Wii General Discussion Thread

[Cuddly Knife]

Like the 360 Gen Disc Thread, we could use this to talk about Wii happenings, and games that we are interested in that don't really deserve their own thread.

To start off, I'd like to continue the discussion about the possible connection for online play on the Wii.

This is the thing that I'm thinking of CK:

http://dsmedia.ign.com/ds/image/article/665/665128/nintendo-wi-fi-usb-adapter-hands-on-20051107014430936-000.jpg

http://ds.ign.com/articles/665/665128p1.html

This plugs into your computer, and turns it into a wireless access point for the Nintendo DS and Wii. (Assuming of course that your computer, in turn, is plugged into the internet.)

The thing is, this little dongle costs, like, $35.(!) You can get a wireless router for that. (After rebates.)

I picked up one of those little WiFi things the other day. Other than taking forever to download the updates, it works great.


I bought me a LAN adapter for the Wii at Wally World for 30 bones. Made by Datel. Works freaking great. Internet browsing on that is faster than my PC. It also came with an ethernet cable. You just plug the ethernet from your modem to your adapter, and that has a usb that you connect to the Wii. I don't think the update DLs are because of the wireless, because it took over an hour for mine to update once I connected, including the Internet updates, Virtual Console store updates, and Weather Channel updates.

http://image4.play-asia.com/350/PA.83732.002.jpg
Here's the descrition:
Link your Wii to your current network!

You’ve got a Nintendo Wii. You have a broadband internet connection on your PC. You’ve heard about all the fun things you can do online with your console. Yet when it comes to connecting your Wii to the net, you don’t know where to start. You need the Wii LAN Adapter…

With our amazing new LAN Adapter for the Nintendo Wii, you can create a wired high-speed internet connection for your console. Just plug the Adapter into your Wii, and then connect it to your PC’s DSL or Cable modem or your router using the six-foot patch cable supplied. It’s as simple as that!

Because Wii LAN Adapter uses a cable connection, it always offers a high-speed, reliable connection. It’s ideal for places where wireless connectivity isn't possible, perhaps because of thick walls or interference from other products. At last, you can enjoy uninterrupted online gaming!

[Cuddly Knife]

Now, about the Virtual console. I bought a Sandisk memory card, or whatever the young kids are calling them these days, but it turns out that I need some kind of adapter for it to fit into my Wii?! Boo-urns. So my question is, if I DL a virtual Console game onto my Wii's memory, will I be able to transfer it onto the memory card whenever I get it to fit? And how many blocks of memory is a 1 gig card?

[Glockstar]

Wuz waiting for somebody to start up this thread. You da man, CK.

[Cuddly Knife]

I also got me a regular control for the VC games, and I noticed that it plugs into the bottom of the Wand. Very interesting. Moreso that I'll have to waste more battery juice out of the Wand to use it. D'OH!. I had forgotten that you could use the GCN controller for these games until I went to the DL screen and it showed me the option to do so.

[Cuddly Knife]

Unlucky, you gonna get a Wii?

[Glockstar]

I've thought about it. I need to remind myself that it's about the games though and not about the hardware (I think the Wii is physically attractive). And when I do that I realize that system isn't quite right for me yet. There's stuff that I could certainly waste time with, but nothing that would justify the $250. I'd get more out of the GameCube side of it I think. I keep my eye on it tho'.

[Gadfly2317]

Now, about the Virtual console. I bought a Sandisk memory card, or whatever the young kids are calling them these days, but it turns out that I need some kind of adapter for it to fit into my Wii?! Boo-urns. So my question is, if I DL a virtual Console game onto my Wii's memory, will I be able to transfer it onto the memory card whenever I get it to fit? And how many blocks of memory is a 1 gig card?

Not sure what you mean. The same mem cards that are in my camera fit into the wii. What's kinda fun is to plug your camera card into the wii mem card slot and watch a picture slide show. It creates random effects, pans, fades, and music for the slide show.

I don't know if you can move VC games over to a mem card. . . .I haven't tried it yet. I would hope so.

[Cuddly Knife]

Holy poo. I just figured it out that I was trying to stick that bad-boy into the GCN memory card slot. What a tard. I never did read the instruction book to set the Wii up...

1Gig = 7746 blocks of memory. Coolies. And transferring data is as easy as Copy.

BTW, how do I get you guys on my Friends list?

[Cuddly Knife]

So, I found out a minute ago that you can't Dl a VC game and transfer it to a memory card(or DL it direcly to a memory card). It has to stay on the Wii's memory, and that sucks because it doesn't have a lot of memory as it is. About 200 blocks for 'vania IV. I shudder to think how many blocks an N64 game uses up. :(

[Cuddly Knife]

Man, I'm so bummed about the lack of memory on my Wii and how I'll have to "manage" my data to keep getting new VC games. If my math is somewhat correct, then that puts the Wii memory at about 250MB. Weak-sauced.

But hears some decent news:

Metroid Prime 3 Dated
Nintendo announces summer lineup, and Samus is leading the pack.
by Bozon

May 21, 2007 - Nintendo has officially announced its summer (and beyond) schedule, and with it come a few dates to take off work, school, or just lock yourself in your room for weeks on end. With a list of causal and hardcore games, Nintendo has dated some of the hottest titles of 2007, with games like Mario Strikers, Battalion Wars, and our good friend Metroid Prime 3 leading the pack.

Here are the following release dates as stated by Nintendo of America:


Wii Releases:


* Mario Strikers Charged: July 30 - Nintendo
* Metroid Prime 3 Corruption: Aug. 20 - Nintendo
* Battalion Wars 2: September - Nintendo
* High School Musical: Sing It!: Aug. 14 - Disney Interactive
* Madden NFL '08: Aug. 14 - EA
* Tiger Woods PGA Tour '08: August - EA
* Space Station Tycoon: August - Namco Bandai
* Brunswick Pro Bowling: August - Crave
* Dave Mirra BMX Challenge: August - Crave
* Pinball Hall of fame: The Williams Collection: Aug. - Crave
* Brothers in Arms: September - Ubisoft
* Looney Tunes: Acme Arsenal: September - Warner Bros.
* George of the Jungle: September - Crave
* Boogie: Fall - EA


With a few of Nintendo's top titles locked down it's only a matter of time until all 2007 releases are a done deal. Other major points of interest include Battalion Wars 2 with a "September" release, keeping open the possibility of a September 20th release to team with the game's original release date on GameCube in 2005, as well as the dating of two huge EA franchises in Madden NFL '08 and Tiger Woods PGA Tour '08.
Will Corruption have any kind of online multi-player?

[trebor]

Man, I'm so bummed about the lack of memory on my Wii and how I'll have to "manage" my data to keep getting new VC games. If my math is somewhat correct, then that puts the Wii memory at about 250MB. Weak-sauced.

