Search Results
By Brenna Hillier - Thu Oct 15, 2009 3:46am
The games PR industry, like any other, just loves numbers. Nearly every day I receive some abused statistics, usually along the lines of "our game sold more than any other title between three and four in the morning last Thursday!" or "our game sold this many copies!" with no mention of time frame or comparable milestones.
More reliable are reports from the various territory sales-tracking services, and this one from the US NPD is enough to make me swallow reflexively. The Nintendo Wii is the happy owner of three of the top fives selling games this decade.
More reliable are reports from the various territory sales-tracking services, and this one from the US NPD is enough to make me swallow reflexively. The Nintendo Wii is the happy owner of three of the top fives selling games this decade.
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By Matt Keller - Sun Sep 27, 2009 9:01am
The Wii introduced motion controlled gaming to the masses, and showed that you don't need the latest and greatest hardware to succeed in the gaming market. As expected, Microsoft and Sony are trying to get in on Nintendo's action, announcing motion control devices of their own. At the Tokyo Game Show this week, we got another look at the PlayStation 3 motion controller, and even got the first bunch of associated game announcements. It seems that motion controlled gaming is going to be the next big thing.
But do we actually want motion controlled gaming to take over?
But do we actually want motion controlled gaming to take over?
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By Jessica Citizen - Mon Jul 13, 2009 2:54pm
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
It's no real surprise that a brand new boxing game has made its way into the charts this week for the first time after being released on both PS3 and Xbox 360. It's topped both its platform charts - but which version sold more?
...in other news, Australians still want to combine fitness and video games, play with their PC simulated friends, spend some time with a boy-wizard (for both PS2 and PSP), and is still trying to catch 'em all in platinum.
It's no real surprise that a brand new boxing game has made its way into the charts this week for the first time after being released on both PS3 and Xbox 360. It's topped both its platform charts - but which version sold more?
...in other news, Australians still want to combine fitness and video games, play with their PC simulated friends, spend some time with a boy-wizard (for both PS2 and PSP), and is still trying to catch 'em all in platinum.
[ READ MORE ]
By Matt Keller - Wed Jul 1, 2009 7:14pm
It’s the last week of the midyear release season, the busiest for many years. There’s something for everyone this week; RPG fans finally get to sink their teeth into Tales of Vesperia, Team 17 is releasing Worms 2: Armageddon for Xbox Live Arcade, fight fans can play out dream bouts in Fight Night Round 4, PC-only players get to find out what all the fuss about Street Fighter IV is about, Wii golfers get their first taste of Motion Plus assisted play in Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10, and Harry Potter fans can grab the video game adaptation of the latest film Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
Don’t forget to check out the full release schedule for the latest changes and information on upcoming games.
Don’t forget to check out the full release schedule for the latest changes and information on upcoming games.
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By Jessica Citizen - Wed Jul 1, 2009 5:06pm
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
...sure, it's been a while between drinks, but I'm sure if you think hard enough, you'll be able to figure out what games have top billing this week. In an amusing turn of events, the majority of the game-buying public still just want to pick up a peripheral that will reward them for standing perfectly still in front of their television. PC gamers prefer the simulated life, Xbox 360 and PS3 battle it out in the squabble of the next-gen superheroes and the PS2 just wants to break free! Meanwhile, the handhelds are in a bit of a collector fit - Nintendo turning platinum and the PSP attempting to unite their efforts.
...sure, it's been a while between drinks, but I'm sure if you think hard enough, you'll be able to figure out what games have top billing this week. In an amusing turn of events, the majority of the game-buying public still just want to pick up a peripheral that will reward them for standing perfectly still in front of their television. PC gamers prefer the simulated life, Xbox 360 and PS3 battle it out in the squabble of the next-gen superheroes and the PS2 just wants to break free! Meanwhile, the handhelds are in a bit of a collector fit - Nintendo turning platinum and the PSP attempting to unite their efforts.
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By Matt Keller - Sun May 31, 2009 9:01am
E3 begins on Tuesday morning at the ungodly hour of 2am (AEST) and the Games On Net crew will be bringing you the latest news from the show – we’ll have a few people over there working the show floor, and a full team of newsbots here in Australia posting the latest news, videos and screens of newly announced games. With the show reportedly back to full strength this year, it’s going to be big, so I hope you enjoy our coverage and that your developer of choice announces something you want.
To get into the E3 mood, this week’s Warp Pipe is going to hop on the bandwagon and make a whole bunch of E3 predictions.
To get into the E3 mood, this week’s Warp Pipe is going to hop on the bandwagon and make a whole bunch of E3 predictions.
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By Matt Keller - Wed May 27, 2009 6:31pm
It’s the last week of May, marking the end of what is quite possibly the busiest May we’ve had in recent memory – things are only going to get busier too, with June packed full of exciting new games. Headlining this week’s line up is the unexpectedly good Guitar Hero: Metallica, the verbose-but-brief Terminator Salvation, war sim Battlestations Pacific and the latest entry in Sega’s superb arcade tennis series Virtua Tennis 2009.
Don’t forget to check out the full release schedule for the latest changes and information on upcoming games.
Don’t forget to check out the full release schedule for the latest changes and information on upcoming games.
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By Steven Perdikis - Fri May 8, 2009 12:38pm
Nintendo's operations can easily be compared to money printing. The Japan-based giant has revealed its results for the financial year to date, reporting that total sales were some US$18.5 billion, amounting to some 1.83 TRILLION Yen. (In other words, a very large amount of money).
The financial highlights released by the company noted that the total growth of the company was some 8.5% over last year's figures, amidst a market that collapsed to rubble. (Contrary to popular belief, empires built on pocket change, instead of discarded Nintendo Wii boxes do collapse.)
The financial highlights released by the company noted that the total growth of the company was some 8.5% over last year's figures, amidst a market that collapsed to rubble. (Contrary to popular belief, empires built on pocket change, instead of discarded Nintendo Wii boxes do collapse.)
