Nintendo News – Page 1736

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Review: Super Ping Pong Trick Shot (Switch eShop)

With more games released every year, deciding which one to play next has become increasingly difficult. The complex progression systems and open world design commonly found in modern video games appear to have become a norm, even in some download titles. Sometimes the limitless nature of these types of games can become overwhelming, making it nice to occasionally play a title that is representative of a classic game from simpler times. A game that is perhaps easy to learn, hard to master and can be enjoyed within a few seconds, instead of requiring any long-term commitment.

In Super Ping Pong Trick Shot, what you see is what you get. This game – published by Starsign – and developed by Sims (both of Japanese origin) is a basic arcade title mixing the genres of action, sport, and simulation and even adding subtle puzzle elements in order to create an engaging skill shot game.

Anyone who considers themselves a trick shot master should find the content in Super Ping Pong more than satisfactory. Overlooking the bland visuals – consisting primarily of basic 3D shapes – the task is to fling a ball across a room and try to get it to land in a cup on the other side. The challenge mode – offering 80 unique levels – builds upon this simple concept over time. Eventually there are rooms filled with moving platforms, switches, blocks with special properties and other obstacles that make the main clear-cut objective progressively harder. This is not to forget that there are optional sub-objectives in each level, and that only so many attempts can be made until a stage must be completely restarted – resetting the angle of a shot back to the default position.

The physics in Super Ping Pong Trick Shot are sufficient. The ball bounces, rebounds off walls, and flies and floats through the air while using reasonably accurate physics. The launch speed of the ball depends on the level of the power gauge, while the angle of a shot can be adjusted and the camera can also be repositioned. By default, the camera perspective is a side-on view of each level. Later on obstacles, blockades, and even the cup may be out of sight from this perspective, encouraging you to swap to an angled viewpoint. The control options available here include basic button inputs along with gyro and touch controls. The motion control method isn’t bad, nor are the touch controls, but if you want a certain level of accuracy the button input is probably the best way to go.

With all of this in consideration, Super Ping Pong Trick Shot becomes more enticing the more it is played. As basic as the premise is, there is a simple satisfaction when acing a level. Sure, you could be off slaying monsters in some extensive fantasy role-playing game world, but this is a quick and fun fix that encourages players to have another go. A lot of the shots don’t always require the player to follow the guidance of a level, either. In certain stages the ball can just be launched up high instead, and with a bit of luck will often fall into the cup. Fluke shots can work out better if a calculated approach does not suit the mood of the player at the time.

Additional content prolonging the life of this trick shot game includes a score attack mode and a head-to-head mode. Score attack gives players a number of shots to set the highest score possible on a level, whilst the head-to-head mode has two players taking aim at a single cup to see who can earn the most points within 60 seconds. Both players can use items to give them the competitive edge; items like paint cover up the opponent’s gauge and one other power-up allows players to throw multiple balls at once. Together, these two modes are much the same as the challenge mode.

Supporting the shot taking is a limited soundtrack that appears to be made up of a handful of songs. Although not the same level of quality, the smooth and soothing tracks are in some cases reminiscent of the puzzle title Art of Balance. Another aspect of the title that is not particularly impressive is the menu design and in-game overlay. In the game menus there are instruction windows all over the place, and within a level there are too many overly large icons and text boxes. Even the pause menu goes overboard with an excessive amount of text and options. If the user interface was reworked and the visuals were improved – maybe adding some patterns and colourful backdrops – this game might have left a better impression from a visual standpoint.

Conclusion

Don’t be fooled, Super Ping Pong Trick Shot is entirely and unabashedly all about trying to get a ball to land in a cup. What it sets out to do, it does right. It’s not particularly exceptional in any way, however the basic concept is addictive enough to overlook the bland visuals and clustered user interface. The range of levels to play across multiple modes and the inclusion of both touch-screen and gyro control options are an added bonus. If you want a game that you can enjoy in short bursts in between time consuming titles, Super Ping Pong Trick Shot will do the job. Don’t expect it to work wonders, just enjoy its simplicity for what it is.

