tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71056540616268894632024-03-13T09:13:23.628-06:00Blatant BiasNintendo owns your life. Just admit it.benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.comBlogger377125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-36806414810879090782017-01-25T23:02:00.000-07:002017-01-25T23:06:15.350-07:00Make Stuff, Make MoneyOk, Nintendo, we need to talk.<br />
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Please stop making your products so scarce.<br />
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Seriously. I get that once in a while, it's hard to predict how much of a product you'll sell. You can't be expected to know the sales potential of everything. But lately, you've been way off. Like, super way off.<br />
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This string of poor stock seems to have started with amiibo. Remember how tough it was to get some of those at first? I waited in line for 10 hours to snag Robin and Lucina. The store's total shipment of those figures? Four each. Granted, those issues have largely disappeared, but look how long it took. You could have sold so many figures had they been available.<br />
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Sure, it wouldn't seem so bad if amiibo was the only culprit. But it has continued.<br />
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You know Pokemon GO? Of course you do. Half the planet plays it. You know that handy wristband that can track movement and catch Pokemon and spin PokeStops? Totally. It's great. But good luck finding one. Even now, four months after release, the Pokemon GO Plus is near-impossible to locate. I guess half the country will have to catch Pokemon the old-fashioned way.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zibFrwPx6_E/WImOmWCdx4I/AAAAAAAAAJw/aWMc_vRCNvsZ_XtLGRFOJpVoeXtTf5PjQCLcB/s1600/nes-classic-edition-box.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Can't touch this" border="0" height="284" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zibFrwPx6_E/WImOmWCdx4I/AAAAAAAAAJw/aWMc_vRCNvsZ_XtLGRFOJpVoeXtTf5PjQCLcB/s320/nes-classic-edition-box.png" title="" width="320" /></a>Then last year, you had this great idea to create a miniature version of the NES, complete with a legit NES controller and built-in games. Plus save states and no need to blow on the cartridge. And it was only $60 to boot! Awesome!<br />
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Except, what's this? You sold out of your initial shipment in freaking minutes?! And the extra controllers are literally nowhere to be found? So now, those who wanted to get one for Christmas so they could let their young ones experience the same joy that they did growing up, either had to wait in line for hours or constantly harass stores until they obtained one. Yikes.<br />
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I finally got one today, and that was only because of a forum where someone who had access to GameStop inventory reported that many stores were receiving them today. I got the last one. The store's total shipment? Three.<br />
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I wonder if you notice the comments from people who are fed up with you, Nintendo. Once-loyal fans are ditching you for other companies who can provide them the products they want with little to no hassle. These people are weak, admittedly, but the point stands. You are losing customers and money by playing it safe.<br />
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And unfortunately, you don't seem to be learning very quickly. As proof, try and pre-order the Nintendo Switch. Oh wait. You can't. Because it's sold out. Before it's even available! This amazing new system may only serve to anger more customers. I even tried to pre-order the pro controller online today. Too bad for me, it was gone in 26 minutes.<br />
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Yeah, you're probably a little gun shy after the Wii U didn't sell well. But you can't keep putting out these paltry numbers of stock and expect people to wait when they can't get one. People love video games, so if they can't get their hands on yours, they'll go for someone else's. You don't wanna be sloppy seconds, do you?<br />
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Listen. I'm not saying this to hurt your feelings. But you need to know what's happening out there. The world is merciless and you need to start fulfilling your potential. I love you, Nintendo. Now go get in bed. You have school in the morning.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15696929341320935562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-73018832694769259022015-06-15T22:00:00.000-06:002015-06-16T03:46:51.130-06:00E3 Bingo 2015: Day 2 UpdateNintendo's E3 presentation doesn't happen until tomorrow, but that doesn't mean we can't add more boxes to the bingo card!<br />
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Today, we were treated to a preview of a new LEGO game called LEGO dimensions, a game in the same vein as Skylanders and Disney Infinity.<br />
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Aaaaaaand that's all for today. But still, any box is a good box! Tomorrow at 10am MDT is Nintendo's main presentation, where we will likely be able to check off a good handful of boxes. Here's hoping!<br />
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<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-64564480475001828602015-06-14T21:30:00.000-06:002015-06-16T03:38:28.665-06:00E3 Bingo 2015: Day 1 UpdateToday, Nintendo held the first Nintendo World Championships since 1990. During the presentation, there were a number of sweet announcements, some of which added a few checks to the Bingo card!<a name='more'></a><div>
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First and foremost, Nintendo has announced the release of Earthbound Beginnings, the English translation of the original NES game, which has never been released outside of Japan. Sweet! It's available now on Wii U Virtual Console.<div>
