PSP Holding No Punches?

It seems that Sony after announcing such a low price point for the PSP, that they would follow it up with some more info. But this time around, there seems to be a rumor circling around that Sony will offer demos of upcoming PSP games via the Worl Wide Web. This source comes from a developer for the upcoming handheld by Sony. Sony released a statement in regards to this rumor.....

"We haven't made any announcements regarding the process for downloading content for the PSP, so any information otherwise is purely speculation." --Sony representative.

The scheme that is being rumored is where Sony puts demos up on their website for downloading to your computer. Then you would transfer the demos over to the memory stick via the USB 2.0 port. This proposal has a "Ying/Yang" aspect to it...........

-allowing for Sony to distribute their demos to a wide audience for virtually free, increasing more potential in their games sinces gamers will have a first hads view of the upcoming title.

-the bad news is that becuase of the increase in size of the memory cards (up to 2GB), there is a potential for piracy, something that has been hurting Sony.

It also seems that other sources are stating that Sony had this planned from the beginning. But as it stands, its just a rumor til we actually see and hear more about it. Stay tune for up-to-the minute updates on what could potentially boost Sony sales...

SOURCE: GAMESPOT

-MPRUNTY

DemaSked Delayed

The sad truth came today that the DemaSked service will be delayed until 2005. There is much concern among the community as it was previously stated that elements would be avialable at launch.

"Introducing a new concept is never an easy task. Instead of launching the first phase of demasked with limited functionality, we are focusing expanding the scope of our licensee relationships and overall distribution platform. This will allow for increased consumer reach and product functionality. Although demasked will still be a gradual deployment, in terms of functionality, this news gives us the opportunity to convey much more about demasked and it's unique experience upon launch."

"Launching weak would allow someone else to pick up on our momentum, and that is something that has been cause of concern since certain companies have taken interest."
Chad

Chad went on in the Warp Pipe forums to comment:

Das Scotter: I wonder if Chad would be good enough to tell us if we should just forget about DeMasked for a little while, or if we can look foward to more bits and pieces of information well into 2005.

Chad: In a perfect world, not a single detail would be spared. However, in the dog eat dog environment that is the video game industry, that is not possible

Since Chad started working on the Gamecube's online many other companies have taken interest on the service. Now with a much larger service of DemaSked which is expected to no longer manipulate games it would be easy for other companies to expand on an unfinished project at release. (No companies have been identified yet.) Don't think of this as a bad thing, instead think that something much bigger that is coming. Although it is a let down for DS fan, but with recent news of less DS's coming and it only launching 2 months from 2005 this in the big picture is not that big a deal. Keep your eyes and ears open for more news, and I will try to reach Chad for an interview on this subject. If you have any suggested questions please post them in the comments below. DEMASK!

Source: DS Advanced

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Prince of Tennis Release Date

Today the anime based tennis game, Prince of Tennis, had its released date announced. The release date is December 30th 2004 in Japan which will be the last DS game to launch this year. Don't plan on a North American release though, this game will probably be Japan only.

Source: IGN

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Nintendo's Feeling A Little Touchy!

It seems that though Sony announced a major blockbuster in regards to their forthcoming PSP, Nintendo doesn't seem to bothered by the announcement. After the announcement of their first quarter 2005 line-up and the new Princess Peach adventure game, Nintendo decided to inlist the help of a local Nintendo favorite. It seems that Nintendo is bringing their successful pink puff ball (Kirby of course!!!) over to the DS in a game reminescent of Mario Paintbrush. The exact translation of the Japanese title is Touch! Kirby and The Magic Paintbrush. At this point nothing is really known, but some are sceptical that the stylus will be used as some type of paintbrush or even a magic wand.



SOURCE: SPONG

-MPRUNTY

Pokemon Dash Been Dated?

It seems that a local Pokeman website has gotten ahold of the release date for the upcoming Pokemon game by Nintendo for their new portable handheld (Nintendo DS). The release date for the states has beens et at September 2, 2005, while releasing in Japan on December 2, 2005 (what is with Nintendo and the #2?). But as it stands now, no word yet on the release dates for Pokemon Diamond or Pearl.

SOURCE: Pokemon Palace Network

Animal Crossing DS

Nintendo has just released info on their most innovative GCN game now coming on the Nintendo DS, Animal Crossing DS. Animal Crossing DS will have almost the same graphics as the GCN which is very impressive for the little but quite big handheld.

The game will have up to four players going around the same village, and now Nintendo has finally came out of the "no online games" business by saying that Animal Crossing DS is equipped with Wi-Fi Function, and you can chat with people by using the touch screen, and the menu selection will utilize the touch screen also.

Source: Cube-Europe

-Falco8

Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt Screen Shots

Well thanks to DS Central http://www.dscentral.net/ for the new pics of metroid prime: hunters (first hunt) as they keep looking and getting better and better. Enjoy!

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Source: DS Central

-Falco8

DS in a Safe Place

Today Nintendo released more of accessories and this time they were directed to keep the DS out of harms way. The new Nintendo DS pouches shown and look like they will definately help protect your DS from unwanted bumps and scratches. Although there has been no price or release date on these new line of accessories they will probably be worth it to help protect a $150 purchase.

Pouch 1
Pouch 2
Pouch 3
DS Clip

Source: DS Advanced

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Peach DS Details

More details were released on the game that was announced on the game that seems just peachy. Today we now know that the game will feature revesered roles of Mario and Peach as this time Mario has been captured. The game will be Peach teamed up with her magical umbrella, Kassaa, to save the Italian plumber. Although the lower screen and touch details are still unknown, the game will feature use of emotions of Peach that will effect gameplay and possibly storyline. More as it comes

Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

MAD CATZ Has A Jump Start

Mad Catz has already shipped its accessories for the upcoming Nintendo DS throughout North America, almost 3 weeks early.

Mad Catz Interactive today announced it has shipped accessories for the much anticipated Nintendo DS. Mad Catz is shipping products early to ensure availability on store shelves for the scheduled North America launch of the Nintendo DS on November 21.

"The Nintendo DS is one of the most innovative video game systems ever launched," commented Darren Richardson, President and CEO of Mad Catz. "We intend to fully support the system with a full line of innovative peripherals for which Mad Catz is known."

SOURCE:GNA.N64EUROPE

Trash Talk on the PSP and DS

Yesterday Sony just announced that the Sony PSP will be launching in Japan on December 12 and it`s price point will be at a very low price of 19,800 yen ($185). Well, it looks like Nintendo is questioning Sony annoucement on the Sony PSP.

"That's not a game machine," said Yasuhiro Minagawa, head of PR for Nintendo Co., Ltd. "They showed it at the [Tokyo] Game Show without any fundamental game software, and you can tell that it's not yet complete."

But Sony`s Ken Kautaragi is dropping bombs on Nintendo`s new handheld as he praises the Sony PSP, and its franchise as he says, "People who want to play with Pikachu will need Nintendo's new-style DS machine," he said, "but those who want to play our racing game Gran Turismo 4 will need a PSP, right?"

As this handheld war heats up, an analyst from Masuru states, "By announcing an unexpectedly low price for the PSP, Sony has raised the chances that it will fully expand into the market. Many game publishers are now saying, 'At that price, we'd seriously like to make games for the PSP.'"

Well It looks like handheld war in Japan we be close, but Sony shouldn`t count out the GBA as they need to keep an eye on the GBA than the Nintendo DS.

Source: Gamespot

-Falco8

---

Notes from Ultimate Zelda Guru:
Talk about not liking each other. Well, this is to be expected and right now I would have to say that Sony has the upper hand between those two quotes. Gran Turismo or whatever the game is, shall be a better racing game than Pokemon Dash, but I think that Ridge Racer would have been a better comparison. I myself am not a big fan of the racing games unless they offer more than just simple racing, such as a Mario Kart type game would. Expect Sony to be picking out the most kidding games in the Nintendo library for the next few months, as they will try to continue the image that Nintendo is still 'kiddy'. Nice find Falco. GO DS!

THQ on the DS

Late Wednesday afternoon, in a conference call with analysts, THQ CEO and President Brian Farrell addressed many issues. What follows are a few of his thoughts:


'Launch is important, but we’d like to remind people that is the low point of installed base. We’ll be at the launch or very near launch for both of the systems [DS and PSP], but we’ll manage our brands consistently throughout the life cycle of both those platforms.'

'As we’ve said before, we look at DS and PSP as expanding the handheld market. GBA, while it does appeal to a wide demographic, we think its strength is in the kids – aged six to 12, or 13 – category. The DS seems to sort of bridge that, in the 10 to 18 category. Clearly, PSP, with its price point and multi-functionality, looks like it’s targeted at an older gamer or entertainment consumer. So, the fact that there’s two big entries with strong marketing programs going after an untapped segment of the market is overall positive and grows the market, rather than cannibalizes it. And, I think most of our competitors would share that view as well.
With respect to development expenses, what we’re experiencing on DS is that they’re certainly higher than on Game Boy Advance, and the way we’re looking at the DS business model is higher development costs, lower product costs … PSP, similar. Higher development costs. Lower product costs. On balance, the model looks like it works and is very similar with the other disc-based businesses that are out there.'


'We’re supporting both DS and PSP. We’ll support both of them aggressively. We’ll do what we always do at platform launches. We’ll continue to talk to the first parties. We’ll continue to talk to retail. We’ll continue to make our own estimates as to the current and future viability or momentum of both of those platforms and allocate our brands and our development dollars accordingly. Since they’re both relatively unknown now, we have relatively equal bets on the two platforms, and we’ll shift those as the markets change.'

'If you look back to the Nintendo GBA launch, we, along with some other publishers, commanded a premium price point of $39.99 for handheld. And, while not announcing anything now, we’re certainly looking at that to see if that’s a sustainable price point for both DS and PSP and, certainly within the initial launch timeframe, we wouldn’t want to rule out price points like that.'”

Wow! It looks like THQ is pulling out everything on the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP, and I think there might be a typo in there, but I thought all games will be $29.99 not $39.99? Oh well, if they say their games will cost $39.99 good for them.

Article from: Nintendojo

-Falco8

Starwars DS

LucasArts announced today that it will be producing games based on the third movie in the Star Wars franchise. The games will launch for every system including PSP and DS. The games will launch similar to the timeline of the movie, around May 19th 2005. This game shall be the first Star Wars games on both handhelds and hopefully won't be the last. The game will be called Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith.

Source: GameSpot

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

New Sprung Screens

More screens from the provacative game that is turning heads, Sprung. The game formly known as Crush released 3 more screens. The game is making me wonder how 'graphic' this game will be when it comes to what the girl says as 'hooking-up' . Oh well make your own judgement on 'the game where everybody scores'.

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Source: N64-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

New DS Commercial

Another commercial for the DS that will be MTV exclusive shows more of the DS than the last commercials. The commercial features characters from the show Wildboyz. The commercial features two of the characters in the desert equiped only with their DS's. The commercial is alot better than the last bunch. This commercial atleast shows some of the features of the DS. If you have MTV keep your eyes open for this commercial.

Click the source below to see the commercial and the making of it

Source: DS Advanced

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

New Super Mario Images

More screenshots from Super Mario 64 DS have been uncovered today. The images show the multi-player, single player, and mini-games of the game. We all want the game now, but we'll have to settle with these images until launch.

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Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Kirby DS

Yesterday it was told that Peach was getting her own game, and today its Kirby's turn. The pink puff ball that really sucks shall appear in his own game titled: Touch! Kirby And The Magic Paintbrush. The game shall make use of the touch screen and will in all likely hood be 2-D similar to GBA Kirby games. This is all the information on this game thus far and you'll know more when we do.

Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

"Nintendo Unveils New Screens & New Games!"

Check out these latest DS scans. They contain screens from Mario Kart, Super Princess Peach, Another, Animal Crossing DS, Touch! Kirby DS and Harvest Moon DS.

Nintendo Accessories

Previously some of the 3rd party DS accessories were released, and today we have some of the first party ones to show you.

Spare AV Adapter
Stylus Pack

The adapter is approx. $14.99 and the styluses for approx. $9.99. The pictures were leaked today and maybe more will come soon.

Source: IGN

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

PSP News Explosion!

It has finally come, the price and speculation about the PSP and its battery life has been released, and to my and many surprising, Snoy is here to compete, and will do what it takes to succeed in a new market area. The pictures below and glimpses of the two different packages that are being offered in Japan (on December 12th), and soon to be North America:


This is the basic model - $185(19,800 Yen)


This is the ultimate model - $235(24,800 Yen)

But just when we thought that would be it, we are hit with some more bombshells....

It also seems that Paramount and Dreamworks seem very interested in the UMD media for future movie releases for the PSP (more info on this will be announced later on).

The makers of DQVIII and the Dark Cloud series (Level 5) have confirmed a new RPG game in the works for the PSP!!!!

Square Enix also confirmed they are working on an all new FFVII game called Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. The game is an action RPG and is being watched with a careful eye by the man who directed the original FFVII, Yoshinori Kitase. They haven’t released any information at all on this title other than it is being developed. We’ll have much more on all of these stories as soon as we learn more

Source: Project COE

Super Princess Peach DS

Nintendo's princess that is always in a different castle will be getting her own game. Super Princess Peach DS was announced today in Fatismu magazine announced the 2-D side srolling adventure for the DS. Now news on release date or so forth, but hopefully we'll see this game over here as well. No news on whether it will use any of the DS's capabilities.
Nintendo with this announcement is slightly a disappointment as they need to step up and show the DS's graphical power even in side scrollers.

Picture

(Finally not bad news)

Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Pre-Order Now!

