Samus Vs. Master Chief

With the holiday season close at hand, retailers are counting on receiving some blockbuster video games to prove the recession wrong. And two heavyweights kicking the last sales quarter off are Metroid: Other M and Halo: Reach. Yes, everything's cooler with a colon.

Self proclaimed hardcore gamers the world over scream into the night wanting more "hardcore" Wii titles and Metroid: Other M should be just that. Developed by Project M (a collaboration between Team Ninja of Ninja Gaiden fame and Nintendo SPD Production Group 1) Other M combines the sidescrolling action/adventure of Metroid's 2D glory days with the exploration and general wonderment of the 3D prime series. Metroid: Other M releases August 31st.

A mere two weeks later (September 14th) Microsoft's ace in the hole Halo: Reach hits retail shelves. A prequel to FPS sensation and money printing phenom Halo: Combat Evolved, Reach introduces new abilities like the use of jet packs and holograms to take down opponents. Reach also introduces a new protagonist, a Spartan who responds to the call sign Noble 6, to fill in for the events prior to Master Chief's role in the space opera. Expect plenty of Bungie polish both on and offline and you're set to go for what could be one of the best selling games this holiday season.

The question is oh frugalistas, which camp do you back? Within the coming weeks will you be pinching pennies for Samus or Noble 6? Bounty Hunters or Spartans? Sign off in the comments below!

Shutter Island game for DS outed by ESRB

If not an official press release, then leave it up to the ESRB to out an unannounced game to the masses. The ratings board has details posted about an upcoming Shutter Island game being developed for the Nintendo DS.

The game is said to be a puzzle game, taking place at the eerie Ashecliffe Hospital featured in the hit film. As a U.S. marshal, your job is to solve the many mysteries of murder that plague the hospital.

While it's not an Inception game, at least one of Leonardo DiCaprio's puzzling flicks will get the game treatment.

ESRB

DDR makes first appearance on PS3 this fall

Dance Dance Revolution! The sweat-inducing cardio phenomenon has swept the nation for over a decade. But surprisingly despite the many, many, many iterations, the game never released on the PlayStation 3 console. Until now!

This fall, Konami is bringing DDR to PS3 with the release of DanceDanceRevolution; I guess this game is the ultimate edition given the lack of subtitle. Featuring over 30 tracks of Konami original tunes, plus a collection of licensed tracks, DanceDanceRevolution will feature the same arrow pressing gameplay, now with support for both the PlayStation Eye and new PS Move peripherals. You can also upload your performances onto YouTube and Facebook.

Look for DDR to release on the PS3 this fall.
Konami

A Mega, Mega Man Wallpaper

Looking for something to replace that Buffy wallpaper you've been clinging to for the past decade? Look no further than this massive collage of everyone Mega Man has murdered over the years brought to you by artist Kinniku.

Click here for resolution options.

Scott Pilgrim Bob-ombs at Box Office

The weekend box office numbers are in and they're not pretty. For gamers at least. Scott Pilgrim, the video game/comic book/nerdgasm hybrid, finished in 5th place behind 'The Expendables,' 'Eat, Pray, Love,' 'The Other Guys,' and 'Inception' pulling in a meager $10.5 million, with a rumored production cost of $60 million. :(

Should we as gamers be shocked though? The Scott Pilgrim comic franchise is basically an underground Canadian phenomenon that's permeated it's way into the hearts of American comic book readers (this writer included). But it's far from the mass appeal of Spider-Man.

Michael Cera once again portrays an awkward adolescent struggling with relationship issues, albeit in a universe where fights are visual effects smorgasbords and enemies explode into coins. Don't get me wrong, the film oozes charm and is a must see for anyone who hearts video games and comic books. Anyone outside of said demographic will look on in utter confusion spouting phrases like, "Is that the internet?"

Don't f*ck with Julia Roberts.

Sadly, mainstream audiences don't fit the bill and although Pilgrim may win vs. the world, he got totally KO'd at the box office.

Deadline

Weekly Wii and DS Download Offerings: August 16th, 2010

Once again, no Virtual Console titles this week :sigh: but there are a slew of WiiWare and DSiWare titles for you to check out! Read below for Nintendo's official press release.


