Wii U News
February2016
News Exclusive Content and Modes Outlined for Pokkén Tournament, No DLC Currently Planned
Plus three new support characters
Pokkén Tournament is now surprisingly close with around a month to go to its 18th March arrival on Wii U. The move from arcades to the home console has been long anticipated, along with the hope that it'll deliver a full-on fighting game experience for Pokémon fans. Though some basic modes and details were...
Video Take a Look at More Twilight Princess HD Gameplay And Features
A better tastebud tickler than Lon Lon Milk
In addition to the earlier official trailer uploaded to YouTube last week, Nintendo has revealed another video showcasing more The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD goodness - and this time with voiceover! There's nothing new to scream about here, for the video regurgitates information that we already...
News Splatoon Producer on Pre-Release Concerns and the Future of the Franchise
"I'd like to build on online gameplay even more."
Splatoon was, in many ways, a new step for Nintendo. The company has historically been a bit behind the times when it comes to online services, so it appeared to be quite a risk to not only release a game that was almost entirely focused on online multiplayer, but to do so with a brand new IP...
Oh man, I'm gonna have to back off
The rumour mill continues to produce fresh, and in this case bitter nuggets of potential news. If you've been kept behind by other commitments, you've nothing to fear any longer, Nintendo Life Weekly has all the biggest news from the past week, just like every week. This week we're looking at the damning rumours...
News New North American Nintendo Selects Range Emerges in Retailer Listings
Includes Wii U, 3DS and even Wii titles
The European range of Nintendo Selects titles - which is available at handsome price points - has continued to grow, leaving some in North America frustrated at the lack of progress in their region. Thankfully that seems to be heading for an improvement, with Canadian retailer VGP Video Games Plus apparently...
News Square Enix Store for the Americas Offers Plenty of Discounts in Anniversary Celebrations
Deus Ex! Final Fantasy! Kingdom Hearts! More!
Apparently the official Square Enix store for the Americas is one year old, and as a result there are a whole load of discounts being offered. We previously shared the store's Black Friday discounts last year, and though this promotion is smaller it still offers a chance to pick up some excellent...
Interview Oddworld Creator Lorne Lanning Discusses New 'n' Tasty on Wii U
"Would you consider an Abe amiibo?" "Why not!"
Oddworld is a series that has all but been neglected on Nintendo systems save for a handful of ports handled by third parties, but now Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty, a complete remake of the original Abe's Oddysee, has made its way onto Wii U. We were lucky enough to chat directly in a frank and friendly...
News Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam Secures Top 10 Place in Single Format NPD Chart
An otherwise quiet month for Nintendo
January isn't exactly the hottest month of the year for game sales, with many bemoaning the impact of Holiday excess on their bank balances. As a result there weren't many big-name releases, though Nintendo of America did have some success with its major release of the month. Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam hit...
Video Climbing Vines Has Never Been so Tough Thanks to This Super Mario Maker Level
It's another Pit of Panga creation
Many of us may consider ourselves to be decent at 2D Mario platformers, but some of the more ludicrous creations on Super Mario Maker often cut us down to size. It's generally the case that they utilise mechanics and techniques not normally seen in the main series games, making attempts to beat these...
News Here's How Much Of Your Wii U's Internal Memory Pokkén Tournament Will Gobble Up
Details on control options revealed, too
Pokkén Tournament - a glorious mash-up of Pokémon and Tekken - is due for worldwide release on the Wii U on March 18th, and Nintendo has updated the game page on the eShop with more details on control options, online features and file size. While the game is being rele
News The Original Pokémon Starters Have Been Added as Costumes in Super Mario Maker
I choose you!
The endless line of Super Mario Maker costumes continues to move at full speed, and naturally these next costumes fall in line with another popular Nintendo franchise. It's Pokémon's 20th anniversary and so Nintendo has opted to celebrate this in part by adding Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Charmander costumes into Super Mario Maker...
News Pokémon Splatfest Hitting Splatoon in February
A decision harder than choosing your starter
In continuing the celebration of Pokémon's 20th anniversary, the festivities have spread to another popular Nintendo franchise, Splatoon. A Pokémon themed Splatfest will take taking place the weekend of 20th February through 21st February in all regions pitting players against each other based on their...
Soapbox Bayonetta Deserves to be in Super Smash Bros.
