Resident Evil Revelations to be Bundled with Circle Pad Pro

Even though Capcom stated that Resident Evil Revelations (a game which supports the Circle Pad Pro) wasn't going to come bundled with the Circle Pad Pro add-on, doesn't make those words true. Nintendo of Europe have revealed that Resident Evil Revelations will actually receive the Circle Pad Pro bundle treatment in addition to the standalone version.

While this bundle hasn't been confirmed for North America, I think it would be safe to say that it will be in the coming days. Especially seeing that Resident Evil Revelations will make good use of the second Circle Pad, and probably be the absolutely best way to play the game. Regardless, being a huge Resident Evil fan, this game will be probably be the first that I buy for the 3DS in 2012.

Source

Rhythm Heaven Fever (Wii) Set for Early 2012 Release

Coming from the glorious pages of the latest Nintendo Power magazine is a release date for the latest Rhythm Heaven game for the Wii. Well, we don't get an exact release date, but we do find out that Rhythm Heaven Fever will be available in February 2012. You better bet we'll be back at some point with a more precise date.

Source

Two New Mario Kart 7 Trailers

Direct Link


Direct Link

Nothing too special or new to see in these trailers, but it may help contain your excitement for a few more days. Or it might push you over the edge of Rainbow Road.

Wow, what a lame ass joke.

Nintendo 3DS System Update Coming in December

Remember the Nintendo 3DS System Update we we're promised would be release by Late November? Well we will have to wait just a little longer to get the update we've all been waiting for. Nintendo has confirmed that we will be seeing that Nintendo 3DS System Update by December 8th. In the update we will be getting 3D Video Recording, new game content for the Mii Plaza including Find Mii II, and another feature that was previously un-announced.

Nintendo will also be adding the ability to transfer 3DS content between 3DS handhelds. This feature is a little unexpected given Nintendo's strict past of transferring between consoles. However, it seems that they are letting up a bit by allowing DSiWare transfer to the 3DS and now 3DS to 3DS transfer.

Source

Play Nintendo Needs Your Help to Win the Bublaa Bubble Race!

Over the past few weeks my Twitter followers may have noticed a few tweets asking for help winning a certain contest. This contest is being put off by a website called Bublaa, which is a community focused site that allows users like myself the ability to create a community and engage with other users. I have a community created for Play Nintendo over there and have, of course, entered the contest!

At the moment there are only two members, one of which is myself, but the kicker is that I need to create a community that has the most members! Currently, I am placed 55 in the race and the overall objective is to reach the top 3, this is where you guys and gals come in! I would like to ask all of my readers to come over and join my Bublaa community. As more members begin joining I hope to start up many Nintendo related conversations in the coming weeks.

Winning this contest would mean a better future for Play Nintendo and a complete revamp of the blog. Bloggers that are able to get in the top 3 will win one of three cash prizes. With 1st place winning $6,000, 2nd Winning $3,000 and Third getting $1,000. With your help, we could all make a better Play Nintendo. Why else would you want to help me win this money? Well, if I win any of the prize amounts I will hold a contest for those that join the community!

Let me share my ideas for the blog and the prizes that I'm willing to offer should I win the contest!

First here are some of the improvements I'd like to make for the blog:

• I want to start creating video reviews and other original video content that will ultimately improve the quality of the blog and the readers' (potentially viewers') experience. I will be able to invest in some video capturing equipment and editing software to make this a possibility.
• Not only will I be able to create original content, I will be able to start doing live streams showcasing new games as I receive them and of course have retro streams as well. This is of course a second benefit of using video capture.
• I will also finally purchase some actual hosting space that will increase the possibilities tenfold for Play Nintendo. I am also thinking about getting a professional to design the blog.

These three things are the main focus going forward and would make for a great way to celebrate the first year of Play Nintendo.


Prizes for community members:

If I win 1st Place I will hold a draw for the following prizes:

1. First place winners will receive a Nintendo 3DS and a 3DS game of their choice
2. Second Place Winners will Receive a Wii bundle
3. Third Place Winners Will Receive either a 3DS or Wii Game of their choice
4. Three runner-up contestants will receive a title from Wiiware, VC, or the Nintendo eShop

If I Win 2nd Place in the contest I will have to reduce the prizes, but there will still be a 3DS to win:

1. First Place Winner will receive a Nintendo 3DS System
2. Second Place Will Receive a 3DS or Wii Game of their choice
3. Three runner-up contestants will receive a title from Wiiware, VC, or the Nintendo eShop

If I win third Place there will only be a 3DS to win:

1.  First place winner will receive a Nintendo 3DS system

My community contest will only be open to residents of North America and only IF I am able to reach the Top 3 largest bubble communities with the prizes outlined for each segment above. Of course, this is where I ask you to join my Bublaa community again! Competition isn't very stiff at the moment with the 1st place bubble only having 85 members and my first goal being 100 members! With your help we can easily surpass 85 members and our 100 member goal all the while creating a large and amazing community full of passionate Nintendo fans. You will have to register with Bublaa to join the bubble community, but it is really painless. Please ask your friends to join and help share the bubble community with everyone you know!

Please visit my Bubble to Join our Nintendo community

Mario Kart 7 Website Now Up!

Nintendo has opened the official Mario Kart 7 website and it holds tons of info about the game's tracks, characters, items, modes etc. There are still some updates to come with the Special and Lightning Cups being the likely star.

Visit the Mario Kart 7 Website

Super Mario 3D Land and Skyward Sword Set Sales Records

Could Nintendo ask for a better way for the holiday shopping season to begin? Both Super Mario 3D Land and The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword have set sales records for their respective series. Reggie Fils-Aime has told USA Today that Super Mario 3D Land has sold over 500,000 copies since its launch which would make it the fastest selling Mario game on a handheld.

