ARMS Direct Incoming!

Nintendo recently released their E3 plans which involved a direct style "Nintendo Spotlight" so you'd think they would be done for the time being? 

WRONG! Upcoming motion (non-motion too) fighting game ARMS is getting a dedicated Nintendo Direct tomorrow (That's May 17th) at 23:00 for us in the UK, 00:00 CEST, 3PM PT and 6PM ET. Nintendo also confirmed Splatoon 2 will get a new trailer at the end of this Direct.

ARMS caused a quiet storm at the Nintendo Switch reveal event. It was at first dismissed as a possible Wii boxing follow up but somewhere between the reveal and the art style spawning metric heaps of fan art, the fighting game community started quietly talking about the game, that got a lot louder when Nintendo confirmed the title will also support traditional controls.

ARMS will launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch on June 16th.

Abe's Take
It's not surprising that ARMS is getting some attention, Splatoon followed a similar path when it was first announced. Can Nintendo pull it off again? Well, we have a month till we find out but regardless I sure hope Ribbon Girl and Spring-man appear in Smash.

Nintendo Switch's Return

For months and months, the NX hung over gaming conversations and created a pretty hefty shadow for the Wii U and 3DS. Nintendo finally unveiled it as the Switch but has since gone silent again.

Nintendo has finally confirmed when we'll get to know the Switch more. On January 12th Nintendo will be hosting an event for the device and whilst it will be live streamed it will not be a traditional direct, in fact, it's going to be closer to an E3 event with the media, analysts and trade partners in attendance. 

Nintendo will be talking a lot about the system in very certain terms and has confirmed they will talk about the following;

• The exact launch date.
• Price.
• Launch titles.
• Titles currently in development.

Following the event, Nintendo plans on having "sampling events" in Europe and the US for " invited consumers, media and partners" and seperate events for the public to get to grips with the console before launch in March. That means we only have to suffer through rumours and hearsay for the next 76 days!

Abe's Take

So it looks like Nintendo will dominate the gaming narrative in January. I'm excited about the console though Nintendo's talk of supporting the 3DS after Switches launch gives me pause. If it's the usual "we'll support the old device for a while" that's fine but there does seem to be chatter that the Switch isn't ever going to replace the 3DS as Nintendo's handheld. The strongest case for Nintendo making a hybrid was that it would unify home and handheld teams, dramatically increasing the companies output and freeing studios to pursue more IPs

on a positive note, it appears the Joy-Cons have hidden shoulder buttons for multiplayer. which means they have the same number of inputs as a SNES pad.

Monster Hunter Direct!

Well, we've been talking a lot here about the possibility of Monster Hunter on the NX and then suddenly this appears.

Update: The official website says the Direct will not feature the Nintendo Switch or Smartphones

Original Story:

2016年10月27日（木）20時よりモンスターハンターシリーズに関する情報を、カプコンの辻本さんからインターネットをご覧のみなさんに直接お届けします。#NintendoDirectJP https://t.co/ChUHY5FAuX

— 任天堂株式会社 (@Nintendo) October 24, 2016

Nintendo Japan is having a (currently) Japanese exclusive Monster Hunter Direct on Thursday the 27th at 20:00 Japanese time, which is about 12pm if you feel inclined to watch it.

What could be discussed? Monster Hunter Stories has already been released in Japan, so unless the game is getting some large DLC that seems unlikely. Current favourites are Monster Hunter X-G (Generations Ultimate to western fans) or an MH for Nintendo Switch. well I guess we'll find out in a few days

Abe's Take
Monster Hunter stands out as a franchise that'll benefit from the "dual nature" of the Switch. Global MH fans have been very split but equally vocal in the past about wanting mobile and home experiences.

NX REVEAL TODAY

THIS IS NOT A DRILL! Repeat this is not a drill. No rumour to be found here, no chatter be cold hard facts.

Today over at Nintendo's main page at 3pm/16:00 CEST Nintendo will deliver its first look at what is currently known as the NX. This will be a reveal trailer that will "serve as a preliminary announcement" so it's unlikely we'll get too much detail today but at least we'll KNOW. Here's hoping the trailer ends with an date where we can get a full look at the device,


UPDATE: First Nintendo seems to of confrimed the NX is a "home" system.

Next up the Eurogamer report's (first 'leak and Beyond Good and Evil Semi reboot) author believes to know what will be featured in today's trailer (kinda... KINDA spoiler, not the name!)

Expect NX official name to be revealed tomorrow, alongside the look of the device. Not launch line up. Zelda BOTW NX shown.

— Laura Kate Dale (@LaurakBuzz) October 20, 2016

Whist another Eurogamer reporter believes another game will be shown, This is Tom Phillips the one who claimed Nintendo was going to reveal the NX in September.

Fun fact: Back in July Nintendo was indeed targeting September for NX's announce but Mario NX wasn't running perfectly. Now it is.

— Tom Phillips (@tomphillipsEG) October 20, 2016

Abe's Take
Finally Nintendo will SHOW US THE THING.
So looks like Ms Rogers was wrong to climb down from her rumour yesterday.

NX (Rumour) Battle!

NX chatter is really starting to pick up again, Is it because Nintendo is entered that leaky period before reveal? Or is it because the Shareholders meeting is about a week away and Nintendo has to at least mention it for then? Seeing how long we waited so far... probably the second.

Anyway on to today's news and this is a bit interesting.

First up with have long time Nintendo "insider" Emily Rogers whose record is a bit spotty as she has in the past "read between the lines" to make predictions that have failed but has also tapped into good sources correctly predicting Paper Mario: Colour Splash.