It has now been announced that Nintendo only plans to ship 2 million DS's by the end of 2004. No, not to the USA, the 2 million mark includes Japan. Shocking news for those who previously thought that DS's would be bountiful. One million will be shipped to North America. One million will be shipped in Japan, 300 000 units will be available in Japan for launch. No specific details on how many will be available for launch here. Nintendo of America's non-former Beatle, George Harrison, said last month that 4 million units would ship for the end of 2004, while today it was change to 4 million units will be shipped by the end of March 05.

This is shocking and scary news to anyone who hasn't pre-ordered thier DS yet. Expect stores to stop taking pre-orders soon. So pre-order now. I'm feeling alittle worried being in Canada as even less will come my way. I may not even see a DS this year with my pre-order. Good-luck this holiday season on getting a DS.

Source: Gamespot

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

PSP News

It looks like in Japan, Nintendo DS is going to have a tough battle against the Sony PSP.

"After months of analyst speculation that the Sony PlayStation Portable might not make it out this year, Sony Computer Entertainment today dispelled these notions when it announced that it will, in fact, release the PSP in Japan on December 12. The next-generation handheld gaming device will be priced at 19,800 yen ($185), which is fairly close to the already-announced price point of the Nintendo DS, which is slated to hit Japan on December 2 for 15,000 yen ($140).


Of further note, the PSP will be available in a number of different packages. The normal edition PSP package will include the handheld itself, an AC adapter, and a battery pack. The PSP will also be offered in a value pack that's 5,000 yen more expensive at 24,800 yen ($232), which, in addition to the accessories included in the normal package, will come with a 32MB Memory Stick Duo, a set of headphones with a remote control, and a carrying case.

The accessories, of course, will also be available for purchase separately. The 32MB Memory Stick Duo and headphones with remote will be offered at 2,800 yen each ($26), and the carrying case will be offered at 2,000 yen ($19). Additional rechargeable batteries will cost 4,800 yen ($45), and a spare AC adapter can be purchased at 3,500 yen ($33).

In addition, today Sony Computer Entertainment finally made an official statement concerning the battery life of the PSP: The handheld's rechargeable Lithium Ion battery will allegedly last for four to six hours for gameplay, on average, and four to five hours for movies, on average.

Also, the PSP's wireless connection, which follows the IEEE802.11b standard, can allegedly reach up to 30 meters indoors at 11Mbps, and 91 meters at 1Mbps. Outdoors, it can reach up to 120 meters at 11Mbps, and 460 meters at 1Mbps. The range will decrease if there are obstacles in the vicinity or strong electronic frequencies nearby, such as from microwave ovens or power lines.

Twenty-one PSP titles will be released during December, although SCE hasn't clearly stated as to how many of those games will be available precisely at launch of the PSP. The titles scheduled for release by the end of the year are as follows:

Electronic Arts K.K.: Tiger Woods PGA Tour R, sports
Electronic Arts K.K.: Need for Speed Underground Rivals, racing
Capcom: Vampire Chronicle: The Chaos Tower, fighting
Koei: Shin Sangoku Muso, action
Koei: Mahjong Taikai, table
Konami: Mahjong Fight Club, table
Konami Computer Entertainment Japan: Metal Gear Acid, strategy
Cyberfront: Kollon, puzzle/action
Sega: Puyo Puyo Fever, action puzzle
Sony Computer Entertainment: Dokodemo Issho, chatting game
Sony Computer Entertainment: Minna no Golf Portable, golf
Taito: Puzzle Bobble Pocket, puzzle
Namco: Kotoba no Puzzle Mojipittan Daijiten, puzzle
Namco: Ridge Racer, racing
Hudson: Rengoku: The Tower of Purgatory, SF action RPG
Bandai: Eiyuu Densetsu Gagharv Trilogy: Shiroki Majo, RPG
Bandai: Lumines, sound and light action puzzle
From Software: AC Formula Front, mech simulation
Marvelous Interactive: A.I. series Igo, table
Marvelous Interactive: A.I. series Shougi, table
Marvelous Interactive: A.I. series Mahjong, table"

Article from: Gamespot

-Falco 8

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Notes from Ultimate Zelda Guru:
Wow, nice job Falco. Am I the only one that's feeling alittle nervous right now? The price is closer to the DS's than anyone predicted (even me). The battery life is also cleared up, it's not long, but longer than previously thought. I remember when it was thought that the PSP would be $350 and someone on the forums commented its a ploy so that we think $300 will be cheap when they announce it to really be $300. Well they were right, just on a larger scale of course. Either way I don't see many people buying the PSP alone, a memory card, spare batteries, and other accessories will be an neccessity. I'm sure Matt Prunty has some interesting words on this. Feel free to comment below

Внимание, logo creation online tool. советы.

Shin`en's SoundTool program to be used for two Nintendo DS launch titles.

Shin`en supplies music for two NDS launch games
by Falco8

"Shin'en confirms that its DSX SoundTool programs in current plays use finds. The plays Spider-Man 2 of Activision and Ping Pals from the house THQ use this special technology.

The music was provided with the DSX SoundTools and is played at the Nintendo DS with the help of the DSX Player API. With DSX provided Musiken and FX need few resources and permit the developers so more memory for play contents and diagrams to reserve.

DSX is used also for Shin'ens new DS title "Nanostray".

To improve on the Game Boy Advance the GAX technology used by Shin'en around the sound so some title. (example all Tony Hawk title)"

Source: NintendoDS.de (german site)

-Falco8

Feel The Magic XX/XY Ads

Nintendo is not the only one that released ads today. Sega released six new ads for Feel the Magic XX/XY. The ads are interesting to say the least. The ads although are done in Japanese, and are confusing at best. The commercials remind me of the first DS Japanese commercials. Either way it is good to know that DS games will get advertised. The commercials don't really show much about the game. Perhaps it talks about the game, but I can't tell. Are the girls in the commercials celebrities in Japan? Who knows, but look out on your TV for some DS commercials coming soon.

Click on the source for the ads.

Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Japanese Boxarts Revealed

Today many Japanese DS box-arts were released. The boxs are crisp and look good. Many games such as Wario Ware inc. are shown. The covers are not the same as the ones that will be over here, but it is nice to look and see what they look like. Hopefully some of the current Japanese only titles will debut here as well.

Sawaru Made in Wario (Wario Ware game)
Daigasso! Band Brothers
Tendo Dokuta
Mr. Driller Drill Spirits
Chokkan Hitofude
Pokemon Dash
Ubrz: Sims
Cool 104 Joker & Setline
Zoo Keeper
Mahjong Taikai
Super Mario 64 DS

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Sources: Cube-Europe
Cubed-3

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Three DS Ads

There have been three new TV/movie ads released on the DS today, and all feature an interesting motive. The commercials feature two blue screens with a tempting voice in the backgroud asking you to touch it. Then the two blue screens turn into DS screens. This is the basic jist of all three commercials.

(All commercials are in Quicktime format and you will need a Quicktime player to view them)

First Commercial
Second Commercial
Third DS Commercial

Now personally I don't think these commercials do justice to the DS. The touch screen feature isn't even 100% said more suggested. Never mind that none of the other features were even remotely suggested. The least they could have done was have a game being played on the DS with the stylus on the bottom screen. No price or games mentioned either. I really don't like these commercials and I think I could have made better ones (with a budget of course). Although the commercials do seem to push the message that it isn't just for kids.

Also Nintendo has updated its site to include a rather legnthy article and and again all of the commercials and ads. (Click the Nintendo source for the article.) It is good to see that Nintendo is including its advertising of the DS on its own site as it so rarely gets updated with good and new information. Hopefully more will be coming our way soon.

Sources: Nintendo.com
Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Thanks to DS Advanced, we now have the first USA Nintendo DS Commercial. Whatch it here.

EXCLUSIVE: Chad Interview!

Wow this is absolutely amazing. I got it, an exclusive one on one interview with the great Chad of Warp Pipe. I was amazed that he even responded, but better than that I got to ask him questions. Now the interview:

Me: If you would like to contact me at any time you can reach over this AIM or at my e-mail address at ***********@*******.com

Chad: There will be some news either late this week or early next.

DS Update: Would you be willing to do a short interview now?
or even after the announcement I would really like to get an interview with you, please e-mail me if you could set-up a time that would be good for you

Chad: Sure

DS Update: Thanks so much I've been getting lots of mail asking to get an interview with you.

Chad: You could ask a few questions now.

DS Update: Thanks
DS Update: Okay

DS Update: Why is the service called demasked?

Chad: That will be clear once it is released.

Chad: At this time it will remain a mystery.

DS Update: Will games that are simply multi player be able to go online through DemaSked?

Chad: No
Chad: It is not a tunneling service.

DS Update: On the forums you have said that elements will be available on release, but the service will grow, can you be more specific on this statement?

Chad: There will be information about that statement in a few days.

DS Update: Are there any titles that we can look forward to that will be online?

Chad: That's what we are working towards, in a sense.

DS Update: For the Gamecube Warp Pipe was not an official on-line provider, will it be for the DS?

Chad: You'll have to wait and see.

DS Update: With the new jump with the DS will we now see more companies choose warp pipe on the GC?

Chad: Warp Pipe on the GameCube is completely different than demasked and is not a commercial product offering.

DS Update: Will the games be able to be download fully or partly through the service?

Chad: I cannot disclose any details about the service at this time.

DS Update: What is with the demasked videos and clues? can you tell us what they mean or help us understand them? (the last one scared me)

Chad: The videos thus far represent traditional online gaming. Online gaming before demasked.

DS Update: Will we have to download the demasked service?

Chad: I cannot disclose any details about the service at this time.

DS Update: Are the DS fans close with speculation reagrding the service or are we goin to be totally and utterly blown away?

DS Update: Will the demasked service play an imprtantat role in the future of Nintendo( in terms of consoles/handhelds)?

Chad: I certainly hope so. (Not sure which question he was responding to)

DS Update: With the DS service should I go buy a wireless router on launch?

Chad: No

DS Update: When can we expect the first game to use the on-line you are developing?

Chad: I can't say.

Chad: I have to get back to work.

DS Update: Thank-you so much and I was wondering if after the announcement was made I could ask you some more questions?

Chad: yep

DS Update: Thanks so much again and here is the site if you would like to check it out http://bugeyeds.blogspot.com/ it should be posted soon.

DS Update: Thank-you and good bye.

Chad told us so much and we all owe him thanks. I appreciate this so much Chad. Getting back on topic.... Chad told us SO much about the service the clues, and when we will know more info. Atleast he saved me $100 on that router. I hope to talk to Chad again after more information has been released so stay tuned right here to get more on the DemaSked situation. If you did not read the above conversation I highly suggest reading it. DEMASK!

Source: Chad Himself!

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

IGN interviews the guys responsible for Spider Man 2 DS

IGN stopped by Vicarious Visions today and interviewed some of the team responsible for the upcoming Spiderman 2 DS game. Read the interview here.

WWE/DS Strangeness

Should you take to surfing the WWE Raw website, you'll come across something rather strange...

If you're surfing the WWE Raw site, you'll notice a key difference, in various places - DS! Should you click on the wrestler with 'DS' in his name, there's yet more highlighted 'DSs' to discover.





at this point, it is unknown if Nintnedo is using the WWE to promote thier new handheld, or in fact the WWE is bringing their hardcore wrestling action to the Nintendo DS. One thing for sure is that time will tell.......

SOURCE: N-PHILES

Yoshi Touch & Go Screens

Today Nintendo released more pictures of it's upcoming DS Yoshi adventure, Yoshi Touch & Go. It is good to know that Nintendo is letting some information out. The formly known Ballon Trip game shall feature effective use of the stylus and many of DS's components. Hopefully, we will see a video or two soon, but for now we only have 8 more shots of this 2D adventure.

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Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

"Touching is good!"

Cubed-3: "Nintendo today annonced a massive new advertising campaign for North America in the run-up to the launch of the DS and presumable beyond. So, if you live in America keep an eye out for this advertising storm, you'd do well to miss it."

Click here for the full article.

DS Ad:



-Jeremy Olson

Rayman DS Scans

Today more games released mroe screenshots and two new scans of Rayman DS emerged. The new pictures don't show us all that much, but some interesting insight into the game. The current launch title will feature action on the top and camera and stats on the bottom. Although I'm sure your tired of reading this so here's the images.

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Source: N64-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Win a DS in Mexico

Since Friday there has been an Electronic Game Show in Mexico City at the Mexico World Trade Center. The show featured playable DS's open to the public. An admission of 80 pesos ($7 USA) was required to get in to the event. Not only were DS's playable, but winnable. There were Donkey Konga tournaments going on and the winners of the tournaments won a shiny new DS. There were also free DS t-shirts being given out to gamers that was a nice bonus. The chance of winning a DS before release date is dream to many gamers here and make us wish we lived in Mexico. Hopefully we will get a chance to win a DS in the future.

Source: Planet GameCube

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Touching is Good

The new Nintendo advertising slogan, Touching is Good, was released today with gamers everywhere passing a small smirk on thier face at hearing it. The advertising campaign for the DS is (again) estimated at 40 million dollars. The new slogan is suppose to help appeal to an older audience of gamers.

"When you're a kid you're always told you can't touch anything. Touching is good. You're grown-up now, so read it how you want."
Perrin Kaplan, VP Marketing of NOA

Perhaps the new slogan may be alittle on the contraversal side, but it may change Nintendo's current image of being a 'kiddy' company. The slogan is good and true, I like it and I think it will help Nintendo get out of the 'Kiddy' image. Expect to see more DS advertising soon with a new slogan as well. (Touching is Good... maybe I'll try pitching that slogan to my girlfriend.)

