Space Channel 5
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Sega considers reviving classics like 'Crazy Taxi' and 'Jet Set Radio'
Sega is considering reviving multiple classic game franchises, including 'Crazy Taxi' and 'Jet Set Radio.'
'Space Channel 5' returns in VR form on February 25th
If you're still pining for Space Channel 5, Tetsuya Mizuguchi's first big music-focused games, you're in for a treat... if you have the right hardware, anyway. Grounding and Sega are releasing a VR take on the franchise, Space Channel 5 VR Kinda Funky News Flash, on February 25th for PlayStation VR owners. You're not taking Ulala's place as she dances her way to saving the galaxy. Rather, you play an intern reporter who dances along to the action while dodging blasts from enemies. The super-colorful '60s style and music remain intact.
The Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The highlights
The Dreamcast was a brief but shining aberration in the gaming world. Coming along years after Sega had fallen out of its position as a top-runner in the console market, it represented the company's big attempt to reclaim its former glory. While it failed to succeed in that respect and ultimately closed up shop in 2001 (ending Sega's interest in the console market), the Dreamcast became a gaming cult favorite responsible for some of the most innovative titles ever made. Games like Jet Grind Radio, Space Channel 5, and Shenmue have remained fan favorites long after the Dreamcast's demise, which shows the legacy that these dev teams left behind. But perhaps the Dreamcast's greatest gift to the gaming world wasn't crazy taxis or space dancing but a surprisingly forward-looking approach to online gaming. In 2000, the Dreamcast took the first steps to bringing an online console RPG to market, and while it wasn't a true MMO, it certainly paved the way for titles like EverQuest Online Adventures and Final Fantasy XI. It was bold, it was addictive, and it was gosh-darned gorgeous. Ladies and gentlemen: Phantasy Star Online.
Space Channel 5 Part 2, Sega Bass Fishing coming to XBLA and PSN
Sega's next batch of high-definition Dreamcast ports (following Crazy Taxi and Sonic Adventure) is a good reminder of the failed console's eclectic and enduring selection of games. The first has reeled in hundreds of scaly creatures who can only stare vacantly at their captor, mouths agape -- the other one is Sega Bass Fishing. According to Eurogamer, the all-singing, all-dancing Space Channel 5 Part 2 will arrive on Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network in "early 2011," alongside the aforementioned aquatic catch-em-up. Interestingly, Sega has never published Space Channel 5 Part 2 in North America. The Dreamcast version never made it out of Japan, and a PlayStation 2 port -- bundled with the first game as Space Channel 5: Special Edition -- was released in America by Agetec. Overseen by Rez and Child of Eden designer Tesuya Mizuguchi, Space Channel 5 was unique in melding a goofy story with rote rhythm-based mechanics. Part 2 ditched the first game's pre-rendered video backdrops and added instrument battles, impromptu singing showdowns and expanded on the original's catchy, Austin-Powers-in-space music. Update: Screens and art added below. %Gallery-105520%%Gallery-105522%
Ulala and BD Joe get behind the wheel in Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing
It seems like the cast of Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing will never cease to expand. Not only has Sega tapped almost all of its memorable characters (including Shenmue's Ryo), but its roster is also starting to encompass games outside of the Sega realm, including Banjo-Kazooie, Avatars and Miis. Today, the Sega blog reveals Space Channel 5's Ulala and Crazy Taxi's BD Joe. Check 'em both out in the new trailer above.
(Another) Michael Jackson video game on the way, scheduled for a 'holiday release'
After the King of Pop's passing last week, Joystiq has had an inordinately high volume of Michael Jackson-related stories. Day after day, the video game industry honored his passing -- free "Thriller" downloads on Xbox Live, Battlefield Heroes costumes, and a full on recreation of "Smooth Criminal" using Rag Doll Kung Fu's engine. Today, less than a full week after the singer's death, his production company (MJJ Productions) confirmed to MCVUK that a game starring Jackson and featuring his music has been in production at MJJ for "several months" and is purportedly on schedule to release "this holiday season." Though no definitive "yes" or "no" has been given on the game's release (or any info on the developer, publisher, or the game itself), reports say the game contains recent voice recordings by the singer. The closest we get to actual information on the game's release window is, "I am sure it will still be released ... Michael loved games," by way of an MJJ Productions rep. Here's hoping it's more Moonwalker and less Space Channel 5 -- but then, that's just how we get down.[Via Industry Gamers]
Maggie Wang strikes again: More custom Sackboys
It's been another busy month for Maggie Wang, expert craftswoman and friend to Sackboys. Last month we fell in love with her Prince of Persia Sackboy, but now Maggie has outdone herself. The image above shows her latest creation, a Sackboy in the image of Reno the Turk from Final Fantasy VII, complete with removable goggles. Adorable.Other creations this month include Ulala from Space Channel 5, the Fruit Brute cereal mascot and Michael J Fox' Teen Wolf character. Check out Maggie's website for more pics. We can't wait to see what she makes next.[Via Tomopop; Thanks Daniel!]