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By Jessica Citizen - Wed Apr 29, 2009 11:03am
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
This week, gamers have made a few major changes in their purchasing habits, but remained exactly the same in other areas. The best-selling game overall is still one which rewards you for standing still, but the PC has left Azeroth, joining the Xbox 360 in heeding a more modern call to arms. PS3 gamers stay battling the Helghan, but the PS2 is no longer just a karaoke box, preferring quizzes to tunes. The PSP is still resisting, while DS fans apparently prefer the company of penguins to a trip through Chinatown. Interesting.
This week, gamers have made a few major changes in their purchasing habits, but remained exactly the same in other areas. The best-selling game overall is still one which rewards you for standing still, but the PC has left Azeroth, joining the Xbox 360 in heeding a more modern call to arms. PS3 gamers stay battling the Helghan, but the PS2 is no longer just a karaoke box, preferring quizzes to tunes. The PSP is still resisting, while DS fans apparently prefer the company of penguins to a trip through Chinatown. Interesting.
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By Brenna Hillier - Tue Apr 28, 2009 2:23pm
Dammit, Nintendo, if I wanted to be fit and healthy, I'd watch my carbohydrate intake and take up social sports activities! It's bad enough that every Wii owner has to suffer the indignity of being repeatedly advised "You are overweight!" without our portable consoles - those very personal bastions of procrastination - getting in on the act, especially when we have left them at home.
Walk With Me! is an extremely cluey little title, throwing itself onto the bandwagon of several recent trends: using your console as a lifestyle device, bundling plastic peripherals with your software, and pedometers - those things your boss wears clipped to his waist so his wife can ensure he's taking the stairs and not copping out with a two-story elevator ride.
Walk With Me! is an extremely cluey little title, throwing itself onto the bandwagon of several recent trends: using your console as a lifestyle device, bundling plastic peripherals with your software, and pedometers - those things your boss wears clipped to his waist so his wife can ensure he's taking the stairs and not copping out with a two-story elevator ride.
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By Brenna Hillier - Tue Apr 21, 2009 8:38am
You may have noticed a fair bit of congratulatory Nintendo press floating about in the wake of the recent DSi release. Overseas sales have indeed proved quite astonishing, and it is with a fair bit of pride that Nintendo forward the latest Australian sales figures. The third iteration of their DS handheld console series, the DSi has brought another little piece of Nintendo into more than 30,000 homes!
With its twin cameras, SD card slot, and enhanced screen, the DSi is clearly speaking to consumers. Its immediate precursor, the DS Lite, is still Australia's highest-selling console, a position it has held practically since launch day. The original DS and DS Lite have together shipped 1.9 million units down under, and a whopping 100 million units worldwide.
With its twin cameras, SD card slot, and enhanced screen, the DSi is clearly speaking to consumers. Its immediate precursor, the DS Lite, is still Australia's highest-selling console, a position it has held practically since launch day. The original DS and DS Lite have together shipped 1.9 million units down under, and a whopping 100 million units worldwide.
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By Jessica Citizen - Sun Apr 19, 2009 10:52am
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
This week, we're also wondering if Aussies are bucking the trend, with the latest Grand Theft Auto title topping the DS charts despite reporting lagging sales elsewhere. Overall though, we do still seem to fall into line. The most popular title is one that rewards you for balancing carefully in front of your tv, PC gamers are still exploring Azeroth's second expansion, Xbox 360 prefers more modern combat, and the PS3 has slipped into the underworld. On the other side of things, PS2 gamers prefer to croon along with Freddie, and the PSP is still experiencing some handheld resistance.
This week, we're also wondering if Aussies are bucking the trend, with the latest Grand Theft Auto title topping the DS charts despite reporting lagging sales elsewhere. Overall though, we do still seem to fall into line. The most popular title is one that rewards you for balancing carefully in front of your tv, PC gamers are still exploring Azeroth's second expansion, Xbox 360 prefers more modern combat, and the PS3 has slipped into the underworld. On the other side of things, PS2 gamers prefer to croon along with Freddie, and the PSP is still experiencing some handheld resistance.
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Apr 9, 2009 3:17pm
At last count, Capcom's Monster Hunter series has sold 8.5 million units worldwide - not bad for a series that only started five years ago and doesn't have much of a life outside of Japan!
Back in 2007, we gave you a review of the then-current Monster Hunter Freedom 2 - and today, we've got an update, as the series makes its "biggest-ever push into the West", with the release of the PSP-exclusive Monster Hunter Freedom Unite in June. To celebrate, we've got a brand new trailer to show off, and some details on the game better known as Monster Hunter Portable 2G.
Back in 2007, we gave you a review of the then-current Monster Hunter Freedom 2 - and today, we've got an update, as the series makes its "biggest-ever push into the West", with the release of the PSP-exclusive Monster Hunter Freedom Unite in June. To celebrate, we've got a brand new trailer to show off, and some details on the game better known as Monster Hunter Portable 2G.
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By Brenna Hillier - Thu Mar 19, 2009 5:35pm
Games industry organisations and companies are outraged over a magazine spread from the UK government-funded Campaign4Life advertising campaign. Following on from a previous instalment that linked gaming with obesity and associated health issues, the offending advertisement, depicts a young boy holding what is almost certainly a PlayStation 3 controller, along with the text: Risk an early death, just do nothing. The advertisement was a joint effort produced by prominent British health organisations including the Department of Health in association with Cancer Research, the British Heart Foundation and Diabetes UK.
What has their hackles up is that without further context or knowledge of the issues surrounding the video games and health debates, the viewer can come away with the simple and highly controversial conclusion that games will kill you.
What has their hackles up is that without further context or knowledge of the issues surrounding the video games and health debates, the viewer can come away with the simple and highly controversial conclusion that games will kill you.
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Mar 12, 2009 6:53pm
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
Strategy is paying off for the acquaintances of Master Chief, with that particular war taking out the overall top spot. PC gamers are experiencing a war of a different sort, in a different Empire, while PS3 fans are still duking it out against the Helghast. Those who prefer the Wii are fighting the weight war, DS gamers are battling to beat their brains, the PSP has turned to a critical core, and the PS2... well... high school really is a battle zone, isn't it?