Skyward Sword has garnered even better numbers selling 535,000 copies since its North America launch last Sunday, November 20. These numbers make Skyward Sword the fastest selling game in the entire series.

Nintendo has also reported great numbers for their Wii and Nintendo 3DS consoles during the Black Friday rush. The Wii has brought in its best numbers for the Black Friday weekend selling over 500,000 units and the Nintendo 3DS has tripled its numbers since the beginning of November. All of this points to a great quarter for Nintendo.

Source

Press Release: Nintendo Keeps Everyone Bundled Up for the Holidays

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nintendo has a number of video game value bundles on the market already. In the spirit of the start of the holiday shopping season, it seems like a good time to introduce a few more.

On Dec. 4, Nintendo will launch new bundles featuring a pink Nintendo 3DS^™ portable system and either the nintendogs^™ + cats: French Bulldog and New Friends or nintendogs + cats: Toy Poodle and New Friends software. The limited-edition bundles will be available at a suggested retail price of $169.99 in the U.S. – the same price as the standard Nintendo 3DS system.

These new bundles join the already-extensive list of impressive limited-edition bundles that are now available. Each one is sure to find a recipient on everyone’s shopping list:

• A The Legend of Zelda^™: Skyward Sword bundle containing the just-launched game for the Wii^™ system, a gold-colored Wii Remote^™ Plus controller and a CD with music from the series at a suggested retail price of $69.99 in the U.S.
• A Flame Red Nintendo 3DS system bundled with the just-launched Super Mario 3D Land^™ game at a suggested retail price of $199.99 in the U.S.
• A Special Edition Nintendo 3DS system with the Hyrule emblem and gold-colored embellishments bundled with The Legend of Zelda^™: Ocarina of Time^™ 3D game at a suggested retail price of $199.99 in the U.S.
• A Metallic Rose or Midnight Blue Nintendo DSi XL^™ system bundled with the Mario vs. Donkey Kong^™: Mini-Land Mayhem! game at a suggested retail price of $169.99 in the U.S.

For more information about Nintendo, visit http://www.nintendo.com.

Source: Nintendo PR

Mario Kart 7 Launch Trailer

Direct Link

New Mutant Mudds Gameplay Trailer

Direct Link

Pushmo North America Trailer

Direct Link

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wikiturkey, yeah I jacked this image form Wikipedia

I just wanted to jump in and say Happy Thanksgiving to all of my US readers. My readership is primarily in the States, so I thought giving my thanks to your continued patronage is more than appropriate! I hope you are all ready to stuff yourselves full of turkey, yams, pie, etc. I'm sure most of you will also spend time with friends, family, whatever the case maybe,  hopefully it's a great Thanksgiving!

Nintendo Download for November 24, 2011

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD HIGHLIGHTS NEW DIGITAL CONTENT FOR NINTENDO SYSTEMS - NOV. 24, 2011

This week's Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

Nintendo eShop
Metroid™ II - Return of Samus™  – Bounty Hunter Samus Aran faces off against the Metroid scourge once again in this epic sequel to the NES™ classic, Metroid. (For Nintendo 3DS™)

Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare™
Come On! Heroes  – This action game tests your reactions. The "Lovely Heiress" is being held for ransom. Mr. King announces that anyone who brings back his daughter will receive a great reward. (For Nintendo 3DS / Nintendo DSi™)

WiiWare™
Big Bass Arcade – Big Bass Arcade is loaded with fishing action. Catch a boatload of fish and take a shot at the World Record Bass. Compete in Challenges and Tournaments, or Free Fish any lake at your own pace. (For Wii™)

Also new this week:
• Battle of the Elements (Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare)

To view this week's Nintendo Download in its full graphical version, please visit:
http://www.news2know.net/nintendo/download4LsP03vC.php

Source: Nintendo PR

Mario Kart 7 North America TV Commercial

Direct Link

First Four Hours of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

As I'm sure you are all aware by now (unless you've been hiding under Turtle Rock), Skyward Sword was released in North America this past Sunday. There was a large period of time when we knew nothing about the game; then Nintendo flipped a switch and we were being spoiled this way and that way with trailers, press releases, etc. However, a lot of the new information we learned about the game came from members of the gaming media universe. Almost unanimously, the impression was that Skyward Sword had evolved into a new Zelda beast and that is when the excitement began to rise. So with that being said, after four hours of playing Skyward Sword here are my initial impressions.

There is much to be learned about this legend...

Sakura Samurai: Art of the Sword Gameplay Trailer

Nintendo announced earlier today that this game would be available for download in January 2012. However, I believe this is the first time we've seen gameplay footage for the game.



Direct Link Anyone else getting a Mystical Ninja + Okami + Zelda vibe?

Nintendo's Fantastic 25 Years of Zelda Video Features

Now this is how you celebrate 25 years of possibly the best franchises in gaming. Nintendo has uploaded a series of videos that explore many of different reasons we Zelda fans love the series so much. Secrets, Courage, Music, and everything else in between can be found in these videos. Sit back and relax, because you're going to waste/enjoy an easy 20 minutes with these videos. Here are the first two with the rest waiting after the break.


25 Years of Secrets

Direct Link

25 Years of Courage

Direct Link

Fortune Street North America Commercial

Direct Link

Sonic Generations Comes with Club Nintendo Pin

Were you planning on picking up Sonic Generations for your 3DS? Well, if you were considering the purchase then you will be excited to learn that the game will come with a Club Nintendo Pin. It's great to know that Nintendo is going to allow third parties the opportunity to include Club Nintendo Pins; I'm sure that will help all of us reach our coin goals even faster! Maybe this will even encourage you to buy the game.