Source: Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Sprung Screenshot

Today Ubi Soft released a screenshot of the game formerly known as Crush. The screen appears to show you and your options on the bottom screen and your 'target' on the top screen. From this screen the game looks interesting and provacative. Hopefully we will have more on this game soon.

Click Here for Image

Source: N64-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Chad Watch

Everytime Chad says something on the Warp Pipe forums related to the DemaSked secret I will be here to report it, but here's how the conversation went down.

---

Azimuth: 1) The service is called Demasked
2) You need $149.99 to demask
3) Chad has said that you are Demasked once you get your DS
4) "Demasked" is not a real word

Chad (Commenting on Azimuth's 3rd point): That's funny, I don't recall saying that.

.tey t'now I ,oN ".redrah siht ekam t'nod esaelp" yas uoY .dednimer eb ot tnaw t'nod I dna ,nettogrof eb ot tnaw I

---

'.tey t'now I ,oN ".redrah siht ekam t'nod esaelp" yas uoY .dednimer eb ot tnaw t'nod I dna ,nettogrof eb ot tnaw I'
is
'I want to be forgotten, and I don't want to be reminded. You say "Please don't make this harder." No, I won't yet.'
backwards.

It was later commented by brandnew707 that this was a line from a song by The Stokes. I myself am not a fan of The Strokes, but if you know which song it is from please post it in a comment. The question of when the announcement of Warp Pipe will be made is still up in the air, but I still think it will be after Halloween as the service is DemaSked (after halloween we demask). Still there is no reply from Chad on an exclusive one on one interview... We'll just have to wait and see. DEMASK.

Source: Warp Pipe Forums

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

DS Accessories

Now like every game system there is going ot be third party accessoires, and today we have the pictures of some of them for the DS.

Safe Case
The safe case is an aluminum case that goes around your DS when your not using it to protect it from unwanted bumps and stratches. The safe case also comes with auto locking panel and a carrying strap.

Leather Case
If the aluminum is alittle on the bulky side for you than the leather case may fit your style. Although it is not as pertective it is smaller and still helps protect your DS.

Power Max
The power max is simply another battery charger for the DS. It will probably say that it charges faster than the one that comes with the DS, but you won't be able to prove it wrong unless you buy it. Since the DS already comes with and AC adapter I don't see this selling very well.

Road Power
On long trips you can now charge your DS in your veichle. This will be good for anyone who takes long trips, but the DS has pretty good battery life so that'd have to be a pretty long trip.

Dock It
Dock it allows you to display your DS while not using it with a slot to allow it to charge (AC adapter not included).

Stylus Pens
Now I've heard many people worrying over losing thier stylus pens, but here are some spare styluses incase you lose yours. Three in a pack too.

Game Buds
Simply headphones that are made for the DS. Nothing special, except maybe a larger price.

Safe Screen
The safe screen appears to be a thin layer of plastic to cover the screens to protect damage from scratches. I would suggest buying this one or a generic brand that you have to cut out yourself, but these screens are definately worth it if your using a touch screen.

Starter Kit
The starter kit gives you the Game Buds, the Safe Screen, and the Road Power all in one package. This is a nice kit if you were planning on buying all three anyways.

These new accessories look good and hopefully the price will too. Either way it is good to know that there will be companies out there to protect the DS (litterally).

Source: N64-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Feel the Magic XX/XY Screens

Today some screenshots of Sega's upcoming DS game were released. The images are of both the bottom and top screens which helps us get a better idea of the game. The photos don't really show us anything completely different, but this game just keeps looking better and better.

Screenshot 1
Screenshot 2
Screenshot 3
Screenshot 4
Screenshot 5
Screenshot 6

Although the screens are in Japanese we can still get the basic idea of the game from some of these images.

Source: N64-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

"Nintendo launches Metroid Prime: Hunters spoof sites"

Sorry for the old news, I wasn't sure to post it or not as it is very loosely related to the DS.

DS Central: "In a move similiar to what Bungie did with ilovebees.com, Nintendo have launched two websites that are linked with Metroid Prime: Hunters. I won't spoil anything for you however, so check out the links below.

Orbis Labs

Channel 51"

-Falco8

New Details Concerning Several Nintendo DS Games

I`ll try my best to translate what the news is saying, but you might see one or two missing words, and I could get it wrong, but c`est la vie.*that`s life*

"Here is a resume of important points of these articles.

-Yoshi`s Touch and Go is being produced by the last Animal Crossing team.

-Band Brothers is the same game 'Gameboy Music' that last summer; there was sometime.

-The Nintendo DS internal clock will be used in order to simulate the time in Puppy Times. (Nintendog)

-Bomberman DS will be playable to 8 players. The arena composes of two stories (one in each screen) rest between them by the tuyaux

Brief, several good news to know. More on the Nintendo DS soon"

Source: Generation Nintendo

-Falco8

EB's Predicted Shipping Dates

Electronic Boutique's website has many DS games listed for preorder, but it also has many of the games' shipping dates. Although the dates are 'subject to change' the shipping dates give us a general idea of when the games are coming.

Nintendo DS: 11/20/2004

Advance Wars: 1/10/2005
Animal Crossing DS: 1/10/2005
Asphalt Urban GT: 11/23/2004
Bomberman DS: 3/1/2005
Dynasty Warriors DS: 3/1/2005
Egg Monster Heroes DS: 3/1/2005
Feel the Magic XX/XY: 11/15/2004
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: 2/7/2005
Frogger DS: 2/7/2005
Goldeneye DS: 2/7/2005
Madden NFL 2005: 11/15/2004
Mario Kart DS: 1/10/2005
Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt: 1/10/2005
Mobile Suit Gundam Seed DS: 3/1/2005
Mr.Driller Drill Spirits: 11/15/2004
Need for Speed Underground: 2/7/2005
Pac n' Roll: 3/1/2005
Pac Pix DS: 3/1/2005
Ping Pals: 12/2/2004
Rayman DS: 11/30/2004
Ridge Racer: 11/15/2004
Sonic DS: 3/1/2005
Spider-Man 2: 11/16/2004
Super Mario 64 DS: 11/20/2004
Super Mario Bros DS: 1/10/2005
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005 DS: 12/14/2004
Urbz: Sims in the City: 11/15/2004
Viewtiful Joe DS: 2/7/2005
Wario Ware Inc. DS: 1/10/2005
Yoshi Touch & Go: 1/10/2005
Yu-Gi-Oh! Nightmare Troubadour DS: 3/1/2005
Zoo Keeper DS: 11/21/2004

Remember these are shipping dates and not release dates, and they are just a general estimate. Either way we can expect alot of games heading our way through out 2005.

Source: EBGames.com

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

More Jump Super Stars Characters

"Nintendo has revealed some additional characters in its Nintendo DS
dream match fighting game Jump Super Stars. The game now includes
Goku, Gohan, and Vegeta in DragonBall Z; Luffy and Zorro from One
Piece; Naruto and Sakuke from Naruto."

Source: The Magic Box International

-Falco8

DS is Third Best Selling System

According to Nikkei BP Consulting the Nintendo DS is the best selling system in Japan this past week behind the GBA SP and Playstation 2. Regardless that the system doesn't even launch until December 2nd gamers don't seem to care. It was ahead of the PStwo and Gamecube by a signifcant amount. If it's selling this well before the launch, just wait till release. This is sweet music to video gamers who have thier DS's preordered and will probably make the gamers who havent preordered thiers alittle nervous. Don't expect a surplus of DS's this year, expect a shortage. This news should be a wake-up call to anyone who hasn't preordered yet. Less than a month left...

Sources: Nintendojo
Gamespot

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

G4 Gamers Summit Video!

This video shows a lot of new DS footage including Ridge Racer DS, watch it here.

DS Advertising

The release date of the DS draws nearer and nearer, but we still haven't seen much in the means of advertising on Nintendo's part. Nintendo is reported to spend an estimated 40 million dollars on advertising for the DS throughout this holiday season. Along with TV and magazine advertising Nintendo also plans to have cinema advertising. Nintendo has bought 120 000 slots for the cinema campaign. There will also be a celebrity bash for the Nintendo DS although the celebrities aren't announced its

"to get Nintendo DS buzz going for us,"
said George Harrison (no, not the dead Beatle), Nintendo of America senior VP of marketing and communications.

There seems like there will be alot of advertising on Nintendo's part, but the best advertising is word of mouth. The talk on the DS around the water cooler is up as I have noticed in school a small DS buzz among people.

Source: Cubed-3

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Nintendo Updates DS Games

Nintendo.com recently updated many of their DS game pages to include brief descriptions of some of the games and added some new screenshots. Although we have yet to see a posted release date on most of the games it is good to see that Nintendo is updating the site. The new descriptions and screenshots are nice to see.

List of Updated Games:

Viewtiful Joe
Warioware, Inc. DS
Mario Kart DS
Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt
Sims: Urbz
Ridge Racer DS
Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits
Madden NFL 2005
Yoshi's Touch & Go
Pokemon Dash
Super Mario 64 DS
Spider-Man 2
One-Line Puzzle
Advance Wars
Ping Pals
Asphalt Urban GT
Jam With Band
Puppy Times (formerly known as Nintendogs)

Now some of these updates are more recent than others, but I decided enough change has been made that a post needed to be made. Make sure you check every different section of these games as some of the pages have videos and artwork along with just screenshots. Super Mario 64 DS and Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt both have videos, be sure to check them out. One month left to wait. Enjoy.

Source:Nintendo.com

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Urbz is Pure Gold

Electronic Arts announced today that The Sims: Urbz has officially gone gold. The game that will be a launch title for the DS will be debuting on the rest of the home consoles on Nov 9th and will be the take on the PC version of the game changed to fit a console.

ONE MONTH TILL DS RELEASE!

Source: IGN

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

New "My First Touch DS" videos

Looks like there are some new "My First Touch DS" videos on the Japanese Touch DS website. They will be updating the site everyday with even more "My First Touch DS" videos. Go to the Touch DS website here.

Feel the Magic Sountrack clip

IGN has obtained a clip of the Feel the Magic Soundtrack. Go here for details.

American DS Teleconference!

The DS teleconference in AMERICA went off without a hitch. Nintendo said to expect some 40,000 playable DS units skrinkled around as demo units for the massive $40,000,000 ad campaign they will run this fall.

They upped the amount they will ship between now and christmas to 3.5 million. PJ Mcnealy went on record saying that number is going to be WAY to small. (it's already got 1 million in preorders alone, and i personally expect parents trampling each other and even wives buying for husbands in fisticuffs over this thing.....



Go to N64.Europe.com for larger images.

SOURCE: Nintendo Forums and N64.Europe.com



Jeremy: I will have to talk to Matthew about this but I don't know the ORIGINAL source for this news so take it with a grain of salt. I will try to clear this up soon.

New Staff Member: Ross

Everybody welcome our newest staff member Ross onto the DS Update team. Ross is the guy responsible for the new DS Update logo and some nice speed bumps to the site, in the future he will continue to enhance the DS Update template with better buttons, speed bumps, etc. Check out his website here!

Thanks Ross and welcome to the team!

Ross: "Thanks for this excellent opportunity to do two things I love-- Read gaming news and do website/graphics work"

Support DS Update; Pre-Order your DS through Lik-sang

We have a new ad that suits the site quite well as it is in fact a Nintendo DS pre-order ad. If you pre-order your DS by clicking the ad, DS Update will get a commission from Lik-Sang.

Some template changes...

As you may have noticed the site now has a logo (finally) and you may also noticed some speed bumps as Ross (a great guy) has helped me out by creating the logo and re-creating the sidebar buttons to make the site load faster.

Enjoy.

More New DS Boxarts

I found these pics from DS IGN. Here we have sexy Ridge Racer boxart and the formally known as "Crush has now changed to "Sprung". Enjoy!

-Falco8

Diamond & Pearl

Nintendo finally spoke about the upcoming Pokemon DS games. Japan's Famitsu Magazine confirmed in an interview that the games would be successors to the Ruby and Saphirre versions.

"We've developed many entries in the Pokemon series. Among those, titles such as Pokemon Ruby & Saphire and Emerald are the backbone of the series. We've started developing the NDS Pokemon Diamond & Pearl as the true successors to these games. They will be the definitive entries in the series, so please look forward to them."
Tsunekazu Ishihara, president of Creatures Inc

The game will be another addition to the already multi-million dollar franchise. This is good news for DS and Pokemon fans alike as both will be able to play another great game.
The magazine's interview also touched on Pokemon Dash. The recent Nintendo press confrence has told us that Pokemon Dash will feature a type race mode that will allow connectability between the GBA game slot and DS slot.

"While playing Pokemon Dash, if you insert a Pokemon-related Game Boy Advance cartridge, your Pokemon will become a race course. It will become a fun course in the shape of a Pokemon."
Tsunekazu Ishihara, president of Creatures Inc

The new news on connectability between DS and GBA opens up a much larger realm that can be explored, many other games could explore such features and the GBA slot could even perhaps be used for an expansion pack on a game. Either way the Pokemon keeps coming and no one's complaining.

Source: IGN

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

EA Plans Large DS Library

EA had a confrennce on tuesday to discuss past results and plans for the future through to 2006. They outlined some of thier plans for thier side of the hand-held market.

"We haven’t finalized our SKU plan for FY06, but I would imagine that you’ll see us publish something in the neighborhood of 8 to 12 titles for the Dual Screen, 15 to 20 on the PlayStation Portable ... We would certainly expect to have the kind of market share on the PlayStation Portable as we have enjoyed on the PlayStation 2 and, I think, a larger market share on the Dual Screen than we have had on the Game Boy Advance."

This is good news for DS fans (myself included) and it will definately help us get some good games in our game slots. Although many are disappointed to see that they will be producing more games for the PSP perhaps if the DS games sell well those numbers will switch.