The total internal memory of the Wii is 512MB, but the system software takes up roughly 200-250mb of that, from my understanding.

Even with that, that is far more memory than the GC was ever privy to, so that is a LOT of game saves.


But hears some decent news:


Will Corruption have any kind of online multi-player?

I sure hope so :)

[Cuddly Knife]

Sure, it's a lot of Game saves, but when it comes to DL content, it's nothing at all, really. I know a number of people that want a Wii because of the Virtual Console. Boy will they be dissapointed when they find out that they can only hold 5-10 games.

And why do they take up so much space anyways? My SNES roms on my PSP only use up about 3-5 MB per game, but the VC games seem a lot larger. These are roms we're playing on the WIi, right?

[Cuddly Knife]

More gloom from the Knife. I'm unable to use a game save that I have on my memory card for my Wii games. I copied over my Zelda file to my Sandisk, but when I start up the game, it only asks if I want to load up from the Wii's memory. POS. Kind of pissing me off that all this crap is going down the way it is. Maybe it's just my Wii...

[Cuddly Knife]

Famitsu Reviews RE4 Wii
High marks from Japan
by Anoop Gantayat

May 21, 2007 - While most of us can still only dream of a chance to play the Wii version of Resident Evil 4, the editors of Famitsu DS+Wii were apparently spending some quality time with the real thing long ago. The Nintendo-oriented monthly sister publication of Weekly Famitsu offered opinions on the game in its July issue, which just hit Japanese news stands today.

Judging by the scores, the Wii could have a critical hit. Two editors awarded the game a perfect 10 out of 10. The other two were still impressed enough to award a score of 9.

The reviewers noted that while the content is almost the same as the GameCube original, the direct Wiimote-based controls offer a plus, making the game feel like something fresh and different. One reviewer said that the game offers the feeling of being closer to the action as well as upping the tension.

Multiple reviewers agreed on two points, that the new controls are simple and easy to get into, and that even those who played the original will be able to enjoy themselves.

We'll be sure and spend some quality time with the title for ourselves when the RE4 Wii Edition hits Japan on the 31st and America on June 19th. Be sure and check back for our review closer to the US version's release. Coolness. If it includes Separte Ways, then I'll re-get it, but if not, then I'll not.

[Gadfly2317]

Sorry about your saves-frustrations.

One thing though is that you can delete any VC game you've downloaded to make more room, but you can download it again later for free. There's a lot of these VC games that once I'm done with I'll be deleting them anyway.

I never played any version of RE4, and though it hasn't always been my favorite horror series, I recognize the quality, and everyone says RE4 really took the game to another level.

I'm glad the Wii version will be my first experience of RE4. . . in addition to the obvious improvements in the control, it has all the extra content of the Ps2 version. Also, the Wii version should have the edge graphically.

Cuddly, start a Friends Code thread. All VGR Wii owners should at the least be able to trade Miis. I actually tried to send a level I created to Trebor in Elebits but it didn't go through because I don't think he had the game (I thought he did.) Some actual online games would be nice to see, though.

[Cuddly Knife]

I'm playing through Killer 7 again(I use that term loosely, since I got nowhere in the game when I owned it before), and this game would've been sweet with Wiimote controls. I am greatly anticipating Suda51's next game. What other games other than Killer 7 is this dev responsible for?

[Cuddly Knife]

Just call me the double-post champ!

Anyway, I played a bit more of Super Paper Mario, after getting my ass kicked in Forza 2(usually, I'll take out my frustrations on F2 with some thrashing in Burnout Revenge, but this time, I needed to get away from the competition). So I burned up a fatty, and started a new game in SPM.

This game is one of the best platformers I've played in a long time, and not just because it's in 2-D. The ability to go 3-D in just about any area makes for some killer gameplay opportunities with all the innovative puzzles and secret areas that they throw your way. Even enemies have the ability to follow you into the 3-D realm.

The humor is amazing! From making cracks at gaming in general, to puns, to the little things they put in that you would notice from Nintendo's own games and systems, including the Wii, well Nintendo really has something special here. I won't spoil any of the cool stuff that's in-game, because it's better to discover the little things by yourself. This game is also nice and big. I played for a few hours, and only got to level 2-2(I think. All I know for sure is now I can play as Peach), and there are 8 levels total!

So, I recommend this game to any Wii owner. There isn't another game like this one, and IMO, it's the most original title yet, and a worthy addition to the Mario universe. This game is very fulfilling. My only gripe is the amount of text, but even that's not that bad when you have this kind of humor.

[Gadfly2317]

After the post I can't really see any reason not to pick this one up. These games are big. I felt guilty about only having gotten half-way through the GC Paper Mario, and thought if I didn't finish that I shouldn't get the Wii version, but it sounds different and fun, and what the hell.

How long is it before Manhunt 2 comes out though?

I was thinking about Killer 7 too, as far as being perfect for Wii. I don't want to see a LOT of last gen remakes (like how they're redoinog Resident Evil 4 with Wii control for $29.95) but I'd like to see Killer 7 and Okami get Wii versions. They are just too perfect.

I can't think of much else that just leaps out as something that would have been oviously and overtly better suited to, and improved by, the Wii controls.

[Fivespot]

I never shop at Wal-Mart because... well, let's leave it at that. But today I had to go there to pick up a Father's day present (only store that carried what I needed).

Anywho while I was there I browsed around the electronics area and noticed a Wii box in the display case. I asked if they had any Wii's and lo and behold the one I saw was just returned today. The prior owner said she couldn't sell it on ebay. I inspected it with the clerk and everything was still wrapped in plastic and sealed.

So I'm now the proud owner of a Wii. Just got done hooking it up, creating a Mii, and downloading Super Mario off the VC.

Next, games. I picked up Super Swing Golf (heard great things), Zelda TP, Rayman RR & Paper Mario. Also nabbed a 2 gig SD card, extra nunchuck & Wii mote, and of course a classic controller.

Can't wait to start playing some games and learing more about this exciting console. Off I go....

[Cuddly Knife]

That's awesome, Five! I think you're the first person on these boards to have all three next-gen systems(at once). Coolies.

Don't forget to post your Friend code so we can do the Mii thing.

BTW, Gad, did you ever get the Mii I sent you?

And also, what VC games are you interested in, Five?

[Gadfly2317]

BTW, Gad, did you ever get the Mii I sent you?
?
nope.

You?

[Cuddly Knife]

Yeah, I got yours. Maybe I have to send it as a message instead of just the Mii by itself...

[Fivespot]

No, I haven't decided what I'm going to download for the VC. Any suggestions?

