Slime Dragon Quest 2 is dated for Japan

DS Advanced of the Advanced Media Network reports:

"Square-Enix has announced the Japanese release date for Slime Dragon Quest 2 [known as Slime Mori Mori Dragon Quest 2 in Japan]. The title pits players in the role of the famous Slime character from the Dragon Warrior series. Square Enix has not revealed much information on this title, but be sure to check out our recently added screens [of the title] here. Square's blue slime hops onto the Nintendo DS August 18, 2005 in Japan. A stateside release date has not been announced."

Source: DS Advanced

Pre-E3: Atlus gives us the heads-up!

Renowned publisher Atlus has released the names of titles they are going to be exhibiting at this year's Electronics Entertainment Expo (E3). The titles are as follows:

Magna Carta: Tears Of Blood (PS2)
Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga 2 (PS2)
Snowboard Kids DS (Nintendo DS)
Samurai Western (PS2)
Trauma Center: Under The Knife (Nintendo DS)

Trauma Center (also known as Caduceus looks very promising. For those of you who don't know, it is a very precise surgery game, and if it's done right, it could become a killer app.

Source: DS Advanced

New DS games announced

Nintendo Power's latest issue has revealed a number of previously unheard of DS titles.

In alphabetical order by publisher:

Activision
Shrek Superslam

Aruze
Brain Twisting Games Vol. 1

Atlus
Choro Q DS

Conspiracy Entertainment
Jonny Rocketfingers

Disney Interactive
Lizze McGuire
That's So Raven

Majesco
Quad Desert Fury 2

Spike Co.
Intern Tendo Dokuta

Summitsoft Corporation
Air Assault 2

No other information is yet available for these titles.

Source: DS Advanced

Slime Dragon Quest 2 screenshots

The first screens of the upcoming DS title Slime Dragon Quest 2 are now available! Check 'em out!

Source: DS Advanced

Puyo Pop Fever Media Blowout!

DSAdvanced of Advanced Media Network has screenshots of Puyo Pop Fever for the DS. Be sure to check them out here!

Source: DS Advanced

Shogun Warrior interview

IGN has set up an Interview with the Shogun Warrior team. It seem the DS RTS game will not have any online capabilities and single card multiplayer, which is very dissapointing, but this game looks pretty cool with some nice graphics and tight touchscreen capabilities.

Shogun Warrior Interview

Source: 4CR

-Falco8

Yamauchi officially retiring...

A recent address that I felt was important, former company president Hiroshi Yamauchi, has officially announced that after a final shareholder meeting on June 29, he will step down from the board (marking retirement from Nintendo).

Yamauchi has been a member of Nintendo's administration for nearly 55 years, claiming president after his father passed away. He has been with Nintendo from the arcade days where they struggled to make a name for themselves to the NES and SNES days where "Nintendo" was the substitute (household name) for "video games". Although Satoru Iwata succeeded him back in 2001, he has still been with Nintendo. Without any doubt, his hard work and his placement at Nintendo is the reason I am here writing about Nintendo on a daily basis and most likely the reason we are all fans of Nintendo.

"Yamauchi declined to accept his director's retirement benefit from Nintendo. While the amount of this benefit was not disclosed, it is rumored to have been between 1 billion to 1.5 billion yen ($9.4 million to $14 million). The former Nintendo president commented that he would rather see the money spent on the company's future, since liquid assets are crucial in the game market.

Yamauchi is the man responsible for green-lighting the development of the original Famicom (known as NES in America), as well as Nintendo's first steps into the arcade business, with Radarscope and Donkey Kong."

Source: GameSpot, Spong

Polarium Review

D*Nyce has done an excellent new review of the latest puzzler, Polarium. Check it out by clicking the link below.
Polarium Review by D*Nyce

-VideoGamerJ

Japanese Sales Figures

Westmarch here with the latest in Nintendo of Japan's sales. It seems like Nintendogs has brought skyrocketing sales for the DS, along with Naruto.

Software sales:



Hardware sales:



Source: GameCube Café

Nintendo DS breaks the 5 million mark!

This great news for Nintendo, as the Nintendo DS has finally past the five million mark worldwide. Nintendo has predicted the Nintendo DS would sell between five to six million units in March, and Nintendo says that the Nintendo DS is on track to meet the innovating, double screened handheld goal.

SonyPSP, however, has sold 2.87 million units in North America and Japan, so the Handheld wars has just begun as we wait unit E3 for both handheld have up their sleeves.

Source:GC Cafe

-Falco8

New Device Records in DS/PSP formats

From Kotaku:

"A Japanese company is developing a media recorder that can record video straight from a TV or DVD player to a memory card. The device can save in a variety of formats including the formats used for the PSP and Playan video attachment for the GBA SP and Nintendo DS. The $150 or so device is a small, sleek black device with AV inputs and four buttons. The buttons allow you to start recording, select format and mode. I hope there’s a way to control quality as well. Sounds like a must buy for anyone who wants to do routine television program recording."



Media Recorder VRX-02 [Tech Japan]

Source: Kotaku

Nintendo DS is double gold in UK

DS sales have reached 200,000 units throughout the United Kingdom alone in six weeks, and are still going strong. The rest of Europe seems to be thrilled with Nintendo's new hand-held, as are we. With only 16 titles available in Europe, the DS is doing rather well.

Source: Joystiq

Quick News: More demos for DS Download Stations in Japan

The DS download stations in Japan are receiving three new game demos: Goemon, Memory Training for Adults, and Kadoukeusu. Owners of 'Nintendogs' can also download an exclusive dog from Japanese singer, Utada Hikaru. Demos are stored in the DS' volatile memory (RAM) and are lost when the DS is powered off. The demos are available throughout Japan April 28th to May 29th.

Source: Cubed3

Amazing! Nintendogs Sells Well and Gets Perfect Score!

Nintendogs for the Nintendo DS has recieved a perfect Famitsu score of 40/40. Famitsu is considered the most respectable gaming magazine in Japan. Infact, very few games have been given a perfect score in it's history. Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Soul Caliber and Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker are among few of the titles that have recieved 40/40 (Meteos was recently close recieving 9,9,10,10). There have been a couple of others, but to recieve a perfect score is definately an honor. This is incredible and to make matters better, the overall sales for the first day have exceeded 80,000. Wow.



This game truely had the Miyamoto touch to it and I am very excited for Nintendo and their sucess of the Nintendo DS. They are reaching the market they had set out to and it's only been 4 months in Japan. My only hopes are that the US and European markets can do the same, as that is very important.

Source: 4cr

-VideoGamerJ

Goldeneye DS Videos

A good number of Goldeneye: Rogue Agent videos are now available for viewing at IGN. While I feel that the controls look smooth and intuitive, the gameplay seems to lack (as does the music, which is horrible). The game does have a couple of months until a release though, so there is still much hope.