Source: Nintendojo

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Template change

The site may look a little weird for the next few hours as Ross Klettke has been working with me to design some new elements for the template.

Thanks for your patience.

New Touch DS videos

First Touch DS Video

For more videos enter the Touch DS Website and click My First Touch DS. There will be videos of japanese people playing with the DS.

More box-art to gloat over......

It seems that my pals over at DS ADVANCED have been able to get their hands on the exclusive box-art for the game Ping Pals. I hope you enjoy the first look at this box-art....



GAME PICS



SOURCE: DS ADVANCED

DS Update Award

I just recently got wind that DS Update has been awarded Davessonicsite.com's site of the year award.

Congrats team, the site wouldn't have gone far at all with out all of you guys helping out :).

Urbz DS Screenshots

Today some screen shots of The Sims: Urbz DS were released check them out here:

DS Advanced

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

North American DS Menu Screen

Today a picture of the North American DS menu was released.

Click Here for Picture

The top screen has:
Left - US time
Right - US calender and date
Also: there are icons along the top of the screen.

The bottom screen has:
Top box - Mario icon, "Super Mario 64 DS  Nintendo"
Left middle box - "PICTOCHAT"
Right middle box - "DS Download Play"
Bottom box - "There is no game pak inserted."
Also: there are icons along the bottom of the screen.

Could download play mean being able to download demos? Either way it is good to see some North American menu screenshots. Also seeing the friendly face of Mario in the menu. The menu looks good so far. It'll look alot better in my hands though.

Sources: Generation Nintendo (french site)
NDSU.tk

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

DS Advanced: "Latest Japanese DS Scans"

There are some new Japanese DS scans, view them here.

-Falco8

2 New DS Game Box Arts

These DS boxarts are Rayman DS and Asphalt Urban GT, thanks to DS Advanced Enjoy!





-Falco8

"Egg Monster Heroes: Neue Famitsu-Scans"

They are too large to display here so go here to view the images.

-Falco8

Feel the Magic Over Super Mario 64 DS?

"Famitsu Magazine recently released the results of a recent public poll. The poll hands out some interesting results. The poll revealed that 44.9% (164 out of 367) of their poll readers are looking forward to Feel the Magic XX/XY more than Gyakyten Saiban or Super Mario 64 DS."

Question: Which Nintendo DS software are you most looking forward to, or think is interesting?

Feel the Magic: XX/XY (SEGA)-164 votes

Gyakyten Saiban (Capcom)-120 votes

Super Mario 64 DS (Nintendo)-83 votes

Source: DS Advanced"

-Falco8

Tapwave Zodiac Video Test

I am testing out a video service for future use, I used my Tapwave Zodiac for the test. If you encounter any problems watching the video please report them in the comments section.

Watch it: copy and paste this link to your browser window: http://easylink.playstream.com/dsupdate/zodiactest.mov

(Note this video requires quicktime: get it here)

Nanostray details coming in November

In a recent email from a Manfred Linzner (the project manager of the much anticipated DS game Nanostray) he told me that "by November there should be much more news revealed about the game."

So with the United States Elections, the DS launch, the demasked service mystery being revealed, and details on upcoming DS games such as Nanostray, November will be one of the biggest months in Nintendo fans lives!

Final Fantasy III DS

Today Square-Enix spoke about one of the most anticipated DS games coming out, Final Fantasy III. The game is remake of the NES game (not FFIII which on the SNES and was FFIV in Japan). The company said that the game will take full advantage of DS's dual screens and other features. The map and other data will be displayed on the bottom screen while the main 'action' will take place on the upper screen. Although to much disappointment Square-Enix said that the game would not be remade in 3D and would have graphics similar to FF I and II Dawn of Souls on GBA. This is a large disappointment considering that the DS can do far beyond the 64 and the game will use only SNES graphics. No news yet on a release date, but we shall keep you posted.

Source: Cubed-3

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Two More DS Games?

Sources from inside Ubi Soft leaked information out that the company has two games in development for the DS. The games are rumoured to be from the Star Wars and Tom Clancy franchises. This is good news for anyone who enjoys these games. If there is one installment of a franchise on the DS there will likely be more. Let's all hope these rumours are true so that we can see Tom Clancy games on the DS soon, and may the force be with you.

Source: Cubed-3

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Crucial Time For Nintendo

February 2004; Hiroshi Yamauchi

'If we are unsuccessful with the Nintendo DS, we may not go bankrupt, but we will be crushed. The next two years will be a really crucial time for Nintendo.'

I found this quote while searching the forums today and I think it says alot about the place where Nintendo is right now. It's a scary thought to think of Nintendo going bankrupt. That's all I have to say because thinking of Nintendo going down is really sad thought for me.

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Some new DS images

I found them on Nintendo's official forums.

Enjoy!

What do YOU want?

Yes I mean YOU, post (in the comments section of this post) your suggestions of how to improve DS Update. The more people participate, the more likely your going to get what you want so don't hesitate post your thoughts.

Site addition: DS Game Info

I have just recently got an idea from Ultimate Zelda Guru, our newest staff member. He said that when he visited the site before he became a staff member, the one feature he thought would be nice for the site was a way to find information about any DS game with a few clicks of the mouse.

This would definitely be a lot of work so before I start, I would like some input from my viewers. If you think it would be a nice addition, post your opinion in this posts comments section. If I don't get much positive input, I may not implement the feature.

DS is Region Free

Many people have asked the question 'will the DS be able to play with people in Japan online?' or 'will I be able to buy a game in Japan for my DS and have it work?'. From reports today it seems that the answer is yes. An importer asked some of these questions to Nintendo through an e-mail and got this response.

"Hello and thank you for contacting Nintendo,

It may interest you to know that the Nintendo DS will be a universal system that can be played anywhere on the planet. Further, it can play games purchased anywhere. Please note, however, that accessories purchased in different parts of the world may not be compatible with the Nintendo DS you purchase.

I hope you find this information useful!

Sincerely,

Nintendo of America Inc.
Mitch Crim"

This leads us to believe that if online is available for a certain game it will be playable with our Japanese counter parts. Unless a different version of the game is released there (which it probably will be), but still good news. This could link Canadians, Americans, and some Europeans together (and possibly more people). Although the add-ons may not be compatible the games are the major thing right now.

Source:Cube-Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Chad Speaks

Chad of Warp Pipe was online again to pass along some words of wisdom in the Warp Pipe forums.

rpm: I like to think it was just that Magellan managed to span the whole world - just like the demasked service will.
I also like to think that the DS will use triangulation, just like Magellan (and all ancient navigators) did, to find other demasked users for a bit of close range multiplayer fun/human interaction.

Chad: The running joke in the office, albeit dark, is that one of us will die before this is all said and done.

rockmonkey: wasn't it oriignally said that we'd find out in october something about DemaSked and now all I see is stuff about we'll find out an element of it at launch.
If the schedule was pushed back why would that interfere with spilling the beans to the public?
not complaining, I actually enjoy the mystrey aspect of it all, but I imagine before nov. 21 comes around I'll be more then going crazy with anticipation.

TheGooseyOne: that would be a very dumb move. Chad and the crew need to dish out some info like the promised, because it is officially "mid-October" now. If they go back on that promise, who's to say there are other things they might go back on?
Plus, how hard is it to release just a little sneak-preview off it. We don't want all the info...okay yes we do, but all we need is a little info to tie us over to late November.
They should keep their promise, if not a lot of interest will be lost by 11/21

Chad: I don't remember promising to do anything in October.

GaimeGuy: Hate to say it guys, but he's right. It was Dean who said you'll know mid october. :/


Now this doesn't tell us half as much as the last post, but anytime Chad is willing to speak I am willing to listen. Still no reply from him giving us and exclusive interview.... Either way we await the Warp Pipe announcement. DEMASK

Source:Warp Pipe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

G4 Meets the DS

Nintendo recently stopped by the G4 office to let the G4 staff play around with their new handheld the Nintendo DS. See their impressions here.

Nintendo DS Accessories in the Box

In Electronic Boutique there are empty DS boxes that say the DS's technical specs and what's included in the box. The box states that the DS "Comes with AC Adapter,A Wrist Strap,and 2 Stylus". This is good news for all that were worried about losing the stylus or dropping the DS. Hopefully we'll have some more surprises yet.

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

DS Pre-Order Bonus?

Reports are coming in that Toys r' Us in Canada are giving $50 off to anyone who preorders a DS. The pre-order bonus turned out to be 100% false and you have to put a $50 deposit on the game and then you will have to pay another $150 (totalling $200, the CND price). RUMOUR BUSTED! I felt a need to post this so that people don't go out spreading rumours that Canada is getting some amazing deal.

Rumour from: Nintendo Forums
Rumoured Proved False by Me calling my Toys R' Us (in Canada)

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Viewtiful Joe DS information revealed

IGN
"As promised last week, Capcom development studio Clover Studios has updated its website with first hints at what we can expect from Viewtiful Joe on the NDS. This update is a part of the studio's look at game development, now in its thirteenth issue on the site.

According to the developer, we can expect an action game to form the core of the title, although this time around the game won't take place in Movie Land. A new character of significant importance to the Viewtiful Joe world will make an appearance in the title.

The twin screen and touch panel features of the NDS will be put to use. Each screen will be used differently, but their content will be very closely related. The use of the screens is said to be in line with Viewtiful Joe's movie theme. The stylus will be used in the most simplest of ways, although its use will apparently fit in perfectly with the Viewtiful Joe world.

If all of this seems vague, it's because Clover has just started work on the game. The team is not sure if everything they're considering can actually be realized in the final product.

A tiny mosaic screenshot of Joe on DS has been released by the team. Can you figure out what's happening on the twin screens?"



-Falco8

Chad of Warp Pipe Talks on the Forums

Today Chad was feeling very talkative on the forums and it was open question night for everyone. Here is how the conversation went:

Chad: I'm not sure what the worry is about. The DS will go online. The PSP will also go online, but I have yet to see any first generation online launch titles. I'd advise you to calm down and play some Paper Mario.

bonez: yea but how many ds games will go online? thats the one thing im worried about, sure at least 1 or 2 games will go online but will online gaming truly be part of the ds?

Chad: That is up to third parties, consumer demand, and countless other factors. As most of you should know, I'm doing my best to make sure there is maximum market saturation.

dsdiesony: what about 1st party?

Chad: Obviously.

Chad: Don't expect something as early as Metroid Prime: Hunters to be online.

Azimuth: We found out that the DS would be going online in May...

Chad: Honestly, this is not the place to attempt to spread rumor.

Chad: You will know all about demasked by November 21, 2004.

Chad:I feel chatty. Does anyone have any questions?

Rasterscan: Will Pictochat be online?

Chad: Could pictochat connect to a wifi hotspot down the line? Possibly. Will this functionality come right out of the box? Probably not. I honestly don't know. Online pictochat could be possible with a firmware upgrade.

Mildoe: This is a question towards Chad. Seeming that you already have had your hands on a DS. Can you tell me if the Ds is able to get a secure connection to Wireless LAN? I want to get a wireless LAN at home, but I don't want other people stealing my bandwidth. So does it allow a secure connection?

Chad: Mildoe, that depends on the software utilizing the hardware. As for the other question, I cannot answer that.

starfox4forever9: heres a question its cool though if u cant answer it but r u the only 1 makine a wi-fi service for the ds or is nintendo also making a service for there upcoming handheld?

Chad: Who said we were making a wifi service for the DS?

DaKid: small question that I'll be suprised if I get the answer too... Is Demasked going to be used in any way, shape or form in conjunction with Animal Crossing DS?

Chad: That's up to you. I will certainly use it in conjunction with Animal Crossing DS.

NintendoFreak: What games should we keep an eye on? Anything specific on launch?

Chad: At this point it's all about buying the games that interest you. This will remain the case, but things will slightly change down the road as things evolve. Demasked is an evolution, the egg is about to hatch soon. Let the dinosaur grow with you.

tehretadr: all i know is that we will KNOW about demasked november 21st....and chad said no games will have online connectivity for a while.....so prob not..

Chad: An element of the demasked service will also be available in North America (US and Canada) on November 21st.

CubePipeWarper: Element meaning just a taste, right? We'll know what Demasked is, but not the whole story?

Chad: You'll know, more or less, what demasked is all about, but you will only be able to access the first element of the service. Again, it is an evolution that will grow with you.

As for the person wondering if you should buy a DS. If you are that clueless, why waste your time wondering about demasked? Buy the DS.

FireEmblem87: @ Chad, Since you are feeling chatty, could you please confirm whether it will connect at hotspots when it finally goes online, or if it will have some other sort of connection to the net?

Chad: The DS uses 802.11 technology, you do the math.

HieBieJieBie: Should i get a Wi-Fi card for my PC due to the announcements on nov 21st?

Chad: That would be a waste of cash.

Mildoe: Chad, how about the importers amongst us, like me. I know a whole lot of Dutch guys are going to import it, will the service be available in EU?

Chad: As stated previously, the service will be available in Europe Q1 / 2 of 2005. It will launch in Japan Q4 of this year. Hong Kong and Taiwan TBD.

EMUGOD: CHAD!!! hi. I need to know this, my sanity relies on it. Will any DS game be able to have multiplayer with other DS' using the DemaSked service? Mainly, Rakugaki Kingdom (Magical Pengel DS)?

Chad: All multiplayer DS games will utilize at least one element of demasked with select games utilizing various other features.

