‘Club Nintendo’ Successor ‘My Nintendo’ Launches Worldwide In March!

by The_aczFebruary 2, 2016

Nintendo recently finished having an investors meeting, and with that comes some new info on the company’s new rewards program.

During the meeting, Nintendo revealed that their successor to Club Nintendo titled My Nintendo will have an official worldwide release sometime in March.

The site will work very similarly to Club Nintendo, but with a few differences. The service will be available on both Wii U and 3DS as well as mobile.

Everything about the account system will be linked to your Nintendo Network I.D, and players can earn points and statuses by playing their mobile apps (Miitomo) and also accessing and buying games and more from the E-shop.

Check out the pic below for a more detailed info. Are you excited for Nintendo Account?

‘LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Video Game Leaked, And It Looks Beautiful!

by The_aczFebruary 2, 2016

Well it seems like the cat’s out of the bag.

Announced via Youtube ad, LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens has been prematurely been announced for PC, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PSVita, PS4, PS3, Wii U, and 3DS.

Not only did it start popping up on Youtube ad’s, but it also started popping up on the official Xbox Store and even Amazon (which has now been taken down.). On top of that, a listing also appeared for a special $70 PS4 & Xbox One Edition that includes an exclusive LEGO Finn Minifigure plus the game’s season pass. The PS4 version even includes an exclusive level & character pack.

The game is set to launch on June 28th. Check out the trailer Below! Are you excited for this game? Comment below and tell us!

Geekscape Games Presents: The Top 16 Games Of (The First Half Of) 2016

by Josh JacksonJanuary 31, 2016

I thought Christmas was supposed to be in December! Yet, as we wrap up January and head into February, you would think it was the end of the year considering how many amazing games are hitting the shelves. From high profile sequels to remakes, spinoffs and new IP’s that have demanded our attention, it won’t be hard to find a game or three to play in what’s typically supposed to be the slow winter and spring months. With so many to choose from, where do we start!? In no particular order, here are the 16 games of (the first half) of 2016 that we’re the most excited about.

Honorable Mention: Pokemon Red/Blue/Yellow

Date: February 27th

For: Nintendo 3DS

It’s rare that people get so excited for a Virtual Console re-release, but c’mon, this is Pokemon! While not a full release, (and thus, being excluded from the proper list,) we’re too thrilled not to mention these titles! With Pokemon Red, Blue and Yellow hitting our 3DS handhelds via the eShop in about a month, these ports will let us connect via built in wireless to rebuild our classic Pokedex’s with ease, all while poking at our nostalgia. It’ll be good to see what Missingno. has been up to after all these years!

Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

Date: April 26th

For: Playstation 4

As one of the many games that was delayed in 2015, it’s easy to see why we’re anxious to go on one more adventure with Nathan Drake in Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End. With rumors of this being Drake’s last adventure, with some hoping that Naughty Dog focuses more on expanding on The Last Of Us going forward, this very well could be the last time we travel the world with the charismatic adventurer. While it may sound crazy to drop such a popular franchise, it’s not like Naughty Dog hasn’t done it before with series’ like Crash, (which was admittedly out of their hands,) and Jak, and suddenly, it’s not so unheard of. Are you ready to say goodbye?

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4

Date: February 8th

For: Playstation 4, Xbox One, PC

While we’re talking about goodbye’s, Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 is being touted as the final Storm game. If this is true, it will signal an end of an era for the franchise, which brought incredible visuals, intense boss fights, and a giant roster to the popular series. Oftentimes surpassing its source material when it came to showing off how crazy Naruto and his friends can be when in a fight, it’s appropriate that the fourth game plans on wrapping up the story ahead of even the anime. As the final fights come to a close, we’re hoping we’re left with a game that’s fun enough to carry our fandom for a long time to come.

The Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD

Date: March 4th

For: Wii U

For those who listen to the Geekscape Games podcast, (thanks, Jeremy!), you’ll know that I’m generally against HD remakes, especially when they feel largely unnecessary. As with most poor life choices that I’ve made over the last year though, amiibo have changed the way I think. Coming bundled with a sweet Wolf Link amiibo at a standard MSRP of $59.99, the figure unlocks a brand new dungeon, alongside support with other Zelda amiibo to change the game in various ways.

Quantum Break

Date: April 5th

For: Xbox One

As the first game from Remedy since 2010’s excellent Alan Wake, Quantum Break looks to continue the developer’s penchant for innovative action game play to go with its stellar story telling that originated with Max Payne. Starring Shawn Ashmore, the cinematic style from their previous games is still going to be a heavy focus, but unlike many games these days, it doesn’t seem like the game play will be compromised because of it. Promising solid action-adventure elements with puzzle solving areas, we’re looking forward to finally getting Quantum Break in our hands.

Trillion: God Of Destruction

Date: Spring 2016

For: Playstation Vita

This Vita exclusive from the publishers and developers behind the Hyperdimension Neptunia series, (which we’ll get to soon,) Trillion: God Of Destruction has you amass an underworld army designed to take down a seemingly unbeatable god with a TRILLION HP! As you chip away at it over time, you’ll get stronger by training in secret and building relationships with your potential underworld waifus. Because we all need a little love in between fighting an indestructible monster.

Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam

Out now!

For: Nintendo 3DS

The Mario and Luigi and Paper Mario RPGs have been one of Nintendo’s best kept secrets for years now, providing laugh out loud comedy to go with its interactive turn based combat. But what happens when you combine both into one game? Mario and Luigi: Paper Jam looks to find out, bringing Paper Mario into a new world for a brand new team up. With new abilities, jokes abound, (usually at Luigi’s expense,) and rewarding game play, what’s not to love?

Note: Keep an eye out for our upcoming review!

Final Fantasy Explorers

Out now!

For: Nintendo 3DS

Described as Final Fantasy meets hunting and crafting games like Monster Hunter and Fantasy Life, Final Fantasy Explorers lets players team up in parties of up to four and fight some of the franchise’s most infamous monsters in their pursuit to complete quests. As they’re completed, characters can make new equipment, experiment with various jobs, and even temporarily take the forms of some of the greatest heroes in Final Fantasy history, including Cloud, Squall, Lightning and Yuna! Already adventuring? Share your friend codes with us in the comments and let’s get exploring!

Digimon Cyber Sleuth

Date: February 2nd

For: Playstation 4, Playstation Vita

As the first Digimon game to hit the current generation, as well as the first RPG to release in forever, Digimon Cyber Sleuth features hundreds of champions to collect and fuse as you and your team save the real and digital world from a new threat. Developed by Media.Vision, the RPG masterminds behind the Wild Arms series, and it’s safe to assume that the other beloved monster collecting franchise is in good hands.

Star Fox Zero

Date: April 22nd

For: Wii U

Speaking of being in good hands, the long awaited Star Fox follow up seems like a match made in heaven, (assuming the Lylat System believes in such a concept.) As a collaboration between Nintendo and Platinum Games, what we’ve played of Star Fox Zero with its free range, on rails and on land game play has had us desperate for more. Which made it all the more heartbreaking when it ended up like Uncharted and got delayed from 2015 to this year. Still, it’s looking like it’ll be more than worth the wait, and it will be great to gear up with the old team again.