"Good to know some of you are keeping your part of the contract"
Bayonetta's inclusion in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U & Nintendo 3DS has garnered a mix of views from fans of the series and those that just have a strong opinion over the matter. Certain opinions have been less than favourable, stating that Bayonetta doesn't belong in the game for...
It uses the GamePad and everything
We're rather enjoying The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD, as we made clear in our recent preview, and Nintendo is particularly keen to promote the merits of the early March release. Along with Pokkén Tournament and Star Fox Zero
Nintendo Download 11th February (North America)
Oddworld! Cutie games! VC goodness! Discounts galore! More!
It's that time again, North American gamers, for the Nintendo Download Update. It's a busy line-up this week with a long-delayed and eagerly anticipated Wii U eShop arrival, along with some other intriguing new titles on the store. There are also three Virtual Console entries on the home...
Video TT Fusion Explains How It's Handling THAT Scene In LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens
If you haven't seen the film, walk away now
The announcement of LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens might have been predictable, but that doesn't mean we're not excited about the prospect of playing through the latest block-based adventure - especially as the movie on which it is based remains so fresh in our minds. Game Informer has been chatting to...
Weirdness See What Other Smash Fighters Would Look Like with Bayonetta's Proportions
Do you want to touch me?
Bayonetta was one of the last fighters to be added to Super Smash Bros. and she certainly is one of the more unique characters on the roster. Not only does Bayonetta have an interesting, combo-centric fighting style that imitates the one from the games she comes from, but the design of the character also sticks out...
News Genei Ibun Roku #FE Art Book Releases on 26th February in Japan
A Fire Emblem art book hat trick
It seems that this is the year for Fire Emblem art books, as yet another one was just recently revealed. A few months ago, we caught wind of their being a 25th anniversary book on the way, and shortly after, there was news of a book that would focus on just Fire Emblem: Awakening. Now, we have the book for
News Nintendo Drops Behind Sony in Japan as Wii U Sales Tumble
Lack of new releases harms momentum
It's the time of the week where we consider the Media Create charts from Japan, and the most recent results bring some interesting numbers. One notable new arrival on PS4, and the lack of fresh arrivals on Wii U and 3DS, set the tone. In the software charts Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 makes its debut...
News Masahiro Sakurai on Keeping Super Smash Bros. Fresh
Balance is key here
About a week ago, the last DLC fighters for Super Smash Bros. were added to the game, finally bringing the lengthy support for the game to a close. It could certainly be argued that this is now the biggest Smash Bros. ever, with a higher stage count and bigger fighter roster than any game before it. All the same, even a game as...
Rumour Star Fox Zero Facing Development Niggles, Another Delay Could Happen
"Just what I needed to see"
Star Fox Zero was supposed to be Christmas 2015's big Wii U release, but Nintendo took the brave decision to delay the game in order to give it a little more polish. However, we're now hearing reports that despite the extra effort, things are far from rosy with Fox McCloud's latest adventure. Online sleuth and Nintendo...
Video See the Very First Wii U & 3DS Game to Use Every Single amiibo
Figures, cards, plush toys, oh my!
Since their inception, amiibo have been a smash hit with fans new and old, but one idea that Nintendo still hasn't been fully realised is a game that utilises every one of these NFC delights. It's true that certain games like Hyrule Warriors recognise can use all amiibo, but it doesn't recognise them individually...
Weirdness This Super Mario Maker Level is a Functioning Calculator
Yep, it actually works
We've seen some terrific creations in Super Mario Maker, but few are as downright clever as a creation by Reddit user Helgefan. Shared on the social network this past weekend, it's rightly being hailed as an outrageous achievement in level design. Utilising binary additions and decimal conversion this stage, effectively,...
Editorial Considering the Recipe For Successful Nintendo Remasters and Re-Releases
Are big names enough on their own?
Recently I was heavily focused on The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD, figuring out the focus for what would become our preview of the title. From a personal perspective it's proving to be a lovely experience replaying the GameCube / Wii title, and it is by most definitions a solid remaster. The graphics are...
News LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens to Feature Exclusive Backstory Content
Not the truth about Rey's parents though, don't be silly
When Warner Bros. recently teased the coming together of two major franchises, it need not have bothered - it obviously meant LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens - a huge success at the box office, it was a clear candidate for the LEGO treatment. Of course, stretching the set pieces and key...
Video Did You Know Gaming Covers the Bayonetta Games
No one said you could touch
The Bayonetta games are arguably the most recognizable works to come from the talented Platinum Games; chock full of angel slaying action and over the top finishing moves. In more recent times, the series could almost be considered a Nintendo franchise, considering the significant collaborative effort that went into...
