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It's complicated: Nintendo's relationship with indie gaming
Independent games are a cornerstone of Sony's PlayStation 4 messaging, and a contributing factor to the system's blockbuster success. They are not for Nintendo -- neither for the Wii U, nor the 3DS. An unsurprising strategy given the Japanese company's reliance on Mario and Zelda, its familiar, first-party franchises. And yet, independent games have had a presence on the company's digital software channel, the eShop, for almost a decade. Only now, they're more noticeable. "We've been supporting Indie content and self-publishing for a really long time," says Damon Baker, senior manager of licensing at Nintendo. "I mean, [going] back to the WiiWare, DSiWare days. But I think that it's just a more visible community because there's so much talent that's coming out of it; there's so much coverage for it that it just makes it naturally higher profile."
Report: 3DS XL on the way out in Japan
The super-size 3DS XL is about to be downsized in Japan, at least according to new details spotted on Nintendo's website. As Siliconera reports, Nintendo's 3DS site lists "ending production soon" notices for the seven XL colors available in the country. Nintendo's not announced anything formally, but it does seem the XL will soon be an ex-device in Japan While Nintendo's notices indicate the regular 3DS is to remain in production, the company's gaze looks to be shifting to the New 3DS. Both the XL and regular versions of the enhanced handheld continue to top Japan's sales charts, and according to data tracker Media Create they're matching the strong initial pace of the DSi, itself an iteration of the DS. Media Create estimates the New 3DS, which launched in Japan back in October, will reach 1.2 million sales by the end of 2014. Of course, there's no similar news of XL discontinuation for North America or Europe, where the New 3DS is still waiting on release dates.
3DS mod adds smashing GameCube controller support
With the launch of the exceptional Super Smash Bros. for 3DS looming, some might still be miffed that the game won't support the Circle Pad Pro add-on. Though the game will make use of the new 3DS and 3DS XL's C-stick, some may want a separate controller entirely for optimized Smash Bros. usage. A new 3DS mod introduced late last week does just that, giving players the ability to play any 3DS game with a GameCube controller. The hardware hack is courtesy of dekuNukem, the same modder that delivered an automatic shiny Pokemon finder mod last year. According to the demonstration video seen after the break, those looking to dust off their GameCube controllers for the mod will spend roughly $12 for the parts needed, which include a handful of resistors, a circuit board and an LCD screen from a Nokia phone. The screen offers a visual aid so players can change button configurations from the controller itself. DekuNukem doesn't have a full detailed list of instructions for the mod yet, which results in an empty circuit board on the bottom side of your still-functional 3DS, but they are accepting a few send-in modification requests. [Image: dekuNukem, YouTube]
Super Smash Bros. supports new 3DS C-stick, not Circle Pad Pro
The portable version of Super Smash Bros. will not support the Circle Pad Pro accessory for 3DS, according to a support page on Nintendo of Japan's website, as translated by NeoGAF. With the recent announcement of a new 3DS and 3DS XL, the upcoming entry in the Super Smash Bros. series will reportedly favor the new devices' use of extra shoulder buttons and C-stick as opposed to the accessory that added a second circle pad and shoulder buttons to existing 3DS systems. This implies that players using a traditional 3DS or 3DS XL will be locked to using controls specific to those consoles without the extra buttons and joystick. The game will launch prior to the new hardware; Super Smash Bros. for 3DS is due out September 13 in Japan and October 3 in North America. The revised systems, which will be region-locked, will launch October 11 in Japan and won't make the calendar year in the west. The other version of the game for Wii U will arrive this holiday season. We've reached out to Nintendo to confirm the 3DS version's lack of support for the Circle Pad Pro and will update as we learn more. [Image: Nintendo]
New 3DS models will be region-locked, (th)womp (th)womp
If "no region-lock" was on your list of desired features for Nintendo's new 3DS models, well ... we hope the addition of a C-stick, ZL and ZR buttons, built-in NFC and a better CPU will make up for that feature not making the cut. GameSpot has confirmed with Nintendo that the new 3DS and 3DS XL will, like their currently-available siblings, be region-locked. We can't say we're surprised, considering Nintendo has a longstanding history of region-locking their hardware, and it's not just limited to handhelds, as both the Wii and Wii U are also region-locked. Still, at least now we have confirmation. [Image: Nintendo]
Rumor: Wal-mart flier features Smash Bros. 3DS XL
