombiU, and New Super Mario Bros. U will be playable. The Nintendo booth will have plenty of hands-on Wii U game demos giving fans an early chance to check out the system's GamePad and its unique second-screen.

For those more interested in Nintendo's handhelds, you should check out the Nintendo Gaming Lounge on levels 2 and 3 of the North Galleria to experience unreleased games for the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS. Fans will be able to enjoy a wide variety of titles on the recently released Nintendo 3DS XL.

The Nintendo Gaming Lounge will also include a special Pokémon area, where fans can gather to battle and trade with other Pokémon Trainers.

On August 31 at 6:30 pm, a live Kid Icarus: Uprising multiplayer tournament will be held in the Gaming Lounge on the third floor of the Washington State Convention Center. First, second, and third place winners will receive a Core Set of the Kid Icarus: Uprising AR Cards. Series 2 AR Card packs will also be given away in the Nintendo booth during show hours, while supplies last.

On September 1, Kirby fans can take part in a special Guinness World Records attempt to break the record for most people blowing a chewing gum bubble simultaneously. This is in celebration of Kirby's 20th anniversary and upcoming launch of Kirby's Dream Collection: Special Edition for Wii.

When roaming the halls of PAX Prime be on the look out for special stickers in celebration of the launch of Paper Mario: Sticker Star for Nintendo 3DS. Attendees who find three game-themed stickers by following the clues posted on Nintendo's official Twitter Account can bring them to a Nintendo representative where they will be awarded a special bonus sticker.

Below is a complete list of Nintendo games available to play at PAX Prime:

Wii U

Nintendo 3DS

Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS

Nintendo DS

Wii

Via: Nintendo announces playable Wii U games at PAX Prime

Read More

New Professor Layton game is announced for 3DS

At the Nintendo Direct conference, Level-5 chief executive officer Akihiro Hino announced a new Professor Layton game, coming for the 3DS.

The game is called "Professor Layton Choubunmei to A no Isan," and it's expected to release next year.

To clarify, the upcoming game is Hershel Layton's final adventure — not necessarily the last Layton game.

So what will come next?

We're still waiting for the launch of Professor Layton vs. Ace Attorney, which designer Shu Takumi said was almost complete. And Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask is due out in November.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Andriasang]

Via: New Professor Layton game is announced for 3DS

Read More

Next Nintendo Direct presentation happening tomorrow, August 29

Nintendo has confirmed their next Nintendo Direct presentation will take place tomorrow, August 29.

The focus on the presentation will be on the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Wii — not to be confused with the Wii U which is currently in the middle of a release date rumor war. For Wii U news, I suggest waiting until Nintendo's press event in September where Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aim will address "how the Wii U will change the future of gaming and entertainment".

As for tomorrows Nintendo Direct, it'll be Wii and 3DS. The presentation will go live tomorrow, Wednesday, August 29, at 8:00pm JST. That's 4:00am PST for us in America and 12:00pm BST for the UK.

Via: Next Nintendo Direct presentation happening tomorrow, August 29

Read More

Weekly wrap-up 8/26/2012

Just like Nintendo decides to release games and hardware on Sundays, we too have decided to give you the week's wrap-up of reviews, previews, and video content on this most odd of days to do anything. If you've been busy and haven't had the chance to check out the latest content on GameZone, be sure to scope it all out here. Want to know if you should shell out the cash for the 3DS XL? Are you looking for a good movie to watch? Do you perhaps just feel like disagreeing with us? You'll find an entire week's worth of content right here.

Reviews

Paranorman 3D review (Movies)

It's hard to say if this film will take its place as a classic, but it's most certainly an entertaining movie and should not be missed by moviegoers looking for some lighthearted fun.

Papo & Yo review (PS3)

This heartwarming tale warrants a play-through from PlayStation 3 owners, and even if its gameplay may not be perfect, it's a solid game regardless.

Transformers: Fall of Cybertron review (Xbox 360, PS3)

The robots in disguise are back in what is easily the best Transformers game in quite some time.

Legasista review (PS3)

NIS America's latest RPG isn't for everyone, but if you're a fan of the genre, you might want to give it a shot.

Street Fighter x Tekken DLC review (Xbox 360, PS3)

If you've been digging Capcom's crossover fighter and are looking for more content to keep you going, this DLC expansion is for you.