Chad: Demasked will be free. With that said, I'm going back to work for the night. No spam.

chuy29: Has Demasked Gone throught a lot of Changes? IS Dean not that well Informed? Im asking this because Dean said Mexico would get the service at the time the ds hitted stores here, but today I asked Chad and he said "To Be Determined"

Maybe TBD means when the ds hits stores here.anyway

Chad: I think there are still a lot of people who think they are in the know, but are simply very confused. Dean still isn't completely aware of demasked's capabilities. He is a writer at n-sider who will be breaking the story when the time comes.

The only people in charge of setting demasked policy are the employees of Warp Pipe Technologies. This does not include Dean.

ME(Ultimate Zelda Guru): Chad i would appreciate it if you answered my Q but an understand if you dont. Will demasked be able to minipulate First party multi player to go online similar to the gc?

Chad: No manipulation, tunneling or anything even close to a workaround. demasked will be an easy to use, consumer friendly service.

Chad: I'm 99.99% sure there will be zero online titles for launch. I want to clear up any misconceptions from people hoping for online titles right off the bat. Take this as a positive thing, something far greater is on it's way. Something with meaning, something that will grow with you, something you will call your own.

L in K 2 6: Sounds awesome. I probably wont get ds until we get online.

Chad: Why isolate yourself? demasked!

L in K 2 6: Oh, I'll be demasked(I hope). I might as well wait till i can use it though.

Chad:You can use it on November 21st. demasked and preorder your DS!

Chad:Ok, I'm back to work for real this time. Have a goodnight all.


I also asked Chad if he would be willing to do an interview and so far have gotten no reply. This gives us many clues to the DemaSked secret. Now Chad dropped ALOT of hints on what the DemaSked program will do and we know that the announcement will come by the 21st, which is a good thing. Why the service is called DemaSked, we still don't know. I'll post the info as it comes. Please feel free to comment, and DEMASK!

Source:Warp Pipe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Nintendo DS boot menu revealed

Our friends at Cubed-3 got their hands on some Nintendo DS boot menu images. View them here.

Nintendo DS Advertising

Nintendo has released an ad that is some what sexually suggestive. The new ad is drawing peoples eyes and is directed to an older audience. Although it is not widely spread yet, the ad could be the first of many. The ad is making some of the more traditional Nintendo players to question this ad and wondering if Nintendo has taken the right approach to this. Many look to this ad as a positive to help show that the DS will be more adult interactive rather than have a 'kiddy' look like the Gamecube. Either way it is good to see that the DS is advertising.

Page 1
Page 2

This is what the writing on the ad says:
HOW TO SCORE

Ready to take your game to the next level? Start listening to her needs, playa!

What She Wants
If you want to make her happy, just read between the lines-Nintendo DS will show you the way.

She says... 'Two is always better than one.'
DS Delivers Dual Screens. Get in on twice the action with two backlit color LCD screens that produce amazing 3d graphics.

She says... 'I love a man with a soft, sensitive touch.'
DS Delivers Touch-Screen Technology. Use the included stylus or even your finger to manipulate games in ways you never imagined. (Select games only.)

She says... 'If you listen, I'll tell you what I like.'
DS Delivers Voice-Recognition Capabilities. Talk to a game and have it do your bidding. It's possible with the built-in microphone. (Select games only.)

She says... 'It doesn't matter if you're young or old.'
DS Delivers Backward Compatibility. Play Nintendo DS games or your favorite Game Boy Advance games. Old school? New school? Your call.

She says... 'I want to feel a connection even when we're apart.'
DS Delivers Wireless Gaming. Kick the sorry butts of up to 16 people at a time with local wireless, and even more with WiFi ...no strings attached. (Select games only.)

She says... 'Believe it or not, sometimes smaller is better!'
DS Delivers Compact Size. All these features are packed into a machine you can take anywhere, so you're always ready to get your game on... anytime, anyplace.

Source: Cubed-3

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

F-Zero DS?

Dream of Studios has announced that they are making a futuristic racing game called Space eXploration Rally. Not much is known about the game except the below art which looks to be an F-Zero game. Although no connection between F-Zero and the game have been made by the concept are many rumours are flying that this could be the first F-Zero DS game. The four player game that is being published by Atari has not released much info on this game. Hopefully more info will come soon.



Source: DS Advanced

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Rumor: DS Playable Before Nov. 21st?

"An IGN message board user claims to have recently called his local Gamestop asking when they will receive Nintendo DS Public Kiosks, the Gamestop employee claims to have recently talked to an Nintendo representative, who told her Gametop (and other major retailers) would be getting them within a week from now (which will be the 20th of October)."

Falco8 says: I`ll try to e-mail Nintendo about this, if it is true or if it is a hoax.

-Falco

Jeremy: I really doubt you will have much luck with Nintendo.

In-depth Impressions of The Nintendo DS!!!

A japanese website by the name of Quiter has stumble upon some great infomation in regards to the Nintendo DS, its set-up menu, and some vivid pictures of the DS and its packaging.......I hope you guys enjoy. Just a little side note, the impression comes from a japanese website, so the translation may be off. (translated by Alta Vista)


Nintendo DS Impressions

"The DS is small, and has the high-class impression those which are close to the toy are felt. But because as for weight extremely ズッシリ and content have been plugged, you feel that the machine is not a toy here. When the power is turned on, the logograph of NINTENDO DS CM in the upper picture appears, long haul plays to the touch screen and, the note kind of writing which is useless, appears, in next to the title picture as indicated. The speed of the startup is not different from the GameBoy.

Display does not change the present portable machine large doing, display the fact that you play prickly with the feeling small touch pen is the impression which is done very little by little. Little by little in bad sense and the feeling perhaps you probably can taste with only the portable machine, very being feeling to be good, it does. PSP which it has been about to have the force of the game machine for home the extent which is surprised quite it is opposite.

' Nintendo 64DS ' graphics of the part of Nintendo 64 texture being the feeling which is weak in comparison with 64 to do, it does, but it seems that polygon becomes detailed. It can enjoy the unique operation with touch panel such as the movement by the pen, but the air where the person who used the cruciform key and the button is appealing. ' For you if it can die (I would die for you?), ' is a mini- game collection. In addition ワリオ handling the mini- game which has the unique atmosphere which is different the story keeps developing. Furthermore ファミ of November 12th sale it seems that image enters into プロモ DVD of the supplement. ' ポケモンダッシƒ… ' when sends ピカッチƒ…ウ the pen can be sent in the direction which wants, it runs also ピカチƒ…ウ.

' ヒトフデ ' it is the puzzle game whose simple tempo of 3800 Yen is good. Reversing the black piece with the brief note writing, when it collects to identical color, block going out, new block falls from above. If one it touches, because you understand, directly what kind of game, because with モック of the shop front it is good even in 1 minute, we should touch probably. ' Pac Pix ' Is a game where the pack man whom you draw eats the ghost. ムチャ also the pack man of shape recognizes extremely. When the wall is written, it meaning that the pack man bends, it does, but for example when from above you write under, when under/from under you write on, it bends on.

Temporarily it is this extent. As Touch DS and the promotion done, if 1 time it touches, charm understands, probably will be. Being to be such a DS, putting in place the machine which you can experience in the shop front, it is thrown to the end of year trade war.

The kind of air which is the Nintendo Co. prejudice which ever since 64 is not felt does in DS. When it touches, it stops wanting to speak thought to the person directly. When 15000 Yen you hear with this, that it stops wanting to doubt whether the ほ it is with it is good. It is to be put on Nintendo Co. even with hypnosis, or, "the っ げ ぇ which is done we want",

The facts of DS which is known for the first time
When the sleep mode which closes the cover, you open, waiting it is not with directly recovery.
When power is turned on, way the logographic appearance of NITENDO DS CM way in the upper picture, long haul you do not play under, the note writing.
GBA it selects starting from the substance menu.
GBA as for the software the upper picture and it indicates with lower picture either one, selective possibility
As for the software case of DS with the case like the PS2 software, there is a space which can insert the GBA software
The calendar and the clock indicate in the menu.
Modification of the color of the menu screen is possible.
In substance your own nickname and birthday register possibility.
End of year beginning of the year domestic 135 ten thousand the units are anticipated."

IMAGES









(Note from Jeremy: I modified the text arrangement and some wording to make the article easier to read. Some of the paragraphs I left untouched as I am not exactly sure what they are getting at, if anybody has an idea; email me here

Urbz+iTunes

It was announced that for the first 700 000 buyers of The Sims: Urbz will recieve a card that allows the buyer to download four free Black Eyed Peas songs off iTunes. The card also allows them to hear the song Let's Get It Started in simlish (sim language). The Black Eyed Peas, who are actually in the game, feature thier songs along with game with a never before heard song in English. The songs are a nice bonus to anyone who is planning on buying the game and it is also aimed to get more people buying music off iTunes. A wise marketing strategy, and a cool game with it.

Source:Gamespot
IGN

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Azure Has Two More Games On The Way

Azure today announced two more games for the DS: Cool 104 Joker, and Setline will be released along side the DS in Japan. Both games are something new that has not been mentioned on the DS games announced. Cool 104 Joker will be a one player card game using two decks of cards (hence 104), the game will be strategy based some what. Setline is two player optional game using hexagons and patterns to try and earn points. Both games will be in a series being released by Azure, the series is translated to Make Your Brain Sweat. Both games may help people with gambling skills and strategy on the whole. The two puzzle games will be the first on the DS with Nintendo's One Line puzzle, and although there is no announcement of a North American release date we hope to hear one soon. Both games are directed to adults and may be too difficult for children to play. The games will feature use of the touch screen and controls will be quite simple. Expect to see more of these games in this series in Japan. Go to Gamespot for details on how each game will exactly be played.


Source:Gamespot
Azure

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

"Mystical Ninja DS set for April in Japan" (Scroll down for screens)

Gamespot: "According to Nintendo's official Japanese Web site, Konami will release Ganbare Goemon, an action adventure game for the Nintendo DS, in April 2005 in Japan. The long-running series is known in the West as Legend of the Mystical Ninja.

The Nintendo DS version of Ganbare Goemon will feature graphics styled like Japanese brush paintings. For the bulk of the adventure, the bottom screen will cover player movement in the gameworld, while the top screen will display character portraits, dialogue boxes, and lists of shopkeepers' wares, among other things.

As Goemon moves around on the lower screen, the player will notice various gimmicks and other items scattered about, all of which can be activated with the touch screen. In battle, Goemon fights enemies by whacking them with his traditional tobacco pipe, though players can select different weapons with the L and R buttons. Special event battles, as featured in previous Mystical Ninja titles, will let the player control a giant Goemon robot. The touch screen is used as a remote control, and the robot's movement can be seen on the top screen.

No US release plans have been announced for Ganbare Goemon, although a number of previous games in the series have been released in North America."

Jeremy: To follow up on the post, here are some screenshots from the game.

New DS games Box Art revealed

We have five new DS boxart, thanks to Nintendojo http://www.nintendojo.com

Madden DS
Feel the Magic
Tiger Woods
Urbz


-Falco8

Warp Pipe Announcement Delayed

Yesterday we expected news from the people at warp pipe (warppipe.com), but the news never came. The predicted announcement was that they would be introducing an online program for the DS and GC that would be supported by certain games. There is no news on a reschedule for the announcement, it could be today, tomorrow or never. Chad announced that the announcement would be made after we demasked, but before we carved the turkey, this infromation leads many to believe we won't hear an announcement till November. Yesterday being Canada's Thanksgiving many expected the announcement. Hopefully we can find out what they have up thier sleeves soon.


-Ultimate Zelda Guru

User Question: DS Backlight?

David Mota asks: "GBA SP had a button which lit the screen, judging from the pictures, i don't see an extra button. But will the DS screen be bright enough for night like the Game Gear was?"

Answer from Jeremy Olson: "Both the DS' screens have a backlight just like the GBA SP but the question is if or how you can turn it on and off. We do know that the DS will have a built in sleep mode feature to save power and Nintendo may use this to justify not having the option to turn the backlight off. But it is also possible that Nintendo will let you turn the backlight on and off using the touch screen in some way."

If anyone has an answer to the question, email me here.

Nintendo Planning to Connect DS to the World Wide Web

We all know that Warp Pipe will be make a online network for the DS, but is Nintendo is now confirming that the DS can go online?


"After Miyamoto-san talked about connectivity with the DS, he dropped another bomb (this one is probally nuclear) on the audience. Miyamoto-san kicked it off by saying 'Square Enix is famous for Internet gaming, well we`re planning to connect the DS to the internet, so I`m wondering if Square Enix isthinking of anything in this vein.'

While the audience stood there shocked, Square Enix producer, Akitoshi Kawazu replied, 'I`m not sure if we can just bring our Internet games directly to the DS, since that would be rather difficult, and a lot of people are still saying that the barrier to playing network [video games] is too high. But I`m hoping that the DS will help lower that threshold, by bringing mobile gaming to the DS.'

Could this meanthat Nintendo is going to go fully online with DS? Does this mean that Square Enix will port its mobile gaming? Stay tuned for more!"

Update:

Perrin Kaplan:"802.11b wireless will take you to the Internet [on DS] and you`ll be able to connect that way. Nintendo is not opposed to online. I think people have this perception that Nintendo does not support online. We support businesses that are profitable. We don`t agree with charging a monthly fee to be online. This wireless and will work without you having to pay monthly fee"

DS Advanced

-Falco8

More Nintendo conferences

On Wednesday and Thursday (13th and 14th) Nintendo will have two more press confrences outlining thier holiday strategy. The confrence will show new hardware (DS) and new games such as Mario Party 6, Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, and others. There shall be more minor DS announcements as the days roll by (possibly box arts and other things). The confrence is geared towards retailers and there will be DS's open for testing. We may even see a new video or two once its all over. All we can do now is wait...