So...Both this week and next week should be interesting.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 17, 2016

I believe this week is an important week for NX. Next week's investors meeting will answer more questions about NX. https://t.co/LuI9HKk1I8

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 18, 2016

Which lines up with other sources over the last few weeks its possible she's simply repeating the Macquire and she's quick to point out To Nintendo Life's own Thomas Whitehead (who state a broken clock is right twice a day).

@ThomasBW84 I'll just say this. My teasing wasn't based on any past reports.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 17, 2016

However since then she has climbed down form her position after contacting other sources.

After speaking to some people, I'm not 100% convinced that news will happen this week. But I do have a software update if you're interested.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 19, 2016

So instead Ms Rogers offers us a possible glimpse into a new IP from Nintendo, which is apparently "not like Wii Sports"

New IP coming to NX from one of Nintendo's teams in Japan. Described as weird, fun and crazy. "Nintendo doesn't have another game like this"

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 19, 2016

However! Dr. Serkan Toto an game industry consultant at of Kantan-Games, who has been pretty good in the past doesn't believe we'll the NX this week, whilst also confirming DNeA is doing the grunt work on Super Mario Run (which currently has 20 million notifications) whilst Nintendo handles direction and level design.

3) No trolling intended+take this one with a big grain of salt, but I was told not to expect a NX reveal this week. Might be wrong! //end

— Dr. Serkan Toto (@serkantoto) October 18, 2016

Whilst he's certain on his source for Super Mario Run but his NX source is apparently a bit shakier.

"It is unlikely—though not impossible—that the company would talk about the NX this week via online presentations." https://t.co/12NVy7apsZ

— Dr. Serkan Toto (@serkantoto) October 19, 2016

Dr. Serkan Toto is certain Nintendo will talk about the NX next week but they would HAVE to because it's their share holders meetings.

Abe's Take
Come on Nintendo it is time to show your hand, everyone else has checked and has patiently waited to see what you have. Today we've had two people claimed opposing things but then backed down from their positions leaving us... here. Again.

NX Reveal Soon? Also Some Rumour Round Up

Yep its time for more NX chatter... we know we're rather bored of it at this point too but since MS is being ultra vague about Scorpio and the PS4-Pro is kinda disappointing, the NX is the only mystery hardware we have ahead of us. Hey! At least we're not digging up old forum posts, Harassing Zelda Williams, or talking about mysterious (and evidence free) Miyamoto sightings at Universal Studios.

Update: Turns out I missed more details from the Gameblog rumour, jump to the bottom to see the updated list.

Original Story: So onto today's chatter. Wall Street Journal's technology reporter Takashi Mochizuki believes that NX details are on their way.

Speculation is Nintendo would unveil NX details in coming week. I guess all we can do is just wait. No announcement from company yet.

— Takashi Mochizuki (@mochi_wsj) October 16, 2016

As you can see Mr Mochizuki is only relaying speculation, however he used this in the past and was right about Nintendo ending the Wii U's production in 2016. It stands to reason that we should hear about the NX soon other sources such as an damming report from Macquire Group, an investment banking firm (downgrading Nintendo's status) claiming details was coming (then) 'next week' and of cause Nintendo has an shareholders meeting on the 27th of this month. It would be very hard to ease the concerns of investors with Super Mario Run; which is exclusive to half the mobile base and will probably be skipping China (estimated to be 60% of the mobile gaming market by Macquire). 

There is also been chatter for a while that Nintendo will reveal the NX in a special direct on the 21st which just so happens to be this week, before the Nintendo shareholders briefing and the 5th, and the anniversary of the first ever Nintendo Direct. Boy is there going to be a lot of red faces if there is still no NX by next Monday.

Rumour Round Up

Hey Link.... Wait a minute!?

First up we have developer FDG Entertainment confirming their Wind Waker inspired mobile game Oceanhorn (now an enhanced version is on X1 and PS4) is coming to PS Vita and 'A Nintendo console'. Its unclear if the dev has an NX kit or if they just want to port their game to it whenever it arrives.

Next up with an unnamed retailer claims to be leaking various details about the NX. Here's their wide range of information in handy bullet point form.

Marketing

• “Interact with your game on the go.” phrase seen on a poster.
• Strong co-branding effort with a Mario launch title.
• Console is currently set to launch with least 4 titles on deck (assumed Nintendo titles).
• Stores should be receiving demo units around February.
• Base price point is sitting at $299.99 *

Bundle

• The NX is set to have a bundle but the contents of this bundle is currently unknown however its price is currently $399.99 * (Falls line with the price range by Macquire) 

Packaging

• The packaging for the NX will be slightly larger than the Wii U’s packaging.
• The packaging is relatively clean and simple and is similar to the Wii U in terms of package design.
• The color scheme for the packaging is white and blue (compared to the Wii U’s blue and black).
• The packaging seems to be an prototype as it still says “NX” however there is still no indication if this is a placeholder or the final name and he areas of the packaging that would usually depict the hardware were blurred by Nintendo in attempt to keep it hidden.

Features and Specs

• Games will be on cartridges (heard this before)
• 4k streaming has been mentioned. – What this likely means is playback of content such as Netflix, etc. Not gameplay. (heard this before)
• 1080p and 60fps are being used by the marketing teams in relation to gameplay on to the console portion. I’ve heard unconfirmed rumblings of 900p for the infamous hybrid part of the device.(hey this too!)

Next up we have an report from Gameblog.fr who has been right AND WRONG before. They mostly reported old details we've heard before and then added some extra to it, which hey is here.