Strategy is paying off for the acquaintances of Master Chief, with that particular war taking out the overall top spot. PC gamers are experiencing a war of a different sort, in a different Empire, while PS3 fans are still duking it out against the Helghast. Those who prefer the Wii are fighting the weight war, DS gamers are battling to beat their brains, the PSP has turned to a critical core, and the PS2... well... high school really is a battle zone, isn't it?
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By Steven Perdikis - Thu Mar 12, 2009 4:40pm
Nintendo Australia have announced the launch of a very special club for loyal Nintendo customers. Starting today, anyone can jump onto the Australian Club Nintendo website. Once users have registered an account on the website, they will be able to input codes provided with certain Nintendo products which will award them with stars, upon the completion of a short survey regarding the product.
Once a user accumulates a certain amount of Stars - they are able to redeem them for exclusive Nintendo merchandise. At the moment, players are able to choose from five exclusive items, which include a Wii Remote Stand, a Mario Print Face Towel, a variety of DS cases, and an exclusive Game & Watch Collection for the Nintendo DS. The price of objects in the catalogue vary from 1000 Stars to 2500 stars.
Once a user accumulates a certain amount of Stars - they are able to redeem them for exclusive Nintendo merchandise. At the moment, players are able to choose from five exclusive items, which include a Wii Remote Stand, a Mario Print Face Towel, a variety of DS cases, and an exclusive Game & Watch Collection for the Nintendo DS. The price of objects in the catalogue vary from 1000 Stars to 2500 stars.
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By Jessica Citizen - Sun Mar 8, 2009 11:34am
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
This week, it's both surprising and not-really surprising. The surprise: the Top 10 overall games list doesn't feature a single title for Nintendo's handheld, with the fitness trainer knocked down further, into third spot. The not-surprise: Master Chief's disciples have strategised and taken out top billing, with a bullet.
For the PC, they're still preferring a bit of revamped table-top action, the Wii is still standing perfectly still in front of their televisions, the PS2 is sticking with Fernando, DS gamers want a bigger brain, and PSP are still kicking a pixellated ball around. The only other new addition is, of course, the invasion of Helghan, for PS3.
This week, it's both surprising and not-really surprising. The surprise: the Top 10 overall games list doesn't feature a single title for Nintendo's handheld, with the fitness trainer knocked down further, into third spot. The not-surprise: Master Chief's disciples have strategised and taken out top billing, with a bullet.
For the PC, they're still preferring a bit of revamped table-top action, the Wii is still standing perfectly still in front of their televisions, the PS2 is sticking with Fernando, DS gamers want a bigger brain, and PSP are still kicking a pixellated ball around. The only other new addition is, of course, the invasion of Helghan, for PS3.
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Feb 26, 2009 6:09pm
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
Well, I hate to say it, but... here comes a new challenger! A certain fighty game has managed to knock Nintendo's motion-sensing weightloss program all the way into second place overall (of course it's still topping the Wii charts). Congratulations, combatants!
It's also a week of turmoil in the PC world, where things are slowly becoming less simulated, with the triumphant return of the table-top RTS. Both PS3 and Xbox 360 have taken it to the streets, the PS2 croons along with a few swedes, DS gamers like to work on their smarts, and PSP is still chasing a European ball around the place.
Well, I hate to say it, but... here comes a new challenger! A certain fighty game has managed to knock Nintendo's motion-sensing weightloss program all the way into second place overall (of course it's still topping the Wii charts). Congratulations, combatants!
It's also a week of turmoil in the PC world, where things are slowly becoming less simulated, with the triumphant return of the table-top RTS. Both PS3 and Xbox 360 have taken it to the streets, the PS2 croons along with a few swedes, DS gamers like to work on their smarts, and PSP is still chasing a European ball around the place.
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By Steven Perdikis - Thu Feb 26, 2009 2:31pm
Everyone with even the smallest morsel of knowledge about the video game industry knows who Nintendo are and what they do. Not only are they a sturdy, profitable root of the gaming industry's robust financial performance - the company has also been seen as an innovator, and as a result, is a much loved name in households worldwide.
Despite their staggering, diamond encrusted financial successes and absolute domination of sales charts - Nintendo is not immune issue of piracy, and the company is not choosing to ignore the issue either.
Nintendo of America today released a summary of a filing it submitted to the U.S. Trade Representative which outlines key regions where piracy of their products run rampant. Nintendo claim that the piracy "of its most popular products" has increased, and wants some countries to do more to stop it from happening. China, Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Spain and Paraguay are each cited as major offenders by Nintendo.
Despite their staggering, diamond encrusted financial successes and absolute domination of sales charts - Nintendo is not immune issue of piracy, and the company is not choosing to ignore the issue either.
Nintendo of America today released a summary of a filing it submitted to the U.S. Trade Representative which outlines key regions where piracy of their products run rampant. Nintendo claim that the piracy "of its most popular products" has increased, and wants some countries to do more to stop it from happening. China, Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Spain and Paraguay are each cited as major offenders by Nintendo.
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Feb 19, 2009 5:00pm
Ever wondered just what the Australian gaming public are buying? We've got the latest charts for you that will give you all the details you need to know, for all the major platforms.
It's been a while since we brought you these charts, things kept getting in the way, but we're back now with a vengeance - and a familiar scary girl sneaking into the overall charts, as well as topping all three platforms she was released on.
Other than that little surprise, it's business as usual - Australians love their weight-measurement motion-sensing, the PS2 is crooning along with Benny, Bjorn, Agnetha and Anni-Frid, the DS fans are still stretching their grey matter and the PSP gets in a bit of soccer action.
It's been a while since we brought you these charts, things kept getting in the way, but we're back now with a vengeance - and a familiar scary girl sneaking into the overall charts, as well as topping all three platforms she was released on.