[Cuddly Knife]

Psshh, the usual. My personal faves(or games that I've Dl'd so far) are Super Castlevania IV(my favorite 'vania), Contra 3 The Alien Wars, Kirby, Mario World, Starfox 64, Ninja Gaiden, and Streets if Rage 2(killer tunage). Soon I'll have Actraiser(at Gad's suggestion) and I'm thinking about getting Toejam and Earl.

[Cuddly Knife]

The first Wii-view of RE4, from C&VG, bolded for your pleasure:
Import review: You've probably played this game before - it was one of the greatest works to come from the last generation of console hardware, critically regarded as the definitive entry in Capcom's Resident Evil series. But the Wii Remote has changed the boundaries of what's possible in games, moving Capcom to sense an opportunity and pounce.

Ostensibly this new edition is nothing more than a rehash of the GameCube and PS2 versions of Resident Evil 4, but in actuality - thanks to the wonders of Wii - it emerges as a full, bloody rebirth. (Appropriately, it's bloody good too.)

Advertisement:
So how does it work, we bet you're itching to know? Here's some salve: in one hand the Nunchuk provides character movement control, and in the other hand the Remote is your weapon. No surprises there then, really, but this set-up does make perfect sense.

By dividing control of Leon's movement and gun use between two hands, Capcom has redefined the game's aiming system and freed the game from one of its former niggles. Now you can actually shoot your enemies' individual limbs, taking out heads or legs, with relative ease - something that proved frustratingly awkward on GameCube.

The pointer calibration here is so sharp you could cut yourself with it: even compared with Nintendo's own gunwork in the Duck Hunt-styled passage of Wii Play, it feels like there's greater precision in Capcom's handiwork. The crosshair visible on-screen doesn't shake (unless you're really scared and can't control your hands, of course) and there's no need to move your whole arm (unless you want to copy the hired stooges on Wii TV ads) - the result is an effortless and flawless targeting system that does exactly what you demand of it.

While the Remote is pointed screenward, a crosshair shows up on the display - changing from an unobtrusive grey through to lime green as you pull the B trigger, and running red when your target is in sight. Just point, shoot and dodge the exploding villager brains.

The Nunchuk is put to equally good use, but in an altogether more understated way. Hold Z and Leon will run as you direct his movement with the analogue stick. Tap C and Leon will produce his knife. Your left hand will know that it's holding the history of game control; your right hand will have all the new-age fun.

Even away from the regular pattern of walk-stop-shoot-walk, the Wii Remote is applied to more interesting actions. A quick double-shake of the remote reloads Leon's gun, for example, which works well as a satisfying and simple method for ammo recharge. The Remote's speaker is also used to good effect, chiming in with appropriate effects when receiving radio signals or changing ammo.

Elsewhere, during interactive cutscenes, the Remote is used to help Leon out of tricky situations. Early on, for instance, some villagers try to crush Leon beneath a boulder, which they push from the top of a hillside.

To get out of the way, you first have to waggle the remote like fury, which causes Leon to sprint (like fury). Then, at the climax of the scene, a quick A-B button press is enough to make Leon dive into a nearby bush.

In terms of the content here, almost everything has remained the same as the GameCube and PS2 versions. Or rather, this edition takes the best from both of those versions. The visuals are based on the Cube game's engine, but nicely upscaled to 480p (progressive scan) and rendered in 16:9 (widescreen).

The PS2 extras are also here, though, including the Ada Wong side-story, the Removal Laser, and unlockable costumes for Leon and Ashley. And, right from the off, Amateur and Easy modes are playable alongside the (resolutely tough) Normal difficulty game. Everything is in place, then, to make this the definitive version of Resident Evil 4.

We're not going to complain because Capcom hasn't built a new Wii game from the ground up. That's not the point of this release. And really, why change a winning formula (beyond the introduction of control improvements)? Resident Evil 4: Wii Edition retains the perfect incidental music of Resi 4, causing you to suspect that something's afoot when nothing is, and making you feel almost comfortable before the biggest shocks are unleashed. It's flowing with the directorial menace of Hitchcock circa The Birds and Marnie.

9.3/10

EDIT- I might end up getting this game(again, for the third time) because I still haven't gone through the Ada Wong story, because the PS2 version(which I currently have) is stupid, and also because it'll be cheap. And I could use some zombie pewnage on the Wii.

[Fivespot]

At $29.99 RE4 is priced to sell and is an obvious purchase to Wii owners who have yet to play this classic title. As CK noted even after playing it twice already he might be interested in picking it up.

I played the GC version and skipped the PS2 edition so I'm also planning on picking it up for the extra Ada Wong missions and because this control set-up sounds like fun.

[Cuddly Knife]

Bringing it to Wii
So with the main formalities out of the way, the real question comes into play: How does Scarface: The World is Yours feel on the Wii?

Great. The game feels great. When dealing with any "Wii-make" titles such as Scarface, it's always a balancing act of both good and bad. In this case, the title is late out the gate, and it's a matter of taking the Wii control (and what the game can provide to the available list of titles on Wii thus far), and evaluating just how impressive it is on the system despite being a late arrival. Regardless, Scarface is a very impressive game, and while there isn't a ton of Wii-specific additions to the package, everything that was added makes a big difference. Players will take the role of Tony Montana in all his F-bomb dropping goodness, strap on the Wii remote, and take over the streets of Miami with IR control and a bit of Wii waggle.

And though you can use a few quick motions to dispatch enemies in hand-to-hand fighting (or chainsaw-to-hand, if you're so inclined) the IR is the main attraction. Offering four sensitivity options and an extremely natural feel, players can use Wii's pixel-perfect aiming to dispatch enemy gangs, firing in a free-aim mode or combining IR with a lock-on to target specific areas of the body. No matter what your style is, it's amazingly easy to target enemies and blow off specific body parts in the process.

When your "balls meter" is full, just crank on the nunchuk (also your taunt motion) to engage the first-person rage mode - another high point in the game's IR control. Rage mode feels about on par with games like Call of Duty or Medal of Honor, having your selected sensitivity decide how far you need to move the cursor to turn, and the fact that it lasts about 25 seconds at a time makes it quick and easy to transition in and out of. An entire first-person Scarface game would have had some control issues, but for quick blood-fest excursions Scarface's rage mode is one of the best first-person experiences we've had on Wii. It's fast, responsive, and just feels right; a true testament to the game's control.

The advantage of IR continues when transitioning to vehicle combat, as direct cursor control (that doesn't require your right thumb) is exactly what was needed to streamline the driving/shooting experience. The idea is to steer with the analog stick, accelerate with the A button, lock on to enemies with the Z trigger, manipulate the handbrake with C, and pull off shots with the B trigger. On the console versions you'd also need to manipulate the right thumb stick, but with the IR it's a hands-free control situation, so you can keep your digits on the buttons where they belong, and attack enemies in a much more intuitive manor. It's the little things that change with Scarface Wii, but those little things make it an extremely impressive package.

