Nintendo’s “Quality of Life” project inspired by Yamauchi

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has revealed in an interview with a Japanese site that the inspiration and ideas for the gaming giant’s next project came from its previous leader, Hiroshi Yamauchi. “Quality of Life” is planned by Nintendo to release in 2015 and will change the way it seeks to entertain individuals and bring consumers to its products.

“Surely, a lot of people around the world must think ‘Nintendo is a company that is just for video games,’ about us, and I believe that there are more and more of our own employees who have begun to think like that. So, even if the fact that our focus being video games won’t be changing, I felt the need to take this occasion to say ‘Nintendo is a company that can do whatever they want’.

“This subject came to light when Yamauchi passed away, but I felt that our surroundings are greatly changing. We need to redefine what Nintendo must do, from this point on. However, I felt that saying ‘Nintendo will do anything,’ was also the wrong idea for the company.

“Yamauchi was one to always say, ‘Nintendo is a company for entertainment, and it shouldn’t be for anything else,’ and he didn’t necessarily think that ‘entertainment equalled video games’. I’ve been wondering how to express Yamauchi’s feelings, and I’ve been thinking about it non-stop, even during the New Year’s holiday break.”

The CEO continued, “Lately, the words QOL (quality of life) have come up. Entertainment is there to improve people’s quality of life. After your basic needs, there’s entertainment. At the start of this year, I finally figured that improving people’s quality of life with fun, with emphasis to the ‘fun’ would be perfect for Nintendo.”

Mario Kart 8 features two new items, new details announced

Nintendo today revealed new information on Mario Kart 8, the latest instalment in the fan-favourite racing series launching exclusively for Wii U on 31st May – in stores and on Nintendo eShop. For the first time in HD, Mario Kart 8 introduces original course designs that highlight the game’s new antigravity feature, which allows players to race upside down or up vertical surfaces. Racers will also enjoy a variety of series-favourite features including the return of 12-player online competitive play*, four player local multiplayer, hang-gliders, underwater racing and motorbikes. 

New features include:

Spin Turbo: While racing upside down or on walls, players can bump into other racers or certain course obstacles to get a speed boost. Spin Turbo fundamentally redefines the way that players compete, and makes antigravity racing even more exhilarating.

Returning characters: In Mario Kart 8, players can race with returning characters Metal Mario, Lakitu and Shy Guy. These newly revealed returning characters join a host of previously announced favourites including all seven of Bowser’s minions, who are playable for the first time in Mario Kart history.

New items: Two new items join the fray in Mario Kart 8. First, the Piranha Plant attaches to the front of the players’ kart and chomps at other characters, banana peels on the course or even shells thrown by other characters. Each time the Piranha Plant lunges forward to bite, the player receives a brief boost of speed. The second new item is the Boomerang Flower. After acquiring it, racers can throw a boomerang at opponents to stun them, and its arc allows players to strike multiple opponents with a single toss. The boomerang can be thrown three times, forward or backwards.

New courses: Remixed classic courses make a return in Mario Kart 8 with favourites such as Moo Moo Meadows from Mario Kart Wii, Toad’s Turnpike from Mario Kart 64 and Donut Plains from Super Mario Kart, among others. The graphics and layout of these courses have been redesigned and reimagined. For example, Toad’s Turnpike now allows players to drive up certain walls in antigravity mode. The game will include 16 new courses and 16 remixed classic courses.

Live recorded music: For the first time in the Mario Kart series, select courses in Mario Kart 8 feature music recorded by live performers.

Control scheme: Mario Kart 8 will support a variety of control schemes including the Wii U GamePad, the Wii U Pro Controller, the Wii Wheel, and Wii Remote and Nunchuk. The game can also be played in off-TV mode using just the Wii U GamePad.

When Mario Kart 8 launches on 31st May, fans can also get their hands on the Mario Kart 8 Limited Edition software bundle, which comes complete with a Spiny Shell Collector’s Item alongside a physical copy of the game. The Mario Kart 8 Limited Edition software bundle is available exclusive to EB Games while stocks last. 