Americans might not have to glare jealously across the Atlantic when Nintendo of Europe releases a special 3DS XL bundle alongside Super Smash Bros.: A supposed scan of a Wal-Mart flier has been posted to NeoGAF (not shown above, click through to see), which features Europe's red Smash 3DS XL beside a blue counterpart. With no mention of an included Smash download like the European bundle, the flier prices both red and blue versions at $199.96 and features a "Get it First!" logo that dates the hardware for September 19. If you're particular about your special edition handhelds, the Japanese Smash 3DS XL swaps the series' name for a larger, lighter Smash Ball logo. Regardless of your 3DS XL preference, even if the special edition reaches the States, you'd still need to decide whether you're holding off for the new, Xenoblade-compatible 3DS and 3DS XL models. [Image: NeoGAF/Wal-Mart]
Joystiq Weekly: Amazon buys Twitch, Madden 15 review, Early Access feature and more
Welcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet. PAX Prime 2014 is already underway, but as fun as joining a swarm of people buzzing around video game displays can be, you don't even have to leave the house to get this weekend's highlights. Well, unless your house is a black hole for Internet and phone reception ... The point is, Joystiq is on the front lines of PAX Prime, ignoring sensible limitations to bring you a slew of news and previews. With this morning's proof that survival in numbers is a relative concept in Don't Starve Together and a reminder that thinking every MOBA is interchangeable is a mistake when it comes to Gigantic, the good stuff is already underway. There's always yesterday's reveal of Xbox One and PS4 versions of Saints Row 4 too, as well as a new, standalone expansion called Saints Row: Gat out of Hell. Stick with us until PAX Prime's conclusion on Monday, September 1, and in return we'll tell you all about the show's highlights without subjecting you to the dreaded PAX Pox. For now though, we've got a full recap of this week's news, reviews and features. Amazon's surprise acquisition of Twitch, Nintendo's new 3DS models, reviews of Madden NFL 15 and The Walking Dead's season finale, an examination of what makes Early Access such a valuable space to developers ... it's all arranged neat and orderly-like for you after the break!
Nintendo unveils 'new' 3DS, 3DS XL [update]
Nintendo announced 'new' models of the 3DS and 3DS XL during this morning's Direct stream for Japan. The new versions feature a small "C-stick" analog pad on the right hand side above SNES-like colored face buttons. During the presentation, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata compared the pad to the GameCube controller's own yellow C-stick. Unlike the old models, the new 3DS and 3DS XL have NFC-tech built in, meaning they can communicate with Amiibo figurines (like the ones coming for Super Smash Bros.) without need of an extra device. Nintendo's also introduced a Micro SD slot underneath the base cover, while new "Super Stable 3D" functionality is designed to ensure the 3D features stay sharp and comfortable, even when the 3DS is rotated (see below).
Super Smash Bros. 3DS XL pack is black, white and red all over
A limited edition Super Smash Bros. 3DS XL pack is due out on October 3 in Europe, Nintendo of Europe announced this morning. The pack includes the special 3DS XL with the Super Smash Bros. crew on the front, and the game pre-installed. There's no word on a price or stateside launch for this ruby red baby. Super Smash Bros. is due out on October 3. What a happy coincidence for this bundle. [Image: Nintendo of Europe]
Disney Magical World 3DS XL coming to Walmart [update]
If you like Disney but you prefer your 3DS systems big and less "peach-pink" - such a thing is possible - then you'll be pleased to hear the Disney Magical World 3DS XL that Japan got last year is also headed for North America. New promo photos reveal the "Mickey Edition" handheld launches alongside the 3DS game on April 11, and it's coming to Walmart. There's no word on price or if it comes with the game included. That's the Japanese version of the handheld above - the promo photos Nintendo published focus more on Disney sitcom actress G. Hannelius (her stylings, not ours) than the system. We're guessing the only real difference is the logo that says World on the North American version rather than Castle - come up with your own "It's a Small World" gag here. Update: Nintendo got in touch to let us know it's corrected its press release, which now states the Mickey Edition 3DS XL will only be available at Walmart, and not also at the Nintendo World Store as originally claimed. We've updated the post to reflect that. [Image: Bandai Namco]
Persona Q, Pokemon Trozei 3DS XLs revealed for Japan