WiiWare

Space Trek
Publisher: CALARIS
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Fantasy Violence
Price: 700 Wii Points™
Description: As Captain Jay, you take control of a space jet deployed on an alien world. The planet you're on is inhabited by the Knagar, a race of big, green, self-important bullies. You must fight your way through, outsmart them and save the survivors. Fortunately, Jay can always throw a nice punch line when things get ugly. Fight floating drones, destroy Knagar ships, attack turrets and deal with gigantic worms before they swallow your ship or electrocute you. Access your handy map to avoid getting lost on one of six big levels. Pick up keycards, deactivate force fields, save survivors and collect power-ups. Rearm your ship to use one of six weapons, including the Quark Dispeller, Anti-Matter Thrower and Mega Rockets. Recharge your ship's battery by flying over heat-bursting volcanoes. Then use the surplus to power your weapons or energy shield. Enjoy humorous dialogue that accompanies players throughout the game.

A Monsteca Corral: Monsters vs. Robots
Publisher: Onteca
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: The planet Monsteca is no longer the harmonious world it once was. It's been overrun by a robotic army that's determined to rule and conquer. Monsteca natives known as the Stompies have no choice but to run. Unable to defend themselves against such heavy machinery, the Stompies must rely on the strength of their herd to work together and defeat the meddling robots. Take control of the Stompies, cute and not-so-bright monsters who need help to avoid being captured by invading robots. It's your duty to guide them successfully through each level. This fun, full-3D strategy game has a strong sense of flow, offering 20 levels to conquer and many hours of game play.

Nintendo DSiWare

Divergent Shift
Publisher: Konami Digital Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Violent References
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Divergent Shift is a puzzle platformer. You'll run, jump and flip over obstacles, but you also may have to put on your thinking cap to figure out how to complete some of the levels. There are two primary mechanics in the game: the Reflection Mechanic and Shadow Mechanic. In both, you control two characters - one on each screen - at the same time. If you jump, both characters will jump; if you run, both characters will run. The only way to beat the game is to use the two screens together.

3D Mahjong
Publisher: cosmigo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Relax your mind with the ancient game of tiles. 3D Mahjong features 50 layouts of the traditional tile-matching game in 3D, each with millions of different shuffles to play. The game's style and interface has been designed for easy and intuitive operation with the stylus or control pad. The graphics can be customized with six fabulous tile sets and backgrounds. Sit back, relax and enjoy the endless challenge with this Mahjong game collection. Additional brain-sharpening challenges come in the form of extra mini-games: "Memory" and "Matching."

myNotebook: Carbon
Publisher: Nnooo
Players: 1
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: myNotebook allows you to take notes wherever you are. Just pop open your Nintendo DSi™ system and jot down your thoughts. Make a list and cross it off, or even play your favorite pen-and-paper games (games not included). You can even personalize your notebook by drawing on the cover and changing the paper type with 24 unlockable squared and lined paper styles. Use the pen or pencil to make notes or doodles, and then erase the bits you don't like. With five ink colors, you'll always be able to make your notes and doodles look stylish. myNotebook also includes 128 pages to write on and the ability to export your pages to your Nintendo DSi Photo Album.

Just SING! National Anthems
Publisher: Engine Software
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: It is the greatest sporting event of 2010: the World Cup! All eyes are on South Africa, and all ears are on you in the karaoke game of the year. Enter the hallowed turf and display your talent by singing a selection of national anthems. There are five national anthems to choose from: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Japan and the United States. It's karaoke fun at its best. All text is displayed, and the game features optimum voice recognition. Just sing into the built-in microphone of your Nintendo DSi system. Don your jersey and step out onto the pitch - to sing!

Star Wars Blu-Ray Coming 2011

The force was strong with Star Wars fans at this weekend's Celebration V convention in Orlando. Though not entirely unexpected, George Lucas announced that the entire Star Wars saga will be released on Blu-ray in 2011. That's all six movies on six discs loaded with extras including new documentaries, deleted scenes, and interviews from the Lucas archives.

Blu-ray won the HD battle over HD-DVD fairly early on, so why the hold up? The bloated beard stated that, "We've been wanting to do it as soon as we possibly could, but we just wanted to do it when enough people would be able to buy it and see it." Lucas' decision to hold off until Blu-ray had thoroughly saturated the market may be a financially sound gameplan, but let's face it. Nerds want it now.