Project X Zone 2

Date: February 16th

For: Nintendo 3DS

If Star Fox represents a strong team, then Project X Zone 2 is on a whole different level. Not only will Namco Bandai, Sega and Capcom team up for a second round of action packed turn based strategy, but Nintendo is getting in on the fun as well, with Chrom and Lucina from Fire Emblem and Fiora and Metal Face from Xenoblade Chronicles all appearing in the game. As one of the biggest surprises of 2013 for me, I can’t wait to get my hands on this crossover extravaganza once again.

Fire Emblem Fates

Date: February 19th

For: Nintendo 3DS

After Fire Emblem Awakening blew away all expectations in terms of both sales and popularity, the 3DS release served as a type of arrival for the strategy franchise, allowing it to take its place as one of Nintendo’s premiere IP’s. Capitalizing on this, Fire Emblem Fates will release with two versions with two different story perspectives. Featuring solid strategy game play, light dating sim elements and a custom character to lead the cast with, Nintendo is banking on Fates being just as popular, especially with special bundles, 3DS models, and even a downloadable third story on the way.

Megadimension Neptunia VII

Date: February 2nd

For: Playstation 4

Despite it seeming like Neptunia refuses to take a break with so many spinoffs, remakes, and sequels for the remakes, Megadimension Neptunia VII is the first sequel to the core franchise since 2012’s Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory. Now that everyone *should* have caught up after being bombarded with so many mostly solid games over the last year and a half, (assuming you have a Vita or Steam,) it’s time to take Gamindustri to the NEXT level! Featuring multiple stories, new characters, updated transformations and some much needed changes to the combat, and it’s looking like Neptune’s current gen debut might be one of the highlights of the year.

Gravity Rush HD Remaster

Date: February 2nd

For: Playstation 4

For my money, Gravity Rush is still the best game to release on the Vita. It’s breathtaking visuals, innovative game play and exciting exploration using the manipulation of gravity was too good to be ignored. Which is why I’m *really* pulling for Gravity Rush HD Remaster to shine in front of a bigger audience on the PS4. With reworked game play controls to work better on a Dual Shock 4, updated visuals, and all of the DLC included for $29.99, there’s no excuse not to get. Except for the fact that it’s mostly digital only if you’re already out of hard drive space…

If that’s the case, be like me and get the physical version which is exclusive to Amazon, and fall in love with Kat all over again!

Pokken Tournament

Date: March 18th

For: Wii U

Pokken was a long time coming, then all of a sudden, it was right around the corner! This collaboration between the team behind the Tekken series and The Pokemon Company brings together some interesting choices from the Pokemon roster to do battle in a 1-on-1 3D fighting game setting. Most importantly however, is that Pokken is looking to open the floodgates with the series’ first amiibo Card, coming packaged with Shadow Mewtwo. I hope you all have that second mortgage ready to go!

Mirror’s Edge Catalyst

Date: May 24th

For: Playstation 4, Xbox One, PC

Another game that felt like it would never see the light of day. After years of hoping until finally being confirmed back in 2013, Mirror’s Edge Catalyst will finally be in our hands in a few short months! Serving as a prequel that explores Faith’s background, we’re counting on the innovative first person platformer to wow us again. If DICE can pull off the same magic that they did the first time around, then we have nothing to worry about!

Street Fighter V

Date: February 16th

For: Playstation 4, PC

Unlike most of the games on this list, the time it took from announcement to release was relatively short. Not that we’re complaining, because a new iteration of Street Fighter is always something to get excited about! With four new characters to accompany a wide variety of reworked veterans from Super Street Fighter II to Street Fighter Alpha 3, the new V system that’s looking to mix up the rules of battle, and an expanded story mode that looks to bridge the gap between the original cast and Street Fighter III, why wouldn’t we be frothing at the mouth to play this?

As you can see, we’re going to have a busy time throughout the year. What games are you most looking forward to, and are there any that we missed? Let us know in the comments, and check back for the latest news, previews and reviews on the games listed, and everything else in between!

‘Mighty No. 9’ Has Been… Delayed Again

by The_aczJanuary 25, 2016

In a new update to backers that will shock no one, Comcept has revealed that Mighty No. 9 has been delayed yet again from it’s February 9th release.

It now has an unknown release date yet to be announced. Comcept revealed back in September that the game’s single player was finished, but not the multiplayer. This has caused a lot of backers to get frustrated with the project and suggest to the company to just release the game as it is now and patch in multiplayer later (which wouldn’t be a bad idea.).

Are you still excited for Mighty No. 9?

An ‘XL’ Announcement For Fire Emblem Fates — And DLC Details!

by Matt RodriguezJanuary 20, 2016

Fire Emblem Fates is one of the major Nintendo titles being launched early this year on February 19, and some new details just have been announced!

The options for purchasing the game are plentiful: there are two main games–Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright and Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest. These can both be purchased individually at retail for $39.99 each. When the player has reached chapter 6, the game will give the players the option to purchase the other game for $19.99. According to a recent announcement by Nintendo, the third story (called Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation) will be available at a purchase price of $19.99 for all players that own either Birthright or Conquest, on March 10. A special edition was also previously announced, that will have all three games on a single game cart, an artbook, as well as a Nintendo 3DS XL pouch, for $79.99.

In other breaking news, a special New Nintendo 3DS XL will be available to purchase on the same day of the game’s launch! Set at a MSRP of $199.99, this Nintendo 3DS XL sports beautiful art inspired on the game on both the top and bottom of the clamshell design. However, we regrettably report that the game will not be included with the system, and must be purchased separately (NOOOOOOO!!!!).

The Fire Emblem franchise is a turn based strategy game focused on medieval warfare, with the prime elements being strategy and companionship. The previous entry, Fire Emblem: Awakening brought substantial attention to the franchise in the West, and was one of the best selling titles. We are excited that they are bringing even more Fire Emblem games here, and even other products such as the special New Nintendo 3DS XL!

Are YOU excited about the newly announced DLC details, the New Nintendo 3DS XL, or both! Will you be purchasing these games? Please let us know in the comments!

Source: BUSINESS WIRE

‘Pokemon’ Gets A Live Action Commercial During The Super Bowl… But What Is It For!?

by Josh JacksonJanuary 18, 2016

If you’re into Pokemon as much as we are here at Geekscape, then you surely have kept up with the Pokemon 20th anniversary announcements made last week, which included a year’s worth of Mythical Pokemon, an exclusive New 3DS which includes Pokemon Red, Blue and two sets of cover plates that feature the original games’ cover art, and the Western release of Pokken Tournament. But the most surprising, (and most mysterious,) announcement was that the popular game series will get its own Super Bowl spot!

Don’t believe me? Here’s the quote from the press release.

To kick-start the celebration, The Pokémon Company International announced today that it will air a new ad during Super Bowl 50 on Sunday, February 7, which will encourage fans to Train On. In that spirit, fans are encouraged to share their favorite Pokémon memories on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube using the hashtag #Pokemon20.

With that said, what could the announcement be!? Here are some of our ideas leading up to the big game.

A celebration of 20 years of Pokemon.