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Next, one of the games that was played during the Nintendo World Championships was Blast Ball, an all-new 3DS game where players in mechs shoot a ball into a goal. Think Excitebike Soccer with guns. Looks fun!</div>
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And finally, Nintendo Spain sent out a promotional email 2 days before scheduled, revealing a number of new amiibo which will make their way to stores at some point, including Animal Crossing and an 8-bit Mario, likely meant to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.</div>
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Nintendo hasn't even shown their main presentation, and we're already off to a great start! Here's hoping all of these boxes get checked at some point!</div>
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benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-89829711573095098462015-06-14T05:44:00.000-06:002015-06-14T05:44:15.707-06:00E3 Bingo 2015!It's that time again, folks! E3 is here, which means I this wonderful <strike>excuse</strike> opportunity to make a <strike>ridiculous</strike> cool game so <strike>you</strike> I can win prizes from <strike>me</strike> you!<br />
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So, without further adieu, here is this year's card:<br />
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There are lots of new candidates, and a handful of veterans. What do you think?<br />
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The rules are simple. Every time I get a bingo, you give me $10 in eShop credit. That sounds awesome! The more games I get, the more I can <strike>ignore my blog</strike> continue to bring you excellent and up-to-date video game coverage.<br />
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Nintendo's E3 presentation starts on Tuesday morning, but there is potential for announcements today or Monday as well. I guess we'll see! Better buy those eShop cards now!benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-9852348557000935622015-04-01T12:10:00.000-06:002015-04-01T12:10:30.331-06:00Nintendo to Purchase Sega<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In a plot twist that may finally put an end to the 90's battle of home console supremacy, Nintendo has offered to purchase Sega Sammy, Ltd. for an undisclosed sum.<br />
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The news comes on the heels of Nintendo's incredible sales of amiibo and improving 3DS and Wii U sales. Satoru Iwata, President of Nintendo, said, "I've always secretly wished to create a proper game starring gaming's two most popular icons: Mario and Sonic. Now we will finally have that opportunity."<br />
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Even though the deal hasn't been finalized, Nintendo and Sega have both begun announcing various new projects, such as Mario vs. Sonic Wii U (working title), Super Monkey Ball Bros., Shenmue III, a Metroid/House of the Dead crossover, and Excite Taxi, which is an eclectic mix of Excitebike and Crazy Taxi.<br />
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The two companies will continue to operate (mostly) separately, only now Nintendo has access to Sega's library of IP, and vice versa. Both companies have stated there are many new announcements to come at E3.<br />
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The merger is expected to be completed by the end of the month.<br />
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I, for one, am stoked that we might actually get a good 3D Sonic game out of this, along with the possible resurrection of several older franchises like Alex Kidd and Streets of Rage.<br />
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Now Sega does what Nintendoes.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15696929341320935562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-58874417618990722762015-02-02T11:50:00.001-07:002015-02-02T11:51:23.101-07:00Last Round of Club Nintendo Prizes Revealed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you may have already heard, Club Nintendo is shutting down. As a final send-off, Nintendo is offering a number of physical rewards and over a hundred downloadable games that players can redeem with the coins they’ve saved up.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>The final set of physical rewards include a number of unique items, including a Force Deity Link jigsaw puzzle, a Majora’s Mask messenger bag, a Mario T-shirt, a 2016 calendar, and multiple poster sets. Interestingly, one of the poster sets was a Platinum prize in 2013. Likewise, one of the downloadable games, Doc Louis’ Punch-Out!!, was a previous Platinum prize.<br />
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As an added bonus, Flipnote Studio 3D will be made available for free to all Club Nintendo members later this week. The code will be found in the “To-Do List” on the main Club Nintendo page after logging in.<br />
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It should be noted that the physical rewards are in limited supply, so time is of the essence. All of the downloadable games will remain available until June 30th. Coins can be earned until March 31st. Gold and Platinum members will be able to choose a downloadable game for free starting in April.<br />