It's kind of fun to anticipate special edition 3DS XL designs, except for when they don't end up reaching Western audiences. Two new XL handhelds were shown off this week, wearing the influences of the upcoming Pokemon Battle Trozei and Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth, respectively. Serebii points out that, unlike most special edition XLs, the Trozei XL can't be found at retail - it's currently only obtainable by winning a Pokemon Daisuki Club competition, a Japanese fan club for pocket monsters. Considering that Western plans also haven't been announced for it while Trozei is only four days away from its North American release ... okay, we might be able to count this one out. That leaves the Persona Q XL, which coats an argyle backdrop with Persona art and lines up the game's cast on its backside. This design will reach Japanese retailers and is priced at $250, with Persona Q bundled in. Now it just remains to be seen if the special edition XL will join the game when it reaches North America in Fall 2014. Considering we're still crossing our fingers for that Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy: Curtain Call XL, we don't mind getting our hopes up once more ... nope, not at all. [Image Credit: Atlus, The Pokemon Company]
Yoshi's New Island 3DS XL confirmed for North America
Yoshi is the latest Nintendo mascot to get his own 3DS XL, and of course it's a lime-green-and-white number. The delighted dinosaur and a single egg lead the way on the front, and on the back there's a wee procession of eggs bringing up the rear. A word of warning: While it's launching alongside Yoshi's New Island on March 14, the $199 bundle doesn't include the game itself. Why you'd get this particular handheld without the game is rather beyond us, but there we are. Series producer Takashi Tezuka says Yoshi's New Island is a direct sequel to SNES classic Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island, and the 2D platformer re-embraces its penchant for swallowing up enemies and chucking eggs around a lot. This time you'll find giant eggs to tear up the screen with, along with sections with rail-cart and helicopter versions of Yoshi - because why wouldn't you make an adorable helicopter version of Yoshi? [Image: Nintendo]
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Report: Yoshi's New Island 3DS XL bundle planned for March 14
Yoshi is getting a special 3DS XL bundle for his third shift of babysitting, Yoshi's New Island, according to a report by IGN. The report expands on UK retailer Base's listing for such a bundle - while IGN confirms the bundle's existence for North America, the report notes that Base's listing image is a "fan mock-up." The Yoshi bundle is due on March 14, sharing a release date with Yoshi's New Island. Base lists the bundle at £199, which matches the Zelda 3DS XL bundle's UK launch price. The North American version of the Zelda bundle sold for $219.99. We got our hopes up last year for a special Luigi 2DS last year, but that turned out to be the handiwork of Rose Colored Gaming. We got a Mario & Luigi: Dream Team 3DS XL bundle instead, which is almost as cool as the RCG's Luigi-engraved 2DS mod. Almost. [Image: Nintendo]
Gaming deals of the week: 2.5.14
For those folks out to nab up a bit of fun this week, we've compiled a few gaming deals that will certainly lend a hand. From the latest Call of Duty installment to a 17-inch gaming laptop, we've got a variety of picks to suit a range of gamer sensibilities. Browse the options we've selected just past the break. Just window shopping? No worries. Join us and add the gadgets you're shopping for to your Want list; every time there's a price cut in the future, you'll get an email alert!
Theatrhythm: Curtain Call brings another gorgeous 3DS XL to Japan
Oh, to live in Japan and have enough yen to buy all the 3DS XLs. Square Enix adds to the handheld's library of super-sized stunners with a black and gold number for Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy: Curtain Call, the follow-up to 2012's Final Fantasy rhythm game mash-up. The limited-edition unit is due alongside Curtain Call at launch in Japan, and that's now penned in for April 24 - the portable is priced 23,000 yen (around $227) and comes with the game pre-installed. There's no news on the encore entry coming to the West, let alone the 3DS XL, but Square Enix did lock in a US trademark before it even announced the game. As we saw at the Tokyo Game Show, Curtain Call isn't overhauling the first game's winning formula, save a new two-player versus mode. Instead, expect plenty of new characters and music, including some from recent FF entries like Lightning Returns and A Realm Reborn. [Image: Square Enix via Gematsu]
Nintendo 3DS software sales increased in 2013, sold 11.5 million hardware units in US
Avoiding a conversation about its other child, Nintendo announced this morning that the lifetime hardware sales for the 3DS have surpassed 11.5 million units in the US. The 3DS family includes the original system, along with 3DS XL and 2DS. The company plans to announce its third quarter earnings on January 29, which should help bring global context to the hardware sales number. Nintendo also stated this morning it had more than 16 million software sales (both retail and digital) in 2013 for 3DS, which is a 45 percent increase from 2012. It also pointed out that two of its Nintendo 3DS games in 2013 had over a 90+ Metacrtic. Coincidentally, both of those games made our Joystiq Best of 2013: The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds and Fire Emblem Awakening.