I would think this possibility would come up in the hopes that the additional exposure aimed at adults who might have thought Pokemon was a fad that died in the 90’s would trigger some extra interest with a dash of nostalgia. My tempered expectations make me think this option is the most likely, since the tone of the press release makes the ad sound like a celebration of the entire series that encourages us to “Train On,” (I wonder how much we’ll hear that phrase this year?) But then again, why spend so much money on a live action commercial for the notoriously expensive Super Bowl? That might be reserved for a new announcement. Such as…

A Pokemon Z Reveal!

It’s coming. It’s inevitable. And I want it now. It’s safe to say that after taking 2015 off, Pokemon Z is pretty much a sure thing for this year. Considering the anime is already introducing new forms and characters that have yet to appear in any of the games and that the third cover Pokemon has already been established with Zygarde, is there any doubt at this point? And that’s aside from the fact that the actual name of the show has shifted to Pokemon X, Y & Z! Still, game announcements like this are more likely reserved for E3. How about something that’s already announced, but that we know little about? Something like…

A release date for Pokemon Go!

Yes! As the possibility that I’m most hoping for, Pokemon Go has set the Pokemon fandom on fire since it was revealed in September. Then… Nothing! We haven’t heard a detail, hint or peep about the mobile game since. When you think about it though… That commercial was live action. Almost everyone has a phone, regardless of whether or not they still play Pokemon, (or if they ever did.) Announcing a release date during the freakin’ SUPER BOWL would be the top story of every gaming site immediately! This HAS to be the announcement, right? With a 2016 release already promised, hopefully we’ll find out when we’ll be blindly walking into traffic looking for Pokemon through our phones.

What do you think the big commercial will detail? Are there any possibilities we missed? Share your ideas, along with your Pokemon memories in the comments below, and keep your eyes peeled during the big game to see what Pokemon has in store for us on February 7th.

Geekscape Games Reviews ‘LBX: Little Battlers eXperience’

by Josh JacksonJanuary 16, 2016

Robot battling games have always been a low key favorite of mine. From Custom Robo to Virtual On, and Armored Core, there’s just something rewarding about being able to build your own character and fight it out with your friends. Sadly, games of this nature are fewer and far between these days, but that’s changing with LBX: Little Battlers eXperience, the latest game from the well versed developers at Level-5. The thought of this team bringing this type of game to the masses was an exciting one, but once my time with LBX was finished, I was left feeling like it never reaches its full potential.

In the near future, the LBX craze is at its peak. Children and adults alike can often be found squaring off against each other with their armed cardboard bots. As Van Yamato, a boy who is obsessed with the toys, is barred from having one after his father, the creator of the original LBX model, was killed in an accident. However, a group in the shadows is hoping to reprogram the toys for a much more menacing purpose. Once one of their researches escapes and sneaks a special model over to Van, him and his friends are swept up in a deep rooted conspiracy involving assassinations, the circumstances surrounding his father’, and the fabric of the LBX robots as a whole!

If you couldn’t tell, this game goes hard with its over dramatic, anime inspired plot. Not to say that’s a bad thing, but it’s humorous to think how much of this world revolves around these toys, (I’ll take this as a sign that it’s only a matter of time before amiibo start killing people.) As Van and his friends traverse the world of LBX, players will have the option to battle NPCs for items, experience and parts, buy new parts from the local shop, or progress with the story to earn some of the better equipment. Stopping to fight every so often isn’t a bad idea, since each individual part, on top of the player as a whole, will level up, unlock special abilities and get stronger with each battle. Being prepared is a necessity, especially when certain sections of the story are filled with random battles that tend to wear you down. Speaking of wearing down, your LBX won’t perform well if you don’t take care of it, so oiling it after around ten battles is necessary if you want to keep it in tip top shape.

Of course, keeping it in shape doesn’t mean much if you’re not equipping your LBX with the best parts. Thankfully, the game offers hundreds of ways to customize your machine. With certain types of framework to switch your robot into a particular category, (like the Strider Frame for speed, or Knight Frames for your all around types,) picking a play style and equipping parts that complement them are a key aspect of succeeding in your battles. From there, players can equip two weapons, which adds to the depth. Do you equip a melee weapon and a long range firearm? Or do you equip a shield instead for extra defensive power? Or do you just equip two melee weapon types so you can switch on the fly and keep your opponent guessing? This aspect of the game is where LBX really shines, offering what feels like a huge amount of customization options, especially when it comes to the extensive post game content after the 25-30 hour story mode is cleared.

Battles themselves are fairly straightforward, adopting RPG elements to go with the real time action mechanics. Taking place within a variety of terrains inspired by cities, forests and canyons to name a few, using cover in between long range attacks as you close in for the big melee damage seems to be the way to go in both single and multiplayer combat. Preventing players from getting too trigger happy, each attack costs a certain amount of tension. Once that meter fills, your robot becomes significantly weaker for a short time, so knowing when to attack is important when your toy robot has the fate of the world hanging over it. When in trouble, your LBX can use items to gain an advantage, or use devastating Special Attacks that increase the chances of earning bonus parts if you finish a battle with them. While fights are over relatively quickly, different battle modes, like team battles topping off at 3 vs. 3 and modes where each LBX gets three lives before being put down for good, extends the fun found in the battles.

At least, that’s the case for the first ten hours or so, but when it comes to the single player content, battles are so frequent that they wear thin faster than you want them to. With damage being so high and battles being so short, the set up and loading screens tend to be longer than the actual fights in some cases. Considering that you’ll constantly find yourself fighting these battles, with similar opponents, stages and weapons, and you’ll start to get worn out long before the story sees its end.

This is a similar problem that other games in the genre, such as the aforementioned Custom Robo ran into, since all the customization in the world doesn’t matter when you spend your time continuously KO’ing brain dead AI. Fortunately, the latest game in that series had online play, which let you put your combinations and play style to the test against opponents from around the world. Unfortunately, LBX doesn’t offer this luxury, being restricted to local multi card multiplayer only. Let’s face it. A game like this is more of a niche title, making it so that it may be hard to find a wide variety of opponents who live in your vicinity. So without online play, it might be hard to round up a group of batllers to test your strategies with. In that case, all you’re left with is a repetitive single player mode, where its absurdly entertaining story might not be enough to keep you playing the same battles over and over again.

After an extensive amount of time with LBX, it’s not quite the revival of the robot battling genre I was hoping for. While all of the customization, weapon types and combat depth can be found within this package, it ends up being bogged down by the lack of online multiplayer or single card download play, a repetitive single player mode with easy to beat AI, and short battles that are over long before you’re ready. The well produced cutscenes, sharp handheld visuals and a world of potential aren’t enough to help LBX rise above more than an average game, which I’m hoping will get better with subsequent releases. For now however, we’ll have to keep waiting for another strong build and battle experience.

tl;dr

+ A large amount of weapons, models, items and battle types, creating a wide variety of strategies.

+ The ridiculous story mode that puts the fate of the world on the backs of these inch tall robots, mostly told through well produced cutscenes.

+ Fun, addictive combat, that unfortunately…

– Gets old after numerous, repetitive fights against the easily beatable CPU.

– The lack of online or single card mulitplayer makes it hard to explore the game’s full potential.

– Short single player battles wear out an already repetitive single player mode.

Final Score: 2.5/5

Geekscape Games Podcast: Level 61 – ‘Derek’s Xbox Impressions Round 2 And Other Stuff Too!’

by GeekscapeStaffJanuary 15, 2016

Join Derek, Josh, Juan and Shane as they discuss the last week in video games!