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I’m blown away by the number of prizes offered! Luckily, I had some coins saved up, so I was able to snag the Link puzzle and the Smash poster set. Plus, there are still a couple months left to earn coins, so I may be able to get some games, too. Here’s hoping the Gold and Platinum selection is better than last year.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15696929341320935562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-50042880206170151442014-11-17T10:35:00.001-07:002014-11-17T10:35:43.191-07:00Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker was Almost a Zelda Game<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Wii U has a handful of high-profile titles releasing in the next few weeks. One of these is Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, a clever adventure title based on the Captain Toad mini game from Super Mario 3D World. However, it has been revealed that the game was originally going to be a Legend of Zelda title.<br />
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Game Director Shinya Hiratake says he was trying to come up with a game set in smaller worlds. He figured that if he removed the jump mechanic, he could shrink the worlds considerably. For the protagonist, he settled on Link, a character famous for not being able to jump. Hiratake and a small team worked up a tech demo, which they presented to some of the bigwigs at Nintendo, including Shigeru Miyamoto, General Manager of Nintendo EAD.<br />
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"We must have done too good of a job with our demo," said Hiratake, "because during our presentation, Mr. Miyamoto asked us how we were planning on bringing these dioramas into production. He thought we were pitching him an actual physical product design."<br />
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Miyamoto shot down the game, but he thought the concept had potential, so the team was allowed to incorporate the idea into the Captain Toad mini game in Super Mario 3D World. After Super Mario 3D World was released, Miyamoto approached the team and asked them to expand it into a full-blown Toad title. "We like to think that Mr. Miyamoto finally realized the vision we had for a diorama those many years ago," said Hiratake.<br />
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Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker releases for Wii U on December 5th.<br />
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While almost any game starring Link ends up being awesome, I’m glad they went with Toad on this one. The little guy has needed his own game for a long time. I can’t wait for December 5th!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15696929341320935562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-21112413064403008612014-09-24T12:48:00.000-06:002014-09-24T12:48:44.822-06:00Check Out These Super Smash Bros. Ads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Unless you've been living under a rock for the last two years, you know that Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS is almost here. Nintendo has a big marketing push to make sure non-nerds and other losers know that Smash is nigh. Check them out below!<br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div>
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So what do you think? I think they're pretty great. Also, if someone else touches a piece of pizza, they can just have it. No need to settle the debate.</div>
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benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-89359908877921554112014-09-23T12:29:00.000-06:002014-09-23T12:29:42.270-06:00Happy 125th Birthday, Nintendo!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On this day in 1889, Nintendo was founded as a humble playing-card company. It has grown and changed throughout the years to become everyone's favorite company in the whole wide world.<br />
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As you may know (since I mentioned it just above), Nintendo started out making cards for a game called Hanafuda. It continued making these and other types of cards for decades. In the 60s, they began exploring new ways to make money, which led first to toys (such as the intriguing Ultra Hand), and eventually to video games.<br />
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Once Donkey Kong was released, there was no looking back. A hit in arcades, the monkey/plumber platformer led the way for other hits like Punch-Out!! and Mario Bros. Eventually, these games made it into the living room, starting with the legendary Super Mario Bros. The industry has never been the same.<br />
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Over the years, Nintendo has created some of the most memorable video of all time. Ocarina of Time, Goldeneye, Super Mario Bros. 3, Mario Kart, Animal Crossing, F-Zero X... the list goes on and on.<br />
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Happy Birthday, Nintendo. Here's hoping we can all celebrate your next 125th anniversary.<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-48251076085120433082014-09-17T14:03:00.000-06:002014-09-17T14:03:17.347-06:00Ice Climbers Excluded from New Super Smash Bros. Games; Sakurai Explains Why<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Those who have seen the full character roster for Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS may have been wondering where the Ice Climbers are. The game’s director, Masahiro Sakurai, says they were omitted due to the technical limitations of the 3DS.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Speaking to Famitsu, Sakurai said that while the Ice Climbers were working normally on the Wii U, there were problems getting them to run properly on the 3DS. And since there is not a new Ice Climbers game on the horizon, the decision was made to remove them entirely.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Sakurai has been adamant about making the gameplay and roster the same on both games. While each game has different stages and some different modes, the characters and their associated movesets are identical.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">With the recent reveal of the New Nintendo 3DS, perhaps it’s possible that the Ice Climbers will arrive later, since the New Nintendo 3DS has more processing power. However, there has been no indication of this from Nintendo.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">This is disappointing, as the Ice Climbers are among the most unique characters in the series. While I understand the reasoning, I hope Sakurai finds a way to include them in some form in the future, even if it means they only come to Wii U or the New Nintendo 3DS.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS launches on October 3rd, with the Wii U version coming later this year.</span></div>