Source

Press Release: Nintendo Announces New Downloadable Games

NINTENDO ADDS SAKURA SAMURAI: ART OF THE SWORD TO AN IMPRESSIVE DOWNLOADABLE LINEUP

Nov. 22, 2011

A new game is headed to the Nintendo 3DS™ system, and it won't be available in stores. Sakura Samurai: Art of the Sword™ lets players travel to ancient Japan and guide a young warrior as he battles waves of enemy soldiers to save a princess. He must identify the enemy's attack move, dodge it by a hair and counter-attack with his own mystical Sakura Sword to win the battle. The game launches in January.

Sakura Samurai: Art of the Sword is just one of many high-quality, Nintendo-published downloadable games that can be found in the Nintendo eShop.

On Nov. 24, Nintendo will release the original 2D version of Metroid™ II: Return of Samus™. This Game Boy™ classic has intergalactic bounty hunter Samus™ Aran battling Space Pirates as she seeks to destroy Metroids on SR388. The game lays the foundation for the smash hit Super Metroid™.

In December, Pushmo lets players try to push, pull and climb their way to the top to solve more than 200 3D puzzles. Play as Mallo, the hero of the game, who is small in size but has a big heart and big muscles to match. Players will use him to move the giant blocks that make up the Pushmo puzzles. Solving the puzzles will free the kids who were accidently trapped inside them. There is also a Pushmo puzzle creator so players can make their own puzzles and share them with their friends.

Players who can't wait to get their hands on these games can check out some other downloadable games that are available right now in the Nintendo eShop, such as Freakyforms™: Your Creations, Alive! The game lets players create all kinds of wild creatures and bring them to life. No drawing skills are needed, so players of all ages can give it a try. Then they can customize the color and the look, and add eyes and a mouth before the creature comes to life and explores its world.

Also currently available is 3D Classics: Kirby's Adventure™. The classic Kirby™ game has been re-mastered in 3D. Players explore the world of Dream Land and help Kirby cross land, sea and sky in his quest to restore the Star Rod.

Nintendo of America Officially Announces Limited Edition Zelda 3DS Bundle and a Super Mario 3D Land Bundle

 
Nintendo has officially announced that a Limited Edition Zelda 3DS bundle will be released in North America on November 24th. With the bundle you will get the ultra cool Cosmo Black 3DS with Hyrule symbal and gold trim pictured above, plus a copy of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D all for the price of $199.99.

However, Nintendo wasn't content with releasing a limited edition Zelda bundle. They have also announced a Flame Red Nintendo 3DS that comes bundled with Super Mario 3D Land. This will also be released on November 24th and will cost you $199.99.

Source: Nintendo PR

New Fortune Street Trailer

Direct Link

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Ballad of the Goddess Metal Remix

Direct Link

I woke up this morning and when I checked my YouTube subscriptions I came across this awesome metal remix of Skyward Sword's main theme, Ballad of the Goddess. I have been following this cat for quite a few months now and always love his work. ArtificalFear has a lot more Zelda themes and lots of other gaming related remixes on his channel and he is definitely worth checking out. If this doesn't convince you to subscribe to his videos then I don't know what will.

If you like the sounds of shredding guitars and pounding drums then this is the guy for your video game music remix fix.

Play Nintendo - Kirby's Return to Dream Land Review

Nintendo has been going back to its sidescrolling roots over the past few years reviving franchises from a time when 2D platformers ruled the gaming world. Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong Country, and even Kirby have received modern updates to the classic 2D sidescrolling formula. In fact, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land marks the second console appearance of a 2D sidescrolling Kirby game and while Kirby's Epic Yarn may have sewn together some familiar Kirby elements, Kirby's Return to Dream Land is a return to everything you could ask for from the series’ roots.

Full Review moved to MiniFortress.com

Nintendo Download for November 17, 2011

Nintendo News: Nintendo Download Highlights New Digital Content for Nintendo Systems

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

• Nintendo eShop
  • 3D Classics: Kirby’s Adventure^™ – 3D Classics: Kirby’s Adventure invites you to explore the world of Dream Land in a whole new way. The landscape comes to life as Kirby crosses land, sea and sky in his quest to restore the Star Rod. (For Nintendo 3DS^™)
• Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare^™
  • Escape Trick: Convenience Store – When our main character tries to leave the convenience store where he works, he finds that the door won’t open and the store looks somehow different. Who would lock him in here? Can he get out of this place? (For Nintendo 3DS / Nintendo DSi^™)
• WiiWare^™
  • Pinocchio’s Puzzle – Solve increasingly difficult puzzles as you progress through the classic tale of Pinocchio. In addition to developing sensory skills and hand-eye coordination, you’ll enjoy an endearing and enchanting story told puzzle by puzzle. (For Wii^™)

Also new this week:

• The Legend of Zelda Great Fairy’s Fountain Theme (Nintendo Video^™)
• Play and Learn Chinese (Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare)

To view this week’s Nintendo Download in its full graphical version, please visit: http://www.news2know.net/nintendo/download55Bf0KSe.php.

Source: Nintendo PR

Press Release: THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: SKYWARD SWORD IS AN EPIC ADVENTURE NOT TO BE MISSED

Nintendo’s Wii Console Delivers a Masterpiece

VANCOUVER, B.C. – November 16, 2011 – The most epic game Nintendo has ever produced is set to soar into stores. On Nov. 20, Nintendo introduces The Legend of Zelda™: Skyward Sword exclusively for the Wii™ home console. It's a sweeping adventure that all players, regardless of the type of video games they play, will want to pick up. Critics are already lining up with their accolades: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword has earned perfect-10 reviews from leading outlets Game Informer and IGN.

"The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is a once-in-a-console-generation game," said Ron Bertram, Nintendo of Canada’s vice-president and general manager. "This new adventure offers intense sword combat, engaging puzzles and a beautiful, stylized look. Once again, The Legend of Zelda franchise finds ways to surprise and challenge players."