In a street interview, one nerd (who wished to remain anonymous) commented on the announcement saying, "I really liked Star Wars when I was a kid, but as I got older I just sort of realized how bad they really are. Ewoks, Jar-Jar, Hayden Christensen, seriously? Come on."

Regardless of what Kyle Farnell (the anonymous nerd) thinks, look for the entire Star Wars saga on Blu-ray next year. And just for kicks, here's the deleted scene of Luke assembling his lightsaber before entering Jabba's palace.



Seriously, why was this deleted?

Blu-ray.com

OLG Rebooted

 Back up and running! Updates coming soon.

Nerf Armor for DSi review

Check out TheTanooki.com's review of the Nerf Armor case for the Nintendo DSi below.

TheTanooki

Today's Wii & DS Shop Downloads: 12.21.09

 
NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: 500TH DOWNLOADABLE WII GAME MAKES FOR A SMASHING HOLIDAY SEASON

Dec. 21, 2009
Deck the halls with downloadable fun this week as Nintendo offers 11 new games to engage and entertain everyone in the household. Among this week's highlights is the Virtual Console™ debut of the original Super Smash Bros.™ game, bringing the total of downloadable games for the WiiWare™ and Virtual Console services to a fabulous 500 and featuring a host of beloved characters from across the Nintendo universe. New WiiWare offerings include the Earth-conscious action game Eco Shooter: Plant 530™ and a sequel to the quiz-lovers' favorite TV Show King. For Nintendo DSiWare™ fans, fresh arrivals include hand-held versions of the card-table classicUNO™ and the pioneering arcade game Dragon's Lair®. For rollicking multiplayer fun, mellow single-player diversions and everything in-between, Nintendo's got you covered for the holidays and beyond.

Virtual Console

Super Smash Bros.
Original platform: Nintendo 64™
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Cartoon Violence
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: Choose from an all-star cast of Nintendo characters in a frantic melee to prove who will be the ultimate brawler. Utilize the easy-to-learn but hard-to-master controls and battle it out in the single-player mode, earning point bonuses and unlocking hidden characters along the way. Enter VS Mode to take on up to three other players simultaneously. Inflict damage using each character's unique set of special moves, familiar items and power-ups, eventually winning by knocking your opponents off the screen in one of the interactive stages, each with a Nintendo theme. Need a moment to catch your breath? Polish your skills in Training Mode or destroy targets in Bonus Stages specific to each character. Are you ready to test your mettle against all comers, including the powerful Master Hand?

NINJA GAIDEN™
Original platform: Arcade
Publisher: TECMO
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Alcohol Reference, Suggestive Themes, Violence
Price: 600 Wii Points
Description: Take control of a ninja, master of the Five Ninja Fighting Arts of assassination passed down since the chaotic times of feudal Japan, and enter "Jungle," a terrifying American city, to crush waves of foes who are part of an assassination syndicate. Use three buttons to execute exciting moves like the Flying Neck Throw, the Hang Kick and the Triple Blow Combination. Each stage is based around popular Western misconceptions about ninja and Japan, making the game world a fantastic mix of ninja and American pop culture. Game settings such as the starting number of player characters and the difficulty level can also be adjusted.

WiiWare

Eco Shooter: Plant 530
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Fantasy Violence
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: Earth's empty cans have been brought to life by the Cannoids, an alien race determined to destroy the planet. Only Mack, a technician from the recycling facility Plant 530, stands in their way as Earth's last line of defense. Step into Mack's shoes in this guided first-person shooter as he takes on the invading aliens with only his trusty recycle cannon and a can-do attitude. Blast and vacuum (yes, vacuum) your way to victory, keeping in mind that every shot counts. Your ammo also doubles as your health, and every enemy you destroy leaves behind Can Energy that you can vacuum up and use as ammo. Uncomplicated controls (including optional use of the Wii Zapper™ accessory) give everyone the chance to save the planet, while advanced tactics like consecutive hit combos and the tough Challenge mode give even the best players a run for their money. Are you ready to step up and put a dent in their cans?