• “Sure about 20 games in development” Their sources are currently developing on the platform and have devkits 
• “You’ll be able to verify these leaks very soon” but not aware of the actual reveal date. 
• Nintendo hasn’t shared all of the NX “gimmicks” with their dev yet Hybrid confirmed but not the only “surprise” 
• Confirmed there are detachable controllers 
• No real dock where you plug the handheld, but a wireless ‘dongle’ 
• Upscaling for the TV, The handheld game is the same as the “docked” game Games look good on the handheld screen (780 – 900p), about PS4 level Ports should be easy despite the different architecture 
• Very positive feedback on the dev tools 
• Breath of the Wild looks nicer on NX 
• Smartphone connectivity maybe possible 
• VR not out of the question but first tests aren’t satisfying. 
• Lots of remasters planned (Skyward Sword, MK8, Splatoon, Smash 4, N64 and Wii games) 
• FFXV and FFVII Remake are coming to NX 
• Platinum Games and Capcom are in. (PLEASE be Monster Hunter, Street Fighter and Bayonetta) 
• Ubisoft with BG&E 2 discussed but not confirmed, Splinter Cell and a Yoshi / Rabbid Rabbits crossover being discussed too

Abe's Take
SHOW US THE THING! Mainly because I want to see it but also I'm tired of reporting on these rumours.

I would imagine if Nintendo doesn't reveal the NX before their meeting on the 27th then its possible it wont be till after Christmas.

Another Day, Another NX rumour... or Two

oh boy these rumours just keep on coming now Eurogamer has apparently blown the lid on the NX. Today's rumour has a little extra weight to it. Plus bonus rumour!

UPDATE: It seems my source on Miss Rodgers wasn't complete, she confirms the previous MVC report (this infomation is added to the rest of her section of the original story below.

Controller Rumour
This latest rumour first reported by "Let's Play Games" via an unnamed source first backs up Eurogamer's rumour of detachable controllers but goes on to say that these controllers will feature "Wiimote like" motion controls and "advanced" force feedback. The later being described as being similar to that found in the HTC Vive's hand controllers. Which means the device is able to offer multiple types of vibration unlike other console controllers which only modulates the one type (excluding the X1's feed back triggers... like 90% of devs have). Here is what the source has to say about it

“very similar to the Vive controller, in that it alters intensity, pulsing patterns and duration of vibration to mimic the sensation of a range of different movement types. It’s not just one vibration for all situations, there’s a notable difference between the hard abrupt feedback of a sword clash or the softer, longer thud of something like hitting a tennis ball.”

This rumour has some official and unofficial backing. The official backing comes from Ubisoft with Just Dance hitting the NX, Ubisoft stated that Just Dance will come to "any and all motion controlled systems". Whilst the unofficial backing comes from known Nintendo rumour monger Emily Rodgers, Miss Rodgers not only confirms the above is true but goes on to spill some more details about the prototype device.

• The NX had a multi-touch 6.2 inch 720p screen.
• The docking station had 2 USB ports.
• Detachable motion controllers with advanced force feedback.

Miss Rodgers is quick to point out that this was the prototype NX and not even the pre-production model, so details have likely changed a little. Miss Rodgers also claims the MCV rumour stating that the NX was getting an Gamefreak made Pokemon game in the first 6 months "Had some truth to it

This report dose make us at GKUK smille because it increases the chance of the NX getting a Splatoon game that plays like the Wii U title and reminds us of titles like that used the motion plus like Red Steel 2/Wii Sports Resort and titles that understood the Wiimotes limits like Monster Hunter Tri and Twlight Princess (whilst not as super responsive as normal controls having a disjointed pad was relaxing)

Reveal Rumour
Tom Phillips Deputy Editor of Eurogamer says he believes that the NX's reveal will be in September. His sources (who are behind their NX report) say that the reveal was always planned for September and that "hasn't changed" he does say however that information isn't flowing as easily as before Eurogamer reported on the NX.

Phillip's source believes their will be a Nintendo Direct reveal for fans whilst the press will get a more hands on event at the same time

Abe's Take

Not the NX

As a Vision 8 (see above) owner which boasts an 8 inch screen plus 2 controller parts it feels a little unweildly to be taking out the house (perfect for home Xbox streaming though) 6.9 feels about right for the retail version of the NX which is meant to be played at home and out 'n' about. However 720p seems awfully low since its going to have plenty of 1080p rivals in both the Tablet and Console markets, Case in point the now "legacy" PSVita had an 900p screen.

Pokemon Direct Details!

Today is the 26th of February 2016 just one day short of the 20th anniversary of Pokemon Red and Blue/Green's launch, so we was treated to a short Direct.

Lets get this out the way first. It was short: 5 minutes long and not a whole lot of actually shown. However it was pretty great, there was fantastic trailer showing highlights from the last 20 years. It filled me with joy and a sense of "oh boy do i feel old" at the same time. The (what was meant to be) big news was that Pokemon Sun and Moon will be launching "late" 2016 (more on that later) no real details or any footage was shown but the trailer suggests that all the Pokemon games have lead to these new titles, no idea what that means mind. So looks like yesterdays Poke leak was right on the money.


To me the big surprise and certainly had the greatest effect one me was... The 3DS virtual console versions of Pokemon Red, Blue and Yellow will actually support the Pokemon Bank app. Meaning for the first time Gen-1 Pokemon can join their Gen 3+ decedents. This not only explains the extra cost on these versions (vs normal VC GB games) and why GameFreak had done an 180 on "no Pokemon VC due to lack of trading".

Abe's Take
Today's direct was short and sweet but did something I had not planned. I now what the VC releases of Pokemon Red and hopefully Gold down the line to restore those 'mon lost in the "great reset" that was the GBA games.