Videos here

Source: IGN

-VideoGamerJ

Nintendo DS and Mount Everest

Gaming blog Kotaku has shared the wonderful experience of writing back and forth between two gamers. However, they are not ordinary gamers, as they are climbing Mount Everest and using their Nintendo DS' during the trip. Recently I shared a similar take (From The Shadows, skydiving with the DS) but this is definately much more hardcore!

"We only have access to email while at Base Camp, so while we carry with us and play the Nintendo DS systems up on the mountain, all of our contact with the outside world comes while we’re resting and recovering at Base Camp."

There are three links that I am going to provide (all provided by Kotaku). Be sure to check it out!

DS Going to Everest “Death Zone”: Expedition Update
EXCLUSIVE Q&A: Gaming on Roof of the World
Exclusive: DS Heads to Everest Peak

Source: Kotaku

-VideoGamerJ

Another Code Release Date for Europe

Over at Nintendo of Europe's website, a June 24 release date for the much anticipated Another Code has been announced. While there is no US release date, you can expect a release before or simultaneously with Europe.

"Another Code: Two Memories utilises the unique Nintendo DS features, such as the touch-screen and microphone, to put players in the middle of one of the most gripping adventures they will ever experience! In Another Code: Two Memories players take control of Ashley, a young girl who gets a message to meet her long-lost father on a mysterious island. When she arrives her father is nowhere to be seen and Ashley begins to suspect something is wrong. As players explore the island in search of Ashley’s father, strange things start to happen and they are thrust into the middle of a sinister plot. Players control the game using the touch-screen to interact with their environment in a similar way to PC-based ‘point and click’ adventures, combining tricky puzzles with a gripping storyline to make this a must-have game. "

Source: Nintendo-Europe

-VideoGamerJ

Over a thousand products will debut at E3

"The Entertainment Software Association [ESA] today announced that there will be over 1,000 computer games, videogames, and related products debuting next month at the 11th annual Electronic Entertainment Expo. Overall, there will be over 5,000 products shown at E3. Over 4,000 will be available for purchase by the end of the 2005.

In a survey of exhibitors, the ESA asked companies to provide details of what they consider to be their top-ten products at E3. According to the survey, which was released today, top-ten titles at E3Expo 2005 will fall into the following categories:


Action/Adventure games (19 percent)
Role Playing games (13 percent)
Sports/Driving/Racing games (11 percent)
Child/Family games (6 percent)
Strategy games (5 percent)
Simulation games (4 percent)
Educational/Edutainment games (3 percent)
Arcade games (3 percent)
Other games (4 percent).

The ESA today also confirmed that E3 Insider will be making a return. Once again, the general public and those under the age of 18, who are not permitted to attend E3, will be able to visit the show virtually via E3 Insider."

Good news for those of you that are minors, myself included. I was not aware of the E3 Insider, but it seems like that is my only option as of now.

Source: DSAdvanced

DS games dominating Japanese sales charts

DSAdvanced of Advanced Media Network is reporting that the Nintendo DS is dominating sales charts in Japan. The software sales are as follows:

1 PS2 Romanshingsagarminstorelsong Square Enix RPG 2005/4/21
2 NDS NARUTO-Naltor strongest ninja large concentration 3 For DS Tommy ACT 2005/4/21
3 NDS Nintendogs brushwood & friends Nintendo SLG 2005/4/21
4 NDS Nintendogs Ducks & friends Nintendo SLG 2005/4/21
5 NDS Nintendogs chihuahua & friends Nintendo SLG 2005/4/21
6 PS2 Live 2005 of baseball Namco SPT 2005/4/21
7 GC Tracks of Faiaremubrem Honoo Nintendo SLG 2005/4/20
8 GBA Lock man 0 4 Capcom ACT 2005/4/21
9 PSP Shutoko Battle Vigour SPT 2005/4/21
10 PSP The derby time Sony computer entertainment SLG 2005/4/21
11 PS2 DEMENTO Capcom ACT 2005/4/21
12 GBA Masterpiece Era. Do your best, and the princess Goemon 1.2 going and Maggines. Konami ACT 2005/4/21
13 GBA Monument of great detective Conan daybreak Bump Wrest AVG 2005/4/21
14 NDS Touch. Carbi Nintendo ACT 2005/3/24
15 NDS Touched Madoinwario Nintendo ETC 2004/12/2
16 PS2 War during ..Gundam.. one-mobile soldier year Bandai STG 2005/4/7
17 PS2 Heaven Hazhazsacai III NAMIDA Hudson RPG 2005/4/14
18 PS2 Professional baseball spirits 2 Konami SPT 2005/4/7
19 NDS Super Mario 64 DS Nintendo ACT 2004/12/2
20 PS2 Eight world soccer winning eleven Raivueaevorution Konami SPT 2005/3/24

Source: DSAdvanced

POLYGON FACE!

Ahh! It's Andross!. Erm, well, maybe not. More than a month ago, I posted a quick showing of new "Educational" software for the Nintendo DS. Now the website has launched and shows a lot of cool content. While I don't understand any of it (before and after translation), I am really intrigued about this title. At this point in time, the website features mostly training information and small details about the game. For the most part, it is an introduction. There are a couple of sections that are not complete, and I trust that once they are up and ready, more will be known about this game.



'Brain Training' website (in Japanese)

'Brain Training' website (in English translation)

Oh, and this game is targeted for adults, not children. So it should be complex and challenging.

Source: Nintendo.co.jp

-VideoGamerJ

Naruto DS Videos

JEUXFRANCE has a couple of videos of the DS game, Naruto. At this time it is only available in Japan with no schedule to arrive elsewhere.

Check them out here!

Oh, and this isn't Naruto Jump Superstars, that game is scheduled for an August Japanese release.

Source: JEUXFRANCE

-VideoGamerJ

Dragonball Z DS?

Publisher Atari has news of a Dragonball Z title making its way to the Nintendo DS. They have been planning to release a DBZ title since the DS came out. All information concerning the title is unknown as of now. Expect more news of this title at E3 in May.

Source: GamesMainFrame

Homebrew calculator on your DS

Fragland.net is reporting that a David Rorex has "succeeded in putting a calculator on the DS where you use the touchscreen for input and the upper screen for output." Be sure to check out his site for more details.

Source: Fragland.net

Burgess "leaks" Revolution info?

As E3 comes closer by the second, Brooke Burgess released unofficial info about the Nintendo Revolution on his blog. Burgess reports that the Revolution will have wireless gyroscope controllers. He say the developers like the idea, but few of the developers will use the gyroscope feature; He also insisted the Revolution will support a touch-monitor, and that the Nintendo Revolution will support true three-dimensional projection, as Hollywood will be doing in theatres in the near future.

It's hard to say if this rumor is true or false, so we have to wait until Nintendo reveals the Revolution at E3.