Nintendo Life Weekly Mother 3 Localisation Rumours, New Splatoon Content Rumours, and More
Whispers ahoy
Whilst it may not have been an especially explosive week for Nintendo news directly from Nintendo, special sources have been firing ten to the dozen this week bringing forth a wealth of new rumours with surprising validity. If you've been too busy doing other things that someone in your life claims are more important than video games...
News All amiibo Will Be Compatible with Pokkén Tournament
What might they do?
Pokkén Tournament is only about a month away from release, and it seems like the wait only gets more difficult the closer we get to launch day. The roster of fighters has grown a bit over the past few months, and it appears to be a flashy and enjoyable fighter that'll be filling an otherwise quiet month for the Wii U. It's also...
Yep, native 1080p
There's been plenty of chat about The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD this week, with Nintendo's embargo lift meaning we could share our full preview of the title. In that preview we wrote of a "crisp and clear presentation" along with a "buttery smooth" framerate, but the key questions of the actual native resolution, in...
Rumour New Splatoon Mini-Game Arriving Soon with Fresh amiibo Figures in Tow
And this time there's evidence
After the tide of free content updates in Splatoon was stemmed many fans of the game wondered whether there might yet be more on the horizon for Nintendo's colourful shooter. Recent rumours from data miners regarding references to potential new amiibo figurines got tongues wagging once again, and now even more secrets...
News Mario Kart Flashmob Surprises And Potentially Terrifies UK Shoppers
The UK's own Coconut Mall
We love a good flashmob here at Nintendo Life Towers - unless it's threatening to make us late for our train ride home, of course. The crazy thrill seekers on YouTube channel Base37 certainly know how to do a flashmob in style, as they recently descended on London's Westfield Shopping Mall armed with motorised go-karts in a...
News Chasing Aurora Dev Broken Rules Offers To Port Undertale To Wii U
Keep determined
Yesterday, we reported on the news that Undertale developer Toby Fox was open to the idea of his unique RPG coming to Nintendo systems, with the caveat that he'd need outside assistance to create the port. Undertale - a critically-acclaimed PC release built entirely with Game Maker - would need to be re-written from scratch, and Fox...
Video See How Far The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has Come Since the Wii & GameCube
Things can only look better
If you were in any doubt that the visuals in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD surpass those of the original Wii and GameCube versions, let us clarify that the visuals have indeed surpassed those of the original Wii and GameCube versions. If you need further proof of just how much tastier things are in this...
News Undertale Creator Open To Nintendo Port, But Wouldn't Be Able To Code It Himself
"I actually already talked to Nintendo about a port months ago"
Yesterday, there were rumours swirling around the internet about a Nintendo port of Toby Fox's critically acclaimed indie RPG Undertale. These were triggered by a Nintendo staffer attempting to get in touch with Fox via Twitter, and after the predictable reaction online, Fox has posted...
Video Reliving the Memories of the Original Announcement for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Out of time, into Twilight
With the release of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD just around the corner we thought it was about time we looked back at the fantastic reveal that the original game received. Much controversy surrounded the art direction of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and many people wanted a more realistic Zelda game...
Preview Looking for the Light in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
We sense a true adventure
This has been the generation of The Legend of Zelda remasters, with two Nintendo 64 titles on 3DS and one GameCube HD release. Following The Wind Waker HD we now have GameCube / Wii title The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD, which has the tricky task of kicking off the 30th Anniversary of the franchise. It's also...
Nintendo Download 4th February (North America)
Smash DLC! Resident Evil 4! Shütshimi! FreezeME! More!
Here we are once again, North American gamers, with the Nintendo Download Update. This week seems like another good 'un, with the final batch of Super Smash Bros. DLC, a corking Wii download from Capcom, some highly promising download-only games and some discounts. Phew, let's get to the...
Video Check Out Pikachu And Lucario's Fancy Moves In This New Pokkén Tournament Clip
Plus a brief look at the next Pokémon movie
A new video has just gone live which shows of the basic movesets of Pikachu and Lucario in the forthcoming Wii U brawler Pokkén Tournament. Due for release worldwide on March 18th, the game is being co-developed by Tekken creator Bandai Namco and will see various characters from the Pokémon universe...
Video See Bayonetta & Corrin Smash it up in Super Smash Bros.