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This Week:

The Goat Simulator ‘Payday’ DLC Looks Insane.

Ratchet and Clank has a release date, sweet box art.

Metroid: Zero Mission available for Wii U now.

Neo Geo Pocket was awesome.

3 new characters announced for Pokken Tournament.

Pokemon 3DS bundle looks unreal, comes with Red and Blue pre-installed.

A Mythical Pokemon is coming each and every month starting in February.

Pokemon is getting a live action Super Bowl commercial

Amazon Prime 20% Discount for pre-orders / new release games.

Derek’s Xbox impressions.

EA Access.

EA Sports UFC.

Rare Replay.

Tomb Raider.

Fallout 4.

Fast Racing Neo.

Baby Watch 2016.

Splatoon.

Nintendo Badge Academy.

Corpse Party.

Earth Defence Force.

Amplitude.

Tales of Symphonia 2.

Tales Of Zysteria.

Destiny.

Listener Mission Objective:

Juan’s baby will be here any day now! What video game-themed name should he give it?

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Celebrate 20 Years Of ‘Pokemon’ With These Eleven Mythical Pokemon Distibutions!

by Josh JacksonJanuary 13, 2016

With all the news surrounding the 20th anniversary of Pokemon, from the New 3DS with exclusive cover plates, to the first three movies being remastered, perhaps the most exciting piece of information was that we would be getting a full year of distribution events starting in February!

After the initial announcement, pokemon.com released the full list and schedule for releasing what they’re dubbing as ‘mythical Pokemon.’ Starting from generation 1 and working all the way to gen 5, each Pokemon will be at level 100 and will be obtainable either through a Nintendo Wi-Fi event, or at participating GameStop stores, depending on the event. If you’re worried about being able to EV train them when they start out at their max level, remember that Super Training and Vitamins can still get them up to snuff, albiet in a less convenient way than your standard training with Pokerus.

Considering these Pokemon are usually very hard to come by, with limited releases before disappearing for years at a time, now is the time for trainers to complete their collection, especially since each one will work with both X/Y AND Ruby/Sapphire, a rare occurance since most events since the gen 3 remakes released have been exclusive to the newer titles.

To make things easier to figure out, here are the details for each event in the order of release:

Mew
February 1-24 2016 at GameStop
Ability: Synchronize
Moves: Pound

(Note: Considering Mew can learn every TM and HM, its lack of a preset move pool shouldn’t worry trainers considering the possibilities with the original event Pokemon are nearly limitless.)

Celebi
March 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Natural Cure
Moves: Confusion, Recover, Heal Bell, Safeguard

Jirachi
April 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Serene Grace
Moves: Wish, Confusion, Rest

Darkrai
May 1-24 via GameStop
Ability: Bad Dreams
Moves: Dark Void, Ominous Wind, Nightmare, Feint Attack

Manaphy
June 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Hydration
Moves: Tail Glow, Bubble, Water Sport

(Note: As the only mythical Pokemon that can breed, pair Manaphy with Ditto at the Daycare to pop out a bonus monster with Phione.)

Shaymin
July 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Natural Cure
Moves: Seed Flare, Aromatherapy, Substitute, Energy Ball

Arceus
August 1-24 via GameStop
Ability: Multitype
Moves: Judgment, Recover, Hyper Beam, Perish Song

Victini
September 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Victory Star
Moves: Incinerate, Quick Attack, Endure, Confusion

Keldeo
October 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Justified
Moves: Aqua Jet, Leer, Double Kick, Bubble Beam

Genesect
November 1-24 via GameStop
Ability: Download
Moves: Techno Blast, Magnet Bomb, Solar Beam, Signal Beam

Meloetta
December 1-24 via Nintendo Network
Ability: Serene Grace
Moves: Quick Attack, Confusion, Round

What an exciting time to be a trainer!

Which Mythical Pokemon do you need to round out your collection? Or do you already have all 720 and are looking to double up throughout the year? Comment below and let us know, and continue to follow us all year long to celebrate 20 years of Pokemon!

From ‘Shenmue To ‘Phoenix Wright’: ‘Project X Zone 2’ Looks Absolutely Crazy!

by Josh JacksonJanuary 13, 2016

Project X Zone 2 is one of those games that you would have never thought could have existed when us bright eyed gamers were used to the idea of game companies being at each other’s throats. Fast forward to today, and it’s crazy when you think about how common crossover games are these days.

Despite its title, what’s technically the third game in Namco’s and Monolith Soft’s turn based strategy series brings together an even wider range of characters from wildly popular series’ like Street Fighter and Resident Evil, to the more obscure franchises like Yakuza, Star Gladiator, and Capcom Fighting All Stars, knowing that all these characters will share a screen with one another is an exciting thought.

The latest batch of screenshots show off some of the heroes and villains that will make an appearance once the 3DS title releases on February 16th. Newcomers displayed include M. Bison, Xenoblade‘s Metalface and Fiora, Ingrid, Ryo Hazuki and Leon S. Kennedy, as well as the returning Ryu, Ken, Estelle, KOS-MOS and T-elos. NPC’s like Ada Wong and Miles Edgeworth show their support, while even non gaming characters like Segata Sanshiro manage to sneak in!

Check out the full screenshot gallery and the latest trailer below. Comment and tell us who you’re most excitped to play with, and if you have no idea what we’re talking about, get caught up with our review of the first game and our E3 impressions of PXZ 2. And as always, make sure to check back with us as more information surfaces!

Windows on a 3DS? Sign Us Up!

by Matt RodriguezJanuary 3, 2016

A member of the homebrew community, shutterbug20001, has created a way for Windows 95 to be used on the New Nintendo 3DS, and it looks great!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu3_X6HcVrI

While we don’t know the specifics on how to get it installed, the homebrew community at GBATemp is already buzzing with ideas. As for me, well, perhaps I can achieve my life long dream of having BonziBuddy on the go!

…I’m kidding.

Sure, it’s only Windows 95, but this could be the start of something beautiful. Would you ever want to run Windows on something as tiny as your 3DS? Let us know in the comments below!

Sources: GBATemp, Kotaku

New Volcanic Legendary Pokémon Announced!

by Matt RodriguezDecember 14, 2015

A new legendary Pokémon has been announced, Volcanion! This is the first Pokémon that is both Fire and Water typing! As such, steam will be its main theme. The only announced competitive attribute is that its ability will be Water Absorb, which is an ability that absorbs water attacks to heal HP. We are sure they will announce the details on how to get it soon; traditional legendary Pokémon distributions have taken place at Mcdonald’s restaurants using the 3DS SpotPass feature.

The Pokémon Company has recently announced that they’re changing the official format for Pokémon tournaments, namely trainers can now use up to two legendary Pokémon on their team (some restrictions apply), so this will definitely shake up the metagame at Premier Events!

Pokémon is a franchise in the RPG genre of gaming, where you assume the role of a child embarking on an adventure from home, and training native creatures called Pokémon to progress through the game. Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire are remakes of the third generation of Pokémon games, Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald.

New Nintendo NX Patent Suggests Some Revolutionary Technology Is Incoming!

by Matt RodriguezDecember 8, 2015

Nintendo’s newest console/platform, codenamed the “NX” is right on the horizon, and Nintendo just filed a patent that is likely related to the technology involved.