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

We Could See Another 3D Mario Game On Switch, According To Yoshiaki Koizumi

Super Mario games are a highlight of any Nintendo console cycle, with titles like Super Mario 3D World, Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Sunshine providing players with hours of enjoyment over the past few decades.

However, as the years have progressed and development commitments have lengthened, we’re typically seeing a single mainline 3D Mario game per console generation (Super Mario Galaxy 2 being the notable exception). That means in statistical terms at least, the Switch is about to get its only 3D Mario outing in the form of Super Mario Odyssey.

However, Nintendo’s Yoshiaki Koizumi doesn’t think this is a “hard and fast rule” which has to be adhered to:

I’m obviously considering lots of things for the future. In terms of Super Mario Odyssey and whether there would be a sequel, the first game hasn’t even come out yet so it’s very tough to say at this stage whether there would be a sequel or not. I’m first and foremost just hoping that Super Mario Odyssey is a success. And secondly, yeah, with the Nintendo Switch lifecycle again it’s very early — who knows how things will turn out? As you say, in the past maybe there’s been one 3D title per hardware generation on average, but I wouldn’t say that that’s a hard-and-fast rule that would have to be adhered to.

Do you think we’ll see another 3D Mario adventure on Switch? Or would you prefer it if Nintendo did another 2D Mario outing in the New Super Mario Bros. sub-series? Let us know with a comment.

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Nintendo Download: 26th October (Europe)

Another Nintendo Download Update is live in Europe, and it’s a big one. In addition to Mario’s notable arrival on Switch we have a whole lot of other tempting options, along with the usual DLC add-ons and discounts. Let’s get to it!

Switch Retail Downloads

Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo, €59.99 / £49.99) – A huge release for the Switch, as Mario returns to the ‘sandbox’ approach that helped establish his three-dimensional credentials. It’s a sizeable and incredibly inventive adventure, while also supporting co-op and offering an ‘assist mode’ for those that need a helping hand. Cappy certainly transforms the game and we gave it top marks in our Super Mario Odyssey review. Available from 27th October.

Nights of Azure 2: Bride of the New Moon (Koei Tecmo, €59.99 / £49.99) – This action RPG series is perhaps rather niche outside of Japan, but it’s a welcome addition nonetheless to the Switch retail scene. It’s had some mixed reviews on the PS4, for example, but we’ll endeavour to check it out on Switch. Available from 27th October.

Just Dance 2018 (Ubisoft, €59.99 / £49.99) – The popular series (we assume) continues with this latest entry, including over 40 tracks at launch on the cartridge and over 300 more through ‘Just Dance Unlimited’.

This is the Police (Nordic Games, €29.99 / £24.99) – A strategy and adventure game set in the crime-ridden city of Freeburg. You assume the role of Police Chief Jack Boyd – voiced by Jon St. John (Duke Nukem) – and have to tackle a wide range of crimes, assigning officers to certain jobs and facing numerous moral dilemmas along the way. The ultimate aim is to raise $500,000 in 180 days, but you can choose to do that in any way you wish.

Switch eShop

The Mummy Demastered (WayForward, €19.99 / £17.99) – Sure to be tempting with Halloween around the corner. Forget the questionable movie, this promises “a 16-bit-inspired battle against the undead in a 2D, nonlinear, action-packed adventure”. We loved this in our The Mummy Demastered review.

Splasher (Plug In Digital, €14.99 / £12.99) – A colourful and fast-paced platformer, you use various inks and resources to ‘splash’ walls and surfaces in order to traverse environments and tackle enemies. Along with the standard mode there are also Time Trial and Speedrun options with online leaderboards, too, so the most talented players will have a chance to show off. We’ll let you know what we think in a review.