Other than that little surprise, it's business as usual - Australians love their weight-measurement motion-sensing, the PS2 is crooning along with Benny, Bjorn, Agnetha and Anni-Frid, the DS fans are still stretching their grey matter and the PSP gets in a bit of soccer action.
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By Steven Perdikis - Tue Feb 3, 2009 10:55am
In sales terms, 2008 was very much the year of Nintendo, as evidenced by recent figures released by the company. As a part of their latest financial briefing, Nintendo have revealed a list of both Wii and DS titles that have sold over one million copies since launch. The top seller worldwide? Wii Sports, with 40.5 million units sold since launch, making it the best selling console game in history. Other titles which sold like hot cakes on the Wii console include Wii Play and Wii Fit.
Top sellers on the DS were a little more modest, with 21.67 million bones were thrown to Nintendogs worldwide. New Super Mario Bros. and Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day (known locally as Prof. Kawashima's Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain?) rounded up the top three sellers on the hand-held, with 17.63 and 16.82 million sales respectively.
In total, since the launch of the Nintendo Wii and DS, twenty-six titles have sold more than a million copies - which ones are they? Read on to find out!
Top sellers on the DS were a little more modest, with 21.67 million bones were thrown to Nintendogs worldwide. New Super Mario Bros. and Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day (known locally as Prof. Kawashima's Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain?) rounded up the top three sellers on the hand-held, with 17.63 and 16.82 million sales respectively.
In total, since the launch of the Nintendo Wii and DS, twenty-six titles have sold more than a million copies - which ones are they? Read on to find out!
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By Romi Jade - Thu Jan 8, 2009 1:20pm
Doctors advise: Stretch before playing with your Wii!
Ten people are hospitalised in Britain every week from playing Wii games. This new medical condition has been dubbed 'Wii-itis' with sufferers reporting excruciating pain in the right shoulder or knee.
Ten people are hospitalised in Britain every week from playing Wii games. This new medical condition has been dubbed 'Wii-itis' with sufferers reporting excruciating pain in the right shoulder or knee.
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Jan 1, 2009 1:27pm
What will you remember 2008 for, in terms of gaming?
We asked some of the game admins and network staff to find out their thoughts, but here's a quick recap of the past 12 months, to refresh your memory.
Non-games dominated this year's charts, with Wii Fit rewarding gamers for standing still. As a country, we were still fans of the music game genre too, finally getting our hands on Rock Band, which seemed to have been pushed onto shelves by the release of Guitar Hero: World Tour a week later. Who knows, the full-band version may even have healed some hurt caused by the "interesting" yet awkward Guitar Hero: On Tour release for DS. There was a new Call of Duty to heed, a new Bond to meet, Marcus and Dom were back, and independent developers twisted our brains with Braid and our rhythm skills with Audiosurf. Red Alert was back, and we revisited the Midnight Club. We also saw the release of the "Three Fs" - Far Cry 2, Fable 2, and Fallout 3, meaning many gamers were a bit strapped for cash by the end of the year.
...and, who could forget? 2008 is the year we met Sackboy!
We asked some of the game admins and network staff to find out their thoughts, but here's a quick recap of the past 12 months, to refresh your memory.
Non-games dominated this year's charts, with Wii Fit rewarding gamers for standing still. As a country, we were still fans of the music game genre too, finally getting our hands on Rock Band, which seemed to have been pushed onto shelves by the release of Guitar Hero: World Tour a week later. Who knows, the full-band version may even have healed some hurt caused by the "interesting" yet awkward Guitar Hero: On Tour release for DS. There was a new Call of Duty to heed, a new Bond to meet, Marcus and Dom were back, and independent developers twisted our brains with Braid and our rhythm skills with Audiosurf. Red Alert was back, and we revisited the Midnight Club. We also saw the release of the "Three Fs" - Far Cry 2, Fable 2, and Fallout 3, meaning many gamers were a bit strapped for cash by the end of the year.
...and, who could forget? 2008 is the year we met Sackboy!
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By Jessica Citizen - Mon Dec 15, 2008 1:58pm
Time for this week's charts - and it looks like people are pretty set in their ways, buying the same things for Christmas this week as they did last week. There's been a few slight changes, but overall, it's the same titles that we saw last time around.
To explain further - gamers are preparing themselves for the holiday season by getting in early with some motion-sensitive fitness equipment, while the PC fans are paying attention to duty's call, in a new world. The 360 is still revving their chainsaws (3 million-strong, we hear last week), and the PS3 still enjoys a second dose of resistance. The PS2 has been thrown to the ground and wrestled yet again, while the DS has headed to the Olympics with some familiar friends and the PSP remains speeding, undercover.
To explain further - gamers are preparing themselves for the holiday season by getting in early with some motion-sensitive fitness equipment, while the PC fans are paying attention to duty's call, in a new world. The 360 is still revving their chainsaws (3 million-strong, we hear last week), and the PS3 still enjoys a second dose of resistance. The PS2 has been thrown to the ground and wrestled yet again, while the DS has headed to the Olympics with some familiar friends and the PSP remains speeding, undercover.
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By Matt Keller - Sun Dec 14, 2008 8:58am
With Christmas rapidly approaching, The Warp Pipe is calling time for 2008. After 45 columns without a break this year, I’m clocking off a little early to read a few books, watch some movies, replay some of 2008’s best games and of course, fly to Queensland to spend Christmas with the family. The Warp Pipe will be back on the 18th of January with a few minor tweaks and a couple of bold predictions for 2009.
Speaking of bold proclamations, The Warp Pipe made a few just before the start of the second, third and final quarters of the year. I thought we’d use the final column of the year evaluating my ability to predict the quality of soon-to-be-released video games.
Speaking of bold proclamations, The Warp Pipe made a few just before the start of the second, third and final quarters of the year. I thought we’d use the final column of the year evaluating my ability to predict the quality of soon-to-be-released video games.