Wii Warm Up: Samba de Ulala
Certain Sega-friendly elements of the Wii Fanboy blogging staff were super-excited to see Ulala appearing in Samba de Amigo. Of course, we're still beyond freaked out that there is a new Samba de Amigo. For us, the Space Channel 5 star adds a lot of interest to the game. But most people aren't us. Most people have no idea what Space Channel 5 is (judging by the precipitous drop in price of the excellent Space Channel 5 Special Edition on PS2), and may have a passing interest in Samba. You guys, being avid game nerd types, probably average somewhere in the middle: whether or not you care about these games, you're at least familiar.Does the appearance of a classic Dreamcast-era character like Ulala increase your interest in the remake/sequel to a classic Dreamcast rhythm game? Or is Sega all about Sonic for you?%Gallery-20601%
GC 2008: Left! Right! Chu! Chu! Ulala in Samba
Click for more Ulala goodness. A Sonic cameo in Samba de Amigo has long been old news, grandpa, but we've also been promised appearances from other Sega characters and venues. Here are the fruits of those promises: a cameo from the galaxy's funkiest news reporter, Ulala, and a special Space Channel 5 stage. Ulala's presence makes perfect sense really; as the protagonist of Sega's other awesome rhythm extravaganza, her inclusion was surely inevitable. Now all she needs is her own game. You listening, Sega?%Gallery-20601%[Via press release]
Tetsuya Mizuguchi doesn't rule out Wii for next project
But, he doesn't exactly say his next project will be on Nintendo's console, either. Such is the pain we're all forced to endure for the moment. Miziguchi's next game will be themed around music, however, providing his old-school fans of his Rez and Space Channel 5 games with some hope that he could be making a similar product (although he does shoot down the idea of remaking Space Channel 5). When grilled about his latest project, Miziguchi did say that he is "keeping an eye on several platforms - not just game consoles." He meant this to say that he was also looking at the mobile space, but that's a good thing. The more he looks at his options, the more viable solution the Wii will become in his mind. Because, let's face it, you can't be alive today without the Wii interacting in your life somehow, whether it be through television commercials, subway ads or other promotions.
Sega Superstars Tennis gets Xbox Live demo
Have you always had a dark fantasy about watching Space Channel 5's Ulala play hot, sweaty tennis against Sonic's squeeze Amy Rose? If so, you repulse us, and we think everybody would be more comfortable if you'd just leave. Seriously, there's a back door, just slip out. No, no you can't say goodbye to everyone, just get out.But before you go we also have good news for you! There's a demo for Sega Superstars Tennis on Xbox Live, so you can fulfill your primal, forbidden urges gratis. ... But you probably need to pay to watch it, don't you? Otherwise it's just not wrong enough. We just threw up in our mouths a bit, thanks so much for that.%Gallery-8783%
Sega squelches Space Channel 5 rumor
Unfortunately for those of us who were excited about getting back in the groove with Ulala's Swingin' Report Show, it looks like it may not be. While N-Zone seemed to imply that they'd received an announcement from Sega about a Wii remake of Space Channel 5, a Sega rep told IGN something different. Specifically, something bad -- they denied the story. This doesn't necessarily mean the game's not coming out -- just that Sega hasn't made any official announcements about it. Combined with Tetsuya Mizuguchi's assertion to Game|Life that he didn't know anything about any new Space Channel 5 games, the rumor is seeming pretty debunked right about now.
Rumor: Space Channel 5 coming to Wii, other systems
Between Nights and the upcoming Samba de Amigo, Sega seems pretty committed to remaking their classic franchises on the Wii. Soon there might be a third series to add to the list, as Japanese news site The Magic Box is reporting that Sega has announced Space Channel 5.0. The Wii remake of the stylish, rhythmic original will feature licensed songs from series fan Michael Jackson, according to the extremely brief report. The lack of detailed information and a Sega denial via IGN make us less than certain on the validity of this information, but we wouldn't be surprised (or sad) if this turns out to be true.Don't own a Wii? Don't lose hope! In an interview with Wired, SC5 creator Tetsuya Mizuguchi hinted that he might be interested in bringing the Dreamcast game to modern download services, a la the upcoming Rez HD. "If I had a reason to remake Space Channel 5 on the new platforms, I will do that," Mizuguchi said. Of course, for that to work, he'd have to get the rights for the game back from Sega. Maybe if we all sing in unison the company will be convinced to make it happen.
Rumor: Space Waggle 5?
... or so the Germans would have us believe. According to an article posted on German gaming magazine N-Zone's website, UGA's swingin' music adventure, Space Channel 5, is returning. The article states that the new Wii game will be a remake of the 1999 Dreamcast original.One detail leads us to believe that the remade version is going to include some new content: the article mentions that Sega has licensed Michael Jackson's music for the new game. While Space Michael appeared in both Space Channel 5 games, his music did not. Could Space Michael have a more prominent role in the new game? ... Is that a good idea?Troublingly, unless he was being cryptic, recent comments from Space Channel 5 creator Tetsuya Mizuguchi make it sound like he isn't involved with any Space Channel 5 projects. We hope Sega does the smart thing and hires the currently independent producer to oversee this new game. If it exists.[Via NeoGAF]
Wii Warm Up: SAAAAAAAAAAY-GA!