TV Show King 2
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Drug Reference
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: TV Show King is back for a second round. There are 8,000 questions sorted into 12 categories on the program, including general knowledge, sports, movies, music and more. And that's without counting the questions that you can create yourself. Here's everything you need to compete with your friends, or with players all over the world thanks to Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection.

Pallurikio™
Publisher: Playstos Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: Jump and roll with Pallurikio, a fast-paced action platformer that's easy to pick up yet challenging to master. While playing a mysterious board game he found with his friends, Rusty is sucked into a dimensional vortex and finds himself in a mystical and wondrous world where he assumes the aspect of the round and bouncing Pallurikio. Using the Wii Remote™ controller, make Pallurikio jump and roll and help him find his way through more than 50 enticing levels while surviving all kinds of pitfalls and trickeries in Bakumbala Jungle, the far reaches of Palluro Prime and many other weird settings. Featuring physics simulation, Time Attack mode, collectible cards and space rockets to boot, Pallurikio is a game you won't want to miss.

Happy Holidays Christmas
Publisher: 505 Games
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Planning a Christmas party and want to grab guests' attention? Or want to send greeting cards without the hassle of licking stamps? Here's the solution: Create and send fun Christmas cards with this unique WiiWare application. Happy Holidays Christmas lets you make fun Christmas-themed e-cards and send them straight to friends' Wii™ consoles. Add a tree and decorations; choose frames, stickers and music; then write a message to friends you've registered in your Wii Address Book. It might not snow this Christmas, but with this fun new software your holiday is guaranteed to be a happy one.

Nintendo DSiWare

UNO
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Get ready to call out "UNO!" on your Nintendo DSi™ system. The world-famous card game has been faithfully reproduced for the Nintendo DSi system and features exciting new rules. With a multiplayer mode that can be accessed by local wireless play or with broadband Internet access and Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, playing UNO has never been so fun and easy, so be the first to get rid of all your cards.

Dragon's Lair
Publisher: Digital Leisure Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Animated Blood, Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: You play the heroic Dirk the Daring, a valiant knight on a quest to rescue the fair princess from the clutches of an evil dragon. Control the actions of the daring adventurer and find your way through the castle of a dark wizard who has enchanted it with treacherous monsters and obstacles. In the mysterious caverns below the castle, your odyssey continues against the awesome forces that oppose your journey to the dragon's lair. Dragon's Lair is a fully animated classic arcade game from legendary animator Don Bluth.

Hot and Cold: A 3D Hidden Object Adventure
Publisher: Majesco Entertainment
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: You're getting warm...warmer...hot! You've found Hot and Cold: A 3D Hidden Object Adventure, the new game that puts you on the job of finding people's missing stuff. A voice in your head tells you whether you're Hot or Cold when searching for things. Investigate cases all over town using your unique ability, and discover the secret behind the mysterious voice in your head. Throw objects out of your way, maneuver your way through a 3-D world, follow your Hot and Cold meter and more in this unparalleled hidden-object adventure.

High Stakes: Texas Hold'Em
Publisher: Hudson Entertainment
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Simulated Gambling
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Hudson proudly presents the definitive Texas Hold'Em game for Nintendo DSiWare with High Stakes Texas Hold'Em. High Stakes allows players of any level to enjoy Texas Hold'Em game play. The popular No-Limit rule set used in many tournaments is included, so anyone can play with the big boys. With the added functionality of DS Wireless Communications, players can compete with others and test their skills. It's the core Texas Hold'Em experience on your Nintendo DSi system - anytime, anywhere.

myNotebook: Green™
Publisher: Nnooo
Players: 1
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: myNotebook allows you to take notes wherever you are. Just pop open your Nintendo DSi system and jot down your thoughts. Make a list and cross it off, or even play your favorite pen-and-paper games (games not included). You can even personalize your notebook by drawing on the cover and changing the paper type with 18 unlockable squared and lined paper styles. Use the pen or pencil to make your notes or doodles, then erase the bits you don't like. With five ink colors, you'll always be able to make your notes and doodles look stylish.

Dec. 21, 2009
Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.

Today's Wii & DSi Shop Downloads: 11.23.09

WiiWare

BIT.TRIP VOID
Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points™
Description: The third installment in the retro-arcade BIT.TRIP saga is a synesthetic exploration of rhythm and music as they pertain to our everyday lives and moods. With a control scheme that's new to the series yet wholly familiar to gamers, players have complete freedom to move about the screen wherever they desire, interacting with the music in brand new ways. The classic game-play aesthetic remains as color - and the absence of color - are explored to the fullest. Trip out in four-player co-op and get lost in the beat with a friend. See if you can survive the onslaught of Beats and further your own BIT.TRIP.