Source: Gamecube Heaven

-Falco8

Skydiving with the Nintendo DS

From The Shadows is a new internet series ('Not TV, Dot TV') which tasks multiple gamers with taking off-the-shelf electronics and testing them in unique ways. In their first episode ever, they test the Sony PSP multiplayer in various locations along Los Angeles (Subway, Highway, etc) but save the best for last and Skydive with the Nintendo DS'. Their goal is to find out whether the Nintendo DS' can communicate properly at their designated distances. Does it work? You'll have to find out!



Download FTS Box 1.0 (via Bittorrent)

Source: From The Shadows

-VideoGamerJ

Nintendo World Store prepares to open!

Nintendo of America announced three days ago that the Nintendo World Store will be opening on Saturday, May 14th, 2005. The store will be at 10 Rockefeller Plaze in New York City. It will be a two-story, 10,000 square foot building and will be open seven days a week to display new Nintendo merchandise.

Source: DS Advanced

Star Wars: Episode III DS trailer now available

GameTrailers.com has the new Star Wars gameplay trailer available on their site. Head on over there through this link and tell us what you think!

Source: GameTrailers

Advance Wars DS screenshots at GameSpy

GameSpy.com now features a bunch of new screenshots for the upcoming title Advance Wars DS. Go there now and check it out!

Source: GameSpy

Confirmed title: Rainbow Islands DS

Cubed3 is stating that another recently confirmed game for the DS by publisher Rising Star Games is a version of Taito classic Rainbow Island. The details are unknown, but there is an estimated release date for late 2005/2006. Stay tuned for updates.

Source: Cubed3

Weekly Japanese chart sales

Here's the Japanese chart sales for for the week of April 11th.

Software Sales
1.Tengai Makyou III NAMIDA-PS2-Hudson-86,848
2.(NEW)Mobile Suit Gundam: The One Year War-PS2-Bandai-45,781(204,740)
3.Baseball Spirits-PS2-Konami-24,370(79,530)
4.Tekken 5-PS2-Nacmo-23,510(241,967)
5.Saint Seiya: Chapter Sanctuary-PS2-Bandai-18,437(107,663)
6.World Soccer Winning Eleven 8 Livewire Evolution-PS2-Konami-13,788(343,358)
7.Touch! Kirby-DS-Nintendo-10,326(138,015)
8.Rockman EXE 5: Team of Colonel-GBA-Capcom-5,858(156,000)
9.Shin Sangoku Musou 4-PS2-Koei-5,558(856,000)
10.Wild Arms 4th Detonator-PS2-SCE-4,979(173,807)

Hardware
1.PS2-30,572(762,571)
2.PSP-28,950(724,770)
3.NDS-21,689(587,449)
4.GBASP-10,529(257,856)
5.GCN-3,376(85,150)
6.GBA-397(8,674)
7.Xbox-315(5,977)

Source: Gaming Evolution

-Falco8

Preview+Polarium Puzzles

We have a new preview of Goldeneye: Rogue Agent DS in, which you can view HERE and was written by our newest member of the team D*Nyce, who will be one of our main writers.

Also we now have 15 new Polarium puzzles you can try with varying difficulty. To view the puzzles, you must head to the forums and sign-in. Only signed in forum members can view the puzzle codes, and they are under the DS Update Interactive board. Try them out now.

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Pokemon DS Online?

As news spreads that Legend of Zelda: Four Swords for the Nintendo DS will be going online, There's another famous Nintendo franchise that will have WiFi capibilities. Some sites are reporting Pokemon Pearl and Diamondfor the Nintendo DS will be going online like Ultimate Brain games, Ultimate Card games and Four Swords. Nintendo hasn't commented on this rumor, so we have to see at E3 if this rumor is true.

Source:Another Code Labs

-Falco8

Yatta! Ganbare Goemon DS Trailer!

What a better way to start out the weekend than to show you all a new Goemon DS trailer. Like I've rambled before, I love the Goemon series, so you can expect some close coverage of that by me (including import reviews/etc). So anyhow, this new trailer really gives the viewers a feel for what’s going to be in this game and how it's going to handle. If you were a fan of Mystical Ninja: Starring Goemon for Nintendo 64, you may be disappointed to find out that this does not have a rotating camera. Goemon DS will state in a fixed camera position (like the NES and SNES versions) but will also have a Japanese art style that we have not seen in any of the predecessors.

Fortunately, Konami has worked hard to implement the touchscreen beautifully and it is shaping up very well. The boss battles that are shown look very impressive. I have capped on other features for this game in the past, but if anyone catches something I missed, be sure to comment it!

Website and Trailer here!

Source: Konami.jp

-VideoGamerJ

Polarium Puzzles

To anyone who has recently purchased Polarium, we have good news. DS Update will soon be featuring its own Polarium puzzles for you to test your skills out on. Keep an eye open as a list of puzzles to play should be available by Monday.

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Screenshots

Japanese magazine Nintendo Dream has released new screens of both Advance Wars DS and Bomberman DS. You can veiw the screens in the link below
Click Here

A new scan of Fullmetal Alchemest veiw the scan at the link below

Click Here

Source: Jeux-France and GBA.N64Europe

-blackmajik

Zelda Online

It appears of few internet sources as well as a spanish gaming magazine have reported that the nintendo ds version of zelda will indeed be an online iteration of four swords with focus on touch h and dual screen gaming. Finally four swords with actually accessible multiplayer!

sources: DS News and DS Central

-blackmajik

US sales for the DS

Wario Ware Touched! has been a solid hit for the month of March, as the game sold 113,380 units, and Yoshi Touch N' Go has good sales as well selling 94,069 units, but Super Mario 64 DS sold an amazing 90,094 units, as Super Mario 64 DS has nearly sold one million units on the Nintendo DS. Pokemon Dash has sold 59,985 units, while Robots for the Nintendo DS has only sold 47,150 units, and Nintendo DS has sold 428,000 units for 2005.

Source: Nintendo Insider

-WestMarch

Gamestop merges with EB Games

GameStop Corp. and Electronics Boutique Holdings Corp. Sign Definitive Merger Agreement Merger Creates a Leading Video Game Retailer With Over 3,800 Stores Worldwide

GRAPEVINE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 18, 2005-- GameStop Corp. (NYSE:GME; GME.B) and Electronics Boutique Holdings Corp. (Nasdaq:ELBO - News) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger. The combined company, to be named GameStop Corp., will be a leading global video game retailer with annual revenues of approximately $3.8 billion, with over 3,200 stores located in all 50 United States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, as well as nearly 600 international stores located throughout Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden.