Smashing
The final batch of DLC for Super Smash Bros. for Wii U & Nintendo 3DS is finally out, bringing with it the Umbra Witch Bayonetta and the dragon warrior Corrin. It's a bittersweet moment for many fans, but no doubt this isn't the end of Super Smash Bros. as we know it. In the video below we look at both of these new characters as well...
Rumour Nintendo Has Plans to Localise Mother 3 This Year
UPDATE: More sources step foward
UPDATE: We've since had more confirmation from Nintendo Life contributor Liam Robertson, who has posted the following on Twitter. It seems that Emily wasn't the only person who knew about this, but she might have let the cat out of the bag prematurely: UPDATE #2: Eurogamer has also confirmed that it was previously...
News The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Will Have Its Own Manga
Shackled to a Japanese app for now
Those who like their legends unfolding from right to left might be happy to learn that The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess will be the next game in the Zelda series to receive its own official manga. A pair of artists who go by the combined name Akira Himekawa will take up their inks for the project once again,...
Media Create serves up disappointing Wii U and 3DS results
It's Wednesday, so you know what that means - we're at the half way point of another gruelling week! Actually, it means Media Create Japanese chart results, though it could also mean the first thing; in truth, the results are rather grisly this time for Nintendo, but considering its strong...
News Wii U Sales Show Promising Growth Courtesy of Splatoon and Super Mario Maker Success
Splatoon continues to beat Mario Kart 8 sales momentum
While current 3DS sales are rather disappointing, Nintendo's most recent financial reports did bring good news for the Wii U, with the system on track for its targets and outperforming the equivalent sales of the year before. In Nintendo President Tatsumi Kimishima's briefing one game's role in...
News A Professor E. Gadd Costume is Coming to Super Mario Maker
*Cackles*
It's been several since we've seen the last new Super Mario Maker costume added to the game, but the drought has finally been broken. Following on the heels of the long anticipated Princess Daisy, we will soon have access to a Professor E. Gadd costume. Professor E. Gadd is most notable for the part he's played in the Luigi's Mansion...
News LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens Trailer Leaks Ahead Of Official Announcement
Coming to a Wii U or 3DS near you this June
Warner Bros recently mentioned that it had a huge announcement to make regarding "two of the world's most popular entertainment brands". Whatever plans the company may have had, the guys over at the Xbox Store have thrown a spanner in the works by accidentally revealing the game in question - and it...
News Nine Nintendo Titles Pass One Million Sales For This Financial Year
The green and the evergreen
With Nintendo having shared its financial reports for Q3, therefore covering the first nine months of the financial year, we can get an idea of the year's notable successes, especially as these sales figures cover the all-important Holiday period. Overall Nintendo can point to nine of its games that have sold over one...
We believe
Nintendo's latest financial results have been published, with a generally mixed outcome, and its usual reports for the nine month period have included some interesting information. As always there's an updated release line-up, too, which on this occasion mostly keeps its powder dry. The one change that's immediately apparent relates to...
Video Chandelure Looks Predictably Weird in Pokkén Tournament Footage
Light 'em up
When Chandelure was confirmed for Pokkén Tournament little blame could be apportioned to those who responded by scratching their head. Sure, it's Pokémon so anything goes, but this is a fighting game - a primary question was how this particular 'mon would dish out some hurt. This writer's not big on Pokémon, admittedly, and the idea...
Feature Five Key Details That May Emerge From Nintendo's Financial Reports and Briefings
Mobile plans, release details and hints for the next generation
This week will bring Nintendo's Q3 financial results, a presentation briefing from company President Tatsumi Kimishima and a Q & A with investors. Now, that may not be very exciting on paper, but this particular set of results comes at an interesting point, as it'll be the first...
News Create Your Own Super Mario Maker Wallpaper Through This Official Website
Random but cool
Super Mario Maker is a fantastic creative tool for fans of the franchise, and Nintendo's promoted it through limited editions, plenty of marketing and neat extras like the pixel-style amiibo, along with New 3DS cover plates in Japan and PAL territories. It's not quite done yet, though. As plenty of fans around the web have spotted,...
News Final Fantasy Explorers Achieves Respectable UK Sales as LEGO Marvel's Avengers Leads the Way
Some success for 3DS
The UK charts have been rather grim for Nintendo so far in 2016, but this week has thankfully brought some positive news with two new releases making their mark on the top 40. First of all let's look at Final Fantasy Explorers, the Square Enix spin-off that's exclusive to 3DS. Packed with fan service, it's managed to secure...