The world of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is expansive. The game takes players flying in the air, searching through dungeons and exploring on land. Players help heroic Link™ explore volcanoes, forests, deserts and the sky itself. The epic quest lays the foundation for the events in the critically acclaimed The Legend of Zelda™: Ocarina of Time™ and marks a turning point for the franchise.

The game uses the motion controls of the Wii Remote™ Plus controller (or a Wii Remote controller with a Wii MotionPlus™ accessory) to immerse players in the action. Every motion, whether swinging the sword to fight enemies, tossing bombs or shooting arrows, feels natural and intuitive. Players must solve each battle by analyzing enemies' attacks and defenses and coming up with effective countermeasures.

The game will be available at a suggested retail price of $49.99 in Canada. A limited-edition version will be offered at a suggested retail price of $69.99 in Canada, which includes a gold-coloured Wii Remote Plus controller.

As an additional treat for fans, every game in the initial production runs will include The Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary Special Orchestra CD at no extra charge. This special recording features 45 minutes of iconic music spanning the 25-year history of the Zelda franchise and offers fans who weren't able to attend the sold-out Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary Symphony concerts in Los Angeles, Tokyo and London an opportunity to hear some of the arrangements created for those shows.

Remember that Wii features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other Wii features, visit http://www.nintendo.com/wii.

For more information about The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, visit http://www.zelda.com/skywardsword.

Source: PR E-Mail

Shinobi: History of a Franchise

SEGA sent over this Shinobi video a little earlier today. The video was sent to coincide with the recent release of the Shinobi 3DS title. It gives fans a look at the history of the Shinobi series. More specifically it compares what the series used to be on the Genesis to the modern era Shinboi that combines 2D and modern gaming elements. If you're a Shinobi fan then this video is a good watch.

Will Skyward Sword be the best Zelda Game to Date?

We are now closing in on the release date for Skyward Sword, which is only a little under two weeks away, and that makes November a very exciting time to be a Nintendo/Zelda fan. Over the past few weeks we have been fed new Skyward Sword information through impressions, previews, and official updates from Nintendo themselves, which only makes the wait much more difficult. Some reputable gaming magazines such as Game Informer and Edge have given Skyward Sword the highly sought "perfect score" with other outlets not too far behind in their evaluation. Could it be that Skyward Sword is actually the best Zelda game to date? Well, the official verdict isn't in as of yet (many of us will determine that for ourselves in the weeks to come), but there are a lot of things that Skyward Sword has going for it that could make it the best of the bunch.

First Four Hours of Kirby's Return to Dream Land

I have just finished up around four hours of play in Kirby's Return to Dream Land for the Wii and must say that the game is mighty impressive. It is more than a return to Dream Land, it is also a return to glorious sidescrolling Kirby gameplay. I have really missed the classic Kirby formula and I'm glad that it is back. All the platforming, copy abilities, and enemies you know are back for another round with a few neat additions. So, with just four hours in, I can say that Kirby's Return to Dream Land has made quite an impression on me.

I have gotten through 3 Levels so far and have seen a wide variety of stages and copy abilities. Stage design is very similar to that of Kirby's Adventure, and it is what you would expect from a Kirby game. It feels and plays like a true sequel to the NES title. Stages are quite easy, especially if you are a Kirby vet, but Kirby has always been a series of just letting go and having fun, so I couldn't criticize the difficulty too much. If you're looking for challenge then you play Kirby for the wrong reasons. However, that isn't to say that the game is lacking challenge.

Very Cool Skyward Sword Comic

Nintendo has partnered with Penny Arcade to create a five part Skyward Sword comic strip. The first part was unveiled earlier today with the rest being released on a weekly basis. It is created with the Skyward Sword spirit in mind and will explore characters and themes from the game itself.

Check out the Comic Strip Here

Buy Skyward Sword Early This Saturday at Nintendo World

Fans of The Legend of Zelda series will be excited to learn that they will be able to get their hands on Skyward Sword a day earlier than most. On November 19th (this Saturday), fans will be able to head out to Nintendo World in New York City to take part in a really neat Skyward Sword launch event. There will be trivia, an unveiling of the Master Sword replica, a cool The Legend of Zelda historical showcase, and the opportunity to purchase Skyward Sword a day early! Fans whom purchase the game on this day will also receive a neat limited edition poster as well.

The doors will open at 9:00 A.M. and the Master Sword reveal will be at 10:00 A.M. Fans of all ages are expected to attend; cosplay enthusiasts will likely be there as well. Prizes are also going to be given away throughout the day, as well as some Skyward Sword demo units. This sounds like a must attend event for Zelda fans.

Source: Nintendo PR

Limited Edition Zelda 3DS Bundle Headed to North America

What was once only confirmed for Europe has now been semi-confirmed for North America as well. One of Gamestop's ads has leaked (and likely confirmed) that the Limited Edition Black Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary bundle will be coming stateside. The bundle also comes with the Ocarina of Time 3D remake. Another interesting tidbit that I'd like to point out is that there is also a Red Super Mario 3D Land bundle coming to North America as well.

Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers Coming to North America VC with Online Functionality

Capcom has announced that the Genesis version of Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers is coming to the Virtual Console in North America. However, the announcement of this game comes with more news. It has been confirmed that the title will also support online play, which is pretty darn cool. To my knowledge, this would be the first VC game to support online functionality, but that only leads to this question. Why the hell would Nintendo allow online play after 5 years? It seems like a huge missed opportunity when you have classic co-op games like River City Ransom and Contra, but I guess it's better late then never.