To check out a selection of the new (and re-imagined) features coming to Mario Kart 8, a special new trailer can be viewed here.

Nintendo attending OZ Comic-Con in Adelaide and Perth

Nintendo Australia announces that it will be attending Oz Comic-Con at all 5 events around Australia in 2014, with the upcoming shows in both Perth on 29th and 30th March, and Adelaide on 5th and 6th April offering attendees the opportunity to play some of the most anticipated titles for both Nintendo 3DS and Wii U right throughout the weekend.  

On Wii U, fans will be able to enjoy a range of games including Mario Kart 8, releasing 31st May in Australia and New Zealand. For Nintendo 3DS, among others you’ll be able to tee off in Mario Golf: World Tour or test out Kirby’s new Hypernova ability in Kirby: Triple Deluxe. 

In addition to these upcoming titles, Nintendo booth will be brimming with multiplayer and StreetPass fun, so bring along your Nintendo 3DS and enjoy all your favourite titles like Pokémon X and Pokémon Y, Mario Party: Island Tour, Animal Crossing: New Leaf, Fire Emblem: Awakening, Luigi’s Mansion 2 and Mario Kart 7 with other Nintendo fans.

Nintendo Australia also recently launched both a Facebook Page andTwitter Account where fans can be kept up to date with all the latest in the world of Nintendo in Australia and New Zealand.

Additional Links:
Nintendo Australia Twitter: https://twitter.com/NintendoAUNZ
Nintendo Australia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NintendoAUNZ 
Nintendo Australia Website: http://www.nintendo.com.au 
Nintendo Australia Youtube: http://www.youtube.com.au/NintendoAU 
Nintendo Australia Image Library: http://images.nintendo.com.au

Nintendo Australia joins Facebook and Twitter

Nintendo Australia announces the launch of both a Facebook Page and Twitter Account where you can be kept up to date with all the latest in the world of Nintendo in Australia and New Zealand.

With a mix of local information and global announcements, the newly launched social media pages will keep you posted on all the latest events and newly announced game information for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U.

We’re looking forward to reading your comments and we hope you’re looking forward to keeping in touch with Nintendo’s latest news, games, events – and local fans!

Additional Links:
Nintendo Australia Twitter: https://twitter.com/NintendoAUNZ
Nintendo Australia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NintendoAUNZ
Nintendo Australia Website: http://www.nintendo.com.au
Nintendo Australia Youtube: http://www.youtube.com.au/NintendoAU
Nintendo Australia Image Library: http://images.nintendo.com.au

Nintendo shows off three Mario Kart 8 tracks

Nintendo has shared three brand new tracks from Mario Kart 8 today which look absolutely stunning. The racing title is coming to Wii U and will launch on May 30th in North America and Europe. You can take a look at the pictures for the new courses, Sweet Sweet Canyon, Mario Circuit, and Thwomp Ruins, below!

 

 

 

PlayStation 4 overtakes Wii U’s worldwide sales

Sony has announced overnight that Playstation 4 has overtaken Nintendo’s Wii U console to be the number one seller for next generation consoles. Sony has now sold over 5.3 million Playstation 4 units while Nintendo recently reported it had only sold 4.8 million Wii U units by the end of December. With the immense hype surrounding Playstation 4 and Microsoft’s Xbox One it was inevitable that Wii U would be left eating the dust kicked up from the other gaming companies’ success. Unfortunately, it’s only a small matter of time before we’ll be reporting about Xbox One overtaking Wii U too.

Nintendo announces release dates and key details for upcoming Wii U and 3DS titles

A whole host of launch dates and new game details for upcoming Wii U and Nintendo 3DS titles were revealed today as part of the first Nintendo Direct broadcast in 2014.