Under the terms of the agreement, Electronics Boutique Holdings Corp. (Electronics Boutique) shareholders will receive $38.15 in cash, plus the equivalent of 0.78795 shares of GameStop Corp. (GameStop) Class A common stock for each share of Electronics Boutique. Based on the closing price of GameStop's Class A common stock of $21.61 on Friday, April 15, 2005, the stock component of the per share merger consideration is $17.03. The total merger consideration per share of $55.18 represents a 34.2% premium to the closing price of Electronics Boutique's stock as of Friday, April 15, 2005. The total transaction value is approximately $1.44 billion with consideration consisting of approximately 70% cash and 30% common stock. GameStop intends to fund the cash portion of the transaction through the issuance of $950 million in senior bonds and excess cash.

Source: Nintendo Insider

-WestMarch

World of Mana DS?

Square-Enix has registered a new patent in the US Patent Office for a game called World of Mana. Although Square did not release any information about the game or the console or handheld it being developed on, but this game might be developed for the Nintendo DS, as Square-Enix has listed this game on their list for the Nintendo DS.

World of Mana picture

Source: DS Gaming and DS Central

-Falco8

Exclusive: Nintendo Connect?

A few hours ago, I recieved an interesting scan from a source of mine. Apparently it's a quick scan he took from a small packet. Interestingly enough as earlier today Nintendo announced their next console "Nintendo Revolution" will have Wireless technology provided By Broadcom. You can find the official press release here.

"Broadcom's wireless products lead the industry with unique features that provide significant performance and ease-of-use advantages. These include BroadRangeâ„¢ technology which extends the range of Wi-Fi devices by up to 50%, and SecureEasySetupâ„¢ software which dramatically simplifies Wi-Fi setup and security. Differentiated features like these enable an extraordinary user experience for consumer devices, such as the Nintendo gaming device. "

Here's the fullsize scan. I remind you, this is (at this moment in time) exclusive to DS Update. So if you decide to post this, please source us. Thanks.



Once again, here's the full size scan.

-VideoGamerJ

Nintendo strikes deal with Broadcom

Today Nintendo has announced that they have made a deal with Broadcom to make wireless technology for the Nintendo Revolution.

"Nintendo's next-generation console, codenamed Revolution, will feature an advanced wireless platform that integrates multiple technologies to enable a new and exciting game experience," stated Broadcom in official release.

Broadcom, a global leader in wired and wireless broadband communications semiconductors, has been called by Nintendo to work with them in building the Nintendo Revolution's WiFi capibilities, which will let gamers play with each other around the world.

"Broadcom is pleased to partner with technology leader Nintendo, whose visionary commitment to the user experience has inspired new uses for established wireless technology. With the broadest portfolio of maximum performance wireless solutions, we can provide all the connectivity pieces and advanced features required for exciting new consumer products." said Robert A. Rango, group vice president of Broadcom's Mobile & Wireless Group.

It looks like Nintendo has finally embrace online gameplay (or "Noline" as Nintendo says) with the Nintendo Revolution and the Nintendo DS, as this might be a good thing for Nintendo to build a solid userbase with the Revolution.

Source: Gaming Evolution

-Falco8

Sims 2 arriving on the DS

The Urbz have come and gone, and now EA will move onto a more successful game, this time with completely redesigned content for the DS version (unlike The Urbz, which was a quick port of the GBA game). IGN hosts and interview with the developers.

IGN: Last year's The Urbz was essentially what we call a "GBA Plus" game: a GBA game ported and updated with touch screen function. Is this going to be the case with the sequel?

EA Maxis: Not in the slightest! The Sims 2 for the NDS is a totally unique experience incorporating Real-time 3D, the Real Time Clock, true Touch screen activities, and even use of the microphone!



You can read the rest of the good interview at IGN, by clicking here!

Source: IGN

-VideoGamerJ

Electric Blue DS On It's Way!

I suppose it was only a matter of time before we saw a new color in the US. According to Nintendo of America, the new "Electric Blue" DS will hit stores this June. It is doubtful, however, that we will see some of the other colors that will be in Japan (such as pink).



Source: Engadget

-VideoGamerJ

Japanese Sales Charts

It seems that the DS is pulling into a consistant lead ahead of the PSP while the PS2 dominates the game charts. It seems apparant as that several DS games appear of the top 10 game charts frequantly, few, if any PSP games appear. The PSP seems to be selling for its media capabilities rather than its game *note that to developers*.

Rank. Title (System): Weekly Sales [Total Sales this Year]

1. Mobile Suit Gundam (PS2): 158,959 [158,959]
2. Saint Seiya (PS2): 89,226 [89,226]
3. Pro Baseball (PS2): 55,160 [55,160]
4. Tekken 5 (PS2): 44,393 [218,457]
5. World Soccer 8 (PS2): 24,306 [329,552]
6. Touch! Kirby (NDS): 19,558 [127,689]
7. Baldar Force (PS2): 11,526 [11,526]
8. Wild Arms (PS2): 10,450 [168,828]
9. Space Battleship (PS2): 9,450 [9,450]
10: WRC 4 (PS2): 9,175 [9,175]

Rank. System: Weekly Sales| This year's Sales [Total Sales to Date]

1. PlayStation 2: 37,870 | 724,701
2. Nintendo DS: 30,028 | 558,421 [2,054,017]
3. PlayStation Portable: 28,848 | 685,922 [1,168,174]
4. Game Boy Advance SP: 13,693 | 244,073
5. GameCube: 3,406 | 81,774
6. Game Boy Advance: 347 | 7,980
7. Xbox: 315 | 5,739

Source: Media Create

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Next Gen?

Apperantly there has been some reports going around from Japan that Nintendo's next generation console, Nintendo Revolution, will not be shown at this years E3 convention. It is said that Iwata does not want to reveal the Revolution for fear that the idea might be stollen by either Sony or Microsoft. But there will be rolling demos of games currently in development for the system.

Also the next generation Madden will be shown in a 60 second commerical this Saturday during the NFL Draft on ESPN. EA did not give a exact time, but it will be shown during the first hour (which will start 12PM EST)

Source:IGN

-El Mariachi

Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow

Speculate what you want, but over at United States Patent and Trademark Office, Konami has filed a new trademark for Castlevania. The title is labled: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow. While many sites are claiming that this may or may not be the upcoming DS title, I can confirm that it will be. How? Ahem, Dawn of Sorrow.

CHECK OUT THE TRADEMARK HERE!

Source: DS ADVANCED

-Video Gamer J and Westmarch

Pirates of the Caribbean boards the DS

Buena Vista Games announced that Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest will be going to the Nintendo DS. The game is being scheduled to release in the Summer 2006 along side the movie.

"The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise will develop over the next few years as one of the most exciting and important initiatives BVG will spearhead," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games. "Our upcoming games will expand the Pirates world and allow fans to take on the roles of some of the most rousing characters ever created, and experience firsthand their perilous adventures."

In Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, gamers will be able to play as Captain Jack Sparrow, Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann as they explore and adventure through both land and sea in search of the legendary 'Dead Man's Chest'. Features include moments and scenes from the movie, although there will also be new adventures and sidestories not from the movie.

The game will be developed by Amaze Entertainment and Griptonite Games.

Source: DS Gaming

-Falco8

Ultimate Brain and Card games online!

It seems that the Nintendo brochure has confirmed that Telegames' Ultimate Brain and Card games for the Nintendo DS will go online. MOO_Man from Nsider's forums has dicovered this wonderful news while he was checking the brochure out. On the top left hand corner of the picture, you will see *#### players online*. GBA.N64europe.com reported that Telegames has official confirmed both games, Ultimate Brain games and Ultimate Card games, will be going online later this year.

Here's the picture

Source: DS N' PSP News, GBA.N64europe.com, Nsider forum member, MOO_Man

-Falco8

Nintendo Power Coverage Now Online

If you can remember back to when the massive coverage of Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings, Zoo Tycoon, GoldenEye: Rogue Agent, Shogun Warrior, Need for Speed Underground 2 and many other titles occured in Nintendo Power, you may be happy to find out that Nintendo has uploaded many of these scans at their website. You can view them here.



-VideoGamerJ

Pac-Pix Sweepstakes

Over at Nintendo.com, a Pac-Pix Sweepstakes is being held. If you are a Nintendo NSider Member, you can enter! Here are the prizes!



Grand Prize: One (1) Grand Prize winner will receive Namco's current Nintendo DS video game lineup (Pac-Pix™, Mr. DRILLER® Drill Spirits™, and Ridge Racer® DS), and a Nintendo DS to enjoy your new games!

1st Prize: Five (5) will win a copy of the Pac-Pixâ„¢ game.

2nd Prize: Ten (10) will win a 20th anniversary Pac-Man T-shirt.

One entry per day, but that means you can enter every single day, so enter now!

Source: Nintendo.com

-VideoGamerJ

Nintendo DS online to be at E3 and more

According to Computer and Videgames, Nintendo will be showing off their Nintendo DS online at E3, but Nintendo hasn't made any official statement, if they will debut their online service for the Nintendo DS at E3. Iwata-san is also concerning if they should show the Nintendo Revolution at this year's show thinking that any major companies would steal some of their ideas. But as far as we know, the Nintendo Revolution will still be shown at E3.

Source: Gaming Evolution

-Falco8

Weekly Japanese chart sales

Here's the Japanese sales in Japan for the week of April 4th.

Software sales
1.PS2-Mobile Suit Gundam: One Year War
Bandai

2.PS2-Saint Seiya: Chapter Sanctuary
Bandai

3.PS2-Pro Baseball Spirits 2
Konami

4.PS2-Tekken 5
Namco

5.PS2-World Soccer Winning Eleven 8: Liveware Evolution
Konami

6.DS
Kirby Canvas Curse DS
Nintendo

7.PS2
Baldr Force EXE (incl. Limited Edition)
Alchemist

8.PS2-Wild Arms: The 4th Detonator (incl. Limited Edition)
SCE

9.PS2-Space Battleship Yamato: Nijyuu Ginga no Houkai
Bandai

10.PS2-WRC 4
Spike

Hardware sales
PS2-37,870
DS-30,028
PSP-28,848
GBASP-13,693
GC-3,406
GBA-347
Xbox-315

Source: Media Create

-Falco8

Missed News This Week

There has been a lot of good news this week, and to be honest, we've missed some of it. To keep you informed, I'm going to post some of this week's news.

(1) IGN is doing a nifty collection of box art for the Nintendo DS and it's games. Every game that comes out will be properly scanned and uploaded via their site (Does not include regional releases). Be sure to check that out here .

(2) Nintendogs is scheduled for an April 21st Japan launch. While it nears, neat accessories and toys have appeared.

(3) Crave Entertainment announced yesterday that World Championship Poker: Deluxe Series is now out for purchase for the Nintendo DS. Players will be provided with innovative dual screen usage, wireless connection and other abilities.

(4) Namco have 'officially' announced Pac 'n Roll for the Nintendo DS.

"Introducing an innovative new control scheme, "Pac’N Roll" lets players control Pac-Man with the Nintendo DS stylus. Players can roll and dash around the environment as well as execute maneuvers such as hairpin turns, immediate stops and precision rolling with effortless strokes of the stylus. "

(5) Develish for the Nintendo DS has launched their Japanese website. View it here

Sources: (1) IGN, (2) AM3.co.jp, (3) Crave Games, (4) Namco (5) Devilish Website

-Video Gamer J and Westmarch

Interesting News: PSP outsells the DS

In Japan, The Nintendo DS is beating the Sony PSP overall in sales as the Nintendo DS has sold 1,852,ooo units, the Sony PSP only sold 1,068,000 units. But according to Enterbrain Inc., the Sony PSP has bested the Nintendo DS in couple months.

February:
PSP sales: 195,000 ~ DS sales: 121,000
March:
PSP sales: 202,000 ~ DS sales: 136,000

Source: DS Gaming,Beijing99

-Westmarch

Yoshi Review & Hiring

Yes, that's right we have the latest review of Yoshi Touch & Go. We have two different perspectives on the game, mine and Bad Blood's.

Click Here to see my review.
Click Here to see Bad Blood's review.

West March has also done a review of The Sims: Urbz, view it HERE.

Also now DS Update is looking new writers to write editorials, previews, and reviews. All applicants must be commited also applying is no guarentee you will get a position, we are looking for two to three people. E-mail any applications to staff@dsupdate.net.

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

New Nintendo Revolution mock-up pic *Update*

After Nintendo announced that they are working on the Nintendo Revolution, people were amazed and wondered what the Nintendo Revolution look like and utilize. Now rumors are spreading that the Nintendo Revolution will use HD drive and hands-free controllers, and there have been couple of Nintendo Revolution mock-up art on the web, and none of them are too spectacular. This new Nintendo Revolution mock-up art seems to be the real deal. Saying that the system will have four wireless ports for the controllers, alot where you can play both Gamecube and Revolution discs, and you can play on your computer monitor with the Nintendo Revolution having HD resolution.

This seems fantastic, but you have to remember that this might be fake so don't get your hopes up, and we have to wait for E3 for Nintendo to show the Revolution. Hope you will enjoy the pic.

Revolution Mockup

*Update*
Well our friends at 4CR has gotten another mock-up picture, but this time they've gotten the controller for the Nintendo Revolution mock-up. The controller was seems too big in my case, but it does seem very futuristic. Click here for the Nintendo Revolution controller.

Source: 4CR

-Falco8

Kotaku Impressions of Goldeneye: Rogue Agent

Kotaku recently had the time to go to the Nintendo Van Tour (something that I missed) and preview some of Nintendo's latest titles. Of their impressions, Goldeneye: Rogue Agent seems most noteworthy.