Source

Press Release: FOSSIL FIGHTERS: CHAMPIONS FOR NINTENDO DS PACKS A PREHISTORIC PUNCH

Hand-Held Adventure Game Lets Players Excavate Fossils and Battle Vivosaurs

                  

VANCOUVER, B.C. – November 14, 2011 – As consumers dig into their holiday shopping this season, they can discover a way to dig for fascinating fossils and encounter some extraordinary virtual creatures. The Fossil Fighters™: Champions game launches today exclusively for the Nintendo DS™ family of hand-held systems. The game asks players to use precision to clean ancient fossils, skill to assemble fantasy teams of revived dinosaurs called vivosaurs and strategy to battle those vivosaurs in a grand tournament.

"Fossil Fighters: Champions turns players of all ages into budding paleontologists," said Ron Bertram, Nintendo of Canada’s vice-president and general manager. "Up to four players can dig in and have fun."

Fossil Fighters: Champions requires players to excavate and carefully clean ancient dinosaur fossils using the Nintendo DS stylus as a hammer and drill. The more effectively the fossils are cleaned, the more powerful the resulting revived vivosaurs will be in battles. Giant fossil rocks containing complete dinosaur fossils and two-sided fossil rocks are new to the franchise. Players can discover more than 140 vivosaurs. By finding rare golden fossils, they can even transform certain vivosaurs into powerful new "Super Evolver" forms.

Once players have successfully cleaned a fossil skull, they can revive a vivosaur and prepare it for battle. Players then command a team of three vivosaurs in turn-based battles, using their vivosaurs' unique skills and special attacks. Players can also rotate their vivosaur formations during battle to give them an edge over opponents.

The game contains a number of wireless features as well. Players can compete in matchmaking battles or upload their best team to see how it fares against others. Players with broadband Internet access can use Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection to download additional vivosaurs and events that offer unique challenges and surprises, including a number of vivosaurs that cannot be found elsewhere in the game. Using DS Download Play, one player who has the game can connect wirelessly with up to three other Nintendo DS owners within range and cooperate to expertly clean fossils together.

For more information about Fossil Fighters: Champions, visit http://fossilfighterschampions.nintendo.com.

Source: Nintendo PR E-Mail

Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge to be a Wii U Launch Title

Wii U news is few and far between during the early stages of the hype, but this neat little tidbit came from a presentation from Tecmo Koei. According to Andriasang, Tecmo Koei plans to release Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge alongside the Wii U at launch. While a particular date isn't pinpointed in the presentation's slides, it is re-confirmed that the Wii U should launch sometime in 2012.

So, do you think Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge will make a good launch title for the Wii U? It is a game that will certainly catch the eye of hardcore gamers and it's a series that Nintendo fans have seen come and go on Nintendo consoles. I personally can't wait for the game!

Shinobi Launch Trailer

Mario Kart 7 Battle Stages Gameplay Footage

Direct Link

Mario Kart 7 Leaf and Star Cup Gameplay Footage

Direct Link


Direct Link

Super Mario 3D Land Launch Trailer

Direct Link

IGN's Skyward Sword Video and Written Review Are Up...

...and the verdict is, well, I'm not going to ruin that for you. Below is the video review and I will link to the written review if that's what you fancy.

Direct Link

IGN's Skyward Sword Written Review

40+ Minutes of Skyward Sword Gameplay Footage

I've been trying to stay away from Skyward Sword videos myself, because I don't want to completely spoil the game for myself. However, maybe some of you would like to see this particular video, so I've decided to share.

Nintendo Download for November 10, 2011

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD HIGHLIGHTS NEW DIGITAL CONTENT FOR NINTENDO SYSTEMS - NOV. 10, 2011

Nov. 10, 2011
This week's Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

Nintendo eShop
Freakyforms™: Your Creations, Alive! – Freakyforms: Your Creations, Alive! makes it easy for players of any age or artistic skill level to create bizarre and bubbly creatures and bring them to life. (For Nintendo 3DS™)

Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare™
Castle Conqueror - Heroes – You were once a great soldier. By joining a leader named Veronica in a campaign to free imprisoned citizens of the Green Planet, your objective is to drive The Empire out once and for all. (For Nintendo 3DS / Nintendo DSi™)

WiiWare™
Step Up! – Step Up! brings you professional trainers and specialized aerobic step workouts to help you burn all the calories you ever dreamed of burning. (For Wii™)

Also new this week:
• The Legend of Zelda Ballad of the Goddess (Nintendo Video™)
• Bloons® TD (Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare)

To view this week's Nintendo Download in its full graphical version, please visit: http://www.news2know.net/nintendo/download2fJp0Wq3.php.

Mario's Cross Canada Tour

Hello my fellow Canadians! I just received an e-mail from the company that handles Nintendo's PR needs here in Canada and they notified me of a string of really cool events that will be taking place across the country between November 13 and December 18. Stop by any of the designated areas (list will be below) and you will receive some exclusive hands-on time with Super Mario 3D Land and/or Mario Kart 7! Not only will you get a sneak peek at Mario Kart 7, but you can also get your picture taken with the mustachioed man himself. Want to get in on some of the Mario fun? Then you will need to check out one of the following events:

Vancouver:
November 13 - Comic Con* at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver from 1:00pm-3:00pm PST
November 13 - Vancouver Giants* at Pacific Coliseum, Vancouver from 6:15pm-10:00pm PST
December 2 - Bright Nights in Stanley Park from 5:00pm-9:00pm PST
December 3 – Nintendo's Holiday Mall Tour at Metropolis at Metrotown from 11:00am-2:00pm PST
December 3 – Best Buy Metrotown, 4805 Kingsway Street, Burnaby from 4:30pm-5:30pm PST
December 4 – Rogers Santa Claus Parade from 10:00am-12:00pm PST (pre-parade appearance)
December 17 - Breakfast with Santa at the Vancouver Convention Centre* from 8:30am-11:30am PST
December 18 - Breakfast with Santa at the Vancouver Convention Centre* from 8:30am-11:30am PST