Aside from the minor Wii-specific changes, you'll still get the same brutal Scarface package as on the other consoles. We're impressed at the amount of business management, strategy, and overall "smart gameplay" that Scarface embraces, and the fact that the game is a GTA clone is actually a great fit for the Wii, as we're GTA-less in Nintendo Land. It's important to note, though, that the game is amazingly violent, and a bit too over-the-top with language. At first Tony's constant swearing was entertaining (the language is worse than any GTA game we've played), but after a while it wore thin, and we got sick of turning down the game just to get away from the overly-vulgar feel of it. We get it, the game is edgy. We love Scarface the movie too, but the videogame often comes off as a middle school student who just learned that "swearing is cool," and really gives the game a more unintelligent feel than it deserves. Still, the list of smart decisions (to put it simply) in Scarface could go on for pages alone. The game has amazing voice acting, a great phone-in system, tons of mansion customization and economy control, an intuitive waypoint system for maps (complete with turn icons when driving to specific destinations), a solid bonus system based on specific kill shots, and huge soundtrack complete with customization options and the entire original movie album, and so much more. If you can get over the language - and violence, should you be a bit squeamish - Scarface is an intelligent, high-budget, astonishingly impressive game.

Closing Comments
Scarface: The World is Yours was an impressive game on previous consoles, and it’s just as entertaining and immersive on Wii as ever before. IR control gives the game a more streamlined feel, and Wii owners that fit in the hardcore crowd will absolutely eat this one up, as it’s currently one of the deepest and most entertaining experiences on the system. And while the package is essentially GTA: Vice City with the Scarface license coated over it, we’ve actually had more fun exploring Miami than Vice City, as there’s more to do, better vehicle, weapon, and asset management, and nearly every hotspot from the movie is created brick for brick. When you explore Montana’s mansion, you’re in the mansion from the movie. When you head over to the beach-side club, the bartender recognizes you from the beginning of the first movie (the oh-so-famous “lizard tongue” scene, to be exact). Everything in Scarface fits with the movie, and while it suffers from the same open-world issues as GTA and the like – characters and items fade in, AI isn’t always the sharpest, and the world has a somewhat “unpolished” look to it – the control, immersion, and overall soul of the game is there. Scarface is a deep, engaging, mature title on Wii, and widely recommended to anyone who can handle its vulgar nature. Vice City, eat your heart out. I always did want to play this game, but there were so many other games on the systems that it slipped my radar. Not any more, no sir. Now I get to play the superior version. Anyone else interested in this game?

[Glockstar]

What's this?! What's this?!

You kitties are sleeping at the wheel. Again! I can't count on you guys for nuthin. #@$% Mario!

Press Release, courtesy of IGN:
Indianapolis 500 Legends Coming to Wii and DS
Start your engines with Destineer's new racing title.
posted by Alexis Dunham

May 21, 2007 - Are you ready to careen around the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway in a hand-built 1960s speed machine that hits speeds of nearly 180 mph, yet rides only 7 inches off the ground? Can you survive a moving minefield of crashes, spinning cars, rolling tires, oil slicks and 32 rivals competing for the perfect racing line? You'll learn these answers and more as Destineer today announces Indianapolis 500 Legends for the Wii console and Nintendo DS.

Set from 1961-1971, a period of loose rules and ever-faster cars, Indianapolis 500 Legends lets players experience the traditions, rivalries, terrifying speeds and jaw-dropping maneuvers of the world famous Brickyard as they take on the arcade-style gameplay inspired by the birth of modern racing.

"Indianapolis 500 Legends combines edge-of-your-seat Indy-style racing with the widespread appeal and accessibility of the Nintendo Wii and DS, making it the perfect choice for racing fans of any age and skill," said Paul Rinde, CEO of Destineer.

In Indianapolis 500 Legends, players assume the roles of 30 of the sport's most daring real-life legends like Al Unser, A.J. Foyt and Parnelli Jones as they draft, dodge and slingshot through a virtual minefield on a track where speeds of up to 180 miles per hour defined racing's frontier mentality.

Experience crashes, upsets and thrills with mission-based racing that puts you in the middle of some of the Indy 500's most famous and infamous moments. Drive the last of the front-engine roadsters; experiment with the first turbine cars or strap on the earliest sets of bolt-on wings. But buckle up - back then the rules were few, protection was a luxury and making it to the finish line was never guaranteed.

Rounding out the experience are pit stop mini-games that include changing tires and refueling via the Wii remote and Nintendo DS stylus. Players can even unlock historic Indy memorabilia.

From Destineer and developer Torus, Indianapolis 500 Legends races into stores this holiday season for a suggested retail price of $49.99 for the Wii version, and $29.99 for its DS counterpart. For additional information please visit www.destineerstudios.com.


http://media.ign.com/thumb/200/2002200/indianapolis-500-legends-20070524014805623_thumb.jpg

They've got a two-page "hands-on" article (http://wii.ign.com/articles/791/791635p1.html). Along with a video.

[Gadfly2317]

Glock, who is this developer Destineer? I read the hands-on, checked out the screens, etc, and I'm not sure yet what makes this head-line news. It looked pretty run-of-the mill. The tires on the cars aren't even round, they are like octagons or something.

But damn, looking over this thread and thinking about it, Wii owners have one violent year with Godfather Blackhand, Scarface, Manhunt 2, No More Heros, and Resident Evil 4 (am I ever glad I was too busy to play this when it came out originally--I am convinced from other games with gunplay that the Wii control is a WAY better method of blasting zombies than we've ever had on a console before.)

The Wii controls seem much better suited for acts of violence than racing. Violence, sports, and conceptually bizarre niche games. Seriously, I don't see anything about the Wii control that could improve racing unless someone runs with my idea and makes a game where you can shoot at things with the wiimote while you drive with the nunchuck. Realistic racing is one of those genres that is much better served by the graphical and AI power of the Ps3 or 360. . . the best control isn't motion control, its one of those expensive steering wheel and pedal set-ups.

[Glockstar]

...and I'm not sure yet what makes this head-line news.

Indianapolis. 500. Duh.

[Cuddly Knife]

Hack N Slash

Dragon Blade: Wrath of Fire First Look
The power of the dragon is in our hands.
by Bozon

June 20, 2007 - With the ever-growing popularity of Wii, ported over Wii-make titles are beginning to be replaced by full-fledged original content for Nintendo's motion-sensing system. We're seeing tremendous support from some of the larger publishers in the industry, as well as the trickling of smaller dev houses that bring in original content that sneaks in under our radar. Dragon Blade: Wrath of Fire is one of those games. Shown off for the first time at D3 Publisher's pre-E3 show last week, Dragon Blade is a Wii-exclusive action adventure game that promises to make full use of its system exclusivity. It may not be as deep as The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, but the game is showing tremendous promise even in its alpha stage.