Nintendo forced to pay a share of every 3DS sale to another company
While Nintendo's Wii U console sales continue to frustrate, its handheld gaming business offers hope of a better future. But even as its 3DS and 3DS XL consoles continue to outsell their rivals, Nintendo will have to come to terms with sharing a percentage of each sale with another company. In December, the company was told it must pay 1.82 percent of the wholesale price of each 3DS sold after it was found guilty of infringing on patented camera technology owned by Tomita Technologies. It means that Nintendo could pay up to $3 for each unit, for as long as it continues to sell the console. Given it sold 2 million 3DS and 3DS XLs last quarter, putting the current lifetime total at 35 million, demand for the handhelds is still strong. Nintendo's already paid a $15 million damages award (down from $30.2 million in March 2013), but faces the prospect of sending Tomita smaller payments well into the future.
Today's gaming deals from Steam, Square-Enix, Target [update]
Steam's Thin Wallets 2013 Campaign holiday sale continues today with a fresh batch of discounted games you surely have time to play. For the next 24 hours, the Darksiders series, season pass and all, is available for $9.99. Sleeping Dogs is down to $4.99, season passes for Telltale's The Wolf Among Us are $16.74, and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2 is $4.99. The current batch of Flash sales will expire at 9 pm EST, but until then you can snatch up The Binding of Isaac for $1.24, XCOM: Enemy Unkown for $9.99, or Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut for $4.99. If you're looking to play on consoles, Square-Enix's online store is offering 50 percent off select games with an ongoing holiday sale. 360 and PS3 copies of Sleeping Dogs are $14.99. If you're okay with passing up on features included in the more recent Director's Cut, 360 and PS3 copies of Deus Ex: Human Revolution Augmented Edition are also $14.99. You can also get ready for Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII with 360 or PS3 copies of Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy XIII-2 for $10 apiece. Lastly, Target's recent credit card data breach has resulted in many of their in-store items being marked 10 percent off this weekend. Combined with their weeklong sale on 3DS XLs, that means you can pick up a 3DS XL today at Target for $135. If you don't have a 3DS yet, you might want to consider 2013's contributions to its lineup. Update: This article has been updated to reflect changes in pricing for the Steam holiday sale. Prices that were originally listed for the Darksiders series, The Wolf Among Us, KOTOR 2, The Binding of Isaac, XCOM: Enemy Unkown and Director's Cut have all been altered. Thankfully, they're now all cheaper than when the new batch of sales began!
Mario and Luigi get a Nintendo 3DS XL bundle in silver, shipping now for $200
In order to properly celebrate what it's calling the "Cyber Monday of Luigi," Nintendo has outed a new limited-edition version of its 3DS XL handheld. The silver-clad unit has the two brothers on its outer lid while arriving preloaded with Mario & Luigi: Dream Team right out of the box. The $200 package is available today and follows on the heels of the pricier Zelda-themed gold version that arrived last month. Of course, color choices have been plentiful for the Nintendo faithful, should that gamer that you're shopping for have rather specific aesthetic sensibilities.
Mario and Luigi 3DS XL bundle out now for $200
Nintendo's newest 3DS XL bundle comes with a pre-installed copy of Mario & Luigi: Dream Team and an image of Mario and Luigi on the handheld itself, all for $200. This confirms earlier reports of a Mario & Luigi: Dream Team 3DS XL bundle, outed in a Target circular last week. Dream Team has sold more than 1 million copies, and we found it to be "a satisfying detour for a franchise that is risking too much predictability in its main guise." Check out places to buy the new bundle here.