Moon Hunters (Kitfox Games, €13.49 / £8.99 until 2nd November, then €14.99 / £9.99) – Quirkily described as a “co-operative personality test RPG”, you create your own legend and explore a mystical Mesopotamian-inspired world that’s different every time you play. It supports up to four players locally and this Switch iteration includes the Eternal Echoes DLC. We’ll take the test and bring you a review.

Violett (Forever Entertainment, €8.99 / £8.09 until 6th November, then €9.99 / £8.99) – A title actually released in ‘remastered’ form way back in December 2013 on Steam (PC); it’s a point-and-click title that certainly strives the catch the eye with its visuals and art design. We’ll point out whether it’s worth a purchase in a review.

Time Recoil (10tons, €13.99 / £11.99) – Another top-down twin-stick shooter from the Finnish developer, In this one killing the baddies triggers time slowdown, and additional kills extend the slowdown period and charge a special move. The more the player is able to kill the more powerful the special move becomes, all the way to a full time freeze. We’ll take our time and let you know what we think in a review.

Knight Terrors (Nicalis, €2.99 / £2.69) – This budget title offers simple controls but arcade-style challenge; you have to dodge dangers and also destroy any creatures that come your way. It offers a bit of simple fun for Halloween, as we explain in our Knight Terrors review.

Zombie Gold Rush (Amazing, €4.99 / £4.49) – This one sees you jumping into various cars and shooting down waves of zombies from a top-down perspective, collecting a whole lot of cash in the process. Screenshots of the game suggest that you will be able to upgrade your vehicles in a garage, spending the gold you earn to do just that, and it would also appear that leaderboards will be present to showcase your highest scores. We’ll get into gear for a review.

Mutation Nation (HAMSTER, €6.99 / £6.29) – Another beat ’em up to consider, and an ACA Neo Geo release that didn’t previously arrive in its more basic form on the Wii Virtual Console. It’s pretty simple; Ricky Jones and Johnny Hart (could they be even more ’90s, we do wonder) come down “the hood” to clean up mutated freaks off the streets, fist-in-the-face style.

Switch DLC

Minecraft: Nintendo Switch Edition: Stranger Things Skin Pack (Mojang, €2.99 / £2.39)

Nights of Azure 2 – Preorder Bonus Pack (Koei Tecmo)

Nights of Azure 2: Special Costume, Yuri Kozukata’s Outfit (Koei Tecmo, free and only available until 26th January 2018)

LEGO Worlds: Monsters Pack (Warner Bros., €3.99 / £3.29)

Infinite Minigolf: Hangar 37 (Zen Studios, free)

Nintendo Switch Halloween Sale

Disgaea 5 Complete (NIS America, €49.99 / £41.66 until 2nd November, normally €59.99 / £49.99)

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove (Yacht Club Games, €19.99 / £17.99 until 2nd November, normally €24.99 / £22.49)

Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment (Yacht Club Games, €7.99 / £7.19 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Cave Story+ (Nicalis, €26.99 / £24.29 until 2nd November, normally €29.99 / £26.99)

The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth+ (Nicalis, €35.99 / £32.39 until 2nd November, normally €39.99 / £35.99)

Axiom Verge (Thomas Happ Games, €16.19 / £13.49 until 2nd November, normally €17.99 / £14.99)

Snake Pass (Sumo Digital, €9.99 / £7.99 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £15.99)

Thimbleweed Park (Terrible Toybox, €16.99 / £12.74 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £14.99)

GoNNER (Raw Fury, €8.49 / £7.64 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Bulb Boy (Bulbware, €5.59 / £5.03 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £7.19)

Phantom Trigger (TinyBuild Games, €7.49 / £6.74 until 2nd November, normally €14.99 / £13.49)

SEVERED (Drinkbox Studios, €11.99 / £10.79 until 2nd November, normally €14.99 / £13.49)

Dark Witch Music Episode: Rudymical (Flyhigh Works, €7.20 / £6.29 until 2nd November, normally €8.00 / £6.99)

Graceful Explosion Machine (Vertex Pop Inc, €10.39 / £7.99 until 2nd November, normally €12.99 / £9.99)