In more rumour based news. Today's late 2016 release date for Pokemon Sun/Moon falls in line with MetalDave64's super leak. Not only that but all of MetalDave's Videos relating to that leak have disappeared from his YouTube channel. Now we don't know why his videos have disappeared but if he was asked to by someone it dose add weight to his information, why scrub fake rumours? So in summary his source nailed a previously unknown Disney Art Academy, a new Pokemon game in December and has now mysteriously disappeared.

6 Predictions for today's Direct

Greetings one and all, merry Nintendo Direct day! To celebrate the return of the fan favourite Nintendo news delivery in a web format, we are going to run down some predictions for today's show. Some are based on evidence and others because I may of sneezed just a little too hard.

Lets start with some sane ones based on the evidence and not a hyper sneeze.

Twlight Princess HD 
There has been so much evidence of this game that it would be more of a surprise for it to not feature in today's show. With it's decedent Zelda U absent this year and unlikely to appear in this Direct as I'd expect it would get its own direct special.

Minecraft Wii U -
This is a newest entry of the evidence ones. Today the PEGI ratings board has apparently outed the Indie mega hit Nintendo debut. It's been a long time coming as Minecraft has made a certain sense for Nintendo's system. The game's art style would look glorious in 3D and the Wii U's Gamepad just 'fits' it perfectly. Now throw in amiibo support and you've created a licence to print large amount of money. Matching Nintendo's love of surprises according to the PEGI board Minecraft Wii U even has a release date... TODAY!

Pokemon Z 
This one has also been a long time coming and the timing seems about right. The Pokemon company has revealed an new legendary Pokemon Zygarde for their next movie. The new series of the anime is called Pokemon XY & Z and finally today Pokemon game director Junichi Masuda has asked that people watch today's presentation. It is possible that today's Direct will cover Pokemon Mystery Dungeon.

Now lets move on to the INSANE portion of this festive day. These are unfounded fever dreams of predictions.

F-Zero
Lets kick this off with a twisty one. Perhaps developer Shin'en's long gestating "F-Zero like" game "Fast Racing Neo" has been re-branded by Nintendo as F-Zero Origins and will launch early next year.

Metroid
Another Direct "leak" veteran that always pops up whenever the term "direct" is whispered. In a effort to appease the fans upset about Metroid Prime: Federation Force Nintendo will release the Prime trilogy exclusively for New 3DS.

Microsoft X Nintendo
This is the biggest brain destroying sneeze idea. Minecraft is the first part of a multistage deal between the two gaming giants. Under the deal both Nintendo and Microsoft would finally get to re-release Goldeneye for the Virtual Console and Rare Replay. Nintendo would be able to access the other Nintendo Rare games for the VC and certain HD ports such as Banjo - Kazooie HD for Wii U. Microsoft would be able to produce their own amiibo for Minecraft and other cross projects. To celebrate the deal Banjo will come to Smash Bros.

Abe's Take
The "sneezers" are all unlikely to impossible but that's part of the fun of these Directs, the guessing, the teasing and a little bit of letdown, After all its impossible for Nintendo to deliver everything these things as they tend to focus on the next few months.

They're Back

Nintendo's Direct shows quickly established themselves has a wonderful quirky event for Nintendo fans everywhere. The absolute oddness always hit the right notes with fans and acted as a fantastic counter to the serious "we're tech geniuses" the other members of the industry love using.   

Not only did these Directs provided an entertaining way of delivering news but also made a legend of Satoru Iwata brought the Nintendo President's personality to the surface and the "suit" that we had seen in the E3's before was gone forever.

Sadly Satoru Iwata passed away shortly after this years E3 and Nintendo fans all felt the same gut punch. Iwata hosting the Directs helped him become the face of Nintendo and suddenly the Direct's future was in question as Nintendo started announcing things via its Twitter and Facebook profile.

New Nintendo President Tatsumi Kimishima had confirmed during the investors meeting that Nintendo Directs would return and now we know when... TOMORROW! Yep the first Direct since Iwata's passing will be held 12th November at 2pm Pacific / 5pm Eastern / 10pm UK / 11pm CET. Its unkown who will host the Japanese and US shows but Nintendo of Europe's own Satoru, Mr Shibata. This isn't the first time Mr Shibata has hosted an Direct and he has been able to match Iwata's quirkiness and humour.

Abe's Take
What would be announced? well there is a lot of hype and "leaks" about this Direct claiming from the obvious "Twilight Princess HD" and the unlikely "F-Zero". Whilst we don't know what will be shown during tomorrow's event but we can safely rule out the NX and probably Zelda U.

For thing's for sure its good to have them back.

Nintendo Direct Round UP

I had a different idea for today's Nintendo Direct but someone set their HOURGLASS properly and as such we're back to boring list style. What was Interesting about this Direct was some of the leaks was half right, so well done to you cheeky internet snake oil dealers.


Smash Bro's DLC

We knew Mewtwo was returning but we now know when and how much for those who didn't register both Smash Bro's for Wii U/3DS. April 28th and for the price of £3.59/€3.99 for either system but can be bought for both systems for £4.99/€3.99. However those who did will get it April 15th.

This is just the beginning of Smash Bro's DLC, An upcoming patch will add new storefront to SSMB. There will be DLC costumes for Mii Fighters both original and "crossover" outfits, each of these costumes will cost £0.69/€0.79 for one version or £1.09/€1.19 for both systems. Which is pretty damn cheap seeing as 2 costumes on Dynasty Warriors 8 Empires will set you back £3.
Lucas returns to Smash Bros in June (we suspect for the same price for Mewtwo BUT he wont be the last and best yet we get to name what ever character we like to see in the future. Obviously Nintendo might not be able to make the winner into DLC if it's a third party but they will try. Head HERE to nominate your favourite character. All DLC characters will receive Amiibos.