This Nintendo Direct put a spotlight on a selection of upcoming titles for Wii U owners. From 31st May, start your engines when Mario Kart 8 brings the family-favourite franchise to Wii U – this time with Bowser’s minions on board as drivers! Today’s broadcast also delivered new footage of anticipated Wii U titles such as Bayonetta 2 by PlatinumGames, as well as the new game in development by MONOLITH SOFTWARE INC. Additional surprises on show were the announcement of NES Remix 2, bringing new retro challenges and a Luigi-themed spin on a cherished classic to Nintendo eShop, plus the reveal of Little Mac from the Punch Out!! series as a playable character in both Super Smash Bros for Wii U as well as its handheld sibling.

In addition to Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems will continue to bolster its broad software line-up into 2014 with titles for all tastes and ages. Both Mario Golf: World Tour and Kirby: Triple Deluxe are set to tee off in May, while Yoshi is getting his own Nintendo 3DS XL Yoshi Special Edition* console to accompany the launch of Yoshi’s New Island on 15th March. Over on Nintendo eShop, underwater warfare has arrived in the shape of Steel Diver: Sub Wars, now available as a free download, while a different type of battle will take place in Pokémon Link: Battle!, available as a downloadable title from 14th March.

With more details on Game Boy Advance titles launching from April on Wii U Virtual Console, as well as star appearances by Donkey Kong, Professor Layton and Phoenix Wright all part of today’s broadcast, the year 2014 is set to offer a host of memorable gameplay experiences for owners of Nintendo systems. Today’s Nintendo Direct can be viewed in its entirety at:
http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendodirect

Highlights from today’s Nintendo Direct broadcast included:

Wii U

Mario Kart 8: Put the pedal to the metal in gravity-defying courses on 31st May when Mario Kart 8 launches in stores and on Nintendo eShop for Wii U. This time around, take to the starting grid with Bowser’s minions, with all available as playable characters for the first time ever. Will Iggy, Larry, Ludwig von, Morton, Roy and Wendy pip Mario & Co to the podium?

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U: With Super Smash Bros. launching in stores and on Nintendo eShop for both Wii U and Nintendo 3DS in 2014, prepare to don the gloves and go for the KO when Little Mac of Punch-Out!! fame is introduced as a new challenger.

Bayonetta 2: A new trailer for Bayonetta 2 showcased the Umbran Climax, a single, powerful attack that allows Bayonetta to release all her accumulated magic power. Like in the original Bayonetta, the use of Witch Time will prove all-important in dodging enemy attacks at the last possible moment. Bayonetta 2 is coming to Wii U later this year.

A new title developed by MONOLITH SOFTWARE INC.: New footage of the title currently in development showed a battle scene with the player entering a human-shaped robot to fight a giant beast out in the wild. More updates on the game will be announced in the future.

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze: Swinging into stores and on Nintendo eShop for Wii U on 22nd February, today’s Nintendo Direct revealed a new extended trailer showcasing what lies in store in this latest KONG adventure.

Nintendo eShop on Wii U

NES Remix 2: This second instalment of the mashup of classic Nintendo games features challenges from later NES games like Super Mario Bros. 3, Kirby’s Adventure and Metroid. Just like NES Remix, the sequel includes stages from the original games with new challenges, as well as modified stages that introduce new elements. The game is scheduled to launch on Nintendo eShop for Wii U on 25th April. Best of all, it includes a free bonus game:
o Super Luigi Bros.: This is a full game based on a challenge from NES Remix. It contains all the levels from the Super Mario Bros. original game, only now it stars Luigi and requires players to navigate familiar levels in an unheard-of way – by running to the left! The game even incorporates Luigi’s signature high jump. It’s a fun new spin on a classic game.

Child of Light: This RPG from Ubisoft takes the perspective of Aurora, a young princess on a quest to retrieve three sources of light from the evil Queen. Expect vile monsters and legendary creatures in a world inspired by fairy tales when the game releases on Nintendo eShop for Wii U in May.

Game Boy Advance titles coming to Wii U Virtual Console: Including Metroid Fusion, Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, and Yoshi’s Island: Super Mario Advance 3, Game Boy Advance games are set to release on Wii U Virtual Console from April onwards. More titles will be released over time.