BUTCHER (Crunching Koalas, €7.99 / £7.19 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition (Crunching Koalas, €7.99 / £7.19 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Rocket Fist (Bitten Toast Games, €7.99 / £7.19 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Robonauts (QubicGames, €9.99 / £8.99 until 12th November, normally €14.99 / £13.49)

I and Me (Ratalaika Games, €8.99 / £8.09 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Switch eShop Demo

Piczle Lines DX (Rainy Frog, free)

3DS eShop

Worcle Worlds (Lightwood Games, €8.99 / £7.99) – From a studio that specialises in word games, this looks like a potentially fun spin on the genre. You shoot balls into bubbles to form words in order to clear letters off the screen, with bonuses for multipliers and speed being of the essence. Ten game worlds are promised along with a Battle Mode for local and online play.

Halloween Night Archery (Petite Games, €1.99 / £1.79) – The name pretty much says it all, as this is a themed archery title as you aim to hit targets at various distances.

3DS DLC

Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond The Myth: New Explorers 4 (Koch Media, €1.99 / £1.79)

Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond The Myth: New Explorers 5 (Koch Media, €1.99 / £1.79)

Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond The Myth: Wizardly Experience Quest (Koch Media, €1.99 / £1.79)

Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond The Myth: Wizardly Fortune Quest (Koch Media, €1.99 / £1.79)

Culdcept Revolt – Hopping Toad (NIS America, free)

3DS Halloween Sale

Dr Kawashima’s Devilish Brain Training (Nintendo, €19.99 / £16.66 until 2nd November, normally €29.99 / £24.99)

Luigi’s Mansion 2 (Nintendo, €15.99 / £12.79 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £15.99)

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D (Nintendo, €29.99 / £26.66 until 2nd November, normally €44.99 / £39.99)

Yo-kai Watch (Nintendo, €27.99 / £24.49 until 2nd November, normally €39.99 / £34.99)

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers (NIS America, €7.49 / £6.74 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Record Breaker (NIS America, €19.99 / £17.49 until 2nd November, normally €39.99 / £34.99)

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked (NIS America, €10.49 / £8.99 until 2nd November, normally €34.99 / £29.99)

3D Altered Beast (SEGA, €2.49 / £2.24 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Shovel Knight (Yacht Club Games, €19.99 / £17.99 until 2nd November, normally €24.99 / £22.49)

Terraria (505 Games, €14.99 / £12.74 until 9th November, normally €19.99 / £16.99)

Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse (Konami, €3.49 / £3.14 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest (Konami, €2.79 / £2.49 until 2nd November, normally €3.99 / £3.59)

Castlevania (Konami, €3.49 / £3.14 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Castlevania: The Adventure (Konami, €2.09 / £1.88 until 2nd November, normally €2.99 / £2.69)

Gargoyle’s Quest (Capcom, €2.79 / £2.49 until 2nd November, normally €3.99 / £3.59)

Gargoyle’s Quest II: The Demon Darkness (Capcom, €3.49 / £3.14 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Ghosts ‘n Goblins (Capcom, €3.49 / £3.14 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Avenging Spirit (Jaleco, €2.09 / £1.88 until 2nd November, normally €2.99 / £2.69)

Alchemic Dungeons (CIRCLE Entertainment, €4.00 / £3.99 until 9th November, normally €5.00 / £4.99)

Fairune (CIRCLE Entertainment, €1.99 / £1.99 until 9th November, normally €2.99 / £2.99)

Parascientific Escape – Crossing at the Farthest Horizon (CIRCLE Entertainment, €4.00 / £3.99 until 9th November, normally €5.00 / £4.99)

Petit Novel Series – Harvest December (CIRCLE Entertainment, €7.99 / £7.93 until 9th November, normally €11.99 / £11.89)

Tappingo (CIRCLE Entertainment, €1.99 / £1.99 until 9th November, normally €2.99 / £2.99)