This patent in question will utilize “additional computing devices” in order to bolster the system’s capabilities, similar to purchasing an upgrade. These devices may or may not be wired in nature.

The last time that Nintendo tried an upgrade approach was for the Nintendo 64, with a device called a “Jumper Pack” used to bolster the system’s memory–this device was required to play titles such as Donkey Kong 64. Even moving forward, Nintendo developed ways to connect to external devices, such as the Game Boy Advance/GameCube translator cable, the ability to connect the Nintendo DS and 3DS wirelessly to the Wii and Wii U, as well as the latest technology that connects the Wii U’s Gamepad Controller to the Wii U as an additional screen. However, NONE of these technologies pushed off processing power to the additional devices.

What can this possibly mean? There is already speculation abound that it might be extra “upgrade parts”, and will function very much like cluster technology. Without going heavy on details, the PS3’s “Folding @ home” technology can be used as an example, where using the software added your PS3 as part of a cluster with all of the other PS3s around the world to be able to do complex computing to help find the cure for many types of cancers.

I have a different theory, though.

With the background knowledge that Nintendo’s console and handheld departments have recently started working in the same building , I think it’s very much possible that Nintendo may be trying to market its portables and consoles together as a bundled value. One of the few advantages of having a home-based console is stronger graphics, so if, for example, you could purchase a handheld system, but when not in use, allow it to be used by your home console to bolster it’s capabilities, then it doubles as both an upgrade for your home console, AND a handheld gaming device at the same time. This way, you can get extra value by owning a handheld, but not lose any value on the home console if you choose not to purchase one.

Reggie Fils-Aime of Nintendo of America has already noted that they won’t be saying anything substantial about the NX until next year’s E3. Although we’re getting very excited, we’ll have to wait and see!

How do you all feel about this new patent? Is it a game changer, and do you have your own theories about how it can be implemented? We would like to know!

Sources: USPTO, Extreme Tech, WiiUDaily

‘Skylanders SuperChargers’ Gets In The Holiday Spirit With A Special Christmas Carol For All Portal Masters!

by Matt RodriguezDecember 2, 2015

The folks at Activision have prepared a special Christmas Carol for all Skylanders Superchargers players (who are dubbed “Portal Masters”), and we must admit that it’s quite catchy!

Hark! Over There!
Park Over There!
Land, Sea, or Sky,
Dive, Drive or Fly!

Skylanders is the first in its genre, the “Toys to life” franchise. Their current installments, Skylanders Superchargers (available on Wii U, PS3, and PS4) and Skylanders Superchargers Racing (available on 3DS and Wii), changes their formula by adding vehicles into the mix! While Skylanders Superchargers Racing is purely a racing game, Skylanders Superchargers takes the traditional elements of it’s previous games. such as the top down platforming/power-up engine (Marvel Ultimate Alliance, anyone?), and transitions it to smaller racing segments, all taking place in land, sea, or sky!

And heck, while we’re at it, we would also like to remind you that there’s a special Skylander–Missile-Tow Dive-Clops–available at GameStop starting today! Missile-Tow… ha! I see what they did there.

National StreetPass Weekend Is Here, And It Brings A Whole ‘Lotta Hoopa!

by Matt RodriguezNovember 25, 2015

We’re super excited for a new StreetPass weekend that has just been announced, beginning tomorrow, November 26 and ending on November 29!

Streetpass is one of the 3DS’ most popular features, allowing users to be able to passively exchange data between systems, just by being near another player with a 3DS system. This can be used to amazing effect, such as with Streetpass Mii Plaza, where you can gather warriors to play in an RPG style game, or with Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire where meeting other players through Streetpass can get you access to their Secret Bases (special in-game hideouts), and even access to a special mythical Pokémon!

During National Streetpass weekends, you can visit one of many locations with a Nintendo Zone to get streetpass tags. The most common locations are Best Buy, McDonalds, and even Home Depot! This breaks the “traditional” rules of how Streetpass works, allowing you to get Streetpass tags of many people around the country who have also visited the same Zones that you have.

Not only that, but you’ll also be able to obtain two special in-game events when you connect to Nintendo Zones this weekend–the ability to build a home for Felyne in Animal Crossing : Happy Home Designer, as well as obtaining Hoopa for Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire, a Pokémon that has never been released before–although Hoopa is only available specifically at McDonald’s Nintendo Zone locations.

Animal Crossing : Happy Home Designer is a 3DS title that was released in September (that our correspondent El Chucho loves), and allows you to create homes for many residents of an Animal Crossing town. Felyne is a special character only previously seen in the Monster Hunter franchise, and by downloading his content, you get access to tons of Monster Hunter related items for your game. This has been a fantastic collaboration by Nintendo and the Monster Hunter franchise, and although it was previously available through the internet before, it is again available this weekend at Nintendo Zones!

Hoopa is a never-before released legendary Pokémon. It is a Psychic/Dark type that has access to the super powerful move Hyperspace Fury! With this devastating move, Hoopa sends its six arms and six rings flying to surround its foe and attack from all directions, even if the target has tried to defend itself with moves like Protect or Detect! In order to acquire Hoopa, be sure to choose the Mystery Gift option in-game while at the Nintendo Zone.

Sources: Pokémon, Siliconera

Could A 3DS Port Of ‘Freedom Planet’ Be On Its Way? It May Be Possible!

by Matt RodriguezNovember 24, 2015

Looking for some classic Sonic The Hedgehog style action? Look no further than Galaxy Trail’s Freedom Planet. The game is ‘a combat-based platform adventure that pits a spunky dragon girl and her friends against an alien attack force.

If you are a fan of the 16-bit era Sonic games, it’s definitely worth a look–as it uses many of the traditional elements of the Sonic games, while adding its own twists, such as a special meter for certain kinds of boosts and double jumps.

The game was a successful, celebrated Kickstarter project back in 2013, and has received myriads of praise from gamers all over the world. Of course, Freedom Planet would be make for an incredible mobile experience, and during a recent Reddit AMA, Galaxy Trail talked about a possible 3DS port of the title, noting:

The game’s resolution is nearly perfect for the 3DS, but there are some technical restrictions we’d have to deal with first and we also want to think of a good way to utilize the touch screen.

Of course, they also chatted about Freedom Planet‘s transistion from a Sonic The Hedgehog fan title to its own, original property:

Very, very early on. The switch happened when we were still playing around with the physics engine and everything was drawn as boxes and circles, haha. The only Sonic element that existed in some form was rings, which were soon switched out for life petals.

The game is currently available on PC via Steam, and Nintendo’s Wii U, and again, we’d encourage you to give it a look! The full AMA is also filled with interesting questions and answers, so if Freedom Planet looks at all interesting to you, I’d go ahead and take look.

Source: GoNintendo

UPDATE: New Issue Of Famitsu Reveals New Moveset For Ganondorf In ‘Hyrule Warriors Legends’!

by The_aczNovember 18, 2015

Fans of Hyrule Warriors Eagerly awaiting the 3DS port for next year are in for a treat.