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By Jessica Citizen - Fri Nov 28, 2008 12:58pm
Mostly, with these weekly charts, I am the bearer of good news. I bring you information that a great new game has topped the national sales, or that an underdog has made it to #1 despite the odds being stacked against them. This week, I'm afraid I can't do that.
...while I am pleased to see that a certain zombie-huntin' co-op title has made it to #6 and #7 for PC and Xbox 360 respectively, the PS2 game that picks up top honours this week almost makes me ashamed to be a gamer.
In other news - the PC charts are still dominated by a wrathful monarch, the Xbox 360 hears the distant rev of chainsaws and the PS3 is heeding the call of duty once again. While the Wii is again concerned with body image, the DS prefers to train their mental abilities, and the PSP gets in a bit of wrestlin'.
...while I am pleased to see that a certain zombie-huntin' co-op title has made it to #6 and #7 for PC and Xbox 360 respectively, the PS2 game that picks up top honours this week almost makes me ashamed to be a gamer.
In other news - the PC charts are still dominated by a wrathful monarch, the Xbox 360 hears the distant rev of chainsaws and the PS3 is heeding the call of duty once again. While the Wii is again concerned with body image, the DS prefers to train their mental abilities, and the PSP gets in a bit of wrestlin'.
[ READ MORE ]
By Steven Perdikis - Fri Nov 14, 2008 4:48pm
EA have announced a new title, designed exclusively for the Nintendo Wii. EA Sports Active, which is to be developed in conjunction with "fitness experts" will bring an exercise experience similar to that of Wii Fit to the console. At a commitment of 20 minutes a day, the game promises 'a better you', if you follow its regime.
EA Sports Active will track a players motion on screen, providing real time feedback on their exercise routine and performance. Upper and lower body exercises are monitored, and a number of peripherals are included to assist with the exercises. These include specially designed leg straps in addition to an elastic 'resistance band'. We've got a first-look trailer for you to check out, along with a list of features that you can come to expect when the game launches in March 2009.
EA Sports Active will track a players motion on screen, providing real time feedback on their exercise routine and performance. Upper and lower body exercises are monitored, and a number of peripherals are included to assist with the exercises. These include specially designed leg straps in addition to an elastic 'resistance band'. We've got a first-look trailer for you to check out, along with a list of features that you can come to expect when the game launches in March 2009.
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Nov 6, 2008 4:09pm
Oh, games charts. It's been a long time between drinks, but I'd like to put that all behind us and carry on as if nothing had happened. I'm sure nothing exciting was released over the past month or so anyway, right? ...hm.
Anyway. For those who are still paying attention, we have the Australian weekly video game charts, for the week ending November 2nd 2008. No real surprises which post-apocalyptic title tops the list this week! The Xbox 360 version takes out the overall top honours nation-wide, with the PS3 and PC versions following close behind. The Wii is still obsessed with body image and fitness, the DS is all about vision, and the PSP and PS2 are grappling with a caped crusader made out of blocks.
Anyway. For those who are still paying attention, we have the Australian weekly video game charts, for the week ending November 2nd 2008. No real surprises which post-apocalyptic title tops the list this week! The Xbox 360 version takes out the overall top honours nation-wide, with the PS3 and PC versions following close behind. The Wii is still obsessed with body image and fitness, the DS is all about vision, and the PSP and PS2 are grappling with a caped crusader made out of blocks.
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By Jessica Citizen - Sat Oct 4, 2008 5:01pm
As I mentioned briefly yesterday, UgLyPuNk and I are in Los Angeles at the moment. We're here for the 2008 E for All Expo, which is a games show that encompasses a lot of the consumer elements of the old E3 Expo you may be more familiar with.
The event kicked off today - about 12 hours ago - and we spent the morning wandering around the LA Convention Center, to see just what was on show. We chatted to a bunch of people, ranging from hardware developers to community managers to the man who helped introduce Lara Croft to the masses - but while we're working on those words and pictures, it might be nice to let you know a little about what's been going on.
The event kicked off today - about 12 hours ago - and we spent the morning wandering around the LA Convention Center, to see just what was on show. We chatted to a bunch of people, ranging from hardware developers to community managers to the man who helped introduce Lara Croft to the masses - but while we're working on those words and pictures, it might be nice to let you know a little about what's been going on.
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By Jessica Citizen - Wed Oct 1, 2008 9:54am
The charts this week are pretty much a one-game affair. The newest title in a long-running film/book/game saga has swept the Australian nation and taken the whole country by storm.
Yes, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (which was partially developed down here by local guys Krome) is pretty much running the show, taking out top honours for Xbox 360 (top overall), PS3, PS2 and PSP, 2nd on the Wii (behind Wii Fit), and 8th on the DS. By my calculations, that's a top-10 chart position for every platform it was released on. Well done to you!
(Also, um, well done to that Age of Reckoning thing, for topping the PC charts. we're not ignoring you, really.)
Yes, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (which was partially developed down here by local guys Krome) is pretty much running the show, taking out top honours for Xbox 360 (top overall), PS3, PS2 and PSP, 2nd on the Wii (behind Wii Fit), and 8th on the DS. By my calculations, that's a top-10 chart position for every platform it was released on. Well done to you!
(Also, um, well done to that Age of Reckoning thing, for topping the PC charts. we're not ignoring you, really.)
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By Jessica Citizen - Thu Sep 25, 2008 8:37pm
We nearly missed this week's video game charts - so much else is going on back here behind the scenes! ...but it's okay, we've got you all the details on the game sales in Australia, in the week ending September 14th.
As a nation, we're still investing in motion-sensing Nintendo peripherals rather than gym passes, PC gamers are learning all about evolution, those mercenary Xbox 360 gamers set the world on fire, PS3 gamers throwback to an era past, hearing the third call of duty, DS gamers still hanging out with Professor Kawashima, and both the PS2 and PSP prefer an adorably animated movie tie-in.