"I realize the console wasn’t much to write home about, but I was really astounded at how well the DS version by EA’s Tiburon studio works. The thing that really makes this game is that it uses the sort of control layout first introduced in the Metroid Prime Hunters Demo."

Putting aside the console version, Kotaku really gives DS users something to grasp.

"This is the first time I’ve ever played a first-person shooter on a portable and felt like I was getting the real experience. I can’t tell you how much I hate games that cut out the up and down look or make the whole thing auto-aim, what’s the point? And while the touch-screen controls may sound a little goofy, once you play for a few minutes, you’ll never be able to play a portable shooter any other way."

Read the rest of Goldeneye: Rogue Agent Impressions Here

Source: Kotaku

-Video Gamer J

Snowboard Kids Scans! *FIXED*

While I was never a fan of Snowboard Kids for the Nintendo 64, I know that it does have a fanbase and it is an anticipated title for the DS. With that in mind, I want to share these scans that I found. Unfortunately they are in black and white.



View the rest at the source below:

Source: Penny Arcade Forums

-Video Gamer J

Interview

DS Update recently caught up with Tim Schuerewegen and got a chance to interview him. Click Here to see the interview and download his latest software. The interview is on his latest driver and what it means for the DS. Check it out.

-UZG

Shogun Warriors Screens

Planet Gamecube has intercepted a few new screenshots of Shogun Warrior DS see them HERE.

-UZG

Electroplankton Video

It seems the more I see of Electroplankton, the more I want to play it. Here is a great *15 minute* video showing it's gameplay mechanisms. Amazing.

Windows Media Video of Electroplankton

It seems like the guy (and his girlfriend) are having a blast.

Source: 4 Color Rebellion

DS WiFi Scan

A few posts back, we reported on Metroid Pinball and included a source to the scans provided. Today I have discovered the booklet which held these scans and have brought forth a new scan.

DS WiFi Scan (Unfortunately it's too large to directly post)

So there you have it. More anticipation for E3, when Nintendo will fully reveal their online protocol. For anybody who wants to see the rest of the scans from the promotional booklet Nintendo recently released, journey to the NSider Forums.

Source: NSider Forums

Star Wars: Episode 3 DS

Over at PlanetDS.de, you can find new and exclusve screenshots (about a dozzen) of Star Wars: Episode 3 DS. The game's flight control via touchscreen seems to implement well. Check it out!

Star Wars: Episode 3 DS

Source: Planetds.de

-VideoGamerJ

Japanese Goemon DS Website!

I remember back in the Nintendo 64 era, one of my favorite titles was Mystical Ninja: Starring Goemon. Turned off by many for it's bad reviews and it's 'supposed' buggy gameplay, it did not sell well. Konami, however, still released another Goemon title on the N64, but after that the series has been exclusive to Japan (where it has always kept it's strong userbase).

Anyway, my followup is that Goemon will be returning to his 64bit graphics and by the previews and screenshots, we can expect something along the lines of Mystical Ninja. While the last time the title was shown was at E3 2004, an official webpage at Konami's Japanese site has come forth to provide new information. My Japanese reading skills are weak and the translation doesn't help, but I have grabbed these points from the website:

• 'Remote' Control (a cursor-like glove) to guide and assist Goemon (and friends).
• Sharing mini-games with friends with separate Nintendo DS'.
• Goemon for the GBA (which will also be coming out) will unlock extras.
• Japanese release date: June 23rd, 2005

Unfortunately, the chances of Goemon hitting the US (and European) markets seems quite slim. If that turns out to be the case, this will be an interest of import. If anyone grabs worthy information from the website, be sure to post it in the comments or personally email me and I will add it. Thanks!

Source: Goemon DS (Konami.jp)

-Video Gamer J

Confirmed E3 DS Games!

Over at IGN, a large game list has been compiled for E3. In consideration of DS Update, I decided to pick out the DS games and post them in a smaller list. E3 is 35 days away! Nintendo usually wins best of show, and this year I do not expect any less. With Microsoft showing their next console before E3 (something about MTV), you can expect much less from their end. Sony definately has a some hardware and software to show, but if Nintendo shows a new handheld (which has been rumored, but not confirmed), their Revolution, DS software and GameCube software we can definitely expect a big show. Nonetheless, remember that this list is only the confirmed games! While everybody figured a lot of these games would be on display already, it's nice to get a reminder of the things to come.

Atlus Software
Snowboard Kids DS (DS)
Trauma Center: Under the Knife (DS)

Bandai
Meteos (DS)
One Piece Grand Battle! (GBA, Cube, DS, PS2)

Buena Vista Games
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe (Cube, DS, GBA, PC, PS2, PSP, Xbox)

Capcom
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney (DS)

Electronic Arts
GoldenEye: Rogue Agent (DS)
Need for Speed: Most Wanted (Cube, DS, GBA, PC, PS2, PSP, Xbox)

Konami
Castlevania DS (DS)

Majesco
ATV: Quad Frenzy (DS)
Nanostray (DS)
Texas Hold 'Em Poker (DS)

Namco
Shogun Warrior: Real-Time Conflict (DS)

Nintendo
Advance Wars DS (DS)
Animal Crossing DS (DS)
Kirby: Cursed Canvas (DS)
Mario Kart DS (DS)
Metroid Prime Hunters (DS)
Nintendogs (DS)
Super Mario Bros. (DS)

THQ
Big Mutha Truckers DS (DS)
Fairly OddParents (DS)
The Incredibles 2 (Cube, DS, GBA, PS2, Xbox)
Nicktoons (DS)
Scooby-Doo! Unmasked (Cube, DS, GBA, PS2, Xbox)
SpongeBob SquarePants Party (Cube, DS, PC, PS2, Xbox)
Tak 3 (Cube, DS, GBA, PS2, Xbox)
Zoo Tycoon (DS)

Vivendi Universal
Crash Tag Team Racing (Cube, DS, PS2, Xbox)

Once again, keep in mind this is not a final list by any means.

Source: IGN

-Video Gamer J

SSX 4 And NFS:Most Wanted Announced For DS

Today EA announced that both SSX 4 and Need for Speed:Most wanted for the DS. EA also announced a vague list of new features for SSX 4 including motion blur and skiing. More news as it comes

Note: It was also apparant that on ign.com EA announced Madden 2006 for all consoles but the DS. So much for drawing those plays.

Scource : GBA.N64Europe

-Blackmajik

Weekly Japanese chart sales

Here's the Japanese sales for the week of March 28th.