According to NeoGAF user Ryce, the newest issue of the highly popular Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu has revealed that Ganondorf will have a brand new lightning based trident moveset as opposed to his current great sword moveset. Just like the new characters in the game, the new moveset can be easily transferred to the Wii U version also. If you want to see Ganondorf’s great sword moveset check out this awesome reveal trailer that was shown off last year. Hyrule Warriors Legends launches for the 3DS on March 25th 2016.

UPDATE: An official scan from the magazine has been uploaded Check out the new Weapon below!

‘Pokemon’ Red, Blue, And Yellow Are Headed To The 3DS eShop!

by Derek KraneveldtNovember 12, 2015

Briefly: Took them long enough!

We’re reeling over Nintendo’s just-concluded Direct presentation, and while we’re all gasping for air over the announcement that Cloud Strife is joining the Super Smash Bros. roster (and hopefully getting an Amiibo), I’m just as excited about this announcement.

The big N has revealed that the original journey’s, Pokemon Red, Pokemon Blue, and Pokemon Yellow are headed to the 3DS eShop, and with one huge, much appreciated change: you’ll be able to trade characters using the 3DS’ wireless capabilities, instead of relying on a pesky link cable.

I haven’t touched these classics since I was just eight years old, so you better believe I’m looking forward to picking them up again.

All three games hit the eShop on February 27th, and I’ll be headed down nostalgia lane that very day. Take a look at the trailer for the re-release below, and be sure to let us know if you’re excited!

https://youtu.be/ZABoeaMm9KM

‘Pokemon Super Mystery Dungeon’ Traverses Familiar Ground With Some New Faces!

by Josh JacksonNovember 10, 2015

For those who wanted a more traditional RPG out of the Pokemon series of games, the Mystery Dungeon series has been the go to series for about a decade. Putting players in the role of a Pokemon as opposed to a trainer who controlled the monsters by issuing commands, this dungeon crawler offers a different niche for the trainers who want something a little different. This tradition continues in Pokemon Super Mystery Dungeon, the next 3DS entry that brings the characters introduced in Pokemon X and Y to the forefront for the first time, with the same game play we’ve come to expect from these spinoffs.

Surrounded by fire? Pikachu better let Piplup take care of things.

In the core game, gamers will once again take a personality test to determine which ‘Mon they’ll take direct control of. My demo didn’t offer the same luxury. Playing as Froakie, the latest water starter, myself and my CPU controlled partner, Fennekin, wandered through a craggy, mountain type area that was full of ground type Pokemon to fight against. Carrying over the rock-paper-scissors mechanics of the core games, this made avoiding danger a breeze thanks to my water attacks being “Super Effective” against my enemies, although PP restrictions still limited how much I could attack before needing to rest or use items.

Each floor is randomly generated as you traverse the dungeons, so no two floors will ever be the same. This means while there are more chances to find treasure or hidden opponents, you’re also more likely to run into unfamiliar terrain that can potentially trap you and your partner. For instance, I kept walking through a strange, purple cloud that was causing my screen to blink. After completely forgetting my years of experience as a gamer and wondering what was happening, I finally realized that this poison cloud was draining my health. If nothing else, you’ll always have to keep an eye out for obstacles, since you’ll never know what each dungeon floor will have waiting for you.

The stories tend to be more in depth than your typical Pokemon title.

Promising all confirmed Pokemon to date, (although it couldn’t be confirmed as to whether or not Hoopa, who makes its U.S. debut on November 27th, the week after Super Mystery Dungeon‘s release, or the unannounced 720th Pokemon, will make respective appearances,) and a story mode that should be fairly deep, not to mention being complimented with tons of post game content if its prequels are anything to go by, and its looking like Pokemon fans everywhere will have their new time sink when Pokemon Super Mystery Dungon arrives in stores on November 20th.

Super Mystery Dungeon promises the largest roster to date!

Which Pokemon are you hoping to run into first? Sound off below and let us know!

Don’t Go Outside At Night In The World Of ‘YO-KAI WATCH’

by Josh JacksonNovember 5, 2015

YO-KAI WATCH, Nintendo and Level-5’s monster collecting RPG that has taken Japan by storm, promises to be the next big thing in handheld gaming. Between its cute, unconventional characters, its immediate charm that we’ve come to expect from the developer behind Fantasy Life, Professor Layton and Ni No Kuni, and a unique battle system that turns turn based combat on its head, it’s easy to see why. But outside of the standard mechanics that we detailed in our game play summary, the evil Yokai have some more tricks up their sleeves. Let’s just say you don’t want to go out at night.

You know you messed up when…

During a recent game play demo, we got to delve a little more into what we can expect from the full version of the game. Not content with just offering your standard RPG staples, YO-KAI WATCH goes full stealth mode once the sun sets. As you’re traversing the streets after dark, the map becomes filled with smaller monsters that serve to alert their big, bad boss when they spot you. If you end up being seen and can’t escape to the next map in time, this hulking, red ogre drags you into battle.

I know what you’re thinking though; with you and your team of Yokai, you can handle whatever it can throw at you, right? Making the same mistake, I dived straight in, using every ability at my disposal to take down the enemy. Except nothing worked! As I watched each Yokai fall one by one, I realized I had made a terrible mistake. The moral of the story? Don’t mess with the dark…

Any last words?

With sections like these to break up the monotonous nature of turn based RPG’s, it’s clear to see how this game has managed to reach the level of popularity that it has overseas. If anything else, this has made me more excited to find out what other surprises the full game will have in store, which will be available by the time you read this. Oh, and one more thing. You might not want to jaywalk either. You never know what can happen to those who don’t follow the rules…

Need a refresher on everything that is YO-KAI WATCH? Take a trip over to our character profiles and get caught up! Will you be picking up the game this weekend? Let us know in the comments!

The Five Games To Play On Halloween (Instead Of Getting Black Out Drunk)

by Josh JacksonOctober 31, 2015

It’s Halloween! That one day of the year where everyone gets to dress up as the things they wish they were and bask in all things spooky. Most of us will be out partying with costumed strangers and making sure they can’t remember what happened the following day, which is more the reason to stay in if you’re anything like me. So what should you play while your house is getting TP’d and egged? We’ve got you covered. Here are five recent games that are perfect for playing on Halloween.

Corpse Party: Blood Drive

Recently released for the PS Vita, Corpse Party is an old school survival horror / visual novel title where you take control of a Ayumi, a high school girl who has dabbled in the dark arts, as her and her unfortunate friends come to terms with the events of the previous two titles. Serving as the final chapter of the Corpse Party trilogy that started back on the PSP, Blood Drive captures that sense of hopelessness, terror and anxiousness when it comes to surviving its trap laced corridors. And if that wasn’t bad enough, monsters are constantly chasing you, all without any real weapons! Think Clock Tower 3 or Silent Hill: Shattered Memories. Don’t mistake its cute, chibi style visuals for going soft on the horror either. The game gets gory right out of the gate!

You can pick up the Everafter Edition, containing a two disc soundtrack filled with tracks from all three games, and a series spanning art book for $49.99, or the digital release on the PSN store for $39.99. For more information on this terrifying title, check out our E3 impressions here!