Gallery These Fan-Made Splatoon Weapons Are Pretty Fresh
Tools of the trade
The Game Party Japan 2016 event has just hosted the Japanese National Splatoon Championship, giving fans of the game the chance to test their skill against like-minded individuals. It also gave the truly dedicated the opportunity to show off their creative talents, as there was a booth which showcased fan-made versions of the...
News Splatoon Producer Hints at More Content Being Added in the Future
"I'm starting to wonder if we can't organize a little something else."
Splatoon had an admirable amount of post release support, with new game modes, maps, clothes, and weapons, being regularly added to the game via free updates. While it was inevitable that there would come to be an end to all the free goodness, the question of more, paid DLC has...
January2016
Or the 4th; don't you love time zones?
The long-awaited final bundle of DLC, or AOC as Nintendo likes to call it, for Super Smash Bros. including Bayonetta and Corrin will be landing on Wii U and 3DS systems on 3rd February in North America and the 4th in Europe. Nintendo has yet to confirm a time but judging from the official Nintendo of America...
Rumour Data Miners Find Evidence That Suggests New Splatoon amiibo Are Coming
Guess what they are?
Data Miners have been particularly notorious on the Wii U for leaking information ahead of releases, and while many of the leaks may seem to be bulletproof, it's not always the best idea to take them as hard fact. For exapmle, the track record with Splatoon has been pretty spot on so far, with most weapons and stages being outed...
Where's that salt?
Another week, another boatload of news that every fan is expected to digest alongside all the other things that are apparently happening outside the world of video games. Once again Nintendo Life Weekly is here to save you from the fate of current event vacuousness. This week we look at the rumours surrounding a title in the...
Weirdness Watch an Actual Live Splatoon Squid Sisters Concert From Japan
Get your glow sticks in the air!
Splatoon is not only a fun game, but it's also succeeded in getting some of its characters and quirks into popular culture - well, Nintendo culture. The Squid Sisters are a part of this, with their bizarre voices, dancing and singing being part of the game's charm. In Japan, though, these things can go from being...
News Wii Street U Service Being Discontinued In March, Leaving eShop This Month
Street smart
The Google-powered Wii Street U service will be discontinued on March 31st 2016. The app will also be removed from the Wii U eShop later this month - January 31st, to be precise. Originally launched back in 2013, the service allowed Wii U owners to travel the world from the comfort of their living room. "Wii Street U is a great use of...
Video Nintendo's Latest Story Trailer for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Sets the Scene
Cue dramatic music
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD isn't far away, and Nintendo's ramping up its marketing for one of the key early releases of the year on Wii U. It's also got the job of giving the franchises' Anniversary an early leg-up, so no pressure then... As expected it's Twilight Princess, in HD, though with varied support for its...
Random Behold the Majesty of this Special Super Mario Maker Jacket
A jacket fit for Super Mario
We love our custom gaming clothing here at Nintendo Life; gaming themed novelty t-shirts are the order of the day in the office. We thought it didn't get much better than the Super Smash Bros. trainer jacket but that's now been surpassed by this looking Super Mario Maker jacket, as brought to our attention by Tokyo-based...
News Analytics Company Fancensus Rates Major Nintendo Releases and Their Impact in 2015
Covering September to 31st December
A debate that often rages in Nintendo-centric forums can be around the company's marketing of major releases; especially if a game struggles, part of the post-mortem looks at the big N's efforts to spread awareness. Nintendo has rapidly grown its influence on social media, in recent years, but how is its promotion...
News Nintendo Confirms a Short Spell of Network Maintenance for Early February
Nothing to get down(time) about
Sometimes Nintendo finds something it doesn't like and suddenly drops maintenance and network downtime upon us, and on other occasions it's simply a bit of regular house cleaning. It's the latter that's on the way early next week, so we thought we might as well give you advance warning. On this occasion it should...
Nintendo Download 28th January (North America)
Final Fantasy new and old! LEGO Avengers! Shadow Puppeteer! More!
It's that time again, dear readers, for the North American Nintendo Download Update. This week brings three high profile retail titles (well, one is on both platforms), an intriguing and shadowy Wii U release along with some other interesting download-only arrivals on both systems...