As a nation, we're still investing in motion-sensing Nintendo peripherals rather than gym passes, PC gamers are learning all about evolution, those mercenary Xbox 360 gamers set the world on fire, PS3 gamers throwback to an era past, hearing the third call of duty, DS gamers still hanging out with Professor Kawashima, and both the PS2 and PSP prefer an adorably animated movie tie-in.
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By Jessica Citizen - Tue Sep 16, 2008 5:42pm
Those of you taking bets on what would be the #1 game this week had better get your wallets ready, as the hot life-simulator favourite has been pipped at the post, losing out to a classic title that seems to have impeccable balance there at the top. (Still, it's nice to see a couple of PC games in the top ten, even if the entire remainder is comprised of Nintendo releases.)
Obviously, it's one of their motion-sensors that is doing the balancing game in #1, while PC gamers have thrown themselves into Will Wright's fantasy. Xbox 360 is still a little bit historic, a little bit futuristic, but a little bit too real, the PS3 is still out playing golf with a mate, PS2 is now playing a limited edition guitar, the DS is exercising their grey matter, while the PSP is still secretive and clanky.
Obviously, it's one of their motion-sensors that is doing the balancing game in #1, while PC gamers have thrown themselves into Will Wright's fantasy. Xbox 360 is still a little bit historic, a little bit futuristic, but a little bit too real, the PS3 is still out playing golf with a mate, PS2 is now playing a limited edition guitar, the DS is exercising their grey matter, while the PSP is still secretive and clanky.
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By Jessica Citizen - Mon Sep 8, 2008 12:59pm
A few changes to the charts this week - we finally see a PC title sneaking back into the top 10 - apparently at the expense of the PS3. Sure, it's another Sims 2 expansion, but still! It still counts, doesn't it?
The overall charts continue to be dominated by the Wii, who take out five of the top spots this week, three DS, one PC and one Xbox 360. I wonder what conclusions could be drawn by looking at the results?
We are a nation of Wii owners who like to be rewarded for standing perfectly still. The PC gamers like to arrange their simulated apartments (at the expense of the real ones?), while the Xbox 360 takes humanity a bit too far. The PS3 is out getting some (digital) fresh air on the golf course, PS2 prefers to stay home and sing with some amps, DS is hurtling around a kart track, and the PSP is still hanging out with a secret agent.
The overall charts continue to be dominated by the Wii, who take out five of the top spots this week, three DS, one PC and one Xbox 360. I wonder what conclusions could be drawn by looking at the results?
We are a nation of Wii owners who like to be rewarded for standing perfectly still. The PC gamers like to arrange their simulated apartments (at the expense of the real ones?), while the Xbox 360 takes humanity a bit too far. The PS3 is out getting some (digital) fresh air on the golf course, PS2 prefers to stay home and sing with some amps, DS is hurtling around a kart track, and the PSP is still hanging out with a secret agent.
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By Chienne - Fri Aug 29, 2008 1:39pm
While we don't tend to think too much about our neighbours across the Tasman, today seems like a good time to focus a bit on New Zealand - with some good news for kiwi Nintendo fans.
Nintendo has never really fared very well in that country, suffering from years of neglect before being picked up by a local distributor... who soon went broke. This has contributed to New Zealand being one of the few countries in the world who do not love the Wii - but this may be about to change.
Nintendo has never really fared very well in that country, suffering from years of neglect before being picked up by a local distributor... who soon went broke. This has contributed to New Zealand being one of the few countries in the world who do not love the Wii - but this may be about to change.
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By Chienne - Mon Aug 25, 2008 2:54pm
...so I was saying that the Wii might be starting to be taken more seriously? If the Australian gaming public are to believed, this is nothing more than wishful thinking - but the console's prety popular regardless. Six of the top ten games (including #1) this week are from Nintendo's motion-sensing console, with two more coming from the DS, and one each from PS3 and Xbox 360. The humble PC is nowhere to be seen.
While it seems that gamers are still interested in standing perfectly stil, perhaps some of them are snapping up the #1 game to get the innovative peripheral, to use with other titles later... there's no question though, PC gamers prefer the world of Azeroth to anything we've got to offer. The PS3 and Xbox 360 have headed to Beijing this week, with the DS following in a more cartoon fashion. The PS2 prefers to stay home and sing, and the PSP still hangs out with a robotic spy. Interesting, indeed.
While it seems that gamers are still interested in standing perfectly stil, perhaps some of them are snapping up the #1 game to get the innovative peripheral, to use with other titles later... there's no question though, PC gamers prefer the world of Azeroth to anything we've got to offer. The PS3 and Xbox 360 have headed to Beijing this week, with the DS following in a more cartoon fashion. The PS2 prefers to stay home and sing, and the PSP still hangs out with a robotic spy. Interesting, indeed.
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By Chienne - Sat Aug 16, 2008 1:48pm
Well, we've finally managed to catch up with the charts - here are the latest reports, letting us know what people were buying in the week leading up to August 10th.
As much as it's all just a lot of the same titles reshuffled, there's been a bit more shuffling this week than there has been recently. It's good to see the game based on the Beijing Olympics is still doing well, too!
Health and well-being is a bit of a theme this week - with gamers apparently Wii owners, fond of standing perfectly still and jogging on the spot. The PC fans among us have returned once more to Azeroth, Xbox 360 and PS3 gamers are experiencing the soul of fighting, PS2 rocks out with Steven Tyler, DS is still at the Olympic games with a plumber (and his friends), and the PSP is still a robotic secret agent.
As much as it's all just a lot of the same titles reshuffled, there's been a bit more shuffling this week than there has been recently. It's good to see the game based on the Beijing Olympics is still doing well, too!
Health and well-being is a bit of a theme this week - with gamers apparently Wii owners, fond of standing perfectly still and jogging on the spot. The PC fans among us have returned once more to Azeroth, Xbox 360 and PS3 gamers are experiencing the soul of fighting, PS2 rocks out with Steven Tyler, DS is still at the Olympic games with a plumber (and his friends), and the PSP is still a robotic secret agent.