Software
1. Tekken 5 (PS2) - 174,064
2. Winning Eleven 8 (PS2) - 63,953
3. Touch! Kirby (DS) - 32,766
4. Wild Arms (PS2) - 26,998
5. Shining Force Neo (PS2) - 18,352
6. Memories After Rain (PS2) - 17,845
7. Dynasty Warriors 5 (PS2) - 16,853
8. Mega Man Battle 5 (GBA) - 12,028
9. Egg Monster Hero (NDS) - 11,647
10) Heat the Soul (PSP) - 10,457

Hardware
1. PlayStation 2 - 44,117
2. Nintendo DS - 43,023
3. PlayStation Portable - 33,911
4. Game Boy Advance SP - 17,710
5. GameCube - 3,754
6. Game Boy Advance - 1074
7. Xbox - 335

Source: GC Advanced

-Westmarch

An Early Step to Tunneling

With the April Fool's DS Tunnel angering a lot of people, I bring some heartfelt news (first brought to my attention by Thomas).

Back when XLink was working on a Nintendo DS tunnel, Tim Schuerewegen was writing a custom windows driver for a specific network card to communicate with the DS. Many months later, he has successfully run code on his PC to his Nintendo DS. The task has been done many times before, but this is the first time that it has been done wirelessly (without the 'passme').

"The execution method is the same as the passme; redirect ARM7 execution to the GBA cart/slot (0x08000000) and capture the ARM9."

By doing this, it will open up the possibilities for many users who don't have a 'passme' device. Of course, Tim's work is driver and hardware specific, but in time we may get mainstream results. Below are videos of his work in action. Enjoy.

First Video

Second Video

Source: 4 color rebellion

-VideoGamerJ

Electroplankton DS!

By now, we've all probably seen the blue Pokemon DS that, but to my amazement, another special DS has emerged: Electroplankton DS. With the interesting design it has, this is definitely a keeper.

Also noteworthy: Electroplankton has scored a 9.0 by Nintendo-Inside.





Source: DS Avenue

-Video Gamer J

New Nintendo DS tunneling team confirmed fake

For many online quenching DS users, the newest DS tunnel team (which we reported nearly a week ago) seemed like the real thing and with the withdrawal of xlink and Nitro Online's tunneling service, the good news couldn’t come any sooner!

The beta software was said to be released on the 11th of April, but this will not be the case. Unfortunately, Jadrule's website now hosts the header "april fools" and "Yeah, it’s a hoax". Other sites are now confirming as well that this was all just a lie. The only supported proof they hosted were screenshots (which may have been entirely mocked up).

Tunneling the DS seems more and more unlikely, but as E3 grows nearer, the wait for DS online is almost over.

Source: http://www.jadrule.tk/


Thanks to spin_cycle who also brought this up.

-Video Gamer J

More Quick News

The Polarium website has now launched and you can even play the first 4 levels of puzzle mode on it. The site contains multiple videos and shows in depth how to play the game. Check out the site HERE.

Also more shots of Viewtiful Joe DS have come in, check them out HERE.

Sources: DS Advanced and Nintendo.com

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Quick News

It appears that Metroid pinball will be a real game for DS, and it will be a slightly more complex game than previously thought. You can see the scan of the game HERE. The game is being developed by the same people that did Mario Pinball.

Also Chad Paulson, of Warp Pipe, has done another interview (not with us this time), and you can see the full interview HERE.

Also a trailer of Goldeneye: Rogue Agent DS can now be found HERE.

Source: GBA.N64Europe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Viewtiful Joe DS

On the latest edition of Famitsu magazine, the first details of Scratch! Viewtiful Joe are given for the DS. The game will be in 3d in from a 2d view of course. All the action of the game will be taking place on the bottom screen except for the VFX close ups, which will be appearing on the top. For the controls of the game, it will be using the D-pad and buttons but there is also
another feature in here called the "split" feature. This allows you to use the touch screen, this feature allows you to slice objects to drop on enemies. Along with all this the first scans of Scratch! Viewtiful Joe are out and you can check it out HERE.

Source: GBA.N64Europe

-ElMariachi

Goldeneye: Rogue Agent info

EA released new info about Goldeneye: Rouge Agent for the Nintendo DS.

As an aspiring 00 agent dismissed from MI6 for reckless brutality, you’re recruited by Auric Goldfinger in a ruthless war against Dr. No for control of the Bond underworld. A brutal encounter with Dr. No costs you an eye, but Goldfinger’s technicians replace it with a gold-hued, synthetic and upgradeable eye, earning you the name ‘GoldenEye’.Wreak havoc as you make your unrelenting rise through the ranks of villainy. Encounter such legendary Bond characters as Oddjob, Dr. No, Goldfinger, Scaramanga, and Xenia Onatopp on globe-spanning missions of vengeance and demolition. Experience new features and gameplay only made possible by the

Nintendo DS.Features:
-Your upgradeable synthetic eye introduces new methods of mayhem as you master an entirely new level of interaction beyond traditional FPS mechanics. With this persistent gadget, you can see enemies through cover using MRI vision, manipulate electronics and weapons using the EM Hack, deflect damage with the Magnetic Polarity Shield, and more.
-Unleash double the firepower when you use the dual-wield weapons system to fire guns in both hands.
-Go head-to-head with the most villainous of the Bond underworld using the robust melee fighting system. Take a hostage, throw your enemies, or knock them out with one punch.
-Outwit villainous rivals in wireless multiplayer mayhem with up to seven players. Featured modes include Showdown, Team Showdown, Domination, and Tug-Of-War.
-Engage in single-player campaigns divided into six missions where you fight against mini bosses in order to receive access to future missions.
-Access vital intelligence with the dual-screen HUD. Check ammunition levels, hack electronic devices and weapons, decode security locks, and more.
-Sharpen your lethal edge in the all-new ‘Virtual Training’ mode. Gain experience and earn valuable upgrades for your GoldenEye weaponry by defeating infamous Bond villains. The game is currently scheduled for a US release in June 2005.

Source: gba.n64europe.com

-Falco8

Namco announces Shogun Warrior to the DS

Namco just announced Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army to the Nintendo DS. This game will be the first real time strategy game for the Nintendo DS. The main characters of the game is where you can choose one of the two brothers in the story as they are forced to fight a bloody battle in Feudal Japan. You must conquer enemy territories and their armies, but the main goal for this game is to survive the war and get the title of "Shogun." The game will utilize the Nintendo DS' touch screen capabilities as making battle plans as you watch them take action on the top screen with amazing graphic capabilities. Their will be minigames such as duels, castle sieges, and sea battles making the gameplay element impressive and brilliant and lots of replay value, and you can use diplomacy and military strategy help you get your forces to the top. Up to eight players can play on WLAN on your Nintendo DS. The game is developed by Box Clever Interactive and planned to release this October 2005.