Nintendo 3DS

Mario Golf: World Tour: In addition to previously announced multiplayer features, the game will also include the Castle Club, a single-player clubhouse hub that offers a variety of areas to help players hone their skills. The Castle Club includes golf courses, tournaments, training areas, shops, locker rooms and a café. A training area lets them focus on specific aspects of their game, such as putting. Players can customise their Mii characters using items sold at the shop, including clubs, golf balls and clothing. Different combinations of gear can affect a player’s performance. Mario Golf: World Tour is scheduled to launch on 3rd May for Nintendo 3DS.

Kirby: Triple Deluxe: In Kirby: Triple Deluxe, expect over 20 different types of copy abilities including the Beetle, Circus and Archer granting Kirby a wide range of moves. Hunt down Sun Stones in order to progress through the adventure, and collect 8-bit key chains hidden within levels or get them from other players. The game takes advantage of StreetPass functionality to deliver better items to players. Kirby: Triple Deluxe will launch on Nintendo 3DS on 17th May.

Yoshi’s New Island: Flutter-jumping its way to stores and Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 15th March, Yoshi’s New Island will feature big eggs called Mega Eggdozers, as well as Metal Eggdozers that enable Yoshi to venture underwater. Using the gyro controls of the Nintendo 3DS console, maneuver a Submarine Yoshi or Jackhammer Yoshi, while transforming into a “Super Yoshi” lets you fly like a shooting star or run along walls and ceilings at will! Players who are having trouble completing a level might see the appearance of Flutter Wings, which let Yoshi fly through the air. In a final piece of Yoshi news, a Nintendo 3DS XL Yoshi Special Edition* will also release on 15th March, with the design incorporating the familiar green and white of Yoshi.

Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney: Akihiro Hino from LEVEL-5 spoke about the game in advance of its launch in stores and on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 29th March. Fans looking to get a dose of puzzle-solving can try out a puzzle demo at the game’s newly launched website, or go behind the scenes via a new Iwata Asks interview.

Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate: Following on from the recent announcement by Capcom, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate will be coming to Nintendo 3DS in Australia and New Zealand in early 2015. In addition to online play, the game will also allow players to hunt monsters in dynamic new ways.

Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl: An upcoming Atlus title coming to Australia and New Zealand, Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl will be available for Nintendo 3DS in May, with a special demo of the game available on Nintendo eShop in April.

Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS

Pokémon Link: Battle!: In this new Pokémon action puzzle instalment, every known Pokémon – over 700 – are set to feature! Match Pokémon to clear them while battling against and collecting others, and create bonds with your Pokémon to make them inflict greater damage to your opponents in battle. Pokémon: Link Battle! will also offer 4-player co-op play, and releases on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 14th March.

Steel Diver: Sub Wars: Available as of today on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS is the successor to the submarine action game, Steel Diver. A tactical first-person shooter, Steel Diver: Sub Wars challenges you to stay one step ahead of your enemies, including single-player missions, the ability to stage competitive 4-on-4 team battles, plus local and online multiplayer modes. Players can now download the game for free and enjoy two submarine types, the beginning of the single-player mission mode, plus the entire multiplayer mode. Upgrading to the paid Premium Version will open up the full single-player experience and a greater variety of submarines to commandeer.

Nintendo Pocket Football Club: Exclusive to Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS and releasing on 18th April, Nintendo Pocket Football Club puts players at the helm of their very own football club, with decisions ranging from how to best train a squad to scouting new players. Help players progress and fulfill their potential with the help of training cards, and unlock special card combos to boost their stats even further. In addition, share players with friends to help strengthen each other’s line-up, and keep an eye out for the game’s website from launch to see how your team’s performance fares against friends or other managers.