Source:IGN

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

New details on EA's DS line up revealed

Gamespot: "Electronic Arts today issued a press release containing new information on its lineup of launch titles for the Nintendo DS, which will be released on November 21. GameSpot brought back hands-on impressions of all three games--Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf, Madden NFL 2005, and The Urbz: Sims in the City--from Nintendo's Gamer's Summit this past weekend.

Adding to the information released at the summit, EA today provided some more details on each title. "Each of our games has been custom-designed for the Nintendo DS, guaranteeing a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience," said Frank Gibeau, EA's senior VP of North American marketing.

Madden NFL 2005 is "the deepest and most authentic handheld sports game ever," says today's release. Players will use the Nintendo DS' touch-screen input to select plays and call audibles at the line of scrimmage, then drag the stylus to kick off the ball. The lower touch screen will also show off the "field radar," which shows players the position of every player on the field. The "heart of the action" will be shown on the top screen.

The game will also feature wireless head-to-head play, authentic NFL uniforms for all 32 NFL teams, and portraits of each player. A full season mode will complement such unique gameplay options as the situation mode and the two-minute drill.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour will feature such golfing legends as Vijay Singh and Jack Nicklaus, in addition to Tiger himself. Five licensed courses and one fantasy course, all drawn from the console versions of the title, are available for play. The difference is in the swing meter--players will drag the stylus along a curve shown on the bottom screen to swing the club. PGA Tour will also feature wireless multiplayer, this time for up to four players at once.

The Urbz: Sims in the City, a spin-off of the extraordinarily popular PC game The Sims, will also launch alongside the Nintendo DS. While the console and Game Boy Advance versions of the title will launch earlier in the month, the DS version will contain numerous exclusive features, including 24 objects, a touch-screen menu system, five minigames, and exclusive characters--seven human, five animal.

All three titles are rated "E" for Everyone. In the months following the DS launch, EA will ship versions of GoldenEye: Rogue Agent and Need for Speed Underground for the handheld."

Reggie Speaks About Revolution Release and DS Connectability

Reggie Fils-Aime, the VP of sales and marketing for Nintendo of America, says that the Revolution (N5) will launch based on the Sony timeframe rather than the Microsoft one. Microsoft has been rushing to get thier new system out and Nintendo sees this as a mistake. This is not the first time a high Nitendo executive has commented on Microsoft's rush to get to the next line of systems

"Our focus is this: we will bring Revolution to the marketplace roughly at the same time as the competition," Fils-Aime told US website IGN. "We are driving our timetables based on what we believe Sony will do.

Reggie also went on to comment that the DS could possibly link up to the Gamecube and will most definately boast link ups with the upcoming Revolution.

"Could there be interactivity with GameCube?" he said. "Potentially. Depends on the software and accessories needed from a GameCube perspective. But it's certainly possible. Could there be interaction with the Revolution? Certainly possible. Certainly capable."

Source:GamesIndustry.biz

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Brownie-Brown on the Nintendo DS

"The wonderful Japanese-only RPG Magical Vacation has unfortunately been shelved by Nintendo for release in West. It was developed by Brownie Brown, a company help along by the Hiroshi Yamaguchi Q fund and formed primarily by ex-Squaresoft staff that has previously worked on the popular Mana series.

Thankfully, despite poor salesof the GBA RPG in Japan, it appears that the company is still hard at work on a new project after completing work on the Sword of Mana for Square-Enix. After a rumor spread by 2002 about Magical Vaction coming to the Nintendo Gamecube, it has just been revealed on a newly updated Japanes release list that a game dubbed 'Magical Vaction 2' will actually be heading to the forthcoming portable console, the Nintendo DS!"

Source: Cubed3

-Falco8

Box Art and Comparison

Now some of the measurements of the DS can be confusing, so here are some pics to help you see how big the DS and its games are, also some cool box and game art. Also another notable thing is that you can see that it is a reusable plastic case that is similar to the Gamecube cases so no more worries about not having cases for games. It's all good.

Wario Ware Case
Super Mario 64 DS case
DS/ SP comparison
DS/ GBA comparison
Overall comparison
Wario Ware DS/ WW GBA Comparison

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Nintendo DS Pre-site

Nintendods.com is now the newly released site for the DS. All it really says is the release date and if you click anywhere you will just go to one of the articles on the DS posted on Nintendo.com. The site has nothing new, other than a pretty picture. Hopefully in the future it will be updated to have more on it such as DS games, movies, release dates, DS news, and so on.

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Another Nintendo DS box-art revealed

At this year's Gamer's Summit, a tons of Nintendo DS news was announced, including a load of new packaging art for games of the system. Among them was Super Mario 64 DS (which we showed a couple days back), and some new ones, such as the Wario Ware title for Nintendo DS and the Japanese Pokemon Dash, which we now have for your viewing pleasure.



Everyone knows the box-art will be going through some changes before it graces our presence in North America. As of now, no release date is known for the game, but we will keep u posted.

Source: N-Philes





Pokemon Dash Gameplay footage
To follow up on Matthews post, here is some gameplay footage from Pokemon Dash

URBZ DS video!

Watch it!

Madden DS video!

Watch It

Spiderman DS video!

Watch it!

New Warp Pipe Video Released

Another odd video from the people at the warp pipe that reminds me of post modern art or Requim for a Dream. The video is of a person with a hood over his head and a lantern walking around in a basement heading upstairs while a robotic voice in the background says either game, year, or your (I can't tell which one it is) and then a number. Some suggest that Warp Pipe has found a way to stop lag in games and the background numbering is the ping constantly changing, although an online video game with no lag is very hard to get. This video doesn't tell us much, but it reminds us that tomorrow is the day of the big announcement. As they say on the site 'Have you ever wondered what lurks above the top floor?'

Watch it!


-Ultimate Zelda Guru

First DS Advert!

Thanks to Gamecube Europe for the image...


Click here. for a larger version.

-Falco8

Another Pikachu Game in Development?

Reports from Japan point to yet another Pokemon game in development. Mysterious Dungeon: Pokemon World - Pikachu's Great Adventure as it is tentively titled may now be in development. The title points that it may be another addition to the Mysterious Dugeon series. From the sounds of it this game will be an adventure game starring Pikachu. If this report is right than it is good news for Pokemon fans world wide with four Pokemon games that will come out for the DS (Pokemon Dash, Pearl and Diamond versions). The new Pokemon title sounds like it will directed at a younger audience (12 and under) to try and get them interested in the Pokemon franchise and adventure games in general.

Source: IGN

Quote from Reggie bashing the PSP

"Let me tell you something. Those little women at the Tokyo Game Show with those portable consoles strapped to them; what you didn`t see is that those women were having to go recharge the batteries every two hours!' He goes on to say, 'We have gone on the record to state that the Nintendo DS will have battery life comparable to the Game Boy Advance SP. Nowhere will you find any mention of the other mission power life. And you have to wonder why."

-Falco8

Super Mario 64 DS, Not Just a Port

Originally when shown at E3 Super Mario 64x4 (as it was known then) was basicly a port of Super Mario 64 with Multi-player. The newer version that we will be seeing on the 21st will be a much different game. Each character now has different abilities (such as Yoshi being able to jump further), and each character will use hats differently. The different character abilities reminds me of Super Mario Bros 2, but hopefully better executed. Not only are there different hats, but also new items all together, such as the mushroom which makes you big and invincible for a certain amount of time. Many things in this game have changed such as more stars. There are now 150 stars in the game opposed to the 130 in the original. This game will also have many new minigames which will help incorporate the stylus and other DS features. Also certain characters have to get certain stars to give the game a variety. New levels, new characters, new hats, new items, and new stars this is far more than a port and will be worth the $30.


Source: Gamespot



More Images here!

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Cubed3: "DS Guide"

Cubed-3 have put together a nice little guide to the DS. You can read it here.

New Madden DS Details

DS Advanced:

"Brand new information and media for EA's huge football franchise!
Madden NFL 2005 for the DS is no exception to its console brethrens, and will retain everything that has made Madden the best football game ever, and with wirless head-to-head gaming, the DS will surely advance over its consoles counterparts!

Use The NDS Touch Screen To Make Life Easier

Playcall screen
Kick meter
Select audibles at the line of scrimmage
Using Field Radar, see where all 22 players are on the field on one screen while seeing the key action on the other

The Most Realistic Looking Hand-held Sports Game Ever

Finest 3D graphics on handheld
Actual NFL uniforms for all 32 NFL teams
Stay on the field during playcalling
Player portraits for each NFL player

Deepest Handheld Sports Game Ever

Full season mode, with more individual statistics
Detailed player attributes
Fun game modes: Situation Mode, 2 Minute Drill
Pre-game match-up breakdowns

Breakthrough Gameplay Innovation For Handheld

Utilize 5-wide receiver sets
Let your QB scramble to buy more time or pick up yardage on the ground"

SOURCE: EA Press Release

"The Nintendo DS has "Crush" on the Gamers"

DS Advanced: "In what has become almost the 'norm' for the Nintendo DS, Ubisoft has announced a dating simulation game, that unlike SEGA`s Feel the Magic: XY-XX, Ubisoft`s Crush will allow gamers to feel the perspective from both male and female.

Players must engage in rique adventures with hot singles in a Colorado ski resort. Players will have the option of either being naughty or nice in over 50 different mission between the males and females.

Known list of missions are as follows:

-The Sketchy Ex-Boyfriend
-Secrect Admirer
-Hot Chick Scavanger Hunt
-First Kiss
-In DA Hunt
-The Ski Lift"

-Falco8

New Writer: Ultimate Zelda Guru

Congratulations to Ultimate Zelda Guru, the newest addition to our staff.

Ultimate Zelda Guru:

"Hello,
I'm proud to say that I am now a member of DS update team. It is an honour to write with and along side such talented reporters and writers. I know I am joining the team quite late, seeing that the DS will be released in approximately a month. I shall be writing articles on DS game previews, reviews, analysis, and simple reporting. Some of you may know me from the Nintendo Forums and now you will get to see more of my writing on this site. Special thanks to Jeremy Olson and Matthew Prunty for getting me this position.


-Ultimate Zelda Guru"

Here is his first news article:

Nintendo Posts DS Games On Site

Nintendo finally posted some of the upcoming DS games on thier site as actual games to come out. Most of them of them are blank and without a release date, but we can be sure to see updates in the future. Hopefully videos, screenshots, and release dates will be posted soon.

Here is the list

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Info on Advance War DS

"Advance War DS will bring a new type of gameplay into a system that seem to have been built for RSTstyle games. During battle, the top screen will show air based maps while the bottom screen will show ground based maps.

With this type of gameplay implemented into the system , gamers will have a new style of strategic development when players can choose to attack from the air or ground.

Along with a huge asernal of character support, player will be introduced to a new style of gameplay that will have gamers switching between Generals that will be an intergal part of the missions.

Campaign Mode, Trial Mode, and Survival Mode are main areas of the game with a Combat mode that will make useof the DS`s touch screen.

It has also been revealed that Advance War DS will be able to take advantage of WiFi, which could possibly mean to a huge battle between people from very far distance over the internet."

Source: DS Advanced

-Falco8

Two Pokemon Games Coming to the Nintendo DS

"Nintendo of Japan announced via press conference that Pokemon franchise will live on in on the DS through two new games titles Platinum and Diamond. Not much is known about the games (because all they did was announced them) except that they will be released sometime next year. Most likely they will be released in the summer so people have a chance to test them out at E3 and create media hype over them."

SOURCE: GC Cafe

-Falco8

Game Informer: "DS Hands On Impressions and demo video's"

Go here to see the videos.

Gamespot Hands on frenzy!

Gamespot has a load of articles telling what they think of the DS games they played so I decide to put them all in one post.

Super Mario 64 DS

Yoshi's Toucha and Go

Feel the Magic

Egg Monster Heroes

One Line Puzzle

Yakuman

Metroid Prime: Hunters

Wario Ware Inc. DS

Spider Man 2 DS

Asphalt Urban GT

Ridge Racer DS

Pokemon Dash

Ping Pals

Mr. Driller Spirits DS

Jam With the Band DS

Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf DS

Urbz: Sims in the City DS

Gamespot: Nintendo DS hands on!

Gamespot got their hands on the DS, what did they think? Click here.

IGN: "Capcom Hints at Viewtiful Joe DS"

IGN:

"Early on in the DS's pre-release life, Capcom announced plans to release Viewtiful Joe for the system. Then, all went quiet on the game's development -- until now.

Clover Studio, the Capcom studio responsible for development of the Viewtiful Joe series has posted a hint at its website suggesting that Viewtiful Joe will see unveiling for the DS next week. A weekly column at the site that focuses on game development ends with a blurb promising that next week's column will have the theme of the Nintendo DS. This is followed by a statement that asks readers to ponder what the DS version of Viewtiful Joe will be like.

So, we can clearly expect an update from the studio on Viewtiful Joe DS next week, or at the very least, some hints at how the studio will go about using the DS for future projects, including Viewtiful Joe. Whatever the case, stay tuned to IGNDS for more as it happens."

Metroid Prime: Hunters video

There is a new Metroid Prime Hunters video over at Gamespot.

To view it click here and click the 2nd to last video.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf: Screens

With so much news, I will try to keep my posts short and to the point so here are the screens.

Madden DS screens!

Finally, we get to take a look at the new Madden game coming out for DS. See them here!

MUST SEE: Mario 64 DS 16 minute video!

I was completely blown away by this video on Gamespot: Go here and click the second to last video.

Final Fantasy III Remake coming to the DS!

"Nintendo of Japan has announced that Square-Enix will be remaking their smash hit Final Fantasy III for the Nintendo DS. Final Fantasy III has never been remade and never made it out of Japan when it was released long ago even though it is considered to be one of the best RPGs of all time. This game has been confirmed for Japan but more than likely it willmake its way east to North America."