Harvest Moon: My Little Shop
Publisher: Natsume, Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,200 Wii Points
Description: Welcome to Clover Town, where you've just taken over your grandparents' farm and shop. The town has fallen on hard times, though. People are leaving, businesses are struggling and the magic of the Harvest Sprites is gone. Can you turn Clover Town's fortunes around and restore its missing magic? Raise crops and animals, then use what you farm at your shop. Keep your customers happy by making wild fruit juices, towering ice cream cones and extravagantly decorated eggs in a series of fun and fast-paced activities that use the Wii Remote™ controller to its fullest potential. Chop vegetables in midair, shake your Wii Remote controller to match your cow's moves, roll eggs through tilting mazes and more. Use your hard-earned money to buy new crops and animals or expand and decorate your shop. Along the way, you'll meet and befriend lots of new and interesting characters, as well as several familiar faces from the Harvest Moon series.

Little Tournament Over Yonder
Publisher: Gevo Entertainment
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: In the world of Little Tournament Over Yonder, play as a young Prince or Princess and lead your team through numerous battles. Plan and deploy your units to gain strategic advantages. Launch real-time battles between units and fight hard, fast and smart. Build your team, hire new units with different powers, then groom them with battle experience to gain level. With strategic planning and real-time, fast-paced fighting, this game is for the complete warrior - one who works his mind and his muscles. Go for Single-Player Tournament glory or challenge your friend in a 2-Player Versus match.

Learning with the PooYoos: Episode 1
Publisher: Lexis Numérique
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: EC (Early Childhood)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Welcome to the world of the PooYoos, the first fun, poetic brain trainer for children aged 3 to 6. With the PooYoos, a merry band of adorable baby animals, children will have fun while learning the developmental basics: numbers, letters, lateralization, shapes, colors and more. Children get to dance with their new friends and enjoy lovely interactive rewards. There are two levels of interactivity, so children can play according to their age and level. This game has been designed for use by children who have not yet grasped reading.

Virtual Console

Super Mario Kart
Original platform: Super NES™
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Get in, sit down, buckle up and experience frantic kart racing in the game that started it all. Select one of eight characters from the Mario series - offering a variety of driving styles - and take on three championship cups in three different kart classes. Win enough and you'll unlock a fourth circuit: the ultra-tough Special Cup. Crossing the finish line in first place isn't an easy task, though, as each track has unique obstacles to conquer. Racers can obtain special power-ups that boost them to victory. For a different kind of challenge, take on a friend in multiplayer races or go head-to-head in a Battle Mode arena, where the object is to pop your opponent's balloons before you lose your own. With more than 15 tracks to master and nearly endless replay value, Super Mario Kart is classic gaming with some banana peels thrown in for good measure.

A Boy and His Blob: Trouble on Blobolonia
Original platform: NES™
Publisher: Majesco Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Blob has come from the distant planet Blobolonia in search of an Earth boy to help him save his world. Join him on this fantastic adventure, searching for treasures in mysterious caverns beneath the earth, then traveling to Blobolonia to battle the evil emperor. Discover Blob's amazing appetite for jellybeans and the different transformations that occur with each flavor. Use these shapes to overcome even the most outrageous obstacles. A Boy and His Blob is a fantastic journey filled with constant surprises and humorous characters.

Nintendo DSiWare

Castle Of Magic
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Be prepared for anything as you try to save your friend from the clutches of the horrifying magician Nefastax. Stand up to wild monsters in environments that directly influence your movement. As you navigate this universe, the ground will make you stick, slide, sink, swim, levitate and even walk on the ceiling when gravity disappears. A never-before-seen use for the Nintendo DSi Camera application lets you transform yourself into powerful new forms. Visit an in-game Photo Cabin and search for a real-life object that matches the color of the character you want to transform into. Take a picture of a blue object with your Nintendo DSi system and…presto, you're transformed into a swordfish. You can customize game items - from coins to enemies - with pictures of your choice. Our cute hero's adventure is just too big and immersive for one screen, so he'll have to jump between the top and bottom screens of your Nintendo DSi system. Ready to dive into the adventure?