Weapon Shop de Omasse: The fourth and final title from what is known in Japan as the Guild01 series, Weapon Shop de Omasse tasks players with managing a weapon shop inside a classic RPG, with blacksmith Oyaji and apprentice Yuhan forging and renting out weapons to heroes, instead of going on the quests themselves. The heroes rely upon the quality of your weapons to defeat characters such as the Evil Lord – if the heroes fail, you won’t get paid. Weapon Shop de Omasse releases on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 21st February.

Inazuma Eleven: The first adventure for Mark Evans and his legendary team mates, Inazuma Eleven, is available as of today on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS.

LEVEL-5 game sale: To celebrate the release of Weapon Shop de Omasse, from today until 23rd February, the following previously released Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS titles from LEVEL-5 will be on sale, priced at AUD$3.90 (NZD$5.10) – ATTACK OF THE FRIDAY MONSTERS! A TOKYO TALE; CRIMSON SHROUD; LIBERATION MAIDEN; AERO PORTER; THE STARSHIP DAMREY; BUGS vs. TANKS!

Additional Links:
Nintendo Direct website http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendodirect
Nintendo AU on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/nintendoau
Nintendo Australia Image Library http://images.nintendo.com.au

*Please note that the Yoshi’s New Island software is not included.
**Depending on the Wii U hardware pack you own and your use of it, an additional storage device may be required to download software from Nintendo eShop.

Mario Kart 8 launches May 31st in Australia

Nintendo Australia has announced via today’s press release that Mario Kart 8 will be released on May 31st in the nation. The hyped up kart racing title will release on Wii U and happens to be the first HD installment for a Mario Kart game. Also revealed during today’s Nintendo Direct presentation was the announcement that the Koopaling kids will be on the character roster for the first time.The full press release can be found below! 

14^th February 2014 – A whole host of launch dates and new game details for upcoming Wii U and Nintendo 3DS titles were revealed today as part of the first Nintendo Direct broadcast in 2014.

This Nintendo Direct put a spotlight on a selection of upcoming titles for Wii U owners. From 31^st May, start your engines when Mario Kart 8 brings the family-favourite franchise to Wii U –  this time with Bowser’s minions on board as drivers! Today’s broadcast also delivered new footage of anticipated Wii U titles such as Bayonetta 2 by PlatinumGames, as well as the new game in development by MONOLITH SOFTWARE INC. Additional surprises on show were the announcement of NES Remix 2, bringing new retro challenges and a Luigi-themed spin on a cherished classic to Nintendo eShop, plus the reveal of Little Mac from the Punch Out!! series as a playable character in both Super Smash Bros for Wii U as well as its handheld sibling.

 In addition to Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems will continue to bolster its broad software line-up into 2014 with titles for all tastes and ages. Both Mario Golf: World Tour and Kirby: Triple Deluxe are set to tee off in May, while Yoshi is getting his own Nintendo 3DS XL Yoshi Special Edition* console to accompany the launch of Yoshi’s New Island on 15^th March. Over on Nintendo eShop, underwater warfare has arrived in the shape of Steel Diver: Sub Wars, now available as a free download, while a different type of battle will take place in Pokémon Link: Battle!, available as a downloadable title from 14^th March.

With more details on Game Boy Advance titles launching from April on Wii U Virtual Console, as well as star appearances by Donkey Kong, Professor Layton and Phoenix Wright all part of today’s broadcast, the year 2014 is set to offer a host of memorable gameplay experiences for owners of Nintendo systems. Today’s Nintendo Direct can be viewed in its entirety at:
http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendodirect

 Highlights from today’s Nintendo Direct broadcast included:

