WiiNintendo

Here’s part of what the man himself told NBC: 

I think that there’s probably one other element to it, and that’s that our view of how we use E3 has changed. For a very long time, E3 was an event where — and certainly Nintendo included — catered specifically to the core gamer. Now we look at more … an opportunity for us to introduce new concepts and new types of play that we intend to bring to the broader audience, particularly because of the media that gathers at E3 now.

So while attending an E3 event like this, they might be given the impression that Nintendo is no longer focusing on the games that appeal to the core gamer, in fact we’re still working on many of those titles, but it’s just not the type of event where we’ll be showcasing that anymore.

[via NBC]

[CVG]

In a little over 12 hours, we will be watching Nintendo unveil what they have planned for us for the coming months. Many months of rumors and leaks have built up to this moment and it’s so close. The hype is at a climax and as usual, some people are probably predicting too many megatons. Well, to put things into perspective, I’ve put together a list of things that are very likely to show, as well as possibilities. Check it out:

Very Likely

• The latest Wii accessory, known as the Wii MotionPlus, is confirmed to be at Nintendo’s E3 conference. I’m sure Nintendo has some big things planned for it, and I can’t wait to hear what they are.
• Wii Music is confirmed to be at E3 by IGN. We first saw this title as a demo at a previous E3 and it has captured my interest since then. And while we’re on this subject, wouldn’t the Wii MotionPlus be a perfect attachment for use in Wii Music? I think so.
• Animal Crossing Wii has been confirmed by a few different sources, and it makes sense. The title was announced a long time ago and we’ve heard nothing since. The latest rumors suggest that the game is complete, so it only makes sense that we’ll see it in action tomorrow.
• Disaster: Day of Crisis was announced a while ago and we haven’t heard much about the game. Nintendo certainly wants to appeal to its hardcore crowd, so they could talk more about this title.
• Showcase Wario Land: Shake It!, Kirby Superstar Ultra, Mario Super Sluggers, and more. I bet we can expect to see video footage of those titles and more in a video montage of some sort.
• The official US announcement of Pokemon Platinum at E3 would make sense. The game is set to release in Japan this September, so a release early 2009 in the US is likely and it’s about time to start the hype for it.

(more…)

 Another wii-remote ripoff emerges and shows that nobody can create an original product anymore!
Oh, and I don’t see anything that the wii-remote cant do. I guess we will just have to wait and see how this turns out.

And with that, I have a question for you!
What is stopping the big N from creating a more advanced wii remote capable of better motion sensing?

So what does Reggie and Nintendo have up their sleeve for E3 2008? Kid Icarus or more Wii peripherals?

It must be that time of year again, every blog on every game-related website stands up and says, “Hey, look at our E3 predictions!  Our website rocks!  We have no idea if we’re right, but this post will net us some traffic!”  Well, we here at wiinintendo, and by we I mean me, are no different, and with that in mind here are my personal picks for what Nintendo has up its collective sleeve for Wii at this year’s E3 event.

 HARDWARE:

Storage solution:  Come on Nintendo, enough is enough.  We need storage and we needed it a long time ago.  I believe that we will see a storage solution from Nintendo mentionedat this E3.  I have no idea if what they mention will be shown, or if they will just let us know that they have something in the works.  Here’s hoping that whatever they do mention will be available before the end of the year.  I also believe that the solution that Nintendo has come up with will fall short of all of our expectations and make us cry ourselves to sleep on our big, otaku pillows.

Voice Chat:  This has been heavily hinted at a number of times over at IGN and they believe that we will not be seeing a traditional headset ala Xbox Live and PSN; but they do believe that we will be seeing Nintendo’s “unique” (read: ineffective and silly) solution at E3.

Wii SOFTWARE:

Donkey Kong Wii:  And no I don’t mean a sequel to that crappy jet barrel blast game thingy that pretended to use the bongos.  This will be the real deal and will be pitched as Nintendo’s biggest release this coming holiday season for the “core” gamer.  Like it or not, Nintendo thinks we all want Donkey Kong, so that’s what they are going to give us.

Animal Crossing Wii:  There are so many expectations for this title.  People think it is going to be the next big leap forward for the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.  I have a sad feeling that what we are going to get is a rehash of the Gamecube game with some small online component.  I hope Nintendo proves me wrong, but I am not holding out any hope for this title other than it being a competent sequel in a good franchise with Gamecube-quality visuals.

Kid Icarus Wii:  Again, every website under the golden Nintendo sun is pretty certain that this will be shown at Nintendo’s press conference.  It is also rumored to be developed by Factor 5, the talent behind Rogue Squadron for the Gamecube and Lair for the PS3.  If nothing else I am looking forward to the visuals in this game to get an idea of the true power behind the Wii console.  If their is any developer out there besides Nintendo that can show us what the Wii is really capable of, it’s Factor 5.

Pikmin 3:  I have hope that we will at least see this in video form, but I am not really betting on it coming out this year.  The Pikmin franchise is one of my all time favorites and I cannot wait to see how Miyamoto brings the little guys to the Wii.