Hit & Run review (Movies)

A genuinely enjoyable flick with fast car chases, this high-speed film delivers the goods and defies expectations.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure HD Ver. review (Xbox 360, PS3)

This HD remake is certainly bizarre, but it's also not that good.

Sugar Cube: Bittersweet Factory review (PC)

While this indie puzzle platformer won't be remembered alongside the greats like Braid and Limbo, it still offers some entertainment that makes it worth playing.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive review (Xbox 360, PS3)

Is this hotly anticipated tactical FPS worth playing? Yes, it definitely is. So go play it now.

New Super Mario Bros. 2 review (3DS)

Mario and Luigi's latest outing may not be wholly original, but it is a fine 2D platforming experience for fans of the series and 3DS owners.

Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Online review (PC)

While the potential for a great shooter is there, too many shortcomings plague the latest Clancy title, making it an average romp at best.

Nintendo 3DS XL review (Gadgets)

If you've been meaning to buy a 3DS, look no further than Nintendo's latest revision of its dual screen handheld. It really is worth the $199.99 asking price.

The Apparition review (Movies)

Bad characters, a poor story, and no scares whatsoever mean you'll find absolutely no enjoyment in this "horror" flick.

Premium Rush review (Movies)

This flick is dumb, but not in the good way, which means you should probably save some cash and refrain from watching it.

Previews

Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition preview

We enter the world of Dark Souls and die ... over and over again. If that sounds like something you'd be into, watch out for this enhanced version of the game on PC.

Madden 13 demo impressions (Vita)

GameZone gives the Vita demo of the upcoming Madden a spin. The verdict: You'll probably dig it if you enjoy football games.

Gunblitz demo impressions

We go hands-on with an early build of Gunblitz, an upcoming 2D shmup for PC and Ouya.

GZ Originals

Gen Con Indy 2012: Behind the Flavor Monsters booth

We check out truth's Flavor Monsters, a mobile game that manages to provide some entertainment while simultaneously raising tobacco awareness.

Games of Summer: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

GameZone revisits a classic Mario RPG. In case you're wondering, yes, this game is still totally awesome.

Double Dragon II: The Revenge (NES) - Does it hold up?

In preparation for Double Dragon: Neon, we decided to go back and play the NES version of the second game in the series. Time to kick some ass.

Top 10 genuinely scary visual novels

We take a look at some of the most enjoyably creepy visual novels.

Nitpick: Same ol' Hack and Slash

Are developers relying too much on simplicity and turning out too many basic hack-and-slash titles?

OnLive: So what’s going to happen now?

What does the future hold for this digital video game streaming service?

Why PlayStation Plus is a great deal and every PS3 owner needs it

We run down the features of PlayStation Plus and tell you why you should shell out the cash for a subscription if you're a PlayStation 3 gamer.

How creative games like Sound Shapes can save the Vita in the long run

It may be a downloadable title, but Sound Shapes is a great offering on the Vita, and if we continue getting creativity-heavy games on the portable, there may be plenty of reasons to buy Sony's latest device.

Talking Serious Sam 3: BFE coming to XBLA with Davor Hunski

GameZone chats with developer Croteam about the upcoming Xbox Live Arcade version of Serious Sam 3: BFE.

Top 10 WWE '13 dream matches

We take a look at some of the possible dream matches that will be worth simulating once WWE '13 hits consoles later this year.

Interview with Carl "PerfectLegend" White, two time EVO Mortal Kombat Champion

We talk it up with the best Mortal Kombat player in the world. Yes, in the world!

Ten third-party characters that should be in the next Super Smash Bros.

Which third-party characters should enter the fray in the upcoming Super Smash Bros. game for the Wii U?

Castle Story's success: more than $600K on Kickstarter and counting

Developer Sauropod discusses Castle Story in great detail and talks about its Kickstarter experience.

Games of Summer: Skullmonkeys

We take on a PlayStation classic and urge you to dig up a copy on eBay and do the same.

Boot Hill Heroes interview with Dave Welch

We take a close look at the Earthbound-inspired indie RPG Boot Hill Heroes and get chatty with developer ExperimentalGamer.

Nitpick: This is the intro?!

An intro can make or break a video gaming experience for a lot of people. Unfortunately, sometimes it can break it pretty bad.

The Best of Psygnosis/Studio Liverpool

We take a look at some of Sony Studio Liverpool's greatest hits in honor of the company and its recent closing.