GC Cafe

Falco8 says: oh boy!! this is going to be great day for me!! CAN`T WAIT TO GET THE DS!!!!!

-Falco8

Iwata talks about DS game demos!

Gamespot: TOKYO--When analysts reported last month that the Nintendo DS would support voice-over-IP functionality, we thought we'd heard the last secret of the Nintendo DS hardware. But at this morning's press conference in Tokyo, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata revealed that the machine can download game data wirelessly, then play it back.

"The Nintendo DS' greatest features are its revolutionary control schemes, such as the touch sensitive screen and the microphone input," Iwata began. "And its other major feature is the wireless connection. With it, we're going to revolutionize the way that games are played.

"The DS's wireless connection isn't just a substitute for the link cable that was used on the Game Boy [for multiplayer games]. The DS has wireless download capability, which allows it to receive a program and to execute it. With it, people can play games together using only one cartridge," commented Iwata, citing as one example Super Mario 64 DS' four-player, one-cartridge simultaneous game play.

While game-session sharing isn’t totally new since it was possible with titles on the Game Boy Advance, the DS can do far more. "Although this won't be available at launch, we're thinking of using the wireless download function to change the way in which people try out upcoming games at retail outlets," said Iwata. "We're thinking of a system where people can download a demo program [from the store’s machines], with a time or a usage limit, to their own DS. We hope that this system will allow new potential hits to be recognized by everyone, and that it will help to buck the trend where only sequels are hitting the sales charts."

Iwata also went on to talk about plans to integrate the DS' download capability with theatrical movie releases, starting off with a short mention of former Nintendo president Hiroshi Yamauchi's conviction that Nintendo should enter the animated film business.

"We are absolutely considering the idea [of going into the movie business]," Iwata said. Although we don't have anything to talk about right now, we hope to make an announcement by the end of the year.

"On a related subject, we're planning try integrating the DS with movie theaters. By using the system's wireless functionality, users that bring their DS and GBA Pokémon cartridge to designated theaters will be able to download game data that will be distributed during certain scenes of the next Pokémon movie. In one scene where the main characters meet a new Pokémon, that character's data will be sent to their cartridges. This will be the first time such a distribution scheme has been used anywhere in the world."

(We can deduce from this statement that the Game Boy Advance cartridge slot on the DS must be somehow compatible with the wireless link functionality. Although it is known that the Game Boy Advance link cable will not work with the DS, it seems likely now that GBA titles with wireless support will indeed be able to link up while in a DS system, although this has not been confirmed nor denied.)

While most of Iwata’s comments were based on the Nintendo DS, he assured the crowd that Nintendo is still supporting the Game Boy Advance. “The DS isn’t the only thing that Nintendo will focus on. Ever since the price reduction of the Game Boy Advance SP on September, it’s been selling better than last year, when it was in high demand to begin with. We forecast that there will be over 60 million units of shipped throughout the world within the year when including the Game Boy Advance, and we are anticipating further market expansion [of the handheld and its games].”

Official US launch titles!

Here they are:

Asphalt Urban GT
Feel the Magic: XY/XX
Madden NFL 2005
Metroid Prime: Hunters
Mr. Driller Drill Spirits
Ping Pals
Rayman DS
Ridge Racer DS
Spider-Man 2
Super Mario 64 DS
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005
The Urbz: Sims in the City

I am sure this answers a lot of peoples questions.

Jam With the Band for DS preview on Gamespot

Gamespot: "Nintendo has today announced the development of Jam With The Band for the DS. Described as rhythm-action game in which players use the stylus to tap scrolling dots in time with the music, Jam With The Band will allow up to eight players (using different instruments) to jam together using a single copy of the game, and will support an unlimited number of players with their own game cards--provided they are in wireless range.

In addition to playing along to existing music tracks, players will be able to create their own tracks to jam to simply by humming into the DS microphone. Stay tuned for more information on Jam With The Band from Nintendo's Gamer's Summit."

THQ announces 4 new titles including Zoo Tycoon!

Gamespot:As part of the deluge of information regarding the launch of the Nintendo DS, THQ announced today four new titles for the handheld system. Joining SpongeBob SquarePants (which was announced in August) will be a range of DS games based on popular childrens' properties.

Pixar's upcoming film Cars will have a DS tie-in title, and Disney/Pixar's The Incredibles and Zoo Tycoon will as well. Nickelodeon property Tak will also make an appearance on the DS. Finally, THQ announced that Ping Pals, a cartoonish multiplayer messaging-and-games title, will launch with the system on November 21.

Ping Pals screenshots from IGN:






(preview for this game available here.

Rayman DS preview and screen!

Gamespot: "Rayman, Ubisoft's platform franchise, has appeared on practically every major platform since the Nintendo 64 and PlayStation. Now the popular little character with no arms and legs will help debut the Nintendo DS with the aptly titled Rayman DS.

In Rayman DS, players will take the role of Rayman as he travels through a series of magical worlds, battling the evil forces that have enslaved his land. Rayman DS promises to carry lots of content, including 45 areas that you can race and battle in. As always, Rayman is quite the mobile little guy; even though he lacks appendages, he can still run, jump, ski, swim, and fly around with his helicopter hair. And in Rayman DS, he can jump on rockets, ride whirlwinds, and surf lava.

In addition to varied environments, featuring waterfalls, deep sea caves, and pirate holdouts, among others, Rayman DS plans to us the system's bottom screen by allowing you to monitor Rayman's health, as well as keep track of his lums, which are the little items that you collect in the game.

Ubisoft says that Rayman Advance was one of the top 10 selling Game Boy Advance launch titles back in 2001. The company hopes to repeat that success with Rayman DS on the Nintendo DS. Rayman DS is scheduled as a launch game, and we'll have more on the game shortly."

Cubed 3: "Nintendo DS Network The biggest technological innovation in gaming since the first coming of 3D gaming... "

Cubed 3:

"This is looking like major news, and the whisperings and hints being dropped in our ears. We are not sure if this is the Demasked project or not, but we do not what the project is, what it does and what it means for gaming, and to be quite honest it is amazing!

This news is something that should be breaking across the gaming industry in a few days or so, but we have managed to get hold of a few details first and from this we have been able to work out exactly what is going on.

Ever since the DS was announced we have known that it will be able to communicate with other units without wires, but it turns out that this isn't the half of it. With the Nintendo DS users will be able to pluck information 'out of thin air'. So technically you could download new levels, high-scores, news...everything, from the air around you. No cables, no 'download' stations, just you, a DS and...thin air.

We are hearing that Nintendo will be able to communicate with all DS' in the world to send out updates, requested software and just about anything that they store. You will also be able to play against anyone on any game, so long as you or they (or anyone else involved in the multiplayer match-up at the time) has a copy of the game, everyone else will download the information they need out of thin air and be able to play the game regardless of if they own it or not.

We don't have a clue how it works, but we know what it means: the Nintendo DS will provide one of the biggest instant networks in the world...ever. We recommend you buy a winch for your jaw as more on this amazing news comes out over the next few days..."

From IGN: Percentage Test!

From IGN:: October 07, 2004 - Screenshots, videos, playtests... screw all that! What we all really want is an easy-to-understand number explaining how far along a game is in development. And so we turn to the legendary "percent completion," a number assigned to a game by a developer in order to indicate how close a game is to being complete.

Nintendo has provided percent completion figures for a number of DS titles, and Japanese news site Quiter was sure to share the information with the world. Here's how things look in NDS software development:


PictoChat: 100%

Super Mario 64 DS: 90%

Chokkan Hito Fude: 90%

Band Brothers: 90%

Kenshuui Tendou Dokuta: 85%

Sawaru Made in Wario: 80%

Kimi no Tame Nara Shineru: 75%

Tounou ni Asekaku Game Series Vol. 1 (tentative name): 75%

Mr. Driller DS (tentative name): 75%

Pokemon Dash: 70%

Egg Monster Hero: 70%

Tennis no Oujisama 2005 Crystal Drive: 60%

Zoo Keeper: 60%

Balloon Trip (tentative name): 50%

The Urbs Sims in the City: 50%

Puyo Puyo Fever: 50%

Meteos: 40%

Pac Pix (tentative name): 20%

So it looks like the big winner in the percent completion challenge is PictoChat with its amazing 100% completion! But that doesn't mean development is done! Aim for 110%, developers. Aim for 110%!

Looking closely at this list, we can learn a few more things. Games that start with an "S" have an average percent completion of 85%. This compares favorably to games that begin with a "T," which have an average percentage completion of 61.66666666666666666%. Additionally, games from Nintendo have an average percent completion of 81.42857%, far above the 60% percent average completion of 3rd party games. This means Nintendo's DS games are more percent complete than games from the other guys. Good job, Nintendo!

We expect these percentages to go towards 100% as launch approaches."

DS Racing games!

Here is a round up of some DS racing games screens from Gamespot:

Ridge Racer DS:
(click here to see more Ridge Racer screens.

Asphalt Urban GT:

Spiderman 2 Screens

I found these new Spiderman 2 DS screens on Gamespot:

Gamespot has some DS Updates including:

Feel the Magic: XY/XX Screens (DS)
1 new shots posted.

Nintendo DS Demonstration (GBA)
This movie shows how the Nintendo DS can be used to customize your Pokemon.

Final Fantasy III Teaser (DS)
Don't miss out on this teaser for Final Fantasy III for the Nintendo DS.

Pokemon Dash Gameplay Footage 1 (DS)
Check out the first footage of Pokemon Dash for the Nintendo DS.

Nintendo DS Japanese Press Conterence (DS)
Don't miss out on all the awesome games in this trailer that was shown at the Japanese Nintendo DS press conference.

Nintendogs (working title) Gameplay Footage 1 (DS)
Check out some footage of Nintendogs for the Nintendo DS.

Feel the Magic: XY/XX Gameplay Footage 1 (DS)
Take a look at the first footage of Feel the Magic: XY/XX for the Nintendo DS.

New Nintendogs video on Touch DS!

There is a new Nintendogs video and a new video showing many of the upcoming DS games on touch DS.

Instructions

If you don't know japanese, your going to need some instructions as touch ds is a japanese site...

To go to the Nintendogs video enter Touch DS Website, press the far right option that says "What's DS!" then press the bottom option and this should take you to the Nintendogs video. If any one has any problems, comment on this post.


To get to the New DS Games Video, do all the steps above except instead of pressing the bottom option, press the highest option.

UPDATE: I think I saw a clip from Need for Speed DS in that video!

Connectivity Continues Strong????

What does a new Pokemon movie and the DS mean to you?

Straight from the head honcho from NCL.

"To utilize the wireless communication capability of the DS, Nintendo plans to offer a new service enabling users to download extra data such as new characters from the new Pokemon movie, to be released next summer, Iwata said. You just need to bring the DS and one of the Pokemon software for Game Boy Advance and you'll be downloading some unique Pokemon data while you watch the movie."

Information regarding this new style of connectivity coming soon!

SOURCE: DS Advanced

Nintendo DS Media EXPLOSION!

Nintendo has just released a ton of DS media on their site!

There is a video full of DS gaming goodness right here

DS Dev Kits Exposed!!!!!

DS Advanced was able to get the scoop of a lifetime by speaking to Roger Edgar, Director of Marketing, Games Platforms, Metrowerks Corporation, Inc. He talks about the history of Metrowerks angd Nintendo, and reveals some info about the development of DS titles. Take a look for yourself, here is the link to this juicy story....




SOURCE: DS Advanced

Nintendo Is Spilling The Beans!!!!

New DS Information
UPDATED! Nintendo's DS conference spills the beans!

The Nintendo DS conference is going on right now in Tokyo Japan and DS Advanced is pleased to announce the latest conference news:


Games will cost a measly $29.

Super Mario 64 DS is a launch title.

EA, Ubisoft, Activison, Sega, and THQ will have launch titles.

The URBZ: Sims in the City is a launch title.

Madden NFL is a launch title.

Spider-Man 2 is a launch title.

Asphalt GT is a launch title.

Super Mario 64 DS Details:

Not simply a port by any means; Super Mario 64 DS will feature Wario, Luigi, and Yoshi as players battle it out for stars in the multiplayer version of Super Mario 64. The game will also host an impressive line-up of mini-games that are character dependent. For example, Luigi's will be perfect for the stylus, because his mini games involve alot of cards.

Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt Details

A playable demo will come bundled with the system that lets users test out the DS's built in wireless and touchscreen capabilites. Up to four players can stalk each other out in Metroid's first handheld multiplayer game!

The game will feature two control scheme; one involving the touchscreen. Players can choose which control scheme they want to use.

Spiderman 2 Details

Rather than going all 3D like the console versions, Spider-Man 2 for the Nintendo DS returns to the 2D roots found on the Game Boy Advance and will feature a better style, speed, and more action than its GBA counterpart.

“We're feeling quite good about the number of titles and, in particular, what the key titles are and what they represent,” says Reginald Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America executive vice president of sales and marketing. He expects 20 to 25 titles to be available early next year.

“I expect to sell every single DS that I can get on my hands,” Fils-Aime says. “Our company has publicly stated that by the end of March we expect to sell 4 million units. We're talking big numbers.”

Stay tuned to your computers........................

SOURCE: DS UPDATE

WLAN Production Shipment

RF Micro Devices, Inc. has begun production shipments of its wireless local area network transceiver.


RF Micro Devices, the team bvehind the wi-fi functionality of the DS, have started to ship out the final product to be ftted into the Nintendo DS. So its all good for the DS.