Fatal Frame: Maiden Of Black Water

The long awaited return of the Fatal Frame series arrived last week exclusively for Wii U, and from what we played so far, it was worth the wait. Fully utilizing the Game Pad as your very own Camera Obscura, the varied cast of characters must exorcise ghosts from a series of locations by capturing photos of them with their spooky camera. New to this version however, is the ability to move the camera in real time with the Wii U’s signature controller, and providing two different perspectives between the Pad and TV screen. Ghosts are only visible through the camera lens, so keeping an eye on both screens adds an extra level of immersion not found in previous installments. Luckily, squeezing enemies into the frame has never been easier thanks to the gyroscopic controls allowing you to rotate the Game Pad to alter your perspective, all while rapid firing shots as if this were a model simulator instead of a terrifying ghost hunting game. Oh, and you’ll still want to be mindful of your surroundings, unless you want to be met with a terrible fate.

Fatal Frame: Maiden Of Black Water can be played for free up until its second chapter, (as long as you have about 16 GBs of space sitting around). If you can’t get enough, the full game will set you back $49.99, exclusively on the Wii U eShop.

Lit (iOS, Android)

Spending money is a drag, so if your spent all your cash on bags of candy or elaborate costumes, Lit might be the way to go. All you need is a smart phone, (which I hear is a pretty popular thing to have these days,) and you’ll be able to experience a remastered version of one of WiiWare’s most memorable titles. From the minds at Wayforward, Lit puts you in the role Jake, a “mopey teenager”, who must navigate the shadows to escape his haunted school using a variety of tools, as well as his trusty flashlight. This puzzle/horror game was a big surprise when it was originally released, and it’s getting even bigger thanks to 16 brand new puzzle rooms and par challenges to test your speed and efficiency. The best part? It’s completely free! Go download it now! You’ll be glad you did.

YO-KAI WATCH (Demo Version)

It’s a shame that the launch of Level-5 and Nintendo’s next big release, YO-KAI WATCH, is just narrowly missing Halloween weekend. What better game for the holiday that celebrates all things that go bump in the night than one filled with demons, ghosts and monsters, all of which are invisible? Fortunately, we still have the demo version to sift through, which does a great job of holding us over until the game’s full release on November 6th. Being pushed as the next Pokemon, YO-KAI WATCH has players befriend the titular Yo-kai, then using them to battle their mischievous, or downright evil brethren. After uncovering the hidden demons using your appropriately named Yo-kai Watch, the game’s unique battle system kicks in. By rotating your team of six in real time while activating special moves with touch screen mini games, players can manage offense and defense in a seamless, fluid way. With each Yokai serving as a different type of curse, like causing people to argue, use the bathroom too often, or feel all around not so swell, this lighthearted RPG looks to be taking the developer’s known charm and Nintendo’s huge marketing machine to make the next big hit! Oh, but while playing, make sure not to go out at night…

Splatoon

Finally, if you’re not in the mood for running for your life, capturing ghosts, surviving haunted houses or hunting demons, you can always sit back with your squid pals! Halloween weekend may be an odd time for a Splatfest, but for those who are going to be indoors anyway, Splatoon‘s latest team based competition decides to answer an age old question: Which is better? Pirates, or ninjas? Until 9 PM PST on October 31st, Inklings from across the country can vote for their side, deciding which of the two historical killers are best! Making tried and true costumes as well as a great poll, will the results finally put this debate to rest? Probably not, especially when there was never a debate to begin with. Everyone knows ninjas take this battle every time. EVERY! TIME!

So there’s how we’ll be spending our Halloween! From the gory to the creepy and the downright silly, there’s plenty of content to celebrate this year’s Halloween with in between all that trick or treating. Were there any games that we missed, or will there be any particular favorite you’ll be playing on this horrifying day? Let us know below!

The Next Season Of ‘Pokemon X & Y’ Features New Forms Of Zygarde And A Makeover For Ash’s Greninja!

by Josh JacksonSeptember 20, 2015

Pokemon.com has revealed some interesting details about the upcoming season of Pokemon X and Y out of Japan, much of which seems to hint at what the future may hold for upcoming iterations of the popular video game franchise.

In the latest news update, it was revealed that Zygarde, the hidden Legendary Pokemon that could only be found after the main story was completed in the Pokemon X & Y video game, will be getting a variety of new forms, (or “formes” as the cool trainers like to call them). More surprisingly however, is that Ash’s Greninja is also getting a physical change! Read up on the details from the official website below:

Zygarde Cell: This stage has been identified as the single Cells that make up Zygarde. Cells do not possess any will or thought processes. They’re found scattered throughout the region. Since they can’t use any moves, researchers question whether they can even be called Pokémon!

Zygarde Core: At this stage, this aspect of Zygarde is little more than a part of the Pokémon’s brain. Unlike the Cells, the Cores are self-aware and can communicate with Cells and other Cores via telepathy. When a change occurs in the local region’s ecosystem, Cores have been known to take action.

Zygarde 10% Forme: Zygarde 10% is the Forme that the Zygarde Core takes when it gathers 10% of the Cells nearby. Capable of traveling over 60 mph (100 km/h), it defeats enemies with its sharp fangs and its incredible speed.

Zygarde 50% Forme: This Legendary Pokémon watches over and maintains the local ecosystem. Until recently, this was the only known Forme of Zygarde. In actuality, this Forme only has 50% of the Cells in its structure.

Zygarde Complete Forme: This is the perfect Forme that Zygarde takes when the Core gathers 100% of the Cells. When the ecosystem is under threat, and the Core concludes that the 50% Forme will be unable to deal with it, the Core takes on the Complete Forme. Its power is said to be greater than that of the Legendary Pokémon Xerneas and Yveltal!

Ash-Greninja: Plus, Ash’s Greninja takes on a mysterious new appearance in the latest season! Ash-Greninja is the form that Greninja takes when the bond between it and Ash is raised to the limit. The strength of their bond changes Greninja’s appearance, and it takes on the characteristic look of Ash’s attire. This phenomenon is also said to have happened just once several hundred years ago in the Kalos region, but it remains shrouded in mystery.

Those who follow Pokemon won’t be too surprised about Zygarde. While hidden legendaries receiving upgraded formes has been a thing ever since Deyoxs in Ruby/Sapphire, and has led to a third version starting with Platinum and Giratina, and it’s clear that this anime update is most likely leading to a Pokemon Z. Couple that with Zygarde’s low end stats compared to Xerneas and Yveltal, and we knew that something was up! Just not that the version we caught before was only 50% complete, (or that it can become a dog for some reason.)

Ash-Greninja is a completely different possibility entirely. With trainer customization being such a big deal in X & Y, does this mean a potential future version might let our Pokemon take up the appearance of our trainer if their affection his high enough? Or is this just a one off anime gimmick to help Ash’s Greninja stand out? We won’t know until a new game is eventually announced, so we’ll just have to throw out baseless speculation until then!

Share your thoughts with us on the subject below, and let us know what else you’d like to see in future versions of the popular game!

‘Ace Attorney 6’ Shows Off A New Type Of Courtroom In Its Latest Trailer

by Josh JacksonSeptember 18, 2015

With Ace Attorney 6 recently confirmed for an international release, it wouldn’t be long until we learned more about Phoenix Wright’s latest escapades. What better time to show your cards than this year’s Tokyo Game Show? At the event, Capcom released their first full trailer for the game, giving us a hint at what the turnabout lawyer has in store for his sixth outing.