myNotebook: Blue™
Publisher: Nnooo
Players: 1
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: myNotebook allows you to take notes wherever you are. Just pop open your Nintendo DSi system and jot down your thoughts. Make a list and cross it off or play your favorite pen and paper games (games not included). You can even personalize your notebook by drawing on the cover and changing the paper type with 18 unlockable paper styles. Use the pen or pencil to make notes or doodles, then erase the bits you don't like. With five ink colors, you'll always be able to make your notes and doodles look stylish.

Electroplankton Luminarrow
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Luminarrow plankton are famous for their habit of perfectly following arrow-shaped formations. The plankton spin as they move, changing directions as soon as they come in contact with an arrow that's pointing in another direction. The pitch of the sound they make will change depending on where the arrows are positioned. There are four types of Luminarrow: red, yellow, green and blue. Each type floats at a different speed and makes a distinctive musical tone. The four types of Luminarrow drift together to create beautiful melodies. Completely alter the direction of the arrows to change their sound dramatically.

Electroplankton Sun-Animalcule
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Sun-Animalcule plankton get their name from their tendency to emit light in a sphere around them. The plankton begin as eggs and gradually grow, emitting light and fascinating sounds throughout their entire life cycle. The sounds they make will change as they grow from infancy to maturity, growing very quickly until they disappear completely. Sun-Animalcule plankton only emerge in the morning, noon and evening. They lose strength as the night wears on; that's when the crescent-shaped Falcato plankton take their place. The pitch of the plankton changes depending on where they grow.

Electroplankton Lumiloop
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Lumiloop plankton are curious, donut-shaped aquatic creatures. While stationary, they have the ability to spin at a very high rate of speed. As they spin, the Lumiloop emit unique sounds and a fascinating ring-shaped glow. Lumiloop plankton seem to always grow in clusters of five. They produce sounds at different pitches as they spin together, creating a beautiful harmony. This is called a pentatonic scale. Depending on where they live, Lumiloop plankton that produce several different sounds have been identified.

Electroplankton Marine-Crystals
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Resembling delicate snow crystals, Marine-Crystal plankton float elegantly on the surface of the water. The plankton get their name from their distinctive snowflake shape. They grow in clusters of 35 and line up in very orderly formations. When stimulated, Marine-Crystal plankton spin and produce vibrant sounds. While the plankton do grow in size if they are repeatedly tapped, they gradually return to their original size over time. They are born in four polygonal shapes: triangle, square, pentagon and hexagon. The ends of the crystalline protrusions also take on the same shapes. The tone of the sound they make will change depending on the shape of the Marine-Crystal plankton's body.

Electroplankton Varvoice
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Varvoice plankton memorize the sound of human speech and repeat it over and over. They accomplish this amazing feat by oscillating the long flagellum that extends from their heads. By resonating the vibration with their water-droplet-shaped body, the plankton produce sounds that closely resemble the human voice. The body can expand and contract at will. By changing shape, they can easily manipulate the sound of the voice. Words that the Varvoice memorize and play back in reverse have a particularly strange ring to them. Researchers refer to this phenomenon as Varvoice inversion.

New Super Mario Super Guide Spoilers!

Want to see the Super Guide in action? This video shows you exactly what happens when you die those 8 times.

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks launch trailer

Check out the launch trailer for the DS adventure title, set to hit stores December 7th.

DSi LL officially announced

Nintendo of Japan has announced the new DSi handheld, set to launch in November.  The DSi LL will feature 4.2" screens instead the current 3.25" screens on the DSi.  The DSi LL will come preloaded with Brain Training software titles, and will feature a larger stylus pen.  The battery life is going to last 1 to 3 hours longer than the DSi.

The DSi LL will release November 21st in Japan, and in Europe early 2010.
TheTanooki

District 9 Blu-Ray Disc to feature God of War III Demo

On December 29th, the popular sci-fi flick District 9 will finally be released on Blu-Ray. This release, however, will be unique because it is the first of it's kind. Sony has announced that the release will be the first movie/game demo Blu-Ray hybrid. Sony's choice to be the demo: God of War III.