Squids Odyssey (The Game Bakers, €5.19 / £3.99 until 2nd November, normally €12.99 / £9.99)

Aqua Moto Racing 3D (Zordix AB, €3.99 / £3.59 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £7.19)

Brave Dungeon (Inside System, €3.99 / £3.59 until 9th November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Bird Mania 3D (Teyon, €0.49 / £0.44 until 2nd November, normally €0.99 / £0.89)

Crazy Chicken Pirates 3D (Teyon, €0.99 / £0.89 until 2nd November, normally €1.99 / £1.79)

Crazy Chicken: Director’s Cut 3D (Teyon, €0.49 / £0.44 until 2nd November, normally €0.99 / £0.89)

Governor of Poker (Teyon, €2.49 / £2.24 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Heavy Fire: Black Arms 3D (Teyon, €2.49 / £2.24 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Heavy Fire: Special Operations 3D (Teyon, €2.49 / £2.24 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Mini Golf Resort (Teyon, €2.49 / £2.24 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £4.49)

Ocean Runner (Teyon, €1.49 / £1.34 until 2nd November, normally €2.99 / £2.69)

Robot Rescue 3D (Teyon, €1.49 / £1.34 until 2nd November, normally €2.99 / £2.69)

Football Up Online (EnjoyUp Games, €1.99 / £1.79 until 23rd November, normally €3.99 / £3.59)

New Nintendo 3DS Halloween Sale

Castlevania: Dracula X (Konami, €5.59 / £4.99 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £7.19)

Super Castlevania IV (Konami, €5.59 / £4.99 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £7.19)

Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts (Konami, €5.59 / £4.99 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £7.19)

The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth (Nicalis, €13.49 / £12.14 until 2nd November, normally €14.99 / £13.49)

3DS HOME Themes

Super Mario Odyssey: World Trekking (LAUNCH SALE) (Nintendo, €0.99 / £0.89 until 24th November, normally €1.99 / £1.79)

BOXBOY! 2.5th Anniversary (Nintendo, €1.99 / £1.79)

Hello Kitty and Mimmy (Sanrio, €0.99 / £0.89)

Cute Hello Kitty Pastel (Sanrio, €0.99 / £0.89)

Kitty kisses and hearts (Sanrio, €0.99 / £0.89)

Hello Kitty: Into the stars (Sanrio, €0.99 / £0.89)

Maggie and Bianca Rock Style (Rainbow, €0.99 / £0.89)

Astoria, Rose and Joy (Rainbow, €0.99 / £0.89)

Wii U Retail Download

Just Dance 2018 (Ubisoft, €49.99 / £39.99)

Wii U DLC

Minecraft: Wii U Edition: Stranger Things Skin Pack (Mojang, €2.99 / £2.39)

Wii U Halloween Sale

Bayonetta 2 (Nintendo, €34.99 / £27.99 until 2nd November, normally €49.99 / £39.99)

Project Zero: Maiden of Black Water (Nintendo, €34.99 / £27.99 until 2nd November, normally €49.99 / £39.99)

Pandora’s Tower (Nintendo, €13.99 / £12.59 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £17.99)

Resident Evil 4: Wii Edition (Capcom, €13.99 / £12.59 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £17.99)

Project Zero 2: Wii Edition (Nintendo, €13.99 / £12.59 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £17.99)

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (Nintendo, €6.99 / £6.29 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

Devil World (Nintendo, €3.49 / £2.44 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £3.49)

Gargoyle’s Quest II: The Demon Darkness (Nintendo, €3.49 / £2.44 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £3.49)

Ghosts ‘n Goblins (Capcom, €3.49 / £2.44 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £3.49)

Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts (GBA) (Capcom, €4.89 / £4.40 until 2nd November, normally €6.99 / £6.29)

Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts (SNES) (Capcom, €5.59 / £3.84 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £5.49)

Super Castlevania IV (Konami, €5.59 / £3.84 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £5.49)