Tap & Play Amiibo: Nintendo Classic Highlights
This new title coming in May, uses your Amiibo to play "scenes" from classic NES and SNES games. Repeated taps of the same Amiibo changes the "scene" allowing you play another level from the game. Obviously because not all the Amiibo's had titles on the NES/SNES games are randomly assigned to Amiibo's when they are first used in the software.

Mario Maker
Mario Maker is now the official Mario 30th anniversary flagship title. We don't know much more other than we WILL be able to chain levels together to make our own Mario games and it will launch in September (hey that the same month as 30 years ago!). Mario Maker WONT be limited to just a digital release and no doubt will get a special edition.

Yoshi's Wooly World

We got to see more of the title and the games two modes Classic: aimed at veteran players and will provided an challange and Mellow: gives Yoshi wings and is aimed at younger children but you can switch between the two at will. Nintendo also showcased its Amiibo functionality, tapping an Yoshi Amiibo spawns an 2nd Yoshi allowing single players to preform all the Co-op moves. Yoshi's Wooly World gets its own knitted plush Amiibo, Yes those adorable wooly Yoshi's are full Amiibos Bioth Amiibo and game will be available June 26th and there is a special edition Game X Amiibo pack

Splatoon

Splatton showed of its ranked matches, its new Splat Zones mode (think King of the hill)and new local 1v1 local Battle Dojo mode: players pop balloons whilst learning the MP maps and weapons.
They also announced it will get its own Amiibo range. Male Inkling and Female Inkling will be available instores with the game May 29th, there is also a third Squid Inkling Amiibo that's exclusive to the limited edition of the game (in the US its exclusive to an 3-pack). What do Amiibo's do? they give exclusive missions that yield in game currency and gear (clothes).

Affordable Space Adventures  
An indie game we've had our eyes on for a while as it showcases an interesting Gamepad mechanic where all of the ships functions are displayed on the gamepad, each system costs power, of which you only have a limited amount of. The detailed the games co-op mode where player must work as a crew not as seperate ships. This potential friendship destroyer will hit April 9th.

Virtual Console Update
We're finally getting N64 and DS games on Wii U. Mario 64 and Donkey Kong 64 will be the first N64 games, where as the DS get MarioKart DS and WarioWare DS. Available now there is also a special offer buy 3 get the 4th for free. Two new Wii titles are coming to Wii U, Pandora's Tower (April 16th) and Sin & Punishment (April 30th)

Fire Emblem X Shin Megami Tensei
After 2 years of silence and much despair we finally got to see this title. however it doesn't look like either core series of SMT or FE but instead looks like SMT's modern day spin off Persona. check out the impressive trailer below.



Fatal Frame
Yes, the excellent looking survival horror is finally coming to the west this year, Fans have been screaming for this title since it's Japanese release and we'll learn more at E3.

Mario Kart 8
The final Wii U news showcased the Animal Crossing x Mario Kart DLC featuring 8 tracks, 4 vehicles, 3 (4 if you count villager genders) characters and a "racing style" version of the Animal Crossing theme recorded live. The DLC will now hit April 23rd and not May.

At the same time there will be an update will add nine new Amiibo costumes for Mii's based on Mega Man, Pac-Man, Sonic, Toad, Wario, Villager, Rosalina, Bowser and Oilmar. In news that will either terrify or delight, for the first time ever 200cc racing hits Mario Kart, not only will the AI be craftier but the increase in speed will require "good braking skill" and will certainly shake off the cobwebs. 

We now switch other to the 3DS starting with Attack on Titan
For the first time the increasingly popular anime series is getting a western release for it's 3DS game Humanity in Chains. A 4 player coop action game set in the anime's universe where you'll battle giant naked men ( i'll happily admit I don't follow this anime) and in order to get use in the mood Nintendo will put up the first 2 episodes of the anime on the eShop. The game hits the eShop (no physical release) in May

Azure Striker Gunvolt
we're finally getting an UK/EU release of both ASG and its free 8-bit demake Mighty Gunvault featuring Mighty Number 9 characters, both will the games and themes hit April 2nd... THAT'S TODAY.

Box Boy!
Developed by Kirdy's developers and made in a charming monochrome (think gameboy) art style and features puzzle platformer, oddly reminiscent of Limbo but with squares...

Pokemon Rumble World
Nintendo latest free to play attempt is an adventure game base on the Pokemon Rumble series, The "diamonds" earned both through gameplay and REAL MONEY are used to unlock new levels not new mon directly.

Street Pass
on April 16th Street pass is getting 2 new games, one fishing and one zombies. Fishing is much like previous SP games but zombies is actually an action game where street pass Mii's hobbies determine what weapon you receive. There is also a separate VIP purchase that ISNT a season pass but adds a VIP room and birthdays to street pass. Which doesn't seem to have any value...

Fire Emblem
In a departure for the series the player created character is the focus of the story instead of being the main's ally. This time the story is there are two kingdoms The peace loving Hoshido and the glory seeking Nohr. Your character is born of the Royal Family of Hoshido but raised the the Royal Family of Nohr. It's up to the player to decide which path. The Hoshido sides features a traditional story (Traditional here meaning historic Japanese) whereas the Nohr will feature a tougher challenge as you try to revolutionise an "unruly" Kingdom from within. This untitled Fire Emblem will hit Japan this year as SEPARATE releases but the western release is to be bundled together next year.

Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer

An spin off of the main franchise with a focus on designing houses for the various villagers. However the villagers are unlocked in new Amiibo Cards. These aren't the replacements for out of stock figure Amiibo but are all new featuring the many villagers of the series. Scanning the cards summons the character into the house you are currently working on and unlocks that characters house. The game and cards will hit in autumn and will also bring the Amiibo adapter for the old 3DS family.

Abe's Take
There was a lot of surprises here for a "release date direct". I'm excited for a lot of these details and shocked to see the costume DLC for Smash being so low SIXTY NINE PENCE!

It is clear that Nintendo is going all in with Amiibo, which is quickly becoming a platform of its own. I'm not sold on some of their functionality but the designs are cool enough to buy. Which i suppose is the idea with them working across multiple titles.

I was hoping for them to acknowledge the Zelda delay, Xenoblade X release date or StarFox but almost everything today was set for before E3, so i'm guessing we'll see more (except Zelda) at E3.

Now i'm off to spam Bayonetta and Monster Hunter characters on the Nintendo page

Suddenly A Nintendo Direct Leak Appears RUMOUR

So about that Direct news we just shared, apparently there is an "leak" from a Nintendo-Germany employee and so here we go again (please don't hit me)

So according to this leak once again discovered on 4Chan we're got some goodies coming

Iwata apologizes again for the Zelda delay and announced a new title for Wii U, which will release in Winter 2015 instead: Paper Mario (working title): first trailer shown, uses the best parts of the first four titles of the series, developed by Intelligent Systems, more info at E3 2015. (Paper Mario was one of our solutions to the Wii U's once a gen issue)

Pokemon Rumble World : Due for release April 17th 2015 in the Nintendo eShop for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS. The game supports the Pokemon amiibo from the Smash Bros. Collection (no word on the previous NFC rumble figures)

SNES titles will be released in the 3DS eShop, the Wii U eShop will get GB und GBC titles. There will also be some cross-play for VC titles already bought and which are available on both systems. The SNES, GB and GBC titles will be released after the presentation. (if true... YAY)

N64 games will be available in June 2015 in the Wii U eShop:The games support widescreen and upscaling to 720p, support all controllers and off-tv-play. Price: 9,99 € per game. Owners who already bought the game on the Wii Shop can upgrade for 1,99 €. (this I really want but previous VC games have not been upcaled)

The Web eShop will be presented. Developed by Nintendo and DeNA. You can log in with your NNID and use the normal eShop functions. If the console is in stand-by, games bought on the eShop will be automatically downloaded. The Web eShop will implemented both the Wii U and 3DS eShop. Planned launch: April 2015. Their will also be new functions for the eShop: Pre-orders. Customers will be able to buy games months in advance and will get a 10% discount. The amount will be charged on launch day or the day the pre-load starts. The first games will be available following the presentation: Splatoon, Kirby and the Rainbow Paintbrush, Code Name: S.T.E.A.M., Puzzle & Dragons Z + Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Bros. Edition, (on June 4th) Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (If you buy one of the games until June 11th 23:59 MEZ, you get the other for free.) June 11th: Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards, June 18th: Super Smash Bros. June 25th: 1080° Snowboarding, April 2nd: Pandora’s Tower, April 23rd: Sin & Punishment: Successor of the Skies and finally May 14th: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

Apprently Devil’s Third will be released in August 2015, with new trailer being shown.

Also Amiibo Gallery will be presented. With this app, gamers can use their amiibo already used on the console, to look at them in a gallery. There you can take pictures of them and show them in Miiverse. There is also a mode called Origins. When you scan the amiibo via the NFC reader, you’ll be able to play a segment of the first game the amiibo appeared in. (My note: If you scan Link, you should be able to play a part of the first Legend of Zelda is my understanding of this.) This app will be available for free in May 2015 for Wii U and 3DS.

MK8 DLC Pack 2 will launch on May 7th 2015. Trailer shown, Software-Update will launch on the same day with the following new features: Time laps on tv, seperate screens for local 2 player games: One on the GamePad, one on the TV, new amiibo costumes.

Puzzle & Dragons Z + Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Bros. Edition releases on May 8th 2015 in Europe. Demo after the presentation available.

Yoshi’s Woolly World will be released on June 26th in Europe, Trailer shown. Limited Edition with knitted Yoshi releases on the same day.

Azure Striker Gunvolt releases after the presentation on the 3DS eShop. (My Note: A leak showed this title is scheduled for April 2.)

Nintendo Anime Channel will be launched on Wii U on April 9th 2015.

Project Zero 5 will be localised, will release later this year in Europe. (God Damn best be true otherwise i'll be going all "Taken" on the author of this false leak) 

NES Remix Pack (retail) will release on June 5th in Europe.

Boy-Boy! releases on April 8th in the 3DS eShop.

The app Collectable Badge Center will be available for 3DS after the presentation.

Trailer with upcoming games for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS shown.

Lego Jurassic World will release on June 11th on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS + new trailer.

Final Fantasy Explorers will be localised and released at the end of the year in Europe.

Splatoon will have support for amiibo: Special Splatoon amiibos where you can save your Inkling and take to your friend. With selected other amiibo you can unlock special gear. Game releases May 29th 2015 in Europe.

Next Super Smash Bros. amiibo wave will be available June 12th 2015. Newcomers are: Ganondorf, Jigglypuff, Palutena, Zer Suit Samus, Falco and Duck Hunt Duo (cue Banjo Kazooie mods). The Ganondorf amiibo will be compatible with Hyrule Warriors and unlocks a new weapon for him. Which one that is will will remain a secret until later. A software update, which will unlock this function, will be released on June 12th.