Here is the official Press Release:

On December 29, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) will introduce the first movie/game demo hybrid Blu-ray in the US with the release of the critically-acclaimed sci-fi thriller District 9. The Blu-ray will feature a playable game demo of the PlayStation 3 system (PS3) exclusive, God of War III – one of the most anticipated video games of 2010. After successfully completing the game demo, the consumer will be able to unlock an exclusive making-of featurette about the game. With more than 8.7 million units sold, the God of War franchise has set the bar for the action-adventure genre with numerous Editor's Choice and Game of the Year awards given by some of the video game industry's key media outlets, such as Game Informer, IGN, and GamePro, to name a few.

"The combination of District 9 and the game demo of God of War III is an unprecedented home entertainment offering," said Lexine Wong, Senior Executive Vice President, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. "We are thrilled to give consumers not only an incredible high definition presentation of District 9 and the wealth of bonus material about the movie, but also a taste of what is destined to be the biggest video game of 2010. This pairing of the movie and game demo is just another example of what is possible with the Blu-ray format."

"Blu-ray functionality has long been a differentiator that separates the PS3 from other home entertainment systems," said Peter Dille, Senior Vice President, Marketing and PlayStation Network, SCEA. "Through this collaboration with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment we're able to create a unique experience only available on the PS3 system that blends two of the most popular entertainment options available, watching District 9 and playing God of War III off the same disc."

Additional bonus materials exclusively available on the Blu-ray edition of District 9 include a Digital Copy of the film for PC, the PSP system (PlayStation Portable), Mac or iPod; the Interactive Map feature "Joburg from Above: Satellite and Schematics of the World of District 9," which provides a highly detailed environmental exploration of the world through a series of interactive satellite maps, technology schematics and photo-real files that take the viewer deeper into the world of the film; and movieIQ, which allows viewers to immediately access continuously updated information on the cast & crew and explore relevant trivia such as production facts, music and soundtrack information all tied to scenes within the movie.

District 9 will be available on Blu-ray for $39.95 SRP.

Gaming Age

Netflix Coming To The PS3

Netflix has announced that it is bringing its service to the PS3. The streaming service will begin mid November at no additional charge to US customers. Netflix, which allows for the streaming of TV shows and movies via media devices, is looking to expand upon its already 11 million subscribers.

The initial launch of PS3's Netflix service will come in the form of a free blu-ray disc which will enable the streaming of the service. Activation of the service must be done via Wi-Fi or Ethernet on the PS3. More news as it develops.

Dark Horizons

Excitebike: World Rally heading to WiiWare

Not only is Excitebike coming back to Nintendo, but the game is launching in just a few weeks!  Check out the debut trailer above!

Today's Wii & DSi Shop Downloads: 10.26.09

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: NINTENDO OFFERS DOWNLOADABLE HALLOWEEN FUN FROM AXE TO ZOMBIES

Oct. 26, 2009
Boo! As the year's spookiest holiday draws near, this week's additions to the Wii™ Shop Channel and Nintendo DSi™ Shop are ready to put some extra chills and thrills into your Halloween week. The WiiWare™ service invites you to explore a ghostly mansion or face menacing foes in a new Tales of Monkey Island adventure. On the Virtual Console™, battle zombies and other supernatural creatures in a Super NES™ classic, or ward off evil forces in the legendary arcade game Golden Axe™. For Nintendo DSiWare™ users, a portable PictureBook Games™ title delivers nifty tricks, while sudoku solvers are in for a real treat. And speaking of treats, Wii owners who have their Wii consoles connected to the Internet should check out the Nintendo Week show on Nintendo Channel for an exclusive WiiWare announcement of a fresh take on an 8-bit classic.

WiiWare

Ghost Mansion Party
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: Fazzy the ghost has been locked out of his mansion by some evil spooks, and he's willing to give his treasure to anyone who can chase them out. Work cooperatively and competitively with friends and family to defeat the ghosts and discover a huge hidden treasure. Travel around this wild mansion in board-game fashion, landing on mini-games that everyone can enjoy. You'll even engage in challenges on the board itself as you try to collect magic scrolls and hints to reveal the secret word that will open the doors to the treasure. Get your Wii Remote™ controllers ready - you're about to play with them in ways you've never imagined.