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benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-74208634148962497992014-09-03T09:17:00.000-06:002014-09-03T09:17:19.964-06:00New Ad for Super Smash Bros. for 3DS Released in JapanIf there's one thing everyone seems to love, it's a hilarious advertisement. Nintendo knows this, and has created a brilliant new ad for Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, which launches in the US in one month, and in Japan in a mere 10 days!<br />
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The video, seen below, is probably the best SSB ad since the original.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/XOPQze722f4" width="640"></iframe><br />
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And just for good measure, here's the original:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/K783SDTBKmg" width="640"></iframe><br />
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Are you excited that we're within a month from the new Smash?<br />
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Of course you are, ya dingus!<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-16989536538066171332014-08-29T05:49:00.000-06:002014-08-29T05:55:45.450-06:00New Nintendo 3DS Models Revealed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QkcHENr4U3M/VABoSXH5DEI/AAAAAAAAB5c/xWUamxK97P0/s1600/new3ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QkcHENr4U3M/VABoSXH5DEI/AAAAAAAAB5c/xWUamxK97P0/s1600/new3ds.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
During this morning's Nintendo Direct in Japan, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata revealed new 3DS models that may replace existing models. Well, that's a little out of left field!<br />
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As you can in the image above, the new models have a small nub above the ABXY buttons. This is like the C-stick on the Gamecube controller. It can be used to rotate the camera in games like Monster Hunter, and it can be used for quick Smash Attacks in Super Smash Bros. Insane!<br />
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The new models also include ZL and ZR buttons next to the L and R buttons. Additionally, the screen is made for better 3D viewing. It actually tracks your face and adjusts the 3D accordingly, helping keep the 3D no matter which way you turn. Awesome!<br />
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The smaller version will also feature swappable faceplates. Available for about $10, both the front and back can be removed and replaced with various colored and themed designs. Under the bottom faceplate is a slot for a Micro SD card, which will replace the standard SD card. You can also download themes for the system's main menu.<br />
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The Nintendo Direct showed a version of Xenoblade running on the system suggesting souped-up specs. This has not been confirmed as of this writing. Some of the physical features have changed, however. The 3DS card slot and the power button are now on the bottom of the system. There is also an NFC sensor under the bottom screen, meaning Amiibo characters can be placed right on the screen.<br />
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Whether these systems will arrive in the US is unknown at this time, but I think it's safe to believe they will be seen worldwide, not unlike the Nintendo DSi was when it launched. In Japan, the 3DS and 3DS XL will cost around $150 and $170, respectively, and they will arrive in early October.<br />
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Hopefully we find out about the American version soon. BECAUSE I NEED ONE NOW!<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-22228509909002692142014-08-27T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-27T08:00:01.206-06:00Mario Kart 8 DLC Features F-Zero, Animal Crossing, and Zelda Themes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2VJI1JLYr9k/U_3PrpcxMNI/AAAAAAAAB48/_RVkEToeyII/s1600/original%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2VJI1JLYr9k/U_3PrpcxMNI/AAAAAAAAB48/_RVkEToeyII/s1600/original%2B(1).jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mario Kart 8 is an excellent game, but it’s about to become excellenter. This November, Nintendo is releasing the first of two downloadable content packs that include tracks, vehicles, and characters from The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, F-Zero, and Excitebike.<br />
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Rumors about Mario Kart 8 DLC have been circulating for some time, but we finally have confirmation from Nintendo following a leak about the updates yesterday. Each pack contains three characters, four vehicles, and eight new tracks. Packs will cost $8 each, or you can buy both for $12. Buying both packs together will also unlock eight different colors for both Yoshi and Shy Guy. You can unlock these colors right now by pre-ordering both packs.<br />
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The new tracks include some classics, such as Wario’s Gold Mine from Mario Kart Wii, and some new tracks that take place in various Nintendo universes. The teaser images below give us sneak peeks at the new content.<br />
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You can pre-order this DLC today. While you’re in the eShop, you can grab the free Mercedes-Benz DLC which adds three Mercedes karts based on real vehicles.<br />