Along with a hands-on demo of the game, D3 was able to show off a few of the finer points of Dragon Blade through a multi-level demo. Dragon Blade follows a young adventurer who seeks six legendary pieces of the "Dragon Blade," each infused with the soul of different guardian dragons. In an attempt to build the ultimate weapon and vanquish evil, the young Link-like protagonist embarks on a quest to find and seal away each of the six dragons, taking their souls and abilities in the process.

Rather than going for a full-fledged adventure style game, developer Land Ho (most known for the staff's work in the Panzer Dragoon series) opted for a straightforward action title instead, so gamers get Wii motion coupled with all-out battle a la God of War. Granted the action isn't quite as fierce as Sony's legendary battler, but the Wii motion lends itself well to straight dual-handed combat. Sam Guilloud, product manager for D3 Publisher of America spoke on the team's influence for Dragon Blade, stating that, "We really want the player to have an arcade experience by just getting involved in the game. We want them to feel like they're the ones kicking ass, rather than spending too much time looking for 'jars of honey,' playing mini-games, or doing side quests. It's about getting them involved in the game, and letting them really take it to the enemies. There's really not a lot of content on the Wii that's actually 'action-oriented.' There's a ton of family games and casual games, a lot of sports titles and first-person shooters, but there isn't really a good hack-'n-slash game that lets people go nuts and really kick ass."

As with any Wii-exclusive design, the real make-or-break aspects lie in the control. With Dragon Blade, it's all about using the Wii remote and nunchuk as your two hands, teamed with the B button for lock-on and the traditional jump and dash actions intertwined. Basic sword control (your main form of combat) is handled with specific motion swipes, so attacking left or right is as simple as swinging left or right, and uppercuts or slams are done with a simple stroke up or down. Also included is a thrust attack similar to Twilight Princess, executed with a simple jab forward.

Where the game earns its stripes, however, is in the actual dragon attacks, unlocked after each boss has been defeated. Included in the list are dragon head, arm, tail, and double arm. Each of these attacks - activated by D-pad - engage huge fire powers in their specific body area. When dragon head is activated, a gigantic fire-breathing noggin appears above your fighter. A simple jab forward fires one (or multiple, if powered up) fireball projectile. In the case of arm and double arm, your hands become gigantic fire claws, and either the Wii remote or combination of nunchuk and remote (in double arm) is used to pull off gigantic, sweeping attacks. Clap the two controllers together and your character smashes his arms out in front of him. Lift up and slam down with your arms and you'll pull off a gigantic fire slam.

As for the dragon tail - our favorite of the power-ups by a long shot - your character's sword actually engulfs in flames and drops lazily to his side, acting as a Castlevania-like whip. Large sweeping movements and overhead slams make for intricate spinning and flailing attacks as the hero literally rips through enemies from remarkable distances. Of course any of these attacks can be made into a custom combo by switching powers on the fly and using precise Wii-mote actions, and by the end of the 21-level adventure you can pull off some simply stunning attacks on enemies.

Aside from the general combat, we really haven't seen a ton from Dragon Blade as of yet. Each level is essentially a point A-to-B experience, as you run through different regions of an ancient, Asian-inspired world. The 21 levels span six different environments, and while each has its own specific look and feel it's still the same balls-to-the-wall action in every instance. The only main change from baddie-beating lies in the boss battles, which require you to fight against gigantic dragons in some pretty epic bouts. As with any enemy, the lumbering bosses can be locked onto, allowing for easy circle-strafing and more region-appropriate attacks.

After breaking down the monster's defenses bit by bit you'll eventually get kicked into a motion-based finishing move called a Corebreaker that requires different actions to deliver a cinematic finale to the battle. Sam Guilloud once again gave us some design insight into how this all works, explaining that, "Every level has a boss dragon at the end, and each dragon is themed differently. There's a fire dragon, a water dragon, smoke dragon, three-headed dragon... each of the battles are made up of three different sections. You start off with an initial life bar you're trying to drain down, which then leads to an exposed crystal where the dragon draws his power. You'll want to destroy each of the crystals, and then engage the Corebreaker attack to do motion-based finishers." The design seems to work in theory, but we'll have to wait until a later date to see an entire boss battle from start to finish, as the Corebreaker attack has yet to be implemented.

The general look and feel of Dragon Blade is already very promising, even though the game is still in its preliminary state. The graphics could be a bit more vibrant, and characters seem a tad bit low poly for Wii, but once the game gets moving the action and effects kick into gear quite nicely. Above all else, the game plays well, as combos can be strung together using any variety of attacks and power-ups. It's a bit of a one-trick pony, as you'll be ripping through levels in traditional action fashion, but it should be fun while it lasts. On top of that, there's a yet-to-be-seen story written by Richard Knaak (author of various World of Warcraft, Dragonlance, and Diablo II books) that promises to tie the entire adventure together nicely. The game is entirely single player though, so anyone looking for a co-op adventure should look elsewhere. Dragon Blade: Wrath of Fire is all about powering up, kicking ass, and using specific, precise Wii gestures in the process.

We'll have more on Dragon Blade: Wrath of Fire as we approach E3. The game is currently slated for a late September release, and is Wii exclusive. Be sure check out the first footage of Dragon Blade in action, and keep checking back to IGN Wii for all the latest from D3 Publisher.

[Cuddly Knife]

How's them golf games coming along, Five? Pick a winner yet?

Vicious Engine To Be Used for Wii
Middleware to be displayed at Nintendo's Developer Conference.
posted by Alexis Dunham

June 22, 2007 - Vicious Cycle Software, a premier developer of interactive entertainment software and technology, announced today that their Vicious Engine middleware solution has been selected by Nintendo for display at the Nintendo Developers Conference 2007 in Santa Monica. Vicious Engine, thanks to its ability to elegantly develop titles for the Wii system, will be included at the exclusive event which caters to Wii developers on June 26th. The engine's early registration as a middleware solution for Wii has allowed developers to apply their visions for Wii games to its easy-to-use toolset for rapid prototyping and versatile multiplatform portability. In addition, Vicious Cycle Software will be offering instruction on Vicious Engine to aspiring developers at this year's Digital Game Expo at Wake Technical Community College in the budding game community in Raleigh, NC.

"The ability to develop for Wii is an immensely valuable commodity right now," said John O'Neill, director of business development of Vicious Cycle Software. "Developers using the Vicious Engine to power their games have that ability--along with the same versatility and accessibility the engine has always offered on every available platform. The ability to take advantage of Wii's revolutionary new controls and interface is something we're glad we can deliver to the industry's creative minds."