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By Chienne - Thu Aug 14, 2008 11:43am
Apparently, another week's gone by already and we've got another set of Australian Weekly Video Game Charts to share with you. Some things have changed, some have stayed the same, and it is - as always - an interesting little snapshot of what we, as a country, are doing with our consoles.
To start things off, it seems that the Australian public got back on the fitness bandwagon just before the Olympics exploded onto our screens, with the top selling "game" being a little title from Nintendo that rewards you for standing still and having perfect posture. The PC is still visited by the second incarnation of their simulated pals, while the Xbox 360 and PS3 have been ravaged by a new fighty title of very high calibre. PS2 gamers are still having a very vocal party, the DS is at the Olympics with a hedgehog and a plumber, and the PSP hangs out with a robotic secret agent. Phew!
To start things off, it seems that the Australian public got back on the fitness bandwagon just before the Olympics exploded onto our screens, with the top selling "game" being a little title from Nintendo that rewards you for standing still and having perfect posture. The PC is still visited by the second incarnation of their simulated pals, while the Xbox 360 and PS3 have been ravaged by a new fighty title of very high calibre. PS2 gamers are still having a very vocal party, the DS is at the Olympics with a hedgehog and a plumber, and the PSP hangs out with a robotic secret agent. Phew!
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By Matt K - Sun Jun 29, 2008 5:31am
This weekend marks the midway point of 2008, a milestone which has either come very slowly or out of nowhere, depending on your perception of time and space. I find myself in the latter group, stuck in a state of mind where it's March or April, largely out of desperation for some warm weather. Most of my recent time has been spent wrestling a Metal Gear Solid 4 review, which you'll see on the site soon, and the new Alone in the Dark game, which has some promising concepts destroyed by wretched controls and a multitude of glitches.
With the midway point reached, I thought I'd take the time this week to look back at the major events and releases of the first six months of the year.
With the midway point reached, I thought I'd take the time this week to look back at the major events and releases of the first six months of the year.
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By Chienne - Fri Jun 6, 2008 11:19am
Well folks, the slide has started. The game that snagged the record for Highest Revenue Generated by an Entertainment Product in 24 Hours is less exciting than a collection of minigames that are designed to show off a controller, if the latest charts re to be believed. They also suggest that while realism and violence are fun, it's more fun to be a cartoon and throw turtle shells at each other.
In the charts this week, Australians are still flocking in massive numbers to buy a game that rewards you for standing perfectly still, PC gamers are dedicating a lot of their time to adventures in Hyboria, PS3 and Xbox 360 prefer to hang out in Liberty City, the PS2 is singing along with some party hits, the DS has returned to a tuneful high school (again), and the PSP... well, it's still spending too much time with Kratos. C'mon, portable Sony gamers! Buy something else!
In the charts this week, Australians are still flocking in massive numbers to buy a game that rewards you for standing perfectly still, PC gamers are dedicating a lot of their time to adventures in Hyboria, PS3 and Xbox 360 prefer to hang out in Liberty City, the PS2 is singing along with some party hits, the DS has returned to a tuneful high school (again), and the PSP... well, it's still spending too much time with Kratos. C'mon, portable Sony gamers! Buy something else!
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By Chienne - Wed Jun 4, 2008 10:10am
Ah, more of the same here, really. Apparently Wii Play is more popular than GTA IV on the PS3. Who'd-a-thunk?
There has also been an interesting development in the DS game charts. Did you know that Hannah Montana is played by Miley Cyrus, who is Billy Ray Cyrus's daughter? Yep, the Achy Breaky Heart guy apparently got over his little upset and has fathered a child, who - fortunately - seems to have avoided the family mullet, and can actually sing.
Anyway. The top games for this week are a little interesting - Australians like standing perfectly still in front of their televisions, PC gamers prefer to get drunk and punch camels, our Xbox 360 and PS3 brethren are still hangin' out in Liberty City, PS2 gamers continue to heroically rock out, the DS seems popular with all-singing, all-dancing tween-age girls, and the PSP is still stuck on that bit where Kratos does that thing...
There has also been an interesting development in the DS game charts. Did you know that Hannah Montana is played by Miley Cyrus, who is Billy Ray Cyrus's daughter? Yep, the Achy Breaky Heart guy apparently got over his little upset and has fathered a child, who - fortunately - seems to have avoided the family mullet, and can actually sing.
Anyway. The top games for this week are a little interesting - Australians like standing perfectly still in front of their televisions, PC gamers prefer to get drunk and punch camels, our Xbox 360 and PS3 brethren are still hangin' out in Liberty City, PS2 gamers continue to heroically rock out, the DS seems popular with all-singing, all-dancing tween-age girls, and the PSP is still stuck on that bit where Kratos does that thing...
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By Chienne - Tue May 27, 2008 11:47am
After last week's little shakeup, the most recent version of the Australian Weekly Video Game Charts is pretty non-exciting. I was tempted just to relabel the last edition and put them up again, so very little has changed.
Apparently, the general Australian Public is more interested in exercising in front of a tv than running around Liberty City - although Niko's adventures still top both the PS3 and Xbox 360 charts. The PC sees a relief from the simulated bathrooms, returning to Azeroth after a time away. PS2 gamers are heroically rockin' out, DS gamers prefer to give their minds some more exercise, and the PSP is still wrestling with Spartan chains.
Apparently, the general Australian Public is more interested in exercising in front of a tv than running around Liberty City - although Niko's adventures still top both the PS3 and Xbox 360 charts. The PC sees a relief from the simulated bathrooms, returning to Azeroth after a time away. PS2 gamers are heroically rockin' out, DS gamers prefer to give their minds some more exercise, and the PSP is still wrestling with Spartan chains.
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By Chienne - Fri May 16, 2008 10:59am
Well. It is often a source of amusement for people that Australian video game buyers are notoriously slow when it comes to picking up "highly-anticipated" games. In many places, a major game release is #1 for a week or two after release, and then quickly disappears from view - but in Australia, the big names float around near the top of the charts for months after its hit shelves.