Rusty’s Real Deal Baseball releases April 24th in Europe and Yokai Watch will be localised and release later this year in Europe.

StarFox Horizon is shown with the first trailer, developed by Nintendo EAD with Platinum Games (please don’t spam Kamiya if it’s true, he might kill.). Will be released in Q3 2015, more information at E3.

And finally Mewtwo DLC for Smash. Wii U and 3DS gets a new trailer, will be send to the buyers of both games on April 9th 2015. You will get two download codes, one for Wii U and one for 3DS. Gamers who haven’t bought and registered both games, will have the chance to buy the DLC in June. On this day there will be available a software update, which will add a Miiverse stage, sharing-system and tournaments. There will also be new music, trophies and elements for the Stage Builder.

Abe's Take

That's a lot of details. It would be nice to see fruits of Nintendo/DeNA partnership but I'll be surprised if it be this soon. After last time I'm not going to say this seems true but rather would be nice if it was true

No Joke, Nintendo Direct Tomorrow

It's been what feels like forever since the last one but today Nintendo has announced an brand new Nintendo Direct

Yep Nintendo have a Direct ready for April fools day (just!). This Direct if not a massive April fools day joke is said to cover games for both Wii U and so should cover Xenoblade Chronicles X, Mario Maker and Splatoon. This is also the first Direct since Nintendo announced their entry into the mobile market, announced the NX and delayed Zelda out of 2015.

Continuing Nintendo's streak of not really caring about broadcast time around the world this Direct start 23:00 and will be live streamed on TWITCH, the Official Nintendo  website and somewhere on YouTube. Nintendo has also confirmed after the Direct there will be another Tree-house live stream where we'll be able to see more details on the games featured in the Direct.

Abe's Take
It good to have another Direct after what feels like a million years (in reality; less than 3 months). It's interesting that we had that Zelda delay video separate to this direct and even more curious is the Tree-house afterwards. Could it be that this direct will be so chock full of announcements that it needs an separate live stream for gameplay? I mean what else is there to learn on the all ready announced games? and lets face it the rest of the year seems a little light on games for both Wii U and 3DS.

Of cause it's also possible this is a giant prank and views will tune in tomorrow to find Iwata-san doing the naked chicken dance.

So about that Direct rumour

Sorry for the delay all but the entire staff was wiped out by chest infections for the last week. Ah internet will you ever stop with the rumours and falsehoods... Of cause you wont because outside of naked ladies and flame wars it's pretty much what your was made for (It wasn't).

So we got a Direct on the 14th and it was good (less so if you are a US fan who dosen't like the XL) and half the fake leak was kinda right. We got release dates for the N3DS, Monster Hunter, Codename S.T.E.A.M., Majora's Mask and Kirby. We also got to see new bonus content for Captain Toad and S.T.E.A.M. but instead of DLC these was Amiibo based. Finally there was also a new Fire Emblem announced but for 3DS (not Wii U).

What we did get was rather good, although rather light on the Wii U side of things. A big-ish surprise was Wii Virtual Console, Even though most game shops still stock Wii games certain titles like Metriod Trilogy and Pandora's Tower are hard to find and often cost a good limb to buy. There is some disappointment that these aren't HD up-scales but none of the other VC games received any work outside of controller updates so that's not really an issue. 

Abe's Take

The article itself was a big hit for us as we hit something like 1,587 unique views from all over the world but seeing as the leak turned out to be false the milestone feels... Cheapened and we regret this is how we got there. Unless we're all surprised on the 27th that is (doubt it) we're sorry.

Rumour: Nintendo Direct Leaked?

Well this is unusual. Nintendo is usually the least leaky games company out there. Usually it's just rumours based on trademarks and overheard conversations, with leaks only appearing when third parties are involved like at E3 or other trade shows.

 But today seems to be different as it appears a photo detailing an upcoming Direct's (on the 27th) contents. Normally we tend to give these a pinch of salt but it does line up with other rumours, things we know and recent actions by Nintendo. Of cause being an image off the interwebs (dug up by GKUK team member Himaru) its worth taking with a pinch of salt but be warned if true, there be spoilers ahead!

UPDATE: As commenters have pointed out there are some issues with the name of S.T.E.A.M the official title is Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. On the doc it's Project. However a quick look online and seem a fair few people refer to it as Project. Another theory is that the page copy pasted from another document and thrown through google translate and that caused the name change and might mean "???er Mario" could be Mario Maker. wouldnt be the first time an Nintendo working title to become its actual name (Hyrule Warriors and Smash Bros for Wii U/3Ds)  

Original post: The list details apparently upcoming games for the 3DS, Wii U AND "New" 3DS. I'll break down the list for those who don't want to crick their neck (flipping the image portrait screws up the page layout some what.)

On the 3DS side of things we have

• Lost in Blue - Last Hope  (gameplay trailer)
• Metroid 3D (Teaser Trailer)
• Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate (gameplay trailer + Release date
• Project S.T.E.A.M (DLC mission gameplay)
• Shin Megami Tensei - Devil Survivor 2 (gameplay trailer)
• Majora's Mask 3D  (gameplay)

New 3DS

• Bayonetta - Jeanne's showdown (gameplay)
• Dr Kawashima's NEW brain training (gameplay)
• "new" Okami (Trailer+Release)
• "new" Last Story (trailer+Release)
• "new" Xenoblade Chronicles (trailer+Release)

Wii U gets a bit harder to read as the image isn't centred.