Any gamer would need a heart of blackened teak to not have a soft spot for Sega, and there's arguably no better home for a dyed-in-the-wool Sega fan than the Wii. Over the coming weeks and months, Nintendo's little white box will be hosting a number of updated classic Sega properties, including NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams, Samba De Amigo, and House of the Dead 2 & 3 Return.But our appetite for all things Sega is not yet sated! While we've already asked you which Saturn games you'd like to see on the Virtual Console, which Sega titles in general do you want to see reinvented on the Wii? A motion-sensitive Panzer Dragoon, the return of Ulala, and a Burning Rangers sequel top our list.
TGS cosplayers gallery
You simply can't barge your way through the throbbing mass of people at the Tokyo Game Show without bumping into video game characters which have somehow manifested in reality. Actually, physically bumping into them isn't recommended, as the ornate headdresses, gargantuan shoulder pads and razor-sharp hair is very likely to cause unexpected injury. With all the Clouds marching about the hallways of the Makuhari Messe center, you're likely to become trapped in a cosplay iron maiden* if you're not careful.*Due to creative cosplay, "maiden" may in truth be "man."%Gallery-7697%
Mizuguchi doesn't say much about Wii Lumines
We've got a little theme going of Tetsuya Mizuguchi providing non-answers to speculation about Wii versions of his most popular franchises. First it was Space Channel 5, and now it's his puzzle game (and first PSP killer app) Lumines. The discussion in this Game Informer interview turned to new mechanics in a possible Lumines sequel, and then to putting that new sequel on the Wii or DS, since the game has been ported pretty much everywhere else by now. Mizuguchi responded "I can't say which is first. Maybe we will be inspired by the platform. With these powerful machines [gestures at PS3 and 360], we can use many effects and sounds. With the DS and PSP, you can have them any time, anywhere or touch the screen." Um, okay.At the end of the interview, the Miz threw in some bonus not-saying-much about Space Channel 5, in response to the question "Is 2008 going to be the year Ulala returns?": "Maybe I should send her an e-mail-"Please answer sometime!" [laughs] It would be really good timing to make a Space Channel 5 sequel, in general. I think the Wii would be a really good fit, with the special controls. The audience is wider, too. I think casual players would like it, too."The moral of the story: Tetsuya Mizuguchi is leakproof, and won't reveal anything about anything until he is good and ready.
Mizuguchi doesn't say much about Wii Space Channel 5
Kotaku's Brian Ashcraft interviewed Tetsuya Mizuguchi during a demo of the Xbox Live Arcade version of Rez, and managed to talk about the Wii. We're grateful for this, for two reasons: It allows us to link to this interview about a possible Rez sequel and other general Miz wonderfulness, and we have been reminded that Space Channel 5 exists, and there is an extremely slim, but non-zero, chance that a sequel could come out. About a possible Wii sequel to Space Channel 5, Mizuguchi said-- well, nothing about Space Channel 5, just a general outpouring of love for the Wii. However, we'd like to posit that since the Miz has partnered with Sega again for Rez, there's a ray of hope for future Mizuguchi games in Sega-owned properties.We'd also like to mention that this slim chance of a Space Channel 5 sequel would be an absolute certainty if more of you had bought the Dreamcast game, or the Playstation 2 rerelease. We've seen Space Channel 5 Special Edition brand new for $5, just sitting on the shelf. That's on you. Space Channel 5 owners: we're cool.
Mizuguchi talks Meteos Disney Magic
This brisk Gamevideos interview with Rez, Space Channel 5, Lumines, and now Meteos: Disney Magic creator Tetsuya Mizuguchi is perfect for you if: You're a huge Miz fanboy, and want to bask in his calm awesomeness You don't know how Meteos works, or You want to see some really great close-up videos of the new version in action Mizuguchi discusses basic Meteos gameplay, the Brain Age/"hot dog" style orientation used in the Disney edition, and his own Disney love with an interviewer who doesn't seem to have ever heard of him and may not actually be that interested. At least she keeps her composure, which we would not be able to do, at all. Seriously, we love love love Mizuguchi and his work at Sega, UGA, and Q? Entertainment.The video is after the post break.[Via GoNintendo]
You can chat with Tetsuya Mizuguchi [Update 1]
Do you want to talk to the man behind Lumines, Rez, Space Channel 5, and more? Of course you do. Eurogamer is giving its readers the chance to chat with the legendary game designer, Tetsuya Mizuguchi. If you couldn't figure it out, Eurogamer is a European website, so make sure you adjust for the time difference. If it's 12:30PM there, what time will it be in your part of the globe? I think according to my calculations, it'll be early morning for most of America. Will you be staying up to talk to this gaming visionary?[Picture via Siliconera][Update 1: Unfortunately, Mizuguchi had to reschedule his webchat to a later date. Stay tuned for more information.]