Developed by Vicious Cycle Software, Vicious Engine is one of the first third-party developer tools to be licensed for Wii. The engine features the easiest platform conversion technology available, as well as simple artificial intelligence development tools, and a point-and-click scripting interface. With its high approachability and quick acclimatization, Vicious Engine was designed with the versatility and creativity of Wii games in mind.

[Fivespot]

Super Swing Golf it the best in my opinion. Tiger's controls are a hair wonky and it's mighty frustrating. Of course the golf in Wii Sports is admirable. I'd stick with that one until Tiger 08 or something better.

[Cuddly Knife]

Majesco Announces Blast Works for Wii
Build your own side-scrolling shooter levels and then obliterate them. First details and screens.
by Matt Casamassina

June 27, 2007 - Publisher Majesco Entertainment on Wednesday announced that it has teamed with developer Budcat Creations to bring Wii owners Blast Works; Build, Fuse & Destroy. The title, a side-scroller whose presentation spills with stylized geometric shapes, enables gamers to build their own levels and then destroy them, absorbing the parts of enemy ships as they go. The project is scheduled for a fall release on Wii.

"Gamers can literally build their own shooter experience via Blast Works' easy-to-use, multiple in-game editors," said Ken Gold, vice president of Marketing, Majesco. "This exceptional customization combined with the unique 'stickiness' of enemy debris and bright geometric graphics delivers a standout game that never plays the same way twice."

Blast Works is set to feature some 15 different land, air and sea-based stages. As players progress through the campaign, they will shoot down all enemy craft in their path and simultaneously absorb the debris, enhancing their ship on the fly. The bigger one's vehicle becomes, "the easier it is to protect from the growing onslaught of enemy firepower," according to Majesco. In addition to absorbing upgrades, gamers can buy enhancements for weapons, the propulsion system and armor in a hangar. Apparently Wii owners will have to defend this hangar, using the Wii remote like a turret to shoot down oncoming forces.

The title is separated from other shooters not only by its unique graphical presentation, but by its inclusion of fully functional ship and level editors. On top of everything else, Blast Works features a two-player cooperative mode.

Majesco's new Wii game is based on a popular computer shareware effort known as Tumiki Fighters. Interested readers can check out the project that inspired it all, and even download and try it out for themselves. It is important to note that the Wii update of the game has seen a number of changes and enhancements.

And some pics.

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/800/800067/blast-works-build-fuse-destroy-20070627040141913.jpg

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/800/800067/blast-works-build-fuse-destroy-20070627040142913.jpg

This game will rock. I didn't even know Majescc was still making games.

[Cuddly Knife]

I don't know what the game is about, gameplay-wise, but the pics look cool, and supposedly this game is Wi-Fi enabled.

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/801/801586/forever-blue-20070705094426374.jpg

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/801/801586/forever-blue-20070705094429623.jpg

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/801/801586/forever-blue-20070705094434389.jpg

[Glockstar]

Those pics do look cool.


-


Missile Command just came out for Xbox Live Arcade... now there's a game for the Wii-mote.(!)

[Cuddly Knife]

Pre-E3 2007: Trauma Center: New Blood Unveiled
All-new storyline, 16:9 mode, and two-player cooperative play. First screens inside!
by Matt Casamassina

July 10, 2007 - Publisher Atlus on Tuesday revealed that it is underway with a full-blown sequel to the sleeper Wii title, Trauma Center: Second Opinion. The game, called Trauma Center: New Blood, will feature an all-new storyline and characters in addition to new gameplay types and visual enhancements.

New Blood follows both Dr. Markus Vaughn and Valerie Blaylock, two Alaskan surgeons with the Healing Touch who are recruited into the Concordia Medical Institute after their local facilities closes down. Once there, they learn that the doctors on staff are regularly more concerned with maintaining their excessive lifestyles than they are with the patients they tend to. Markus and Valerie are eventually taken into a government organization known as Caduceus, where they begin to learn about a vast conspiracy.

New Blood follows two doctors this time around because the game comes complete with a fully functioning two-player cooperative mode. This is not some gimmicky extra where one player holds the Wii remote and the other a nunchuk, either. Instead, gamers will have full control over each character, both operating with all their tools at the same time.

This Trauma Center also corrects several oversights with the first game. Obviously, there's the brand new storyline, which won't be confused with any DS predecessor. The characters are this time brought to life with full voice work. There's a seamlessly integrated online score ranking system, which makes use of WiiConnect24 to upload data. And finally, New Blood runs in both 480p and 16:9 widescreen modes.

The title ships this holiday.
Sweet.

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/802/802728/trauma-center-new-blood-20070710095948890.jpg

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/802/802728/trauma-center-new-blood-20070710095957858.jpg

[Gadfly2317]

I will absolutely be getting Trauma Center: New Blood. I didn't pick up the Wii Trauma Center because it was essentially the DS game.

This is a game that sadly, too many people are missing who would probably really enjoy it. I don't think most people realize this is a seriously challenging, hand-eye coordination action/adrenalin pounding game.

It's cool to get that level of gripper-action in something that doesn't involve twitch gunplay. And I like twitch, like Ikaruga. Trauma Center. Seriously cool. We must get Glock to play this one.

It's cool to see what a lot of us thought would happen, which is that the similarity of the Wii and DS, and the lower development cost of games on DS, would make it a testing ground for new games that would make their way to the console world. It's a good way to introduce risky, innovative concepts into gaming.

[Cuddly Knife]

Wave Race 64 Arrives
Nintendo releases three new VC games, its classic jet-skiing title among them.
by Matt Casamassina

August 6, 2007 - Nintendo of America on Monday announced three new downloadable games for Wii's Virtual Console service. The titles include Galaga 90 for TurboGrafx-16 and Adventures of Lolo for NES, but for many this week's biggest release will assuredly be Wave Race 64, the latest in only a handful of N64 games available to the Virtual Console. We've got full details below, verbatim, courtesy Nintendo.

Wave Race 64 (Nintendo¿ 64, 1-2 players, rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): Take to the waves on your own personal watercraft and experience some of the best water effects in video game history. Choose one of four characters, each with his/her own unique abilities and style, and master the game's excellent controls. Make your way through nine courses, each with its own challenges. If the ramps, mines and hairpin turns aren't enough, you'll also have to deal with varying weather conditions that can make the water choppy or cover the course with fog. And if you ever feel like taking a break from racing, then try out Stunt Mode to polish your skills by pulling off handstands, rolls and more. Get good enough and you might even be able to ride a dolphin—just don't get seasick.