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Are you excited for this new crossover content?<br />
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I am! Consider my pants pooped. I've been wanting a “Nintendo Kart” game for a long time, so this is awesome news! I’m also glad that Nintendo still acknowledges F-Zero’s existence. And considering how much content you get, I think $12 is very reasonable. Here’s hoping there is even more DLC next year. I’d love to race through Planet Zebes or Corneria.<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-67914771151460057592014-08-24T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-24T08:00:01.806-06:00Super Smash Bros. for 3DS Features Sleep-Mode Music Player<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoFzvJson-c/U6F8CCUWX8I/AAAAAAAABkQ/3sJgtkjLYJA/s1600/Super_Smash_Bros_4_merged_logo%2C_no_subtitle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoFzvJson-c/U6F8CCUWX8I/AAAAAAAABkQ/3sJgtkjLYJA/s1600/Super_Smash_Bros_4_merged_logo%2C_no_subtitle.png" height="276" width="640" /></a></div>
In what will likely turn out to be one of the best ideas ever, Super Smash Bros. for 3DS will allow you to listen to game's music while the system is in sleep mode.<br />
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This means you can walk around listening to Super Smash Bros. and then pop the system open and smash some people. There are few ideas in the history of the universe greater than this.<br />
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Additionally, a few tunes have been added to the Smash Bros. website for your listening pleasure. Just <a href="http://www.smashbros.com/us/music/" target="_blank">click here</a> and check out the music for Multi-Man Smash, the Battle theme from Pokemon X/Y, or the train music from Spirit Tracks. More tunes will likely be released in the near future.<br />
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I for one cannot wait to smash the every-loving crap out of everything, then take a break and listen to the game's music, only to pick it up again later and smash even more crap out of cheating CPU players.<br />
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The game comes out on October 3rd. This is the most exciting game release in the last few years, and I can't wait until it's hear!<br />
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Get it, 'cause music?<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-71893012130472431432014-08-18T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-18T08:00:05.468-06:00Skylanders Trap Team to Offer Starter Pack for Tablets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMbcN5oaM4U/U9JKkHyj9xI/AAAAAAAABzE/Ta0599X3iEs/s1600/skylanders.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMbcN5oaM4U/U9JKkHyj9xI/AAAAAAAABzE/Ta0599X3iEs/s1600/skylanders.png" height="208" width="640" /></a></div>
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Those of you who do not own consoles, but also enjoy the Skylanders games (what are there, like two of you?) are in for a real treat. Activision is offering a starter pack for tablets, in addition to standard consoles.<br />
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Some say tablets and smartphones have been encroaching on dedicated console territory for a while now. While these platforms do offer games, 99.9% of these games are pure and absolute garbage. Either way, the developers of the Skylanders games, Toys for Bob, have decided to try to snag of piece of the mobile pie. Their president, Paul Reiche, said the following to the BBC:<br />
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<i>We know we have a huge audience of kids that are gaming almost exclusively on tablets. I feel like this is a legitimate audience for us to address. We really wanted to make sure that we could invest and give a complete ‘triple-A’ [big budget] choice that is one-to-one with our consoles.</i></blockquote>
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The tablet starter pack, pictured above, includes the same figurines and portal as the console packs for the same price. The big difference is the bluetooth controller, which will give consumers the same buttons as console gamers (but let's be honest here: off-brand controllers almost always suck). The game’s app will be available for free on iOS, Android, and Amazon’s Kindle Fire devices (though you’ll still need the figurines and portal to get anything out of the game).<br />
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Skylanders Trap Team launches on October 5th for Wii, Wii U, 3DS, and of course, tablets.<br />
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In terms of success, I think this one could go either way. Skylanders is popular enough that I can see some people buying it, but I don't think Nintendo has anything to worry about here. Most consumers will likely not know about the tablet bundle, and if they do, they will run their device's battery dry after about an hour. Not that Activision cares. Skylanders is basically free money these days.<br />
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Will you be buying the Skylanders Trap Team tablet bundle?<br />
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Haha, me neither.<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-74981924703634484782014-08-17T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-17T08:16:52.913-06:00Don't Worry! I'm Still Here!Hey all you wonderful people! I know you've all been worried sick about me not posting for a while. But don't worry! I'm still here!<br />
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One thing about being an adult over 18 is that you have responsibilities. So when your kids get sick, and your new boss likes to make you do busy work, and your life gets so full of tasks and chores that you want to murder a horse, you have to make cuts. Sometimes, even this blog has to get cut once in a while.<br />