Guides

Darksiders II video walkthough | How to beat Thane

Darksiders II video walkthough | Dungeon Guide: The Drenchfort

Darksiders II video walkthough | Boss Guide: How to beat Karkinos

Darksiders II video walkthrough | "The Nook" dungeon puzzle guide

Darksiders II Walkthrough | Boss guide: How to beat the Construct Hulk

Darksiders II video walkthrough | Where to find the Deathgrip (Foundry dungeon guide)

Darksiders II video walkthrough | Where to find Heart Stone #1 (Foundry dungeon guide)

Darksiders II video walkthrough | Where to find Heart Stone #2 (Foundry dungeon guide)

Darksiders II video walkthrough | How to beat the Corrupted Custodian (Boss Guide)

Darksiders II video walkthrough | How to beat The Guardian (Boss Guide)

Videos

Interview: truth® aims to spread flavored tobacco awareness with new 'Flavor Monsters' game

Gen Con 2012 show floor walkthrough

truth® 45 Flavors booth tour and Flavor Monsters sneak peek

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Weekly wrap-up 8/26/2012

Read More

What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/23/2012

So technically this Nintendo download update was supposed to go up quite a few hours ago, but I was busy ... playing New Super Mario Bros. 2 on my shiny new 3DS XL. Oh, come on, like you've never shown up late to work ... or to your desk at home where you conduct all of your daily job operations. Anyway, with that out of the way, let's take a look at some downloads.

On the Wii Virtual Console we've got Metal Slug X for 900 Wii Points. This is a revised, revamped, and renewed version of Metal Slug 2, and if you're a fan of shmups, this one will probably be right up your alley.

The 3DS eShop got VectorRacing this week. The game is priced at $6.99, and if you dig simplistic vector visuals, you'll probably dig this, too. I mean, if the gameplay is good, that is.

Last is Abyss on DSiWare for 200 DSi Points ($1.99 if you're buying it on your 3DS). Judging from the screenshots, this game looks like a weird action puzzler. But really, who knows what the hell it might be.

Oh, and before I forget, remember that you can download New Super Mario Bros. 2 on the eShop. It costs $39.99 just like the retail version, but registering the game on Club Nintendo will net you 100 of those precious, precious Coins.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/23/2012

Read More

What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/9/2012

It's Thursday, Nintendo fans! That can only mean one thing: downloadable stuff! What's on tap today for Wii, 3DS, and DSi owners? It looks like it's a small selection yet again; one per platform to be exact. Luckily, there's a pretty darn good 3DS Virtual Console game on sale for a limited time, too, so check out all the latest downloadable Nintendo content right here and see if you spot anything you like.

This week we see a rare Wii Virtual Console title. Real Bout Fatal Fury Special is a Neo Geo original from 1997. For 900 Wii Points you can enjoy some old school fighting action. If you're a fan of these games, you may want to check out this installment of Fatal Fury.

If cartoony war is more your thing, there's Touch Battle Tank 3D on the eShop for $4.99. It's a single-player game, which makes absolutely no sense. Of course, if you're feeling nostalgic, you may want to save a buck on Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins, which is sporting a discounted price tag of $2.99 through August 15.

Last is DSiWare with its own offering. Originally released at retail, Commando: Steel Disaster has gone digital and delivers shoot 'em up action for 800 DSi Points ($7.99 if you're buying it through your 3DS). This one actually looks kind of cool!

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/9/2012

Read More

Atlus confirms release date for Code of Princess for 3DS

Atlus has revealed the release date for the action role-playing game Code of Princess for Nintendo 3DS.

The game, which publisher Atlus more specifically describes as a "mix of side-scrolling beat 'em up with action RPG peppered in," is coming to the handheld on October 9.

Code of Princess allows for one to four players and features online multiplayer, co-op quests, and a versus mode.

Those who preorder will receive a "Sound + Visual Book" incentive that covers the game's art and music.

Atlus has also launched a full website for the game and uploaded a new trailer. Take a look below.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

Via: Atlus confirms release date for Code of Princess for 3DS

Read More

Professor Layton vs. Ace Attorney is almost complete

Professor Layton vs. Ace Attorney has entered the final stage of development, according to designer Shu Takumi.

Takumi told Japanese magazine Famitsu that the game was progressing smoothly. Level-5 is developing the game with Capcom as copublisher.