Castlevania (Konami, €3.49 / £2.44 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £3.49)

Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest (Konami, €3.49 / £2.44 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £3.49)

Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse (Konami, €3.49 / £2.44 until 2nd November, normally €4.99 / £3.49)

Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow (Konami, €4.89 / £4.40 until 2nd November, normally €6.99 / £6.29)

Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance (Konami, €4.89 / £4.40 until 2nd November, normally €6.99 / £6.29)

Castlevania: Circle of the Moon (Konami, €4.89 / £4.40 until 2nd November, normally €6.99 / £6.29)

Castlevania: Dracula X (Konami, €5.59 / £3.84 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £5.49)

Darksiders II (THQ Nordic, €9.99 / £7.99 until 2nd November, normally €49.99 / £39.99)

Darksiders: Warmastered Edition (THQ Nordic, €7.99 / £5.99 until 2nd November, normally €19.99 / £14.99)

Shovel Knight (Yacht Club Games, €19.99 / £17.99 until 2nd November, normally €24.99 / £22.49)

The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth (Nicalis, €13.49 / £12.14 until 2nd November, normally €14.99 / £13.49)

Super Meat Boy (Blitworks, €12.60 / £11.70 until 2nd November, normally €14.00 / £13.00)

Trine 2: Director’s Cut (Frozenbyte, €8.49 / £6.99 until 16th November, normally €16.99 / £13.99)

Trine Enchanted Edition (Frozenbyte, €6.49 / £5.49 until 16th November, normally €12.99 / £10.99)

Year Walk (Simogo, €3.49 / £3.14 until 2nd November, normally €6.99 / £6.29)

Don’t Starve: Giant Edition (Klei Entertainment, €4.75 / £4.28 until 2nd November, normally €13.99 / £12.59)

Lone Survivor: The Director’s Cut (Curve Digital, €2.39 / £1.99 until 2nd November, normally €11.99 / £9.99)

Family Tennis SP (Shin’en Multimedia, €3.74 / £2.99 until 16th November, normally €4.99 / £3.99)

Nihilumbra (BeautiFun Games, €4.49 / £3.49 until 2nd November, normally €8.99 / £6.99)

Extreme Exorcism (Ripstone, €6.49 / £4.99 until 2nd November, normally €12.99 / £9.99)

Shadow Puppeteer (Snow Cannon, €7.49 / £6.74 until 2nd November, normally €14.99 / £13.49)

Slender: The Arrival (Blue Isle Studios, €2.24 / £1.59 until 2nd November, normally €8.99 / £6.39)

Terraria (505 Games, €14.99 / £13.49 until 9th November, normally €19.99 / £17.99)

Unepic (Unepic fran, €3.99 / £3.59 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £8.99)

How to Survive (505 Games, €3.49 / £3.14 until 2nd November, normally €13.99 / £12.59)

Ziggurat (Milkstone Studios, €7.50 / £6.00 until 2nd November, normally €15.00 / £12.00)

Flight of Light (Crystalline Green, €4.00 / £3.50 until 2nd November, normally €8.00 / £7.00)

Gear Gauntlet (Crystalline Green, €4.99 / £3.99 until 2nd November, normally €9.99 / £7.99)

Totem Topple (Crystalline Green, €2.50 / £2.25 until 2nd November, normally €5.00 / £4.50)

Super Destronaut 2: Go Duck Yourself (Petite Games, €1.59 / £1.43 until 2nd November, normally €1.99 / £1.79)

Bird Mania Party (Teyon, €0.99 / £0.89 until 2nd November, normally €1.99 / £1.79)

Zombie Defense (Teyon, €3.99 / £3.59 until 2nd November, normally €7.99 / £7.19)

Rock ‘N Racing Off Road (EnjoyUp Games, €2.99 / £2.69 until 23rd November, normally €5.99 / £5.39)

Darts Up (EnjoyUp Games, €0.99 / £0.91 until 23rd November, normally €2.49 / £2.29)