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But don't worry! I'm as blatantly biased as ever and I'll be posting regularly soon! So stay tuned, dang it!<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-33197721925083801202014-08-09T08:00:00.001-06:002014-08-09T08:00:04.241-06:00Yoshi's Full Name Revealed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NsslbJKM2sI/U-YE8AFYjFI/AAAAAAAAB4E/bq5DVj_Zdn8/s1600/Yoshi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NsslbJKM2sI/U-YE8AFYjFI/AAAAAAAAB4E/bq5DVj_Zdn8/s1600/Yoshi.png" height="310" width="640" /></a></div>
The gaming world is chock full of myths, legends, and rumors. As such, it sends a tingle up any gamer’s spine when one of these is definitively confirmed or debunked.<br />
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Was the soundtrack to Sonic 3 really written by Michael Jackson? Did the government really use Polybius to attempt to modify human behavior? Even the well-known landfill-full-of-ET-cartridges legend was just recently confirmed. But all of these pale in comparison to Yoshi’s real name.<br />
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Blake Harris, author of the book Console Wars, has tweeted an excerpt from the Nintendo Character Guide, published in 1993. In it, we finally learn the full name of Mario’s famous sidekick.<br />
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<i>Yoshi, properly known as T. Yoshisaur Munchakoopas, had been held captive in an egg until Mario (homo nintendonus) bopped along and rescued him. Instantly, the young dinosaur and the plumber became fast friends. Together, they set out to rescue Yoshi's dinosaur pals from the wickedness of Bowser.</i></blockquote>
Mind. Blown.<br />
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Not only do we learn Yoshi’s full name, but we gain a couple of extra factoids as well. First, we can put to rest the argument about whether or not Yoshi is a dinosaur. And second, Mario’s scientific name is Homo Nintendonus, which puts him (and the other humanoids in the Mushroom Kingdom) in a separate taxonomy from modern, non-fictional humans.<br />
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What a rush! Take in that feeling. Major revelations like this only happen once in a lifetime.<br />
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We’ve had confirmation of Yoshi’s real name and the ET landfill in the same year. Future generations will look back on us with great reverence.<br />
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benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-78638945348703896912014-08-07T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-07T08:00:04.405-06:00Mario Kart 8 Update and DLC Scheduled for August 27<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mdj_UhqqTo/U-Ikt3eC3QI/AAAAAAAAB3w/cSukB1DW58o/s1600/mk8m2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mdj_UhqqTo/U-Ikt3eC3QI/AAAAAAAAB3w/cSukB1DW58o/s1600/mk8m2.png" height="236" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you've been itching to race around Mario Kart tracks in a Mercedes, then you only have about three weeks to wait!<br />
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The update will add some much-requested features to the game, as listed:<br />
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<li>Added new feature that can display the course map on the TV screen</li>
<li>Changed default choice to "Next Race" instead of "View highlight" in the menu that appears after the race of the Grand Prix</li>
<li>Remember the vehicle parts to be used later / next boot</li>
<li>In "Mario Kart TV", added ability to copy & edit the highlight video of other players</li>
<li>"Scoreboard" screen can be viewed and the number of characters that win-loss total number of coins, online play, etc</li>
<li>Improving the stability of communication during online races</li>
<li>Fixed some (other) problems</li>
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The update also includes the free Mercedes DLC, which lets you race in one of three real-world Mercedes vehicles that you will never be able to afford in real life.<br />
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I, for one, am glad to see the option of having the map on-screen. I hope it will let you see the map during multiplayer as well. We'll find out soon enough.<br />
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Are you excited to have a real car in a Mario Kart game?<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-72713573527307949732014-08-06T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-06T08:00:00.367-06:00New World of Nintendo Toys Now Appearing in Stores<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If your thirst for video game-related paraphernalia is never-ending, then you'll be happy to know that the new line of character figures called World of Nintendo are now showing up on store shelves.<a name='more'></a><div>
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As you can see, we have the classic Mario and Yoshi figurines, along with the much-less-common Link. All of these figures have multiple joints, letting you pose them in a variety of ways.</div>
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In addition, we also have a giant-headed Donkey Kong and classic Bowser. Donkey Kong has been a good guy for the last several years, but I'm pretty sure this new one will murder you as soon as you open the box.</div>
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Looks like these are so far available at Target for somewhere in the $10-$15 range. There are other figures planned as well, including Star Fox, Captain Falcon (<i>YES!!</i>), and Wario, among others.</div>
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Will you heading out to buy these as soon as you get off of work, like I intend to do?</div>