Japan is expected the receive the game sometime this year. There's no word yet on a release for North America, but keeping this one from us would be a crime.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Siliconera]

Via: Professor Layton vs. Ace Attorney is almost complete

Read More

Madden NFL 13: Top 10 Defensive Players revealed

It's the final week of Madden NFL 13 player overall reveals and today we are taking a look at the top 10 defensive players. Similar to the past three weeks, EA has revealed the top 10 players and will reveal all the defensive player overalls on Friday.

This is your last week to determine player attributes. This week you can vote on the Madden NFL 13 Facebook page to determine which defensive players best possess the following attributes: Speed, Tackling, Hit Power, and Man Coverage.

So let's take a look at the top 10 defensive players.

Overall, I can't say I'm too shocked by any of the top 10 defensive players. It's the usual high profile stars, but I do think some of the players included in the list are there by name alone. While there is some up-and-coming stars, I can't help but feel some players are there based on their past history.

Do you feel the top 10 were deserving of their spots or did any defensive players get shafted?

Via: Madden NFL 13: Top 10 Defensive Players revealed

Read More

It's game over for Nintendo Power

Since 1988, Nintendo Power magazine has been a part of the Big N's massive repertoire. It looks like that will no longer be the case, because Future Publishing revealed that it will not be working with Nintendo to keep the publication alive.

Speaking to Ars Technica, a source within Future stated that Nintendo was "difficult to work with." The console and game manufacturer reportedly had no interest whatsoever in renewing its contract with the publisher or delivering different types of digital content.

According to Future, Nintendo will not be reviving the brand down the road. In the past, Nintendo Power was run by Nintendo itself, and it later teamed with Future to release the magazine, so the fact that the company won't be taking over the project probably means it doesn't really have much interest in it any longer, which is kind of a shame.

There's still no word on when the last issue of Nintendo Power will be released, but we're sure to get more info on that as the end of the gaming magazine's life cycle draws near.

[Ars Technica]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: It's game over for Nintendo Power

Read More

Is there any way we can get Grandpa Danger 3DS in North America?

I've never read Grandpa Danger in the CoroCoro Comic publication, nor have I watched the anime rendition of the series. That said, I know jolly absurdity when I see it, and Grandpa Danger is just flowing with it.

Now the series is being turned into a video game by Namco Bandai, and though it's currently only confirmed for Japan, you people have no idea how badly I want Grandpa Danger here in North America. The game is being developed for the 3DS, and it stars Grandpa, who's tasked with saving his loved ones after they've all been turned into postcards. Again, jolly absurdity.

No word on when the game will launch, but here's hoping North America gets treated to some fun Grandpa Danger goodness. You can check out some screens from the game in our gallery to get a glimpse of the wackiness for yourself. Or if you really want to be wowed, just do what I did and watch the game's reveal trailer.

[Andriasang]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Is there any way we can get Grandpa Danger 3DS in North America?

Read More

Madden NFL 13: Top 10 Receivers revealed

It's Monday which means it's time for EA to reveal the overalls of the top 10 receivers in Madden NFL 13. While I'm not upset or angered with any of the results, it may come as a surprise to many that two of the top 10 receivers are actually tight ends.

There was a time in the NFL when you heard the time "receiver" and automatically thought wide receiver. But with the changing landscape of the NFL and it becoming more of a passing league, tight ends are more involved in the passing game than ever before - and it's starting to show as the number two receiver in Madden NFL 13 is a tight end.

Below are the top 10 receivers in Madden NFL 13.

As much as I can't stand the guy, I'm a little surprised to see Victor Cruz outside of the top 10. While I recognize he's a young player, and that might play into the overall factor, he outperformed fellow Giants' wide receiver Hakeem Nicks last year. Cruz caught 82 passes for 1,536 yards and 9 touchdowns. How could you leave him off the list? Sure, he may have been a one-year wonder, but he at least deserves a spot in the top 10, with the chance to move down in future weekly updates.

Other than Cruz, I think EA did a fairly good job in the ratings. Johnson is, by far, the best receiver in the NFL. His catch over three Cowboys defenders still haunts me in my dreams. As cover athlete in this year's Madden NFL 13, it's only fair that he be rated the highest. That, and he caught over 1,600 yards worth of passes and 16 touchdowns.

Keeping up with fan participation in player ratings, this week we can vote on the following receiver attributes: Speed, Agility, Route Running, Spectacular Catch. Head over to the Madden NFL 13 Facebook Page this week to cast your vote.

On Friday, the overall for every receiver in Madden NFL 13 will be revealed. So far EA has announced the Quarterbacks and Running Backs. Next week, EA will reveal the top defensive players.