RF Micro Devices' Frank Morese said "As one of the world's leading video game manufacturers, Nintendo provides RFMD a valuable growth opportunity as we expand into the explosive video gaming market."

Below is the official press release with all the details about the shipment and company....


Greensboro, NC - October 6, 2004 - RF Micro Devices, Inc. (Nasdaq: RFMD), a leading provider of proprietary radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) for wireless communications applications, today announced the Company has begun production shipments of its 802.11 wireless local area network (WLAN) transceiver for use in the new Nintendo DSTM. Nintendo is a leading provider of hardware systems and interactive video games for both the home entertainment and handheld gaming environments.

By enabling wireless connectivity in the Nintendo DS, RFMD's WLAN transceiver provides a wireless link to other Nintendo DS units within range. Additionally, with its chat software and wireless capabilities, Nintendo DS gamers are able to transmit text messages, handwriting and even drawings to one another.

The Nintendo DS features dual screens providing two perspectives on the action at once. Its touch-screen input enables users to easily access items, move characters or navigate menus. The Nintendo DS also contains a microphone, which could enable players to control the system using voice commands.

"RFMD's energy-efficient wireless device enables Nintendo to include wireless technology in the Nintendo DS handheld at a low cost," said Satoru Okada, general manager, research and engineering at Nintendo Co., Ltd. "The embedded wireless functionality will enable developers to create rich game designs which were not considered possible in the past, further expanding the fascinating world of Nintendo DS."

Kris Rausch, product line director of wireless LAN products at RF Micro Devices, said, "We are extremely excited to be working with Nintendo, the world's leading name in the gaming industry. Additionally, we are pleased to build upon the success of our WLAN transceiver products, which offer distinct advantages in bill of materials (BOM) cost, size, performance and power consumption. These competitive advantages are driving incremental customer traction as an increasing number of electronic devices are being designed to capitalize on consumer demand for wireless connectivity."

Frank Morese, corporate vice president of the wireless connectivity business unit at RF Micro Devices, said, "We are very pleased to add Nintendo to our blue-chip customer base, which features many of the world's leading manufacturers of high-volume consumer electronic devices. As one of the world's leading video game manufacturers, Nintendo provides RFMD a valuable growth opportunity as we expand into the explosive video gaming market."

RFMD is a trusted supplier of high-volume, low-cost wireless components to leading manufacturers in multiple high-volume markets, including wireless networking, Bluetooth® technology and cellular handsets. The cellular handset market is the world's highest-volume consumer electronics market, with estimated handset shipments in 2003 of 510 million units. The video gaming market had estimated shipments in 2003 of 56 million units and is expected to grow to 80 million units by 2007.

SOURCE: Gamecube Europe

The DS Lowdown!!!!!!

The following info is info that Gamecube Europe was able to get their hands on that deals with the dunctionality of the DS and its abilities......


Nintendo DS Sleep Function: This is the mode that gives the ability to the Nintendo DS, to power down slightly in order to save on battery power. This means that when you put your DS in Sleep mode, it will power down the consumption of the batery, it will pause the game, as well it will switch the back-lights of the screens off.

Menu Screen System: The Nintendo DS will feature a similar to the Nintendo GameCube menu system, that will appar when you power the machine on. You can navigate through the menu screens by using the touch-screen. You can choose to load a DS game, a GBA game, the built-in PictoChat application, receive wireless downloads and many other unconfirmed functions. Moreover, when you are in the Menu Srceen and you insert a DS game, an image of the game will appear on the screen, much like the GameCube game menu.

Wireless LAN: The 802.11 wireless local area network transceiver for the Nintendo DS system, provides a wireless link to other DS units within range. Satoru Okada, the general manager, research and engineering at Nintendo Co., Ltd stated: "RFMD's energy-efficient wireless device enables Nintendo to include wireless technology in the Nintendo DS handheld at a low cost. The embedded wireless functionality will enable developers to create rich game designs which were not considered possible in the past, further expanding the fascinating world of Nintendo DS." Also Kris Rausch, the product line director of wireless LAN products at RF Micro Devices, stated: "We are extremely excited to be working with Nintendo, the world's leading name in the gaming industry. Additionally, we are pleased to build upon the success of our WLAN transceiver products, which offer distinct advantages in bill of materials (BOM) cost, size, performance and power consumption. These competitive advantages are driving incremental customer traction as an increasing number of electronic devices are being designed to capitalize on consumer demand for wireless connectivity." You can view more about WLAN Production Shipment here.

Demasked Project: There is also a new progect in development, that has to do with multiplayer gaming for the DS. All we know, is that Warp Pipe Technologies is behind that and the logo of Demasked Progect has been revealed. Chad Paulson of the Warp Pipe Technologies stated: I believe multi player gaming is a very interactive experience because, not only are you interacting with the game, but you are also interacting with the individuals who are playing alongside you. The enjoyment of the game is often times the sum of the game plus the level of familiarity you have with the people who are playing with you.



SOURCE: Gamecube Europe

DS sleep mode details revealed!

Cubed: "Yet more juicy details are forthcoming today regarding the brand new Nintendo DS portable platform system that is due to hit the US in November. This time it is an update regarding the DS's sleep function. Apparently, just like the Game Boy Advance, the system will have the ability to power down slightly in order to save on vital battery power.

However, whereas the GBA required developers to code this into their games and have gamers actually pause play and select the option manually, the DS is to be more user and developer friendly. This time around things are far more 'advanced', with the portable powering down some of its battery-consuming inner workings, pausing the title, as well as switching off the back-lights once the screens are folded by the player.

This could well give Nintendo hopeful system yet another boost in the face of the more powerful Sony PSP..."

Jeremy: Looks like Nintendo is putting in lots of little (practical) features like this to add lots of appeal to the DS.

Nintendo DS Features........

According to development sources working with the system, the Nintendo DS will feature a very intuitive start-up menu system that will give players easy touch-screen control to choose the game to play.

The menu, which will eb feautred on the DS, will allow users to multiple things from booting a DS or GBA title, to loading Picto-Chat, to even downloading a wireless program for specific sources...To add to the "fire on the kettle", each game (DS title) will have its own graphical icon (determined by the developer), similar to ones for the gamecube memory cards. Mor ein fo on this icon set-up will be revealed thursday when the final version of the DS kits are shown to the press....

SOURCE: IGN

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


As we get closer to the release of the Nintendo DS system, more details are beginning to surface on the device. One of the more interesting aspects of the Nintendo DS is its "sleep mode," an advanced version of the Game Boy Advance's own battery-saving mode where players can pause the game and power down the system without turning the system off.


This is feature is kinda similar to the GBA/GBBASP version, but with slight differences. One being, on the GBA/GBASP, slepe mode most be programed into the game, and activated through the menu option within the game. But on the Nintendo DS, it can simply be activated by closing the top down. The device will power down to an extremely low battery consumption mode, turning off the two back-lit screens and other power-hungry options while pausing the game in play.

Like with the other feature, more will be revealed as soon as thursday approaches us, so stay tuned...........

SOURCE: IGN

Let The Rubbing Begin!!!!!

As Nintendo has pointed out, the Nintendo DS system and its unique capabilities is made primarily to encourage creative game design. Developers are free to their hands at utilizing new elements, like a touch screen, microphone, and second display in their products, and it's clear that, after playing Sega's launch title, these game designers are having a blast trying new things in their project.

It seems that Sega's DS title, formally known as "Project Rub", which is being released in Japan under the name of Kimi no Tame Nara Shineru ("I Would Die for You"), will now be known to the North American continent as Feel the Magic: XY-XX. More big news, besides the name change is that it will now be an official lunch title for the Nintendo DS.

For a more indept look into this launch title by Sega, follow the link. Look foward to seeing more of Sega's quirky title as the days get closer to launch.





SOURCE: IGN

Super Mario 64 DS box-art

A week or so ago, N-Philes reported the first DS box-art (which was the Spiderman 2) had been revelaed, and it was Spider-Man 2. GameStop has now updated their DS section again to reveal yet another DS package art. Whether it will be real, doubtful, it still shows some new art, and actually shows the game has undergone a name change. Before it was only recognized as Super Mario 64x4, this shows it as Super Mario 64 DS. Nothing has confirmed if this name change is actually true, but either way its something to see.



SOURCE: N-Philes

Metroid Prime DS – New details!

Critics silenced as fresh build sees screen shift

Following the E3 showing of the impressive Metroid Prime: Hunters for DS, various complaints were voiced claiming that the game was a little tricky to play. These dissenters mainly argued that the action was a little difficult to follow, obscured as it was by the player’s hand and silence.

SPOnG learned over the weekend from sources close to the project in Japan that this is due to be rectified, with a complete overhaul of the game due to be shown within the next ten days.

The main game action will now take place on the top screen, though the fundamental controls will remain the same, meaning that the control system of using the stylus as a substitute mouse/analogue stick remains in conjunction with the D-pad in place. The lower screen will now host the map and Samus’ options, such as morph ball etc…

SPOnG believes this is great news. Not only has Nintendo listened to feedback from gamers, it has made a critical change to a one of its key DS offerings, believed to be a launch title in all territories.

IMAGES



(Note From Jeremy: These are screens of the E3 build.)

SOURCE: SPONG

A Tennis Manga on the Nintendo DS

"Konami announced today Tennis no Ouji-Sama 2005 Crystal Drive for the Nintendo DS. The latest game adaption of the popular cartoon, Crystal Drive will make full use of the DS twin screens. The company will release detail on the touch panel support shortly.

A Japanese release date has yet to be set for the title. First screens can be seen in the media section for this story"

Falco8 says: even though the graphics are to par with the GBA, it is still a nice game.

New Urbz screens!

Take a look here.

Xlink Reveal Their Theory on DS Multiplayer

DS Central:"
"TeamXlinx have posted up a brief of their potential plans for the Nintendo DS. Among other things, they talk about possible long distance multiplayer.
Here`s a sample:

'There`s ten of you playing DS on an Uni campus - your DS will only be talking to the nearest one or possibly two unit. Those units will *forward* data to their nearest two... your DS can easily get connected to a DS a mile away while using hardly any power'"

Falco8 says: Did u get what they were saying, or is it just me?

Source: DS Central

Great Tapwave Zodiac fan site!

I was quite impressed by the work of Ashley, webmaster of Zodiac Play, and wanted to give her site a little exposure. The site is very impressive considering the fact she is only twelve years old.

Great work Ashley!

Cubed 3 Article: DS Online

Cubed have written up a very informative article concerning the new DS online rumor. You can read the article here.

Rumor: Rare Still on the Nintendo DS?

"CUBE magazine reports that Rare Ltd., now owned by Microsoft, is working on the Nintendo DS version of their legendary 64-bit first person shooter, Prefect Dark...Could the rumor be true? Eventually, we just may know"

Source: Gamecube Heaven

Tendo Dokuta to be ready when DS launches in Japan

"Japanese developer Spike has confirmed that their medical simulation, Kenshuui Tendo Dokuta, will be completed in time for the release on the DS`s December 2nd day of launch in Japan. As is in case with most quirky Japanese software, there are no plans to bring the title to local shores."

Source: Nintendojo

Majestco`s First Two DS Titles to Ship Next Year

Gamespot: "Majestco today annouced that its first two titles for the Nintendo DS system, a side-scrolling action adventure called Moonlight Fables and a 3-D shooter called Nanostray, will release in the year 2005. This means that Majestco, the publisher of the Game Boy Advance Video cartridges and numerous other titles for the GBA, will not have any titles ready for launch on the Nintendo DS on November 21.

In a release today, publisher announces further details on the two title. Both will feature support for the system`s touch-screen input and dual screen display, and both will feature 'multiplayer network play.' Whether this refers to online gameplay or wireless close-range multiplayer is not clear, although Nanostray has been confirmed to at least feature an online ranking system that will let players complete for the title of 'best in the world.'

Developer Shin`en, creator of the Iridion games for the GBA, Nanostray will feature 3D graphics combined with old-school space-shooter-action gameplay. The game will use the touch screen to allow players to track enemy movement via interactive radar as well as to manage weapons and other pickups. Its release date is set for early spring.

Moonlight Fables is a gothic-fantasy-style, side-scrolling action adventure title designed by Cyber Philharmonic. Players will take the role of Trista Silver, a 19-year-old recent graduate of the Official School For International Strike Forces who finds out that she is a werewolf. Players will use the touch-screen to manipulate the phases of the moon, changing the types of special attacks that Trista can deliver.

Majestco has also revealed that, although the game is a side-scroller, it will feature 'a combination of two and three dimensional art styles, with a dynamic camera that zooms in and out to the highlight the action and imagery.' The world of the game will be seamless, all levels blending together into 'one large area' ; unlockable accessories will let Trista return to old areas and access previously unreachable items and entrances.

Moonlight Fables is scheduled for release sometime in 2005."

Falco8 says: I can`t wait for these two games next year :D.

Source: Gamespot

Another Nintendo Conference Has Been Announced

"As many of you know, Nintendo of America will be holding a press conference on October 7th to discuss the DS launch titles, software prices, and ect...

Aside the meeting, Nintendo of Japan(NCL) will hold their own conference on October 11th around Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. In this meeting, they`ll outline their holiday strategy and talk about upcoming software for the Gamecube and Game Boy Adavance, though the DS may make an appearence.

Specific games on display include Mario Party 6, Donkey Kong: Jungle Beat, and Yoshi`s Universal Gravitation.

Between 7th conference, this 11th conference, and Warp Pipe` mid-month announcement, October will be packed with non-stop Nintendo news. Keep your transfixed right here for the latest."

Falco8 says: Wait a minute, I thought the October 7th conference will be in Japan? Oh well...

Source: Nintendojo