News Super Mario Maker's Online Features Are Back
Quicker than expected
Earlier this week Super Mario Maker's servers went offline rather unexpectedly, with Nintendo outlining maintenance for a whopping 37.5 hours and stating that they were working to fix a 'bug' in the Create mode. Originally due to finish on Thursday 28th January at 5:00pm Pacific / 8pm Eastern / 1am UK (29th January) / 2am CET...
Video See How Super Mario Maker's Slow Motion Glitch Works its Magic
Condensed POW
The recently discovered slow motion glitch in Super Mario Maker isn't something we can take credit for, but we were able to dissect what we needed from InsaneMonte's original level to create our own. The glitch works by compacting as many items as possible into a small space, something t
New 3DS LL still leads hardware as Wii U dips
Another week, another set of Media Create Japanese charts, and this week brings a few major releases to consider, though hardware sales are only showing minor changes. To kick off with software Yakuza: Kiwami is in the top two positions for PS4 and PS3, making it the most successful new arrival this...
News Extended Super Mario Maker Network Maintenance to Fix Create Mode 'Bug'
Down for 37.5 hours
Update: Nintendo has now provided an update on the extended Super Mario Maker fix, issuing the following statement: We are carrying out emergency maintenance to fix a bug that occurs in "Create" mode. During this time, Super Mario Maker's online services will be unavailable. We are currently preparing a software update to fix...
Video 'Smashified' Adds Krystal To Its Collection of Super Smash Bros. Speed Paintings
Crystal clear
YouTube account Smashified - a series dedicated to bringing our favourite video-game characters into Super Smash Bros. via the form of graphic art - has added its latest entry to the series; Star Fox's Krystal. The video below shows a sped-up version of the project - which they've said has taken months to complete - and it really is...
Random This 'Bullet Time' Super Mario Maker Level Uses an Awesome Slow Motion Glitch
Perfect for fans of The Matrix or Max Payne
The Matrix is old-hat now - they use big flip-phones! - and had sequels that tarnished its name (in this writer's opinion) but it set a standard for neat slow-motion action. It's a common feature now and was memorably recreated in Max Payne, but at the time it was totally rad, cool and other assorted...
It's the GameCube Controller Adapter all over again
At launch its stock was rare, but even those that got hold of a unit knew one terrible truth - the GameCube Controller Adapter for Wii U is only good for one thing. You can play Super Smash Bros. for Wii U with a GameCube pad, and that's your lot. The HORI-manufactured pad for Pokkén Tournament...
News Maintenance Will Bring a Little Downtime for Minecraft: Wii U Edition
Bricking it
Based on the eShop charts Minecraft: Wii U Edition has gone down rather well since its December launch, and no doubt a number of bizarre and wonderful creations are already in place. The latest batch of maintenance does, however, fall right in the middle of prime gaming time in North America, so it's worth bearing in mind. The...
News Mighty No. 9 Has Been Delayed Once Again as Keiji Inafune Offers Sincere Apologies
Now targeting Spring
Mighty No. 9 began with a spectacularly successful Kickstarter campaign, with the project leadership of Keiji Inafune and the sense of it being a spiritual successor to Mega Man being factors in its popularity. Since that period of hype in mid 2013 it's endured some tougher times, though - the final visual style has been...
News Details of Europe's Next Splatfest Are Confirmed for 30th January
A battle of warriors
The regular free DLC may be drawing to a close, but Splatoon still has plenty to offer - this includes Splatfests, those weekend events where we choose sides and splat others for glory. Nintendo of Europe has now confirmed details of its next Splatfest, which will kick off on 30th January at 6pm UK / 7pm CET. It'll be a...
Video Nintendo Minute Takes an Extended Look at The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
Tap the GamePad to transform Link, which is handy
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is one of the Wii U's biggest titles in the first half of the year, and with its release a little over a month away Nintendo will be showing it off all the more. Nintendo Minute's weekly video is worth a watch for those keeping an eye on this release, then,...
Rumour Intelligent Systems Is Working On New Paper Mario For Wii U
Game is currently being localised and tested
Nintendo fans and miners of insider information Emily Rogers and Liam Robertson (the latter of whom is a regular contributor to Nintendo Life) have apparently uncovered details on a Paper Mario sequel for Wii U. According to the report - which is based on information from five different sources - the...
Talking Point Splatoon Began With an Early Access Approach, and Has Provided a Valuable Lesson
Free updates that kept on giving
Cast your mind back to launch day Splatoon. Single player campaign? Check. Slightly mediocre local multiplayer mode? Check. Online modes? Well, some of them. Back when we were publishing our Splatoon review, its writer and our video man Alex was gushing in his praise, yet some debate was had within our team about...