Remember to download the free demo of Madden NFL 13, available tomorrow.

Via: Madden NFL 13: Top 10 Receivers revealed

Read More

What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/16/2012

Sigh. Sigh, I say! It looks like it's a light day for Nintendo downloads. It's sad, really. Heck, it's darn near laughable. (See how I censor my language for Nintendo posts? Adapting to different circumstances is a thing I do!)

The first game available on the 3DS eShop is Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D. Ugh ... This one's priced at $1.99, and it's, like ... umm ... honestly, I have no idea what this game is. To continue this Month of Mario tomfoolery, Nintendo has also decided to add Mario's Picross to the Virtual Console for $2.99. Did people like this Game Boy original?

If you're looking for something on DSiWare, there's ... Crazy Chicken Pirates. Note the lack of "3D" in the title. That's because it's on the DSi. Funnily enough, that one's similarly priced at 200 DSi Points (or $1.99 if for some reason you want a DSiWare version of an eShop game on your 3DS).

Oh, and in case you're getting New Super Mario Bros. 2, you should be aware that you can download it on the eShop this Sunday. The digital version sports an identical price tag to that of the retail version, but if you go the downloadable route, you'll snag 100 Club Nintendo Coins. So factor all of that stuff in.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: What's downloadable this week, Nintendo? 8/16/2012

Read More

New characters confirmed for Super Smash Bros. Wii U

It appears as if the roster for Super Smash Bros. Wii U and 3DS will expand - or at least feature some new playable characters.

While delivering the keynote address at this year's CEDEC developers conference, Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai didn't say much about the upcoming game except that "it's fun making new skills for new characters."

Back in July, Masahiro suggested Super Smash Bros. had "probaby" reached its limit so the new characters additions could be very limited or he has plans to replace some of the lesser popular characters with new ones.

With Namco Bandai co-developing the new Smash Bros. there is an endless amount of cameo possibilities. Who would you like to see?

[Famitsu via Andriasang]

Via: New characters confirmed for Super Smash Bros. Wii U

Read More

Penelope and Monica Cruz are in this New Super Mario Bros. 2 ad

Watch the trailer above.

Watched it? Okay. I'm going to be honest with you people. I don't think the ad that Nintendo UK is running for New Super Mario Bros. 2 is all that great. I mean, celebrities can be great actors and actresses, but they always seem awkward when they do video game things. I mean, remember Robin Williams and his daughter Zelda? That was cool and all, but it was weird.

Now here we are with Penelope and Monica Cruz, and they're promoting New Super Mario Bros. 2 in this wacky trailer. Once again, it's not that great. But you know what it is?

It's absolutely f*cking brilliant.

That's right, I italicized and bolded that last sentence. That's how serious I am about this sh*t! The fact of the matter is that video game ads don't need to be great to work. Here we see the Cruz sisters dueling it out in Coin Rush mode from New Super Mario Bros. 2. Then the loser dresses up as Mario. I repeat: It's absolutely brilliant.

I remember a time when video game commercials used to be cheesy and dorky. That's exactly what this one was, and I love it for that. Thank you, Penelope. Thank you, Monica. And thank you, Nintendo UK. Thank you for giving me something cheesy and dorky to watch. Also, Penelope and Monica are hot, so this ad is, like, twice as awesome.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Penelope and Monica Cruz are in this New Super Mario Bros. 2 ad

Read More

3D Classics Excitebike brings retro bliss to Club Nintendo

The Big N has brought out a heavy hitter for Club Nintendo members. If you've got 150 Coins on you, you might want to redeem them for 3D Classics Excitebike. This slightly altered version of the NES classic features light 3D visuals that are completely non-threatening, all the while retaining the magic of the original game.

Excitebike has always been lauded as a great NES-era game, so if you dig retro titles, you really can't go wrong with this one. I'll be picking up my 3D XL this weekend, so I look forward to some 8-bit motocross awesomeness.

The addition of Excitebike to the Club Nintendo library doesn't make the whole thing with The Last Story okay, but it's a start.

[Club Nintendo]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: 3D Classics Excitebike brings retro bliss to Club Nintendo

Read More

Final Fantasy launches 25 year anniversary website to celebrate

Haven't you heard? Square is celebrating 25 years of Final Fantasy. We already celebrated the series' fantastic music through Theatrhythm, but this time, Square wanted to make a hub for fans to get together, and chat about their favorite titles.