Adventures of Lolo (NES, 1 player, rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): This was the first game in the Eggerland puzzle series to be released in North America. After the love of his life, Lala, is kidnapped by the Great Devil and taken to a haunted castle, our hero Lolo sets out to rescue her. The journey is perilous because the Great Devil's fortress is guarded by a massive army. But Lolo has a few tricks up his sleeve, including a Magic Shot that turns enemies into eggs and an Emerald Framer that shields him from attacks. Combining clever environmental puzzles with tricky enemies and an engaging style, Adventures of Logo is a true classic.

Galaga '90 (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, rated E for Everyone, 600 Wii Points): This is an updated version of the classic arcade shooter Galaga. Set in the vast reaches of space, you will fight your way through all 29 rounds to reach the enemies' stronghold on Planet Galaga. Game levels consist of a few rounds with changing enemies and backgrounds. To top it off, the nostalgic "Galactic Dancing" lives on to mark the end of each level. With the new addition of dimensions, you can choose your attack route. Collect capsules and open dimension warps at branch sections to take on even tougher enemies. Galaga '90's inclusion of the triple fighter, scrolling backgrounds, boss Galaga and even new system effects make it nothing less than a masterpiece.

Hooray for Wave Race 64!!! I can't wait to get my mitts on this one. Old-school at it's best.

[Gadfly2317]

I wonder how much it would really cost Nintendo to upgrade the resolution of some of these games, like Wave Race 64, and to add the option of motion control. Or to add online. Wave Race,VC, you should be able to play it in its original intent, but for the money, you should certainly be able to utilize the Wii's most relevant feature, as well as have the multi-player linked up online.

I just think of stuff like Joust on XBLA that was retooled for online and sold for a meager $7.99.

And I really hate 3-card-monty marketing crap like "points." How much money is a 1000 points? Easy to forget once you've plugged in a few dollars on your Nintendo account.

I'm not trolling here, but Nintendo has been raking it in big time lately, and it should be giving a little more value to the gamers who've been there buying these games. Gonna buy them again? Is it too much to ask that on at least some of these offerings you spend a few of those PURE PROFIT dollars offering a few extras that we didn't get the first two or three times we bought the game?

[Fivespot]

Do I have to use a Gamecube memory card when playing Gamecube games on the Wii? Do I have to use a Cube specific controllers as well? Can't I use the classic controller instead?

I think the answer to both is YES but I wanted to double check before stopping on that assumption. I guess it would be nice to leave the cube, controllers, and memory cards put away but maybe that was too optimistic of me.

[trebor]

Do I have to use a Gamecube memory card when playing Gamecube games on the Wii?

Yes.



Do I have to use a Cube specific controllers as well? Can't I use the classic controller instead?

I believe the answer to this is also yes.


I think the answer to both is YES but I wanted to double check before stopping on that assumption. I guess it would be nice to leave the cube, controllers, and memory cards put away but maybe that was too optimistic of me.

As far as I can tell, when the Wii is in b/c mode, it thinks it is a Gamecube, so you need the GC memory cards and GC controllers. You can't even turn the Wii off with the Wiimote or go back to the Wii Menu when you're in GC mode.

[Gadfly2317]

Any ever spot any new games coming out this fall that you weren't aware of? With Metroid and Mario and Super Smash hogging the limelight (and an excercise game) I don't know much of what 's coming on the Wii that might be worth playing. I know there's a potentially cool Trauma Center built ground up for the Wii, and the full-on Geometry Wars looks to take the 360 hit and blow it wide up open.

I just saw this boxing game, Victorious Boxer, and wondered if it looked like shovelware, or an actual good boxing game. http://www.gamespot.com/pages/gamespace/updates.php?pid=936582&sid=6177920&tag=topslot;title;2

I've been thinking of those Wii sports games, and how much fun it would be to have a full fledged dedicated game for several of those sports. Did Tiger Woods '08 turn out? If not, Camelot--who made the excellent Mario Golf games--are making a Golf game that is NOT Mario!!!

And I think Bowling deserves a full on game, with leagues, seasons, online competition. I do love the You Tube Hitler clip, lamenting his loss of 360 Live account, responds to a consolation about still having a Wii with "F@#k the F@#$ing Bowling game." I get the joke, but seriously, the bowling game works so well that anyone I've had over and play it, it tracks there throw just like in real life (but is a little easier than real life.)

Anyway, some random general Wii discussion thoughts. Oh yeah, Rockstar's Table Tennis, which got great reviews on 360, if done well, this could be a superb Wii title.

I still hope to see companies revealing projects with substance, and not just kiddy cliche crap that some marketing study determined holds the holy grail "casual appeal." And where is the info on the intriguing "Sadness" project? Is No More Heroes Still on target?

[Cuddly Knife]

This game will have substance, although I'm not sure when it comes out:

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/816/816543/rygar-the-battle-of-argus--20070828050731484.jpg

http://wiimedia.ign.com/wii/image/article/805/805743/rygar-the-battle-of-argus--20070717024403265.jpg

Long live Diskarmor!

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

Soul Calibur Legends. The first Wii game that I find interesting.

I've always thought this franchise would make for a good action game, with all the weapons-based combat and all.

[Renzatic Gear]

I'm suspicious of Soul Calibur Legends. It might turn out awesome in the end. But so far, it looks like a quick and sloppy whip-together just so Namco can say they have something out for the Wii.

On a different topic, I've just recently picked up Mercury Meltdown Revolution for the Wii. The game is an absolute blast. The motion controls, which really make an already cool game even better, are spot on perfect. For 20 bones, you could do far worse. If you haven't played it on the PSP/PS2, grab it.

[Gadfly2317]

So, what are your guys "must play" Wii games this holiday? I've been into other things right now and haven't settled on ANY Wii game, other than Mario Galaxy. . . but not sure when I'll pick it up; so busy right now might just wait and see if I can get someone to pick it up for me as an xmas present. But it sounds like it might be a GOTY contender despite what I see as an anti-platformer bias in the world of gaming today. The game is scoring off the charts and being repeatedly called one of the greatest Mario platformers ever.

Trebor, are you looking forward to the new Fire Emblem? Saw Gamespy gave it 4 1/2 out of 5 stars and called it the best strategy game of the year.

The main reason I'm probably not jumping on Mario right away is I kind of made a pledge to myself not to pick up anything else until finishing some more stuff I already have. Was considering the Wii version of Geometry Wars, but with the depth of some of similar games on Ps3 for only $9.99, it pains me to spend $49.

[folken001]

So, what are your guys "must play" Wii games this holiday? I've been into other things right now and haven't settled on ANY Wii game, other than Mario Galaxy. . . but not sure when I'll pick it up; so busy right now might just wait and see if I can get someone to pick it up for me as an xmas present. But it sounds like it might be a GOTY contender despite what I see as an anti-platformer bias in the world of gaming today. The game is scoring off the charts and being repeatedly called one of the greatest Mario platformers ever.