Taking place in the kingdom of Kurain, this far off country uses a legal system known as “Futile Trials”. As the name suggests, all defendants are found guilty in this land that relies on mysticism over logic, especially with their ability to view the final moments of the victim’s life to pinpoint the culprit. Thus, this is a system with no defense attorney’s, but what happens when an ace attorney finds himself behind their walls?

The Ace Attorney 6 trailer implies that the next major game play addition will be the ability to examine the victim’s final moments, doing its best, mystic impression of Minority Report. As expected, Phoenix will find contradictions in these scenes, ultimately proving his client’s innocence as only an ace attorney can.

But we can’t discuss the trailer without pointing out its peculiarities. Like where are Apollo and Athena? Let’s hope Phoenix isn’t riding solo here, since I would love to see them develop more, especially after how well the fifth game handled them. And wait… Did they say Kurain!? Based on the theme of the trailer and the shape of the 6 in the title looking like a magatama, it seems like we’re heading back to the spirit channeling days of the original trilogy. If that’s the case, where’s Maya? Isn’t she the Master? What about Pearl? If nothing else, we can almost guarantee that we’ll be seeing the Fey girls again, but how has the Kingdom of Kurain drifted so far from the Kurain Villiage that we saw in the past? Are they even directly related outside of name? Agh, the questions!

We’ll find out when Ace Attorney 6 releases worldwide in 2016. What our your theories? Share them below!

Segata Sanshiro Judo Throws His Way Onto The ‘Project X Zone 2’ Roster!

by Josh JacksonSeptember 17, 2015

If you remember from our E3 coverage, we’re REALLY looking forward to Project X Zone 2. Not that we needed another reason to want to pick up the crossover turn based strategy game, but with the latest character reveals, we’re doing so out of fear of getting our asses kicked.

Alongside Capcom’s Captain Commando, June Lin Milliam, (of Star Gladiator and Plasma Sword fame), and the returning Heihachi Mishima, Segata Sanshiro was revealed as a Solo Unit, which is essentially an assist character. And what better person do you want assisting you than the person who fought Chuck Norris to a standstill!?

For those unfamiliar, Segata Sanshiro was a character Sega used to promote the Sega Saturn in Japan… By any means necessary. This Judo master would beat the living hell out of anyone who wasn’t playing Sega’s console with a handful of moves. Kids, women… No one was safe from Sanshiro’s gaming obsession, (except zombies.) He’s kind of like an Internet fanboy, except he actually beats you up instead of tweeting about it.

Capable of creating multiple copies of himself, scaring the crap out of little kids, and throwing someone so hard, they explode twice, he’s definitely someone you want on your side. But I can’t help but wonder, what will happen when he’s reunited with his beloved Sakura?

Project X Zone 2 is slated for a 2016 release exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS. Want to know what to expect? Check out our review of the first game, and keep an eye out for more news as it breaks.

‘Super Mario Maker’ Stage Coming To ‘Super Smash Bros.’!

by The_aczSeptember 14, 2015

Well, this is a nice surprise.

Nintendo has just announced that a stage based off Super Mario Maker will be MAKING (sorry for the pun) it’s way to Super Smash Bros For Nintendo 3DS & Wii U by the end of the month. It’s unknown if the stage will be free or not, but the terrain and art style will be randomly generated ever time you play it. To see this stage in action, check out the awesome trailer below.

‘Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai DX’ Is Out Now! Watch The Launch Trailer And Check Out The Loaded Limited Edition!

by Josh JacksonSeptember 13, 2015

Hatsune Miku, the virtual Japanese pop star who’s stolen the hearts of weebs everywhere, returns with a new rhythm game for the Nintendo 3DS! With her crew of vocaloids in tow, including Rin, Len, Luka, Meiko, Kaito, the game promise over 40 songs, 100 + costumes to customize your favorite characters with, and a host of side modes to keep you busy when the idol life gets tiring.

For fans of Miku and her friends, you’re probably already playing this. For those who want to know what all the fuss is about, (or just want a good rhythm game to play,) jumping on the first print copy will net you a special collector’s box, a wallet chain, and 19 double sided AR cards. Remember those!?

Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai DX looks even bigger than her previous offerings, and if our review of her latest Playstation offering is any indication, then any music game enthusiasts out there might do well to pick this up. Are you down with the vocaloid craze? Tell us why in the comments!

Project Mirai DX is available now for an MSRP of $39.99.

Geekscape Mobile: Say Goodbye To Your Life, ‘Pokemon Shuffle’ Just Hit iOS and Android

by Derek KraneveldtSeptember 1, 2015

Briefly: Say goodbye to your life, everyone.

Back in June, Nintendo revealed that their addicting as heck, impossible to put down, incredibly fun puzzle title Pokémon Shuffle was headed to iOS and Android platforms.

We hadn’t heard much on the subject until today, when the free-to-play game magically appeared on both the App Store and Google play.

If you’re unfamiliar with the game, it plays pretty similar to Bejewelled or Candy Crush, except it’s way, way better. In the game, “your goal is to clear various stages by lining up the same Pokémon and clearing these matches from the puzzle area. Within each puzzle stage, you can deal damage to the wild Pokémon you face by lining up three of the same Pokémon to clear them. Battle and try to catch the Pokémon before you run out of moves.”

Again, it’s incredibly fun, and incredibly addictive, so go on and give it a download, but be careful.

Take a look at the mobile trailer below, download it from the App Store or Google Play, and be sure to let us know if you’re enjoying the game!

Capcom announces ‘Ace Attorney 6’ for Japan and U.S!!

by The_aczSeptember 1, 2015

Earlier today, Capcom announced that the next installment in the Ace Attorney series is already in development and well under way. While no release date has been announced yet, Shacknews has confirmed that Capcom will indeed be bringing Ace Attorney 6 to the west. It’s also worth mentioning that there will be a playable demo of the game this year at Tokyo Game Show. Check out some of these screenshots of the game. Are you excited for Ace Attorney 6?

Nintendo Is FINALLY Releasing The ‘New 3DS’ In America In This Awesome Bundle!

by Shane O'HareAugust 31, 2015

American’s are the brunt of a lot of jokes, mostly ones about our propensity for larger things. Larger cars. Larger soda. Larger women. So when Nintendo had NO plans for a US release of the New 3DS it became vogue to make fun of us and our New 3DS XL’s. WELL WHO’S LAUGHING NOW?!

Announced today at the Gamestop Managers Conference, which is apparently a thing, Nintendo is bringing the smaller 3DS console to US shores with a few fancy bundles.

Bundle Includes:

New 3DS

Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer

Two changeable faceplaces

1 Amiibo card.

The Animal Crossing New 3DS bundle hits store shelves September 25th for $219

The other new console we’re getting our hands on a special Hyrule Edition 3DS XL. No pictures have been released yet, but it will be gold with the Hyrule Crest on the front. Pick it up as a Gamestop exclusive on October 30th for $199.

It’s awesome to see Nintendo finally bringing the smaller console to the US shores. The interchangeable faceplates are strangely absent on the XL edition, a huge oversight in my mind.

Let us know what you think about the new bundles, are you excited for the smaller 3DS? You KNOW our correspondent El Chucho is going to be getting his preorders in today!