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benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-22171006971166655452014-08-04T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-04T08:00:03.246-06:00Legend of Zelda Monopoly Coming in September<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love Zelda. I also love Monopoly. So when these two things are mashed together, I literally have no choice but to obtain said mash. And I will have that opportunity next month when The Legend of Zelda Monopoly appears!<br />
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Like Nintendo Monopoly, the game has basically the same rules as standard Monopoly. But instead of old-timey drawings and New Jersey locales, you get Zelda themed locations, money, tokens, and cards.<br />
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There are two editions of the game: the standard edition, and the GameStop-exclusive edition. I am not a fan of GameStop, but if there's one thing they're good at, it's locking up cool stuff as exclusive. The GameStop edition has a Hyrule Map with a Treasure Chest envelope, the Ocarina of Time token, and six additional cards that can be used as power-ups of some kind. Other than that, the games are the same.<br />
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The Legend of Zelda Monopoly will be available on September 15th. GameStop currently has the game listed at $40. It's not cheap for a Monopoly game, but it's not terrible, either.<br />
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So will you be buying this when it comes out? If not, you can come play it at my house if you bring me some candy. And none of that cheap bulk crap, either. Bring the Laffy Taffy and the Junior Mints.<br />
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<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-21566648378863107892014-08-03T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-04T05:44:57.763-06:00Retro Sunday - August 03, 2014 - Paper Mario<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love Sundays because I usually have time to dig into a dusty old box of games and play something that I fondly remember. Today's selection: Paper Mario, one of the greatest RPG's ever created.<br />
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Paper Mario is one of the most unique games I've ever played. Instead of standard graphics and characters, almost everything and everyone is made out of paper. I honestly don't know where they came up with the idea, but it's positively brilliant.<br />
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You can still run around and jump and talk to people as you would in any RPG, but when you turn around, Mario flips over as a piece of paper would do. It looks really cool, and it only adds to what would have been a great game in its own right.<br />
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Throughout the game, you will encounter a number of sidekicks who can aid you in different ways. Maybe you want to know how much HP a character has left, or perhaps you'd like to blast through walls. A goomba and a bob-omb can help with these respective tasks, among other things.<br />
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As you progress, you will begin to obtain star powers, which can be used to deal great damage to your enemies. These moves and all of the standard fighting tactics also use Action Commands. These are button presses or other types of input that, when done correctly, allow you to cause even more damage than normal. For example, with the hammer, you hold the joystick to the left until the right time, at which you point you release it for maximum power. Or with jumps, you can continue to jump multiple times if you can time the A button correctly.<br />
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The game features tons and tons of Mario characters and environments. Anyone familiar with Mario with enjoy a large number of in-jokes and past references. Newcomers will also enjoy the game, because there are lost of new characters as well. Besides, anyone can enjoy a Mario game.<br />
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Paper Mario started what is now one of my favorite Nintendo series. While I wish the newer games focused more on the RPG elements, they are all still fun and unique. (Side note: I bet we see a Paper Mario for Wii U announced by the end of next year. You heard it here first)<br />
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So if you'll excuse me, I need to set aside 20 hours or so so I can play through this game. I haven't played it again since it was first released, and there's no time like the present! So get lost! I mean, leave me alone! I mean, go play an old game or something!<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-46673701108101723692014-08-02T08:00:00.001-06:002014-08-02T08:00:03.450-06:00Former Hotel Dusk Developer Wants Series to Continue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Former Cing Vice President Rika Suzuki has expressed her desire to continue the Hotel Dusk series.<br />
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Suzuki discussed Cing and the Hotel Dusk series in an interview with Italian site <a href="http://www.nintendon.it/speskullations-7-esclusiva-intervista-su-cing-hotel-dusk-il-futuro-di-kyle-hyde/" target="_blank">Nintendon</a>.<br />
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<i>“We, at Cing, were developing games by creating unique characters and a world which could not be found in previous Nintendo games and also by preparing scenarios keeping in mind future serial works. </i></blockquote>
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<i>We also emphasized originality for graphical expressions and incorporated rendering, game elements and sound effects which allow users to be immersed in a story. Although our games seem to have less aggressive elements, all of them are extremely challenging titles whose details we worked very meticulously.”</i></blockquote>