Wii U

• Mario Kart 8: Put the pedal to the metal in gravity-defying courses on 31^st May when Mario Kart 8 launches in stores and on Nintendo eShop for Wii U. This time around, take to the starting grid with Bowser’s minions, with all available as playable characters for the first time ever. Will Iggy, Larry, Ludwig von, Morton, Roy and Wendy pip Mario & Co to the podium?
• Super Smash Bros. for Wii U: With Super Smash Bros. launching in stores and on Nintendo eShop for both Wii U and Nintendo 3DS in 2014, prepare to don the gloves and go for the KO when Little Mac of Punch-Out!! fame is introduced as a new challenger.
• Bayonetta 2: A new trailer for Bayonetta 2 showcased the Umbran Climax, a single, powerful attack that allows Bayonetta to release all her accumulated magic power. Like in the original Bayonetta, the use of Witch Time will prove all-important in dodging enemy attacks at the last possible moment. Bayonetta 2 is coming to Wii U later this year.
• A new title developed by MONOLITH SOFTWARE INC.: New footage of the title currently in development showed a battle scene with the player entering a human-shaped robot to fight a giant  beast out in the wild. More updates on the game will be announced in the future.
• Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze: Swinging into stores and on Nintendo eShop for Wii U on 22^nd February, today’s Nintendo Direct revealed a new extended trailer showcasing what lies in store in this latest KONG adventure.      

 

Nintendo eShop on Wii U

• NES Remix 2: This second instalment of the mashup of classic Nintendo games features challenges from later NES games like Super Mario Bros. 3, Kirby’s Adventure and Metroid. Just like NES Remix, the sequel includes stages from the original games with new challenges, as well as modified stages that introduce new elements. The game is scheduled to launch on Nintendo eShop for Wii U on 25^th April. Best of all, it includes a free bonus game:

o   Super Luigi Bros.: This is a full game based on a challenge from NES Remix. It contains all the levels from the Super Mario Bros. original game, only now it stars Luigi and requires players to navigate familiar levels in an unheard-of way – by running to the left! The game even incorporates Luigi’s signature high jump. It’s a fun new spin on a classic game.

• Child of Light: This RPG from Ubisoft takes the perspective of Aurora, a young princess on a quest to retrieve three sources of light from the evil Queen. Expect vile monsters and legendary creatures in a world inspired by fairy tales when the game releases on Nintendo eShop for Wii U in May.    
• Game Boy Advance titles coming to Wii U Virtual Console: Including Metroid Fusion, Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, and Yoshi’s Island: Super Mario Advance 3, Game Boy Advance games are set to release on Wii U Virtual Console from April onwards. More titles will be released over time.

Nintendo 3DS

• Mario Golf: World Tour: In addition to previously announced multiplayer features, the game will also include the Castle Club, a single-player clubhouse hub that offers a variety of areas to help players hone their skills. The Castle Club includes golf courses, tournaments, training areas, shops, locker rooms and a café. A training area lets them focus on specific aspects of their game, such as putting. Players can customise their Mii characters using items sold at the shop, including clubs, golf balls and clothing. Different combinations of gear can affect a player’s performance. Mario Golf: World Tour is scheduled to launch on 3^rd May for Nintendo 3DS.
• Kirby: Triple Deluxe: In Kirby: Triple Deluxe, expect over 20 different types of copy abilities including the Beetle, Circus and Archer granting Kirby a wide range of moves. Hunt down Sun Stones in order to progress through the adventure, and collect 8-bit key chains hidden within levels or get them from other players. The game takes advantage of StreetPass functionality to deliver better items to players. Kirby: Triple Deluxe will launch on Nintendo 3DS on 17^th May.
• Yoshi’s New Island: Flutter-jumping its way to stores and Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 15^th March, Yoshi’s New Island will feature big eggs called Mega Eggdozers, as well as Metal Eggdozers that enable Yoshi to venture underwater. Using the gyro controls of the Nintendo 3DS console, maneuver a  Submarine Yoshi or Jackhammer Yoshi, while transforming into a “Super Yoshi” lets you fly like a shooting star or run along walls and ceilings at will! Players who are having trouble completing a level might see the appearance of Flutter Wings, which let Yoshi fly through the air. In a final piece of Yoshi news, a Nintendo 3DS XL Yoshi Special Edition* will also release on 15^th March, with the design incorporating the familiar green and white of Yoshi.   
• Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney: Akihiro Hino from LEVEL-5 spoke about the game in advance of its launch in stores and on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 29^th March. Fans looking to get a dose of puzzle-solving can try out a puzzle demo at the game’s newly launched website, or go behind the scenes via a new Iwata Asks interview.
• Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate: Following on from the recent announcement by Capcom, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate will be coming to Nintendo 3DS in Australia and New Zealand in early 2015. In addition to online play, the game will also allow players to hunt monsters in dynamic new ways.
• Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl: An upcoming Atlus title coming to Australia and New Zealand, Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl will be available for Nintendo 3DS in May, with a special demo of the game available on Nintendo eShop in April.