• Captain Toad (DLC)
• Fire Emblem - Grima's Revenge (Teaser Trailer)
• Kirby and The Rainbow Curse (Amiibo details/Gameplay)
• ????er Mario Wii U (Gameplay+Release)
• ?????ox Wii U (Gameplay Trailer+ Release)
• Super Smash Bro's (Mewtwo trailer)

So lets dive in to the New 3DS details, This gives the leak the most credibility as Nintendo has stated sending emails out to a select few (in Europe) so they can BUY Ambassador New 3DS systems. Judging from the fact that the "new" games have release dates I think it's safe to assume they will be launch games for the new system and rather ironically appear to be ports of Wii games (admittedly 3 Wii games I wanted to play but nether got). The other two are surprises an new Bayonetta exclusive to Nintendo's handheld (will sure to annoy those who still protest about Bayonetta 2 on Wii U) would certainly help cerement the new system as "for gamers" and not the masses but also show Nintendo's commitment to the franchise and "hardcore" games. However an new Brain Training N3DS game would counter the "core gamersas it was the King of Casual games on DS.

The Wii U front offers some interesting mysteries. First Fire Emblem, the title suggest this may be a direct sequel to FE: Awakening 2013's break out 3Ds hit and first Fire Emblem to do even remotely well in the west, However it could also be an HD remaster and expansion (similar to Monster Hunter's G/ultimate games), This makes a fair amount of sense as the FE devlopers are currently working on Project S.T.E.A.M. 

 The second (smallest) mystery is Kirby's Amiibo support, We've known that the Kirby Smash Bro's figures would do something in the pink poofs (that's not offensive right?) new game but we have no clue. I would imagine it'd be in line with Mario Kart/Hyrule Warriors support I.E. unlocking stuff. 

 The Third Mystery is what is this mysterious Mario game (that isn't a Bro's game) with a working title? A quick answer would be Paper Mario but it's unlikely Nintendo would give an exact release date and announce it at the same time of a "full game". On the other hand one rumour that has floated around for the last year or so. An HD remake of Mario 64 with co-op, new levels and new powers.

The final mystery is a lot easier - Star Fox U, which we know WILL be playable at E3 2015 and will come out before Zelda U.

The 3DS front has a couple of surprises. A new Metriod 3D being the biggest, Miyamoto has said before the 3DS would be the perfect system for a new side scrolling Samus adventure and a smaller (more personal) surprise was an new Lost in Blue game. Lost in Blue on the DS was the catalyst that made me seek out survivalist games ( sadly nothing has come as close as the Lost in Blue did).

Abe's Take

Overall this leaks games seem legit and makes a lot of sense to me with what Nintendo has been doing and rumours we have heard before, Time will tell if it's true. As i said it dose line up with other things we have heard (MH4U's Producer will be in th EU whilst this Direct will air).

SURPRISE! Mario Kart Direct!

Another sneaky Direct has appeared.

there isn't much to say other than WATCH IT
 

SURPRISE Nintendo Direct

Well that was sneaky. Nintendo ninja delivered a new Direct video today, Announcing Tomodachi Life will be heading to the west.



What is Tomodachi Life? well it's a little hard to explain it's a little like a mixture of Animal Crossing and the Sims with a massive heap of lunatic Anime Soap Opera weirdness. However that would do the game a disservice, watching the direct should help you understand the weirdness.

The game uses the same sort of vocaliod tech that power Hatsune Miku the Japanese virtual pop star, which allows the game "speak" text, in practice what this means is that things like your name and catch phrases will be included in the audio.

The game hits 6th of June in both eShop and Retail.

Abe's Take
I've know of the Tomodachi games but have nether really seen them. So it's never really been on my radar but after seeing the bizare antics I now NEED this game.

Nintendo Direct Tomorrow

It feels like forever since the last Nintendo Direct but that's probably down to there being only 2 so far this year. It's not a surprise that there is a new Direct so close to Mario Kart 8's launch but what is a surprise is that Tuesday's Direct is actually for Smash Bros 

Tuesday's Nintendo Direct will air at 11PM UK time again. Not so sure why they are running so late now, I suspect it's so it the three regions UK, US and JPN all get their directs all at once.
The Direct will focus on both 3DS/Wii U versions of Smash Bros. You can watch the live stream Here on Tuesday.

What should we expect in the Direct? no one knows right now but here some guess'.

• Release date: this seems likely but will probably something like November.
• Character Reveals: I'm expecting two to three reveals and maybe one surprise character
• Multi-player details: I suspect we'll learn about the game's online systems
• Cross functions: I suspect Nintendo will finally outline how the 2 versions will work together. We all ready know that their wont be a traditional cross play as each version has it's own level lists.
• less likely are; announcing the N64 and GC versions coming to eShop as neither system is ready yet though would be a good way of announcing them.

guess we'll see soon enough

Tonight's Direct Is A Long One

Tonight at 10pm there will be the latest Nintendo Direct it will also be the same length as the E3 direct. 41 minutes to be precise.

This builds my anticpation for tonights event, before i thought they'd cover Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze, Kirby TD and Mario Kart but now i'm expecting announcements and closer looks at some of the least seen titles X, SMT vs Fire Emblem

Watch it here

Smash Bro's in Tomorrow's Direct?

Sakurai Points Toward Tomorrow's Nintendo Direct

Mashahiro Sakurai known for the Smash Bro's series and teasing on Miiverse is at it again, This isn't the first time he's teased an Direct reveal. Last Time he teased what turned out to be Rosalina's addition to the roster 

"Tomorrow is Valentine's Day...and the day the new Nintendo Direct airs! It will stream in Japan at 7 AM so it's going to be a very early morning for us...!" 

Considering the theme of Spring games i suspect this will be an character announcement and maybe an release period . I guess we'll see at 10pm tomorrow... PM!