Video See How Much Mario Kart has Changed Since Mario Kart 64
56 degrees of separation
It's been over a year since Mario Kart 8 was released on the Wii U and nearly 20 since its N64 sibling Mario Kart 64 graced our systems. A lot's changed in that time, and in order to highlight all the refinements a company like Nintendo can make in such a span, we've cobbled together another cheeky little comparison of the...
Video Relive the Glorious Madness of The Wonderful 101 With the 60fps Director's Edition Trailer
Wii U fans, unite up!
The Wonderful 101, the colourful and crazy Wii U exclusive from PlatinumGames, was a divisive release. Some sang its praises from the rooftops while others struggled to enjoy it, while it's never been reported as much of a sales success. That seems like a pity, and we're certainly fans having awarded it 9/10 in our review; we...
News 2015 Brought a Decent Year of Sales for Nintendo in France
The 3DS and Splatoon performed particularly well
The sales indications available for the UK market may be a tad grim from a Nintendo perspective, but the picture is certainly a little improved in other countries in Europe. France seems to be a relatively strong market for the big N, as one example. Figures published by Le Figaro - via Perfectly...
Site News Retiring Our Super Mario Maker Course Sharer
Super Mario Maker Bookmark takes over...
We were super excited when Super Mario Maker was finally released for Wii U last September. Whilst we were impressed enough with the final product to give it an 'Outstanding' 10/10 in our review, we felt there was one particular thing lacking - a place to share courses with friends online. In the spirit of...
Nintendo Download 21st January (North America)
Minecraft: Story Mode! Mario & Luigi! Zack & Wiki! Classic Mario! More!
It's that time once again, dear readers, for the North American Nintendo Download Update details. This week brings a high-profile retail release on 3DS, an episodic Minecraft experience, some tempting Virtual Console arrivals and other offerings that include demos and discounts...
Video Take a Look at the Wii U Versions of New Characters from Hyrule Warriors Legends
Linkle and Skull Kid in HD! Fuzzy footage of the others!
Update: HD-quality footage of Tetra now available, courtesy of NintenDaan. Original Article: Hyrule Warriors Legends is out now in Japan, bringing mayhem and extra content to the portable. Though only Legends features new story content, it does - however - allow players to 'transfer' new...
News Asteroid Challenge Is Bringing Classic Arcade Action To The Wii U eShop
Coming exclusively to Nintendo's console this year
Indie studio Magique Productions has announced that it is working on Asteroid Challenge for the Wii U eShop, a tribute to classic arcade blasters like - you guessed it - Atari's Asteroids. Boasting 1080p 60fps visuals, multiplayer modes and over 70 levels, the developer is aiming for a Q1 release...
All is as expected
Update 2: The video is now live again from an official source, as the horse had indeed bolted. Update: Well, there was a video published to the public, but it's now been set to private by Nintendo (as of 10:15am UK time on the day of publication); nevertheless details are below, along with a rip of the video via GameXplain...
News Splatoon's Last Free Update Map Goes Live Tomorrow
That's sixteen stages
About a week ago, the final weapon for Splatoon's constant stream of new, extra content went live and signaled the end of the long run. Following that right up, the final new stage will go live tomorrow and bring the stage count to its final amount of sixteen. The new stage is Ancho-V Games, and this appears to be one of the...
News The Official Legend of Zelda Timeline Has Been Updated
New releases and remasters included
The Legend of Zelda is a series known for a tremendous number of things, such as its memorable characters, captivating storylines, spine-tingling music and downright awesome gameplay. However, something that's caused the Zelda community years of theorising is how the games of the series intertwine with each other...
News Hyperkin's GameCube-Inspired ProCube Pad is Now Up for Pre-Order
Comes in white, black or purple
Last year we reported that Hyperkin took its GameCube-inspired 'ProCube' controller to EVO to get feedback from the competitive Smash Bros. community. It's wireless and compatible on Wii U as a Pro Controller (so no Wii Remote is needed), and takes the inputs and control style of the GameCube and makes them accessible...
News GDC Survey Shows Declining Interest From Developers in Wii U and 3DS
Virtual Reality, PS4 and Xbox One all gain support
GDC (Game Developers Conference) 2016 is around a month away, and as part of the traditional warm-up for the gathering the event has released the outcome of its most recent 'state of the industry' survey - over 2000 North American game developers took part. As was the case in 2015 it reflects a...