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Cing developed the point-and-click mystery game Hotel Dusk: Room 215 for the Nintendo DS back in 2007. The game featured unique, ‘pencil-sketch’ art and a host of interesting characters. The sequel, Last Window: The Secret of Cape West, was never released in North America because Cing went bankrupt. However, if given the chance, Suzuki would be up for another entry in the series.<br />
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<i>“Kyle Hyde’s story has not ended in myself, yet. However, we gave the right concerning Kyle Hyde to Nintendo as a publisher so I cannot make a new game featuring Kyle without any permission. </i></blockquote>
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<i>Having said that, I hope that I will be able to produce his story, which is still going on in myself, in some different way to be delivered to players.”</i></blockquote>
This is great news! I thought both games were excellent and I was saddened when Cing went bankrupt. I’m glad to hear that developers are still interesting in creating more games like this.<br />
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Would you be interested in another adventure starring Kyle Hyde?<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-66600590829673086192014-08-01T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-01T10:44:49.538-06:00Nintendo Voted Top Developer in Japan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A recent poll by the website Freshers shows that Nintendo is still the favorite developer in Japan.<br />
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The poll was taken by 500 members of the public. If they answered 'yes' to 'Do you play video games?', the following question was who their favorite developer was. 72 out of the 500 answered yes, and of those 72, Nintendo received 30 votes.<br />
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The next most-popular developers were Square-Enix with 18 votes and Capcom with 6. All of the top-ten developers were Japanese. In fact, the only foreign companies mentioned were EA and Microsoft, and those were likely only mentioned because they are large corporations. Let's be honest here: no one really likes EA.<br />
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It's nice to know that Japanese gamers still love the house of Mario. And it should really come as no surprise. Mario, Zelda, Pokemon, and Animal Crossing still sell millions of copies every year.<br />
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Are you surprised at the results? If so, please stop visiting this website.<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-22978917299093988052014-07-31T08:00:00.000-06:002014-08-01T11:01:46.691-06:00Thursdownloaday - July 31, 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thursday! Games! Go!<br />
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<b><br /></b><b>Steel Empire</b> (<i>$29.99</i>) - This is an enhanced remake of the Genesis game of the same name. Some like the original. Others have never heard of it.<br />
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<b>Tangram Attack</b> (<i>$2.99</i>) - A puzzle game where you clear tangrams as they fall down the screen. Might be good.<br />
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<b>LEGO Ninjago: Nindroids</b> (<i>$29.99</i>) - Not sure if it's Ninja Droids or Nintendo Droids.<br />
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<b>Darts Up 3D</b> (<i>$0.99, normally 2.99</i>) - Blue darts.<br />
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<b>Sweet Memories Blackjack</b> (<i>$2.79, normally 3.99</i>) - Who comes up with these names?<br />
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<b>Wakedas</b> (<i>$1.99, normally 2.99</i>) - Not a real word.<br />
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<b>Mega Man Battle Network</b> (<i>GBA, $7.99</i>) - One of the best available titles for GBA. It's an RPG starring Mega Man! Run around and collect battle chips to use to fight viruses and save the world!<br />
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<b>X-Type Plus</b> (<i>$5.99</i>) - A space shooter game which is actually temporarily unavailable while they patch a bug that causes the game to lock up.<br />
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<b>Frederic: Resurrection of Music</b> (<i>$5.99</i>) - Supposedly a funny game with lots of classical remixes and comic animation.<br />
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<b>IQ Test</b> (<i>$4.99</i>) - A party game where you try to raise your IQ by playing various challenges. Go get it, dum-dum.<br />
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<b>Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag</b> (<i>$29.99, normally 39.99</i>)<br />
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Well, there ya go. Will you be buying Megaman Battle Network this week? Good idea!<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7105654061626889463.post-11988848239963714222014-07-30T08:00:00.000-06:002014-07-30T08:00:02.880-06:00Mario Kart 8 Sold 2.82 Million Copies in First Month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mario Kart 8 is doing as well as anyone could have expected, selling 2.82 million units in its first month.<br />
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The number was revealed during Nintendo's quarterly financial meeting. Keep in mind that the game has been out for two months, so the actual sales figure is higher than that.<br />
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Selling 2.82 million units means over 40% of Wii U owners had purchased the game by the end of June. Certainly well over half own the game by now.<br />
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It's good to see the game selling so well. Now we just need more Wii U titles to make some good impressions. Super Smash Bros. and Captain Toad can't come soon enough.<br />
<br />benjamineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11629066900286579232noreply@blogger.com1