Celebrating 25 years of over 40 different titles across over a dozen platforms and selling more than 100 million units, this new website hopes to do a little of what the famed series has done for so many fans worldwide; tell stories.

The new website doesn't offer a whole lot of features, but does give you an extensive look at the entire series' biography, which doesn't go too much in depth of each title, but serves more as a reminder of what each title was about.

The site also introduces Mognet, which is a mail system of sorts where trivia and secrets regarding various Final Fantasy titles will be revealed over time.

If you're a fan of the series, or maybe you once were, you owe it to yourself to go check the site out, and perhaps leave a memory of your favorite Final Fantasy moment?

Sound off and let us know what Final Fantasy title was your favorite?

Via: Final Fantasy launches 25 year anniversary website to celebrate

Read More

Matt hunts Flavor Monsters at Gen Con 2012

It's not everyday you can say you went head to head with the Flavor Monsters. GameZone's very own Matt Liebl can! At Gen Con 2012 in Indianapolis, Truth is displaying their Flavor Monster booth which is parallel to the horrors of advertising flavored tobacco and appealing to a younger crowd.

Fear not however, Matt is on the case. While he does seem to be in fear for the first half of the video, he sure puts up a good fight in the latter half.

Gen Con 2012 officially opened its doors today, August 16th and will run through August 19th and is the largest annual fantasy, electronic, sci-fi, adventure and hobby conventions in North America. Stay tuned for more coverage of Gen Con 2012 coming up on GameZone.

Also make sure to keep a lookout for the Flavor Monsters game, which will be free to download on iOS and Android devices at the end of August.

Via: Matt hunts Flavor Monsters at Gen Con 2012

Read More

Is Nintendo trolling us with deliberately bad Virtual Console games?

Listen, I know, there are tons of emulators I can find easily on the internet that will allow me to play my favorite Game Boy game for the price of free. Hell, there are flash websites now that do the same thing without the need to download anything. Call my old fashioned, but I like owning a piece of virtual software.

I was excited when Nintendo unveiled their plans for the 3DS Virtual Console, and how they'll bring lots of Nintendo classics back on the 3DS. While I definitely appreciate the likes of Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3, Metroid II: Return of Samus, Kirby's Dreamland and hell, even the classic Tetris, I have to say that the majority of these Virtual Console games are pretty crappy.

Alleyway, Radar Mission, Tennis, Golf, Side Pocket, Catrap, Lock 'n' Chase, Mole Mania... I can't speak for gamers everywhere but I know for a fact there are a ton more iconic games on the Game Boy aside from these abominations. What's worse, today we get another craptastic release: Mario's Picross, because everyone fondly remembers that game right?

Look Nintendo, I want to give you my money, I swear I do, just give me some better Virtual Console games on the go! I'm not asking for much, maybe some Battletoads, Burai Fighter Deluxe, Donkey Kong Land 1, 2 and 3, Ducktales, hell even Ninja Gaiden Shadow, I like the challenge. Let me relive these classics all over again and actually have me pay for them.

Via: Is Nintendo trolling us with deliberately bad Virtual Console games?

Read More

New Super Mario Bros. 2 overtakes Dragon Quest 10 on sales charts in Japan

New Super Mario Bros. 2 seized the top spot again in Japan, pushing the two-week-old Dragon Quest 10 from the top spot, which it held last week — one place ahead of NSMB2.

Mario's latest outing on the 3DS sold 146,684 units, compared to Dragon Quest 10's 70,352. This also brought the Mario game's lifetime sales to 790,732, whereas Dragon Quest 10 has tallied 490,663 total units.

Debut games included Kuroko's Basketball for PSP at fourth place, Ubisoft's Sniper Elite V2 for PS3 at 12th, and Idea Factory's L.G.S. for PSP at 25th.

Persona 4 Arena dropped to 11th place from last week, when it just made the top 10.

Hardware sales for the Wii, pushed up to 41,561 units last week because of Dragon Quest 10, fell to 15,916. Overall, console and handheld purchases dipped slightly, except for the PlayStation Vita and and PlayStation 2, which grew by a small number. Mostly, these changes were insignificant.

Below are the top ten software sales for August 6 through August 12, along with publisher, release date, and lifetime sales in parentheses.

Hardware sales:

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Andriasang]

Via: New Super Mario Bros. 2 overtakes Dragon Quest 10 on sales charts in Japan

Read More