Trebor, are you looking forward to the new Fire Emblem? Saw Gamespy gave it 4 1/2 out of 5 stars and called it the best strategy game of the year.

The main reason I'm probably not jumping on Mario right away is I kind of made a pledge to myself not to pick up anything else until finishing some more stuff I already have. Was considering the Wii version of Geometry Wars, but with the depth of some of similar games on Ps3 for only $9.99, it pains me to spend $49.
I just beat RE:Chronicle. I think it's a fun game. It's far more difficult if you play this game alone. I had to try a couple times on some of the bosses. Something I don't like...1. The Chronile didn't really follow the officialy story timeline. Putting Carlos and Jill together for the entire RE2 senario is just BS, imo. 2. The game is pretty short, Leon's part is completely cut out. 3. The game looks pretty crappy....

Other than that, I had a blast playing this game. I started Mario and RE both last night and I couldn't stop playing RE until it's done.

P.S The new Fire Emblem seems to be very underwhelming to me. I've had about 10 mins with it. My impression of it is blah.

[trebor]

Trebor, are you looking forward to the new Fire Emblem? Saw Gamespy gave it 4 1/2 out of 5 stars and called it the best strategy game of the year.


Hell yes I am - I just bought it today. Despite my anticipation for it, I'm not opening it until I finish Super Mario Galaxy, might as well pace myself and all.

FYI - Not that I'm the biggest fan of Toys R' Us, but in today's ad they're offering a buy 2 Wii games get the 3rd free deal, which is hard to pass up. I went there around 4 or 5 pm today and the shelves were decimated. So, what do I do? I call up Circuit City and see if they'll match the offer and sure as hell I bought myself 2 games and got the 3rd free.

Fire Emblem, WarioWare, and Excite Truck - although I'm feeling buyer's remorse about Excite Truck - I should have picked up Medal of Honor : Heroes 2 instead, but whatev. I'm sure I'll like ET.



P.S The new Fire Emblem seems to be very underwhelming to me. I've had about 10 mins with it. My impression of it is blah.

FE definitely isn't for everyone, but for me it's like sweet, sweet nectar.

[folken001]

I am getting MoH game too. Maybe we'll play sometimes. Dunno though, I am not a big fan of MoH series and seriously, do we need anymore WW2 game?

[Gadfly2317]

Just some thoughts on the Wii.

I REALLY want sequels to Pikmin and Animal Crossing for the Wii. That's not news I guess since you guys have heard me harping about how much I love these games for ages now. But I'm ready to check out to lunch for several months in the spacey world of Animal Crossing.

Also, have you guys tried out the new Mii channel with the contests for creating Miis? I really enjoy that. The Tooth Fairy contest, the Cleopatra contets. Creating a Mii to submit for "World's Biggest Bully" Mii contest was cool; I started out just making a big fat mean looking kid when inspiration struck, and I made and submitted a little Adolph Hitler Mii. Can't wait till the contest closes to see what other's sumbitted. My idea seems kinda corny; a George Bush Mii might have been more timely.

Oh well. I'm really enjoying the Wii again, and it looks poised to deliver a lot of cool stuff, with SSBB, No More Heroes, a Wiicade channel coming soon, etc.

[Mochan]

George Bush is 10x the bully Hitler was. Hitler got bullied by Stalin and Churchill, but nobody can bully George Bush.

[BAM]

Go to http://www.prizerebel.com/index.php?r=96391 and get free stuff

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

No thanks.

[Glockstar]

So I'm reading this review on Endless Ocean, and in it they say the game has a custom soundtrack option. (They also say the music in the game excellent and can't understand why anybody would want to skip it, but hey... .) The Wii has custom soundtracks?(!)

Link to Kombo review of Endless Ocean. (http://wii.kombo.com/article.php?artid=11344)

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

Has anyone played Alien Syndrome? If so, how well does it control on the Wii?

[Cuddly Knife]

No voice chat on Mario Kart Wii:

Mario Kart Wii to feature text chat (but no voice chat)
Feb 27, 2008 @ 8:08am
Summary:
It's not ideal, but it's a step in the right direction.

Full Text:

Nintendo of Europe on Tuesday confirmed that Mario Kart Wii will support custom text messaging before and after online races, as reported by IGN. Previously, select Wii games only supported preset text communication.

Additionally, IGN speculates that the game will support USB keyboards, as other Wii Channels already do, for text inputting. The Wii remote pointer is confirmed, however.

Mario Kart Wii arrives this spring (Q2), according to Nintendo, and will feature 12-person online multiplayer, 4-person local multiplayer, and of course, single-player campaign. Dudes, that's lame-assed. 12 person multi online but no voice? WEEEEAAAK

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

I don't mind the lack of voice chat. Honestly, I prefer not to hear anyone while playing online, whenever I do play a game online.

[BaneNWN]

No voice chat on Mario Kart Wii:

Dudes, that's lame-assed. 12 person multi online but no voice? WEEEEAAAK

Not the type of game you would want to voice in anyways.to much concentration involved

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

I had no idea it took so much to play a Gamecube game on the Wii. A controller plus a hard to find memory card (made sure it was Nintendo made and not a 3rd party). I could have picked up a Wavebird for $18 used, but it looked like crap. I had to get a used memory card, though, since there aren't any new ones in stores in my city, and I didn't see any at my trustworthy stores on Amazon.com.

[Fivespot]

The wavebird works really well for lots of Wii games so they're quite nice to have. I wish they still made new ones.

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

I would have definitely considered a new Wavebird. I had one with my last GC, and it worked well. I just couldn't see myself getting the one I saw at Gamestop, though. It looked like someone took some sand, threw water on it, then used that to clean the controller. That "C" stick looked like a 2 year old was playing with it, after eating a Hershey's Bar.

At least the memory card was in better shape, though I'm still going to clean it.

[Gadfly2317]

I had all my GC controllers and mem cards left anyway. Actually, still have the GC boxed up somewhere; the main advantage is just having one system under the TV, and that I was never able to get a component cable for my GC, so I can now play GC games in progressive scan.

As to voice chat in Mario Kart, never once during a 12 player match did it ever occur to me that I would want to talk to any of these people. I'm not much on casual chat with people in the real world, much less strangers who I"m trying to mow down with a turtle shell.

[Rogue Bounty Hunter]

I would have liked to been able to keep my next to last Gamecube. It was a black edition, and I think that's when I had the Wavebird. I think it was back when Twilight Princess was originally going to come out, but Nintendo delayed it for a year, and I got annoyed with them and got rid of it.

I'm not much for chatting in games, either. I don't talk at all on the PS3 (I use the Warhawk Blue Tooth on my phone), and I usually just talk on the 360 when I game with Cuddly, Drunken Thumbs, and Bakken Hood.

To be honest, I don't even consider chatting while gaming to be social.