Whistler Blackcomb:
December 17 - Roundhouse Lodge*, Whistler Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb from 10:00am-3:00pm PST
December 18 - Rendezvous Lodge*, Blackcomb Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb from 10:00am-3:00pm PST

Calgary:
December 9 - Calgary Hit Men* at Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary from 6:15pm-10:00pm MST
December 10 - Nintendo's Holiday Mall Tour at Cross Iron Mills from 11:00am-6:00pm MST
December 11 - Nintendo's Holiday Mall Tour at Cross Iron Mills from 11:00am-6:00pm MST

Edmonton:
November 25 – Best Buy Edmonton South, 9931 19th Avenue NW, Edmonton from 3:00pm-5:30pm MST
November 26 – Edmonton Oil Kings* at Rexall Place, Edmonton from 6:15pm-10:00pm MST
November 27 – West Edmonton Mall from 11:30am-4:00pm MST

Toronto:
November 20 - Toronto Santa Claus Parade from 10:00am-12:00pm EST (pre-parade appearance)
November 27 - Best Buy Downsview, 695 Wilson Avenue, North York from 3:00pm-5:30pm EST

Montreal:
November 18 - Best Buy Marche Central, 8871 De L'Acadie Boulevard, Montreal from 11:00am-1:30pm EST
November 19 - La Récréathèque*, Laval from 11:00am-6:00pm EST
November 20 - La Récréathèque*, Laval from 11:00am-6:00pm EST

*These events may charge a fee for entry

Another Japanese Skyward Sword Commercial + More Skyward Sword Gameplay Footage

It seems like most of the content here ends up being either a new Skyward Sword commercial or gameplay footage, so you know what? Here are some more to keep you busy until either the 18th or 20th. First up are the new commercials and then the five gameplay videos after the break.


Direct Link

Game Informer Skyward Sword Review Details Are In

By now most of you are familiar with the perfect score (10/10) that Game Informer awarded Skyward Sword, but we were left with just the score and no details. The latest issue of Game Informer is hitting peoples' mailboxes as we speak and details for the review are floating around the Internet. Nintendo Everything has the most comprehensive list of details that I have seen at the moment, so I will summarize from their list.

• Skyward Sword is the first game to deliver on Wii remote promises. Motion Controls are being touted as being clever and challenging and requires a high level of patience and mastery. Waggle will get you killed. Using Wii Motion Plus isn't boring or frustrating.
• Both combat and puzzle solving are better than the majority of Wii releases including recent Zelda titles
• Enemies are smart and fast enough to block your attacks with the reviewer stating that they have never felt as engaged or interested in combat of other Zelda games as much as Skyward Sword. You will need to study the opponents' moves and attack at the appropriate time and angle. You must be smarter and more persistent than ever before.
• Game has some of the most interesting boss battles in the series’ history such as a Giant Scorpion and Sword-Swinging Robot. The old find a weapon in the dungeon and then use it on the dungeon boss is used a lot less in Skyward Sword
• Game Informer says that the final two boss battles are the most difficult in the Zelda series
• We already know this; most actions require motion. Wii Motion Plus is used a ton and doesn't come off as being tacked-on. In fact it feels natural and rewarding
• Skyward Sword's story is being called a step-up for the series with clever writing, an interesting new villain, and a cast of characters that could fit with Disney's animated movies. The story will twist and take the plot in surprising directions
• Skyward Sword will make you care about the characters making it the most emotionally effective Zelda game
• "Skyloft is a fascinating locale with many sidequests and secrets"
• Flying is faster than sailing in Wind Waker, but will still take some time to get to different Islands 
• Reviewer felt that the pull of the next objective was so strong that a fast war[ to that location would have been accepted
• First play will take around 40 hours
• World is smaller than Hyrule in Twilight Princess
• Backtracking through areas that have already been completed. Mostly on fetch quests it seems.
• Skyward Sword will usually change the environment up in interesting ways or hand out new challenges to the player
• "Reviewer never felt cheated by repeat levels"
• "Skyward Sword shows how Zelda can evolve"
• Skyward Sword will see the biggest shifts in both Gameplay and story for the series 
• "Art style works well with the Wii’s limited hardware"
• "Orchestrated music is beautiful and nuanced"
• There is some post-game content that is surprisingly challenging and the game has a high replay value

Source

Press Release: The Mushroom Kingdom Goes 3D In Super Mario 3D Land For Nintendo 3DS

First Mario Game for Nintendo 3DS Hand-Held System Launches Nov. 13; Nintendo to Host Interactive Launch Event in Times Square on Nov. 12

REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 9, 2011 - The timeless platforming fun of the Super Mario™ video game franchise expands into a new dimension this holiday season with the Nov. 13 launch of the Super Mario 3D Land™ game. Created exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS™ hand-held system, this new game places Mario™ and his friends in immersive environments that players can enjoy in true 3D without the need for special glasses. Also introducing power-ups, enemies and the return of Tanooki Mario, Super Mario 3D Land promises to satisfy series fans, newcomers and holiday gift seekers at a suggested retail price of $39.99 in the United States.

Press Release: Nintendo to Kick of 2012 Zelda Concert Tour in Dallas (UPDATE)

Update: Nintendo corrected some information in yesterday's press release and I felt the need to update this post. The information stated that tickets were available on Ticketmaster, but that was incorrect. Tickets for the Dallas show are available directly from the Dallas Symphony. Correction is in bold italic.