Metroid Prime 1 & 2 Wii Release:  We haven’t heard anything from Retro Studios since the release of Prime 3 (other than the fact that some of their top talent left the company) and the rumblings are that they have been working on a Wii version of the first two Prime games using the same great controller setup from Prime 3.  Expect Nintendo to tout this game, which I believe will be packaged together as a single product, as their way of catering to the “core” gamer.

Wii Music:  Despite it being low on most of our radars, this will most likely take center stage, along with Animal Crossing, at Nintendo’s press conference.  Consider it this E3’s Wii Fit.  You can bet that Nintendo is going to make this their new casual focus.

The Legend of Zelda:  The last installment, Twilight Princess, was released in Fall 2006.  It is almost two years later and Nintendo needs to show the hardcore crowd that they still care about them.  I believe that Nintendo will close out their press conference this year with a short teaser for the next Legend of Zelda.  It will in no way come out this year, but it will be their big holiday 2009 release.  Expect the trailer to be light on the gameplay and different from what we saw with Twilight Princess.  Here’s hoping we see a re imagining of the series.

WISH LIST:

These items are not based on any current rumors or fact, but are simply the things that I would be most excited to see announced at E3.

New Super Mario Bros. WiiWare:  The sequel to the hit DS game should really come to WiiWare.  What a perfect way to show support for Nintendo’s new download service and the thing would become the biggest downloadable game of all time, without a doubt.

A New 2D Castlevania WiiWare:  There isn’t much left to say.  Just don’t ever give us a fighting Castlevania game again Konami.

Super Mario RPG and Zelda Majora’s Mask VC releases:  These should both be mentioned during the press conference and then be immediately available for download on the VC.  Come on Nintendo, I thought you guys wanted to make money!!!

Retro Studios Developing the next Zelda Game:  Isn’t it time Nintendo gave someone else a shot at the series?  And who better than the team who brought the Metroid series to its pinnacle: Retro Studios.  This is, by far, my most unlikely wish, but a guy can dream right?

 Again, these are just my opinions, and I am sure that you all have many more.  Feel free to post your ideas in the comments and tell me just how crazy I am :).  Also for all the other writers on wiinintendo, what are your E3 predictions?

Since this is a “Wish List”, I would have to add “The Legend of Zelda - Wii” to that list.

Here are the 7 in the video:

7. Deadly Creatures
6. Final Fantasy - The Crystal Bearers
5. Ravin Rabbids
4. Samba De Amigo
3. Star Wars - The Clone Wars
2. Mad World
1. Star Wars - Force Unleashed

The Wiire #109 - Download
* Nintendo: Only “geeks and otaku” need more Wii storage
* Jaffe attacks Nintendo for insulting loyal fanbase
* Nintendo ‘Working On’ An Answer To Storage Problem
* Wii Fit Balance Board ‘Hacked’ For PC Games
* 2K looks to pioneer hockey on the Wii
* The Conduit
* Wii Menu update 3.3
* Beer Pong for WiiWare rated “T” - not high enough for some
* Star Wars: The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Announced
* Listener Question

Radio Free Nintendo #104 - Download
Feedback on last week’s episode continues to pour in. Some of you loved it, and some of you were disturbed, but there’s no question that this week returns RFN to its roots.

We then launch into a long, meandering New Business in which we discuss games we’re playing, games we would like to play, games that we think are stupid, games we have never played but feel like criticizing anyway, and games that aren’t even out yet. It’s classic RFN fun, with great participation and chemistry from the four regulars.

Infendo Radio #109 - Download
Nintendo’s E3 games, the future of the DS, and we even go to the movies and discuss Wall-E!

IGN lets you know why BlastWorks is the Wii game of the month:

BlastWorks - Build, Trade, Destroy

Why We Picked It: It wasn’t that difficult this month. A look back at the big games in June reveals very quickly that there weren’t many big games to speak of. However, a little shooter with a heart of gold was more than capable of taking home the prize. Of course, we’re referring to BlastWorks, a seemingly simple 3D shooter with a wide assortment of customization options. Not only are you able to create and edit the look of your craft, but you can also design entire levels. And trade them with friends over a specially developed online system. Did we mention the core shooting mechanics are fun?

“One of the few games made for Wii that is a complete and must buy!”

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Runner Up: Rock Band

Why We Picked It: It may not have online or downloadable content, but Rock Band is a staple of music gaming, and it finally made its way to Wii this month. With a sleek new white drum set and wireless guitars, the hardware that accompanies Rock Band Wii is the best out of any of the consoles. With support on the way from EA in the form of track packs (the first releasing in just a month), players can still up their set lists long after the game’s initial release. Currently Guitar Hero is standing strong atop the Wii third party sales, so only time will tell if Nintendo’s console is ready to support two expensive, like music games.

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What do you guys think, what was your favorite Wii game of June?

