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PS2 getting sexier with Ar tonelico 2 this December
Last year's Ar tonelico: Melody of Elemia was one of the strangest titles we'd ever played from NIS America, and coming from a company that let us possess watering cans in Phantom Brave and do turn-based strategy as a side-scroller in GrimGrimoire, that's saying something. Offering equal parts role-playing and old school adventure, it was the included dating sim-style mechanics and the game's near-constant stream of sexual innuendo that gave Ar tonelico its unique, acquired tasted.NIS America now drops word that it plans to release the sequel this December for the PS2. According to the publisher, this time around Ar tonelico 2 will challenge players by having them manage relationships between the game's sultry mechanical dolls known as Reyvateils, adding that "if their emotions are more closely synced, the stronger the magic becomes." We knew there was a reason to keep the PS2 around...magic lesbian robots.[Thanks, Dennis]%Gallery-28943%
Atlus, NIS America partner over Disgaea 3, Rhapsody remake
They say that birds of a feather flock together, and that's certainly the case when it comes to niche game stalwarts Atlus and NIS America. The companies, which began holding hands with 2003's Disgaea: Hour of Darkness, have continued their close, dare we say intimate relationship, concerning a trio of upcoming titles, including Disgaea 3: Absence of Justice for the PS3. The pair jointly announced that they will work together to release Disgaea 3 in North America on August 26, followed by both Disgaea DS and PlayStation remake, Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure, for the Nintendo DS on September 23. In each case Atlus will act as the distributor, no doubt ensuring that the entire ten-copy run of each title makes it safely to store shelves.
Joystiq interview: NIS America talks Disgaea 3's PS3 move
As we mentioned earlier this week, we recently had the opportunity to grill the folks at niche publisher NIS America regarding Disgaea 3, a game that represents not only the third in the company's most popular franchise, but also the first to be released on the PlayStation 3. It's a series we have enjoyed since its debut in 2003, but we wisely decided to keep our enthusiasm for the sequel in check – after all, the point of the visit was to find out exactly why NIS moved the series to the PS3, a decision that has summarily divided the company's existing fan base like a tsunami bomb. To find out the what, why and how, we turned to company marketing guru Jack Niida for an explanation, and in the following interview he talks localization, the move to a new platform, and even the possibility of moving Disgaea to another console. For the complete scoop, read on.%Gallery-4958%
Today's most edible swag: Puchi Puchi Virus candies
If there's one thing we enjoy more than getting free stuff in the mail here at Joystiq, it's getting stuff that is both free and edible, which is why we were only too happy when a package showed up today from NIS America promoting the publisher's upcoming foray into the world of casual gaming with Jaleco's Puchi Puchi Virus. We'll admit we had our misgivings about the change in direction, particularly given the company's traditionally niche role-playing and strategy roots, but if all of their side quests turn out as milk chocolate covered in a thin candy shell, we may well have to revise our stance altogether. Were we not thinking with our stomachs, the notion of consuming food based around a puzzle game with 'virus' in the title could be cause for concern. Also sealed in the box, aptly labeled 'Anti-Virus Kit,' is the game as well, so expect impressions soon -- assuming the candies themselves do not do us in.%Gallery-16732%
PSP Fanboy tries Rosenqueen's PSP pouch
You may know NIS America for their beloved RPG series, like Disgaea. But did you know that they also offer gaming peripherals? NIS America's Rosenqueen store offers PSP accessories, such as the PSP pouch (pictured above). Personally, I find pouches to be a lot more comfortable to carry than larger (but sturdier) cases. I found the Soft Pouch offered at the Rosenqueen store to be quite nice. In many ways, it's superior to the pouch bundled with the original PSP Value Pack. Firstly, it comes in two different colors (orange being a personal favorite). Unlike Sony's pouch, the system is unlikely to fall out thanks to the Velcro strap.If there is one thing to criticize about the pouch, it's the feel. The materials for the pouch are much softer than the ones used in Sony's official pouch. While nice to the touch, it seems less likely to survive a serious accident unscathed. It does come at quite an affordable price: only $7, which certainly beats the $20 asking price of Sony's official pouches.Overall, we recommend the Soft Pouch from Rosenqueen. It looks unlike anything out on the market, and it's incredibly affordable. It certainly isn't for everyone--those looking for a hard case can find some on sale at amazon. However, for those looking for a lightweight alternative for PSP protection, this may be it.
Spectral Vs Generations: when strategy characters brawl
NIS America has released several Idea Factory games so far, including Generations of Chaos and Spectral Souls. But one game they haven't released on PSP is the fighting game Spectral versus Generation, which features characters from both series duking it out. I certainly can't say I ever predicted seeing strategy RPG characters throw down in a 2D fighter, but here it is. Ironically, Midas Interactive is bringing this unique crossover title to European stores. Wait, what's so ironic? Previous titles in the Generations of Chaos and Spectral Souls series have never come to Europe. This makes it quite likely that the average European gamer won't even be aware of any of the characters involved. Don't worry Idea Factory fans! Since your PSP can play games from any region, you just need to find an importer, and you're good to go. [Via Siliconera]
NIS America open to releasing titles on non-Sony systems
Jeffrey Fleming from Game Set Watch had a chance to interview RPG fan favorite publisher NIS America (Disgaea). In the interview, he asks if NIS plans on just keeping Sony platforms as their target for game releases. Here's their response:"For a long time, NIS America has been releasing titles for the PS2 and PSP, so some people might think we are solely dedicated to Sony, but that is not true. Our goal is to provide quality games and services to all game fans, and looking ahead, there are several platforms that can help us reach out to a broader audience and gamers can expect surprises from us. Of course, we will also continue to work closely with Sony, providing great games for PS2/PS3/PSP users as well."So while they have no intentions to be a Sony exclusive publisher, they do plan to still support them. Here's hoping our favorite portable continues to get the NIS love.
NIS America to sell DS Lite kimono cover
NIS America just opened their own online shop, and it's already decently stocked with neat stuff. This kimono-style DS Lite cover isn't exactly one of them right now-- it's available for preorder only-- but as soon as it's available we're considering getting one. The cover comes in eight colors, all of which add an air of serene beauty to your DS as well as a barrier against unwanted contact. Touching is good, unless it's your keys "touching" your DS in your pocket.[Via Game|Life]
Aedis Eclipse: Generations of Chaos screens
The first Generations of Chaos game for PSP seemed good when I bought it, but the lacking tutorial made it difficult for me to really progress. Hopefully Aedis Eclipse: Generations of Chaos will do a better job of informing the gamer how to play the game. The key idea of this game seems to be that you play a main character and story in three different worlds and get those different perspectives on the war and universe. I love tactics games, so I want nothing more than for it to be worthwhile. In the meantime there are some screens to view. More screens after the jump ...