Shogun Warriors Images (Thanks GC Cafe)
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 1
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 2
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 3
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 4
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 5
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 6
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 7
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 8
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 9
Shogun Warrior: The Lost Army Screenshot 10

Source: GC Cafe

-Falco8

Nintendo World Store

Today Nintendo announced that it will be holding a new store in Rockafeller Center that will hold everything Nintendo. The Nintendo World store will be a two story mega-complex that will also host a Pokemon center that will have exclusive Pokemon gear and so on. The store will also hold high end sampling for games that are to come out for Nintendo systems. The store is also suspected to sell games and DVD's along with other Nintendo related products. For those who can't comprehend, I suspect that this will be something similar to the Apple stores, except bigger. Hopefully we can see more Nintendo World stores soon, otherwise I will have to take a drive down to New York. The store will be opening this spring and you can view the official website HERE.

Source: Nintendo

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Play Yan Screenshots

Over at PlanetGamecube, you can find exclusive pictures of the Japanese Play Yan. By looking at the screenshots, you can get a good idea for how the interface looks and operates, although there seems to still be a lot of mystery to all of it's operation. I'm actually surprised at the size of the device, as I was expecting a clunkier cartridge look. However, keep in mind that this is the Japanese version and will probably change quite a bit before we see a US version at E3 (if we do indeed see it at all).

For anyone who doesn't know, the Play Yan is Nintendo's official media player for the GameBoy Advance SP and Nintendo DS. Instead of offering movie and music playback as a built-in feature to the GBASP and the NDS, Nintendo provides this optional device. The price translation would be about $50, but we can certainly expect a more affordable price once it is introduced in the US (Europe and other regions).

If you are interested in importing the Japanese Play Yan. Note that it is available online (and only online) at Nintendo's Japanese Website (and other online distributors such as Lik-Sang) . Hopefully with the introduction to other regions, it will become a widespread retail product.

Source: Planet GameCube

-VideoGamerJ

Warp Pipe Site

Warp Pipe, the minds behind the tunneling of the Gamecube, have now decided to discontinue producing tunneling software and rather head on DemaSked. This news comes with a mass e-mail sent to all people on Warp Pipe mailing list. The site itself has had a complete redo, which you can see here. Also there is a new DemaSked clue which you can view HERE. The latest clue just raises more questions that will probably be answered at this year's E3. Could DemaSked be the Nintendo online? We'll have to wait till E3 for that news, but it is good to see some positive change over at Warp Pipe.

Source: Warp Pipe

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Animal Crossing retitled

Nintendo announced a new name for Animal Crossing DS. The game will be now called Animal Crossing To Go! The title must have been renamed for the game becoming online for the Nintendo DS with the help from GameSpy.

Source: Joystiq

-Westmarch

Pokemon-themed DS for Japan

Nintendo has announced that they will be releasing a PokePark Nintendo DS in a Matallic Blue color for Japan this May. No information if this special Nintendo DS might come to North America.

Pokemon-themed Nintendo

-Westmarch

Metroid Prime Hunters to See Full Online Play

According to Spong, Metroid Prime: Hunters has been confirmed to be an online title by a retail source. While I usually don't go entirely for this type of news, as a retail source could have easily made this up; Spong is very credible. The information is believed to originate from a Nintendo representative which points directly to NST (the developers of Metroid Prime: Hunters).

“The game will be fully online and we were as surprised as anyone. Nintendo told us that we should think along the lines of Halo 2, deathmatches, online leagues and so on'. It is going to be shown running online at E3 and will hit [in the US] in mid-summer.”

With the last sentence, it gives us confidence that the Nintendo DS will have online titles before the fall. One last thing, for those who still haven't figured it out, the Mario, Zelda, and Revolutionary Features post is an April Fool's post. Sorry if we offended anyone ^_^

Source: Spong

-Video Gamer J

New Nintendo DS tunneling team tunnels the Nintendo DS

DSgaming has dicovered a new tunneling team, the leader of the tunneling team is Jadrule, for the Nintendo DS that has successfully tunneled the Nintendo DS and will be releasing their beta software in April 11th, and the software will be free to anyone with a hotspot or an owned wireless router. DSgaming is reporting them as a rumor, but they do seem legit. Stay tuned for this surprising news.

Here's the pic of their beta software

Source: DS Gaming, Jadrule's DS tunneling site

Mario, Zelda, and Revolutionary Features

Famitsu magazine has now confirmed that Mario 128 will be a Revolution exclusive, along with that a Zelda that will be a sequal to A Link to the Past is also in production for the system. Along with this it is now confirmed that the Revolution will not have A, B buttons or a D-pad. It seems that Nintendo may have the hardest hitting launch titles in years. See scans from Famitsu magazine below.

Scan 1
Scan 2
Scan 3
Scan 4

Source: Gaming Evolution

-Ultimate Zelda Guru

Nintendo DS hits 500,000 units in Europe!

It seems that Nintendo's estimated goal will be surpassed, as a worldwide count has reached over 6 million. The recent reason is due to the outstanding sales of the Nintendo DS in Europe, which is also known as the fastest selling console in Europe...ever.

"The new handheld console is proving to be a phenomenal success with European gamers having snapped up over 500,000 units by Easter Saturday – that's 77% of the consoles that were in stores across Europe for launch. Many stores have reported they are out of stock however more deliveries are being made to replenish stocks."

EDIT: Also, on a sidenote, the PSP's launch in Europe has been delayed until as late as September which means that Nintendo has a very smooth run in Europe.

Source: gba.n64europe.com

-Video Gamer J

DS doubled sales this week

After the two new colors for the Nintendo DS, Graphite Black and Pure White, came out in Japan; the sales has doubled from its last week sales, and that means the Nintendo DS surpassed the Sony PSP this week. Next week in Japan, Nintendo will be releasing two new color for the Nintendo DS, Candy Pink and Turquoise Blue, and we might see another spike in sales for the Nintendo DS.

Hardware sales
1.) Nintendo DS - 55,825 22,446 485,370
2.) PSP - 43,043 43,644 623,163
3.) PlayStation 2 - 40,398 40,270 642,714
4.) Game Boy Advance SP - 14,904 11,013 212,760
5.) GameCube - 4,568 3,357 74,584
6.) Game Boy Advance - 653 477 6,906
7.) Xbox - 406 345 5,012

Software sales
1. PS2 World Soccer Winning Eleven 8: Liveware Evolution
Konami

2. PS2 Wild Arms: The 4th Detonator (incl. Limited Edition)
SCE

3. DS Kirby Canvas Curse DS
Nintendo

4. PS2 Shining Force Neo
Sega

5. PSP BLEACH: Beat the Soul
SCE

6. DS Egg Monster Hero
Square Enix

7. PS2 Dynasty Warriors 5 (incl. Limited Edition and Version with PS2)
Koei

8. PS2 Phantom Kingdom (incl. Limited Edition)
Nippon Ichi Software

9. DS Bokujyo Story: Colobockle Station
Marvelous Interactive

10. GC Donkey Konga 3
Nintendo

Source:Gaming Headlines, Media Create, DS Gaming

-Westmarch and Falco8