Tales of Monkey Island: Chapter 3
Publisher: Telltale Games
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Comic Mischief, Language, Mild Suggestive Themes
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: In the third Tales of Monkey Island chapter, Guybrush gets in deep - literally - as his quest for the voodoo exfoliating La Esponja Grande takes a scenic detour through the guts of a giant manatee. Our hero encounters a surprising band of castaways, including the long-lost explorer Coronado De Cava. Can the Mighty Pirate win the suspicious De Cava's trust? Will sexy pirate hunter Morgan LeFlay prove to be a ruthless enemy or an unlikely ally? Will the group find La Esponja Grande in time to save Elaine from the rampant Pox of LeChuck? And will the world be crushed by the gnashing teeth of a certain demonic skull? Tales of Monkey Island's moist and absorbing third episode, "Lair of the Leviathan," will answer some of these urgent questions and raise even more as the five-month adventure builds to its epic climax.

Virtual Console

Zombies Ate My Neighbors™
Publisher: LucasArts
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Cartoon Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: You will play the game as one of two brave kids: Zeke or Julie. Both kids use the same control scheme and have the same characteristics. If you're playing in two-player mode, each player must pick a kid. You can't have two Zekes or two Julies. Each player starts with three lives. When your life bar runs out, you lose a life. There are hidden 1-Up bonuses in the game. You may also earn bonus lives if you have 10 victims left when you finish a level. Get ready to conquer 48 levels of giant ants, mad scientists and big babies. Find seven bonus levels (look for the question marks), earn points and stockpile your water pistols and other weapons.

Golden Axe
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Blood, Fantasy Violence
Price: 900 Wii Points
Description: In this original arcade game that launched the popular Golden Axe series, the evil Death Adder has invaded your land and taken the king and princess prisoner. Three mighty warriors step forward to bring the villain to justice: powerful fighter Ax Battler, Amazon warrior Tyris Flare and mighty dwarf Gilius Thunderhead. They will use their weapons and magic to fight their way through Death Adder's hordes. Along the way, they'll mount fearsome, fire-spitting beasts to help even the odds. Team up with a friend and enjoy two-player simultaneous game play for a better chance of survival.

Nintendo DSiWare

PictureBook Games: The Royal Bluff
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Aristocratic opponents square off in PictureBook Games: The Royal Bluff, a game of strategy and deceit. Compete for points by adding or subtracting colored chips from rows on the game board and trying to guess each of your opponent's secretly assigned chip colors. Once you're confident in your deduction, issue a Call Out attempt to earn bonus points - at the risk of giving your opponent an extra point if you're wrong. Three modes of play (Tournament, Free Play, DS Wireless Play) offer a variety of options, from facing off against an assortment of computer opponents to competing in a wireless match with up to four players. Throw Trick Cards into the mix and you've got a winning combination of tactics and trickery that's sure to score points.

SUDOKU
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: SUDOKU offers hundreds of number-crunching puzzles that will stretch your brain power to the limit. Take it even further by playing in the exclusive Newspaper Mode. Add a daily puzzle from your favorite paper and build your very own collection. From Easy to Insane, a total of five different levels are available for novices and masters alike. Enjoy a host of grid designs that will keep you coming back for more. This worldwide phenomenon delivers an exhilarating game of logic that's not only challenging, but also surprisingly relaxing. It's everything you want for a quick puzzle getaway. Make life easier by taking advantage of smart features like automatic annotation for effortless calculation of your achievements. Stumped? Get help with error-checking tools and friendly cell hints. Track your stats and test your reaction time with the in-game timer. This addictive brain game has been polished to perfection and renders a sleek design that's easy on the eyes.
Nintendo

Super Mario Wedding Proposal

Brace yeselves hopeless romantics.

Geeky boyfriend Brad Smith was ready to pop the question to his girlfriend, but wanted to do it in an especially nerdy fashion. Click the video above to watch as his lady plays through a customized Super Mario World level that pops the question via coins!

Bravo Mr. Smith, bravo.

Japan's Blue and Pink Wii Remotes

Here's a glimpse at Japan's blue and pink Wii remotes as shown above.  What do ya think?

Although we aren't getting these bad boys just yet, November 16th, North America will finally get a Black Wii Remote.