Interesting to note then, that the most eagerly-awaited title of the year has already slipped from top spot - to be replaced by a "non-game" that awards points based on how well you can stand perfectly still.
That's right, the Australian public loves to improve their fitness with a video game, while PC gamers are still playing digital kitchen/bathroom decorators, the 360 and the PS3 are left behind in Liberty City, PS2 is playing a few rockin' shows, DS gamers enjoy some more cranial exercise, and the PSP is still struggling under those weighty chains.
Interesting to note then, that the most eagerly-awaited title of the year has already slipped from top spot - to be replaced by a "non-game" that awards points based on how well you can stand perfectly still.
That's right, the Australian public loves to improve their fitness with a video game, while PC gamers are still playing digital kitchen/bathroom decorators, the 360 and the PS3 are left behind in Liberty City, PS2 is playing a few rockin' shows, DS gamers enjoy some more cranial exercise, and the PSP is still struggling under those weighty chains.
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By Junglist - Mon May 12, 2008 5:24pm
The ABC's gaming show Good Game is shown on Monday nights @ 9pm on ABC2 with a repeat on ABC1 on Friday nights after triple j TV. As if that wasn't enough, there's always the downloadable vodcast on the website, too!
Here's some of what you can expect in tonight's Good Game:
Coverage of The Bourne Conspiracy, Wii Fit and Iron Man, plus a look at how Aussie athletes are using games to improve their real life performance, and a history of power-ups in videogames.
Here's some of what you can expect in tonight's Good Game:
Coverage of The Bourne Conspiracy, Wii Fit and Iron Man, plus a look at how Aussie athletes are using games to improve their real life performance, and a history of power-ups in videogames.
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By Matt K - Sun May 4, 2008 1:04pm
So we return to regular Warp Pipe programming. It hasn't been that long since I did a regular column, but it feels like ages - the GTA articles (one, two, three) turned out to be a little more work than I thought they'd be, but I'm happy with the result. I took a little time off writing over the last week, tucking into Viking: Battle for Asgard and a few awful EA Sports games to push my Xbox 360 gamerscore past the 50,000 mark. Passing that mark seems to have killed my enthusiasm for the system at this point. Of course, I've also spent a bunch of time with Grand Theft Auto IV; it's a good game, possibly even great, but I've yet to see the things that are encouraging other reviewers to give it perfect scores, so I seem to be expecting it to pick up at some point.
As promised, this week we'll have a bit of a grumbly rant about what I don't like about Nintendo, we'll uncover the hidden gem that is The Red Star, and revisit the destructive fun of The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction.
As promised, this week we'll have a bit of a grumbly rant about what I don't like about Nintendo, we'll uncover the hidden gem that is The Red Star, and revisit the destructive fun of The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction.
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By Chienne - Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:27am
I know that Now Playing was last night, showing off some highlights of the videos we've uploaded over the past week, but this one arrived on my desk this morning and I couldn't not share it with you.
What happens when you take one of the most anticipated new games of the year, and couple it with a slightly older, equally groundbreaking title?
Rayman Raving Rabbids meets Wii Fit. That's what. This video needs to be seen to be believed.
What happens when you take one of the most anticipated new games of the year, and couple it with a slightly older, equally groundbreaking title?
Rayman Raving Rabbids meets Wii Fit. That's what. This video needs to be seen to be believed.
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By Chienne - Fri Apr 11, 2008 4:01pm
The Australian Fitness Expo (to be held in Sydney from April 18-20, 2008) is recognised as the largest event of its type in the Australasian region, suitable for everyone interested in wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Seems an odd place to show off a game, until you realise that 'game' is Wii Fit, "the personal trainer that fits under your couch".
Once you've figured that out, it makes perfect sense for Nintendo to show off their new title, giving expo attendees a chance to have a sneak peek at the game before it's released to the public on May 8th.
Once you've figured that out, it makes perfect sense for Nintendo to show off their new title, giving expo attendees a chance to have a sneak peek at the game before it's released to the public on May 8th.
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By Matt K - Sun Apr 6, 2008 12:02pm
The horrendous Melbourne weather did its best to prevent The Warp Pipe happening this week by knocking the power out multiple times and damn near sending a tree through my car's windshield. I've spent much of my week playing the despicable Two Worlds for the Xbox 360; it's the first console game I've played to date where I have had to enter in commands into an in-game console in order to turn off special effects like dynamic lighting and shadows in order to get the game to run at a playable speed. Maybe Microsoft should give the 360 a new slogan along the lines of "bringing the worst parts of PC gaming into your living room".
This week, we're going to run through the second quarter release schedule and make judgment calls on which ones are going to be worth your time. We'll also give our impressions of Contra 4, a game which mysteriously remains unreleased in Australia. Finally, we'll revisit the SiN anime movie.
This week, we're going to run through the second quarter release schedule and make judgment calls on which ones are going to be worth your time. We'll also give our impressions of Contra 4, a game which mysteriously remains unreleased in Australia. Finally, we'll revisit the SiN anime movie.
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By Chienne - Wed Sep 5, 2007 12:06pm
Some new "news" from Nintendo today in the form of seven new trademarks being registered recently. Fans being the way they are, this list has been scrutinised and analysed to try and figure out what Big N has in store for us.
As with most things that are not-yet-confirmed, this is all highly speculative, but there looks like there's a couple of gems in there... and if they're not gems, then at least it gave you something to think about, right?
As with most things that are not-yet-confirmed, this is all highly speculative, but there looks like there's a couple of gems in there... and if they're not gems, then at least it gave you something to think about, right?
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By pkd - Thu Jul 12, 2007 10:19pm
Nintendo are more than prepared to start offering a variety of games focussed to take the Wii in to the fitness area and, finally, games may just lose their couch potato image. Wii Fitness is a complete fitness training package for the couch potato, but you'll have to get off the couch in order to do it. While you are able to do some very basic fitness training with Wii Sports this is the game which will take it to the next level. The game comes with the pressure-sensitive Wii Balance Board as well.
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