 

Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS

• Pokémon Link: Battle!: In this new Pokémon action puzzle instalment, every known Pokémon – over 700 – are set to feature! Match Pokémon to clear them while battling against and collecting others, and create bonds with your Pokémon to make them inflict greater damage to your opponents in battle. Pokémon: Link Battle! will also offer 4-player co-op play, and releases on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 14^th March.
• Steel Diver: Sub Wars: Available as of today on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS is the successor to the submarine action game, Steel Diver. A tactical first-person shooter, Steel Diver: Sub Wars challenges you to stay one step ahead of your enemies, including single-player missions, the ability to stage competitive 4-on-4 team battles, plus local and online multiplayer modes. Players can now download the game for free and enjoy two submarine types, the beginning of the single-player mission mode, plus the entire multiplayer mode. Upgrading to the paid Premium Version will open up the full single-player experience and a greater variety of submarines to commandeer.
• Nintendo Pocket Football Club: Exclusive to Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS and releasing on 18^th April, Nintendo Pocket Football Club puts players at the helm of their very own football club, with decisions ranging from how to best train a squad to scouting new players. Help players progress and fulfill their potential with the help of training cards, and unlock special card combos to boost their stats even further. In addition, share players with friends to help strengthen each other’s line-up, and keep an eye out for the game’s website from launch to see how your team’s performance fares against friends or other managers.
• Weapon Shop de Omasse: The fourth and final title from what is known in Japan as the Guild01 series, Weapon Shop de Omasse tasks players with managing a weapon shop inside a classic RPG, with blacksmith Oyaji and apprentice Yuhan forging and renting out weapons to heroes, instead of going on the quests themselves. The heroes rely upon the quality of your weapons to defeat characters such as the Evil Lord – if the heroes fail, you won’t get paid. Weapon Shop de Omasse releases on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS on 21^st February.
• Inazuma Eleven: The first adventure for Mark Evans and his legendary team mates, Inazuma Eleven, is available as of today on Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS.
• LEVEL-5 game sale: To celebrate the release of Weapon Shop de Omasse, from today until 23^rd February, the following previously released Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS titles from LEVEL-5 will be on sale, priced at AUD$3.90 (NZD$5.10) – ATTACK OF THE FRIDAY MONSTERS! A TOKYO TALE; CRIMSON SHROUD; LIBERATION MAIDEN; AERO PORTER; THE STARSHIP DAMREY; BUGS vs. TANKS!

Additional Links:

Nintendo Direct website http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendodirect
Nintendo AU on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/nintendoau

Nintendo Australia Image Library http://images.nintendo.com.au

Home run bat item returns for Super Smash Bros Wii U and 3DS

Super Smash Bros director Masahiro Sakurai has announced that the popular home run bat item from the series will return in the next titles for Wii U and 3DS. The home run bat has been designed with a cool new design and the picture below shows the item’s transformation as each Smash Bros title is released. The home run bat allows a player to knock out an opponent with one successful swing of the sport’s item.

Wii U about to surpass Xbox 360’s lifetime sales in Japan

Nintendo has not been able to celebrate much concerning any sales achievements since it launched its latest home console, Wii U, to the gaming market. However, in Japan, a small victory has been gained as Wii U is just about ready to surpass Xbox 360’s accumulated sales in the nation. Considering Xbox 360 has never been a popular console for Microsoft in Japan Nintendo can only give a smile of relief that at least Japanese gamers are interested in its first HD gaming console.