After almost a year and half year since the Wii launched, Electronic Arts has yet to produce a hockey game for the Wii, even though they have made numerous games for other sports.  What makes matters worse is that EA’s rival, 2K Sports, just announced recently that they will have an NHL game for the Wii ready by this October. I don’t understand why Electronic Arts would not want to make this game. I think the Wii remote has the most potential in a hockey game than any other sport. You could be able to dangle around defenseman and score goals just like the pros do.  With 1:1 control it could be the most realistic sports game on the market.

Since EA will not have an NHL title ready for gamers, they could possibly lose customers and the money that comes with them.Last year the Playstation 3 NHL 08 sold just over 110,00 copies while NHL 2K8 sold a little under 39,000 copies and for XBox 360 NHL 08 was purchased 222,000 times yet NHL 2K8 only sold 100,000 times (information from vgchartz ).  Assuming this trend would follow up on the Wii, that is a lot of business lost for Electronic Arts.  If NHL 2k9 ends up turing out to be a great game, EA may never get those customers back.

What doesn’t make sense is that EA’s main developing office for most of their Wii games is in Vancouver. A city in Canada. The Canada that invented the sport.  EA has pretty much every other major sport on the Wii, except for hockey. What amazes me too is that EA will be constructing a new Boogie game. Even though it had decent sales, it received very bad ratings from critics, evengetting a 4.5/10 from IGN.  It seems like the company isn’t interested in a new challenge that could yield a great reward.

It is unclear if an NHL game from EA will be coming next year. When asked about debuting new sports franchises to the Wii, David Tinson (EA Public Relations) had this to say:

“The one thing you’ve heard Peter Moore talk about is our interest in the fitness space. That’s one thing we can’t make specific announcements about now, but we can definitely confirm that we’re interested in the fitness space and feel we have a place to be in the fitness space. So absolutely, there are a couple of things that will debut and be specific to the Wii in the very near future.”

A checked EA’s website and there is nothing that indicates a hockey game coming to the Wii this October.  So EA’s hockey fans will have to wait another year, that is if they aren’t playing 2K Sports version of an NHL game.

Thoughts?

With the announcement of Mega Man 9 for WiiWare I thought that it would be interesting to get a feel for everyone’s opinions on the current state of Nintendo’s download service.  There are currently sixteen titles available for download in the United States and there are definitely some standout titles available; but there are also a few rotten eggs.  There is also the elephant in the room that is the Wii’s limited storage.  So, in an effort to get a dialogue going I thought that I would host a little friendly competition.  Feel free to post your thoughts on the current, and future, state of WiiWare in the comments section for this post and I will choose one commenter to receive the WiiWare game of their choice. 

RULES:

To be eligible for consideration your comment should be constructive, not overly long (keep ‘em under 300 words or so), and should present a solid argument.  All eligible comments must be submitted before 12:00 am on Sunday the 29th and I will announce the winner sometime Sunday evening.  At the top of each comment that represents an entry please write your name, time, and date submitted so I know which comments are actual entries.  And above all, let’s keep the conversation polite!  I hope that this contest gets you all thinking, and maybe some of the things that you share will get noticed by the big dogs at Nintendo.  Enjoy and good luck!

UPDATE:

Thanks to everyone who entered the contest.  There were some great submissions and I think it is always a good idea to get some discussion going on.  I have chosen the winner and I really liked this comment for several reasons, the most important one being that it got me excited about the future of WiiWare.  I have been hoping that Nintendo and third parties would realize the potential of WiiWare as a platform to re-release old classics either remade or as completely new entries.  The announcement of Mega Man 9 is, hopefully, a launching off point for these kinds of titles.  I realize that lots of you will probably disagree with my choice, but I am planning some more contests like this in the future.  Thanks again for your entries and I have posted the winning comment below.  So, Mike/Anza, I will send you an email sometime tonight and get you hooked up with your WiiWare game.

User Anza

Mike 12:10AM June 28, 2008

While Wii Ware is opening new possibilities for smaller developers on the Wii the release of Mega Man 9 for it is by far the most interesting aspect I’ve seen yet, Mega Man hasn’t had a sequel to its original series in decades and now suddenly it’s getting a revival on of all things, a downloadable game. What this means is that while new titles from smaller developers are sure to come out it’s also a chance for larger developers including Nintendo themselves to revive older long lost but never forgotten series and breath in new life with classic graphics and gameplay.

I can’t be the only one who wants to see a real sequel to Super Mario RPG can I? Even if the game was using the exact same engine with a new story I’d be amazingly happy! Lets got get some old good ones like Sonic (who’d not love to see a new 2D sonic game based off the S&K engine?), Shining Force, Metroid, Kirby, even games like Fire Emblem could be redesigned to run Genesis/SNES graphics but with new levels, stories, gameplay options and much more!

Simply put Wii Ware offers everyone to not only relive classic gaming experiences, but also to give newcomers a chance to see what kind of games we were playing and enjoying when we were their age! Let them see why Sonic was better back in his old days, let them understand why Metroid was so amazing to begin with, give us all a chance to play Kirby after ignoring him for so long, let Fire Emblem classics finally come stateside or be designed with the a US release in mind! The possibilities of Wii Ware are endless and so should our hopes be as well my friends!