Nintendo’s 2012 Concert Series for the Legend of Zelda Will Kick Off in Dallas

Dallas Symphony Orchestra to Play ‘Symphony of the Goddesses’ on Jan. 10

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Video game fans in the Lone Star State will soon be able to experience Nintendo’s musical tribute to The Legend of Zelda™ video game series. On Jan. 10, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will perform orchestral arrangements of music from the game’s 25-year history accompanied by video content from the games themselves. This new concert series will go on tour across the United States in 2012 as The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses. Tickets for the Dallas performance are now available direct from the Dallas Symphony and range in price from $19 to $115. Through Nov. 30, tickets are available to Club Nintendo™ members at a 15 percent discount.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Website About Section Update

The About section of the Skyward Sword Website has been updated and includes three new videos. I have ripped them from the site and uploaded them for your convenience.

Zelda Inspired Super Mario 3D Land Video

TheBitBlock has posted even more Zelda related gameplay footage, except this time the game is Super Mario 3D Land. Super Mario 3D Land includes a level that plays tribute to The Legend of Zelda series. It is played through a very unique top-down perspective that we may recognize from early Zelda games.


Direct Link

Even More Skyward Sword Footage

Even more footage has surfaced from TheBitBlock's time with Skyward Sword. This time Link and Zelda share a special moment and some insight into the game's musical isntrument. The second video could be considered a spoiler by some, so tread lightly with that video.


Direct Link


Direct Link

More Skyward Sword Footage from Iwata Asks

This area of the game looks very creative and somewhat original. I think I'll enjoy playing through this area the most.


Direct Link

Two More New Skyward Sword Gameplay Videos

TheBitBlock has posted two more Skyward Sword videos and they are a little less on the spoiler side. The first video shows Link in one of the game's shops, and the second shows Link mixing different potions. Both are very cool videos and more are bound to surface later this week.


Direct Link


Direct Link

New Super Mario 3D Land and Skyward Sword Commercials

Direct Link


Direct Link

Three New Skyward Sword Videos

This latest set of videos comes from TheBitBlock and showcases a couple of small spoiler-ish things. The first video shows Link flying around Skyloft, which isn't really a spoiler at all, but the second and third video show off some additional side-quests (and I use that term lightly) in which Link can partake. Anyway, the videos are after the break:

Nintendo Holiday Gift Guide

I got an e-mail from Nintendo this morning with a link to the Nintendo Holiday Gift Guide. If you are having trouble picking out a game for your friend, children, family, significant other, or whatever the case may be, then this is the perfect guide for you!

For those of you with a keen eye, you may notice that the banner is very similar to the one I use here at Play Nintendo. Coincidence? Probably.

Check out the Nintendo Holiday Gift Guide

Mario Kart 7 New Characters Footage

This video comes from Nintendo Everything and shows off some of the newly announced characters for Mario Kart 7. If you've already seen the character then go ahead and check out the footage, if not, well then you'll have a few surprises waiting for you when you play the game.

Mario Kart 7 Flower and Banana Cup Gameplay Footage

I'm a little late getting this footage on the blog, but here is some new footage of the both the Flower and Banana Cup.


Direct Link


Direct Link

Another New Skyward Sword Video

Some may consider this a spoiler, so I've placed it after the break. It showcases an area that we should all be familiar with if you've been keeping track of Skyward Sword info.

Press Release: ADVENTURE IN THE DESERT AWAITS LINK IN THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: SKYWARD SWORD FOR WII

Nov. 4, 2011
Nintendo has revealed more details about the captivating areas, items and game play in the massive The Legend of Zelda™: Skyward Sword game, launching exclusively for the Wii™ system on Nov. 20. This week, Link™ journeys through the Lanayru Desert, where he must find his way through the puzzles in the Lanayru Mining Facility, sail across a sea of sand and discover new items to add to his collection. Newly revealed game elements include the following:

• Lanayru Desert and the Lanayru Mining Facility: In this vast area, surrounded in all directions by sand, Link must search for the Lanayru Mining Facility. As strange a place as this is, Link will encounter characters both new and familiar, such as Gorons. Inside the Lanayru Mining Facility, Link will follow the path of mine carts through this expansive area, experiencing new puzzles and challenges. He must also face the dungeon boss Moldera, a fearsome giant scorpion.
  
• Sand Ship: Late in his quest, Link returns to a different area of the Lanayru Desert as he sails across a sea of sand in search of a hidden ship.
  
• New Items: In the desert, Link will receive two new items – the Claw Shots and the Gust Jar. The Claw Shots allow players to grapple and pull themselves toward otherwise unreachable areas. The Gust Jar can blow a burst of air to stun enemies or clear paths through piles of sand. Players will find the Gust Jar essential to solving the puzzles in the Lanayru Mining Facility.

Nintendo will continue to regularly provide fans with select details and information about the game prior to its Nov. 20 launch. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword will be available as a standalone game or as part of a limited-edition bundle that also includes a gold-colored Wii Remote™ Plus controller. Additionally, every copy in the initial production runs of the game will come packaged with a special music CD containing orchestral arrangements of select songs that were performed at The Legend of Zelda 25th Anniversary Symphony Concert on Oct. 21 in Los Angeles.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is now available for pre-order at major retailers throughout North America. A deposit may be required for pre-orders. See individual retailers for details. For more information about the game, visit http://www.zelda.com/skywardsword/.

Source: Nintendo PR

Google's Tribute to Star Fox?

Go to Google and start typing this phrase "do a barrel roll" (Without the quotations). OK, so go now.

You back? So, was that a totally awesome Star Fox tribute? It certainly could be. Now try googling "z or r twice." Google my dearest friend you are awesome.

New The Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword Gameplay Videos (Spoilers)

Both of these videos contain heavy spoilers, so they are placed after the break.

Eiji Aonuma Talks 25th Anniversary and Skyward Sword Music

Get More: GameTrailers.com, GT.TV Extended Cuts - Zelda 25th Anniversary Interview, PC Games, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

Direct Link

Official Super Mario 3D Land Website Has Been Updated

I may be a bit late to the party with this one, but the official Super Mario 3D Land website has been updated. There is a bunch of content to check out over there such as story, characters, power-ups and lots more.