News Wii U Emulator, Cemu, Runs Games Like Super Mario Maker and Mario Kart 8 in Version 1.3.0
Low performance but fast progress
Towards the end of last year we shared some updates on Cemu, a prospective emulator for the Wii U. Though likely a significant amount of time away from delivering the kind of performance that Dolphin has with Wii and GameCube, it's proving to be an intriguing project for those involved and following it - once you...
News Xenoblade Chronicles X and Nintendo Network Maintenance Sessions Are On the Way
Just four hours this time around
On a regular basis Nintendo needs to take some online services down to give the servers a bit of a spit and polish, depriving us of valuable Splatoon time, or general online time, for that matter. There's a bit of maintenance on the way to be aware of, so let's break it down. First of all, Xenoblade Chronicles X...
News New 3DS LL (XL) Holds Top Spot in Latest Japanese Charts
Sales down across the board
As January wears on we're getting to the post-Holiday stages in terms of buzz and sales. Not many new titles are coming out, and reveals are thin on the ground as game companies draw breath and put plans in place. With that in mind we have a fairly unremarkable set of Media Create chart results out of Japan, albeit with...
News Splatoon Update to Prompt Server Maintenance and Brief Downtime
Not for too long, thankfully
Version 2.5.0 of Splatoon goes live soon, and the official Tumblr page for the game has advised that implementing the update will necessitate a bit of downtime that'll prevent online play. It's not a lengthy break, but is worth noting for North American gamers planning some evening matches. The following downtime is on...
Rumour Details of amiibo Features in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD Emerge
Items and buffs ahoy
Recent revelations of amiibo-specific features in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD have caused a stir among fans of the game, and now some more information appears to have come to light. It's worth noting that we've marked these as rumours simply due to the nature of the source material - translations from a Famitsu...
News Splatoon's Next Update Is On Target For Launch Tomorrow
Version 2.5.0 clamps down on shortcuts
Nintendo continues to make changes and amendments to its ink-based online shooter Splatoon, with the latest lot of fixes coming on Wednesday January 20th - otherwise known as "tomorrow". These include the closing off of various shortcuts and a few fixes to environmental features. There are also some...
News Eiji Aonuma and Malo Begin Talking About The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
Expect art, discussions, and more information
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is only a couple months away from releasing, but most details surrounding the remaster are still unknown. After the initial Nintendo Direct where it was revealed, most new information has only come by way of rumours, with nothing being set in stone yet. It...
Feature Why We're Still Playing... Bayonetta 1 & 2
Tom Whitehead on why nearly dislocating his thumbs is fun
When Bayonetta was confirmed as the final character in Super Smash Bros. on Wii U and 3DS, I couldn't help but be amused. Here's a character that's spent two games torturing and spanking (literally, at points) angels from heaven and demons from hell. When a combo move is achieved her outfit...
News Minecraft: Story Mode Hits The Wii U eShop This Week
Complete with off-TV play, screen mirroring and touch controls
Telltale Games has confirmed that the first episode of Minecraft: Story Mode will launch on the Wii U eShop this week in North America and Europe - Thursday 21st January, to be exact. The Order of the Stone will cost $4.99, and additional episodes are set to arrive "in the coming...
Review Kung Fu Panda: Showdown of Legendary Legends (Wii U)
Super Kung Fu Smash Panda Bros.
Kung Fu Panda: Showdown of Legendary Legends takes the movie franchise's core themes of kung fu, lovable characters and comedy, throws it into a 2.5D brawler and leaves you with a feeling of being satisfied but ultimately wanting something else. With the game being crafted by those at Vicious Cycle, the team behind...
Reaction Nintendo Titles Miss the UK Top 40 Once Again
For the third week in a row
Every week we check the UK chart results, and typically Nintendo has a few titles scrapping away - at the very least - in the bottom half of the top 40. Yet this is now the third consecutive week where not a single Wii U or 3DS exclusive has made it into the all-format top 40. What's going on? It's worth starting out...
News Gunman Clive HD Collection Has Sold 9000 Copies But Has Still Made A Profit
About 10 times the sales of Gunman Clive 2 on Steam
Gunman Clive HD Collection is one of the more recent indie gems on the Wii U eShop, and pulls together the two 3DS titles in a single, high-definition package. Given that many Nintendo fans will have played the two games in their handheld forms previously, it's perhaps unsurprising to learn that...
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