Check out the Official Super Mario 3D Land Website

Resident Evil Revelations to Cost 50 Dollars

Most Nintendo 3DS games on the market right now are selling for $39.99, Resident Evil Revelations will sell at the premium price of $49.99. However, Capcom feels that the game deserves to sell at a premium price. Why is that you ask? Well, Capcom feels that it is a true console experience that can be had on a handheld device. However, there is another pretty good reason for the increased price. Resident Evil Revelations will come on a 4GB card which of course will cost more than the standard card (2GB). How do you feel about the increased price? Is Capcom taking advantage of Resident Evil fans, or are they just simply adjusting their bottom line?

Source

Super Mario 3D Land Comes With 3DS Firmware Update and Digital Instruction Manual

We've heard about the upcoming 3DS firmware update coming this month, but the one coming with your copy of Super Mario 3D Land will be different. This update will add two things:

1. It will place a button on your friends list that will allow you to join them in a game that is already in progress
2. It will also add some protection against flashcards in hopes of reducing piracy

Adding the extra functionality to your friends list is pretty necessary in my opinion. It will be great to join friends while they are in the middle of a game without having to sync up with each other before going online. I'm also all for any additional measures against piracy, but that's a completely different article.

Another interesting piece of Super Mario 3D Land news came from Japanese copies of the game. It has been reported that Super Mario 3D Land will not include a paper instruction manual, but instead will offer a digital one accessed through the game itself. Note that this is only confirmed for the Japanese version, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the paper manual dropped in North America and other areas as well.

Source 1, Source 2

2 New and Very Cool Club Nintendo Rewards

These are pretty sweet shoelaces, and they would match those Super Mario Bros. converse sneakers from Japan. When you purchase this item for 300 coins you actually get both pairs! Nintendo usually makes us spend another "300" to get the other design, but luckily not this time.

Get Some Super Mario Shoelaces

The other item that Nintendo has in Club Nintendo is this pretty slick, retro Super Mario Bros. T-Shirt. This item is 550 coins, but that's not too bad in my eyes. I know I'll be definitely getting one of these babies. They come in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large.

Get a Classic Super Mario T-Shirt

Freakyforms announced for November 10 Release on the Nintendo eShop

NINTENDO 3DS OWNERS BRING THEIR CREATURES TO LIFE WITH FREAKYFORMS

Nov. 3, 2011
Halloween is over, but there's still plenty of time to bring inanimate objects to life. A creative new portable game from Nintendo lets players colorize their worlds in their own personal palettes and bring to life bizarre and bubbly creatures of every conceivable crazy incarnation. Freakyforms™: Your Creations, Alive!, a downloadable game for the Nintendo 3DS™ system, gives you that chance and even lets you swap your creatures with other creators.

Nintendo Invading Malls of America

Nintendo and Cast of Characters to Showcase Great Video Games for the Holidays

REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 3, 2011 – Whether your feet are aching from a long day of shopping or you just need some advice about what to buy that video gamer on your holiday list, Nintendo has you covered. Nintendo is visiting malls nationwide to give families hands-on time with great Nintendo games during the busy holiday shopping season, plus a chance to meet some of Nintendo's favorite characters. Like cookies, presents and visits with relatives, the Nintendo mall program has become something of an annual tradition since 2006. Nintendo estimates that last year more than 850,000 people got some hands-on time with Nintendo games.

Nintendo Download for November 3, 2011

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD HIGHLIGHTS NEW DIGITAL CONTENT FOR NINTENDO SYSTEMS - NOV. 3, 2011

Nov. 3, 2011
This week's Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

Nintendo eShop / Nintendo DSiWare™1950s Lawn Mower Kids™ – Help Tom, Nancy and Tim mow lawns among UFOs, people, dogs, ducks, cats and birds. Avoid mowing down flower beds or crashing into tables and angry animals. (For Nintendo 3DS™ / Nintendo DSi™)

Nintendo eShop Balloon Kid™ – Save your brother from peril by floating through eight different stages as you follow his trail of balloons. Test your piloting skills to avoid enemies, or let go of your balloons to face enemies on the ground. (For Nintendo 3DS)

WiiWare™Gnomz – Welcome to the world of Gnomz, an exciting new arcade fighter for the WiiWare service. Battle in 25 action-packed arenas and discover magical power-ups, flying elephants, rainbows and glowing reindeer. (For Wii™)

Also new this week:• "The Legend of Zelda Main Theme Medley" (Nintendo Video™) 
• House M.D. - Episode 4: Crashed (Nintendo eShop/Nintendo DSiWare) 

To view this week's Nintendo Download in its full graphical version, please visit: http://www.news2know.net/nintendo/download3mwKD92i.php.

Source: Nintendo PR

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Japanese Commercials

Direct Link

These commercials are much different than the North America look back commercial in that they display much more action and plot related details. I like these much better and hope that Nintendo of America will release ones that are similar in nature.

New The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Japanese Overview Trailer

Direct Link

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Look Back Commercial (NA)

Direct Link

IGN Skyward Sword Unboxing

 

More The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Videos

First Super Mario 3D Land North America Commercial

Direct Link

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Website Updated

Well, I'm a little late to the table with this one, but the official Skyward Sword website has been updated. You can take a peak at the world map, check out some screenshots and video, and even check out the latest Iwata Asks. There is still more of the world map to be revealed, as well as some other features to be revealed at a later date. Some crafty fans have already filled out the entire map, but I feel like I've posted enough Skyward Sword details/spoilers and will begin to slow down so that I don't ruin the game for everyone and myself included. I like to be surprised a little bit.

Visit the Official Skyward Sword Website