99Seconds (EnjoyUp Games, €0.99 / £0.91 until 23rd November, normally €2.49 / £2.29)

A.C.E. – Alien Cleanup Elite (Nitrolic Games, €2.75 / £2.46 until 15th November, normally €5.00 / £4.49)

Candy Hoarder (Nitrolic Games, €0.81 / £0.76 until 15th November, normally €1.49 / £1.39)

Citadale (Nitrolic Games, €2.75 / £2.46 until 15th November, normally €5.00 / £4.49)

Citadale: The Legends Trilogy (Nitrolic Games, €4.66 / £3.98 until 15th November, normally €8.49 / £7.25)

Gravity+ (Nitrolic Games, €3.56 / £3.23 until 15th November, normally €6.49 / £5.89)

Mortar Melon (Nitrolic Games, €2.75 / £2.46 until 15th November, normally €5.00 / £4.49)

Plenty of Fishies (Nitrolic Games, €2.75 / £2.46 until 15th November, normally €5.00 / £4.49)

Rorrim (Nitrolic Games, €2.75 / £2.46 until 15th November, normally €5.00 / £4.49)

Aqua TV (Extra Miles Studio, €0.94 / £0.79 until 2nd November, normally €4.70 / £3.99)

Breakout Defense (nuGAME, €4.90 / £4.90 until 23rd November, normally €7.00 / £7.00)

Maze Break (nuGAME, €4.90 / £4.20 until 23rd November, normally €7.00 / £6.00)

Plenty to choose from this week – let us know what you’ll be downloading in the poll and comments below.

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Video: We Unbox The Super Mario Odyssey Switch Bundle With A Little Help From Cappy

If there’s one thing Mario’s known for, it’s jumping. If there’s one thing Mario’s dress sense is known for, it’s red. That’s no doubt the logic Nintendo had when creating the special Super Mario Odyssey Nintendo Switch bundle, and Nintendo UK was even kind enough to send one over to us so we could show it off to your faces.

We had this planned as a traditional unboxing, but the recording was somehow infiltrated by two special guests – Mario and Cappy! The results, as you might imagine, were hilarious.

Make sure you watch to the end, as we’re offering the chance to win some amiibo signed by none other than Charles Martinet himself, the voice of Mario. Swish, right? Keep your eyes on the Nintendo Life Twitter account over the next few days to find out how!

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Nintendo Download: 26th October (North America)

It’s Nintendo Download Update day, and this one is arguably one of the biggest of the year. We have Nintendo’s main man making his full ‘main game’ Switch debut, of course, while there are also a number of rather tempting download options on the table. Let’s get to it.

Switch Retail Downloads

Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo, $59.99USD) – A huge release for the Switch, as Mario returns to the ‘sandbox’ approach that helped establish his three-dimensional credentials. It’s a sizeable and incredibly inventive adventure, while also supporting co-op and offering an ‘assist mode’ for those that need a helping hand. Cappy certainly transforms the game, and we gave it top marks in our Super Mario Odyssey review. Available from 27th October.

Nights of Azure 2: Bride of the New Moon (Koei Tecmo, $59.99USD) – This action RPG series is perhaps rather niche outside of Japan, but it’s a welcome addition nonetheless to the Switch retail scene. It’s had some mixed reviews on the PS4, for example, but we’ll endeavour to check it out on Switch.

Monopoly (Ubisoft, $39.99USD) – One of the first games Ubisoft actually announced for the Switch, it’s now finally ready to make its entrance. Yep, it’s virtual Monopoly, though you can also customise rules and play shortened Special Goals games if you or the system’s battery are running out of time. Available from 31st October.

Cartoon Network: Battle Crashers (GameMill Entertainment, $39.99USD) – Previously on 3DS, this beat ’em up-style title takes various IPs from the famous network and mashes them up into one adventure; it can be tackled solo or in local co-op. Available from 31st October.

Monster Jam: Crush It! (GameMill Entertainment, $39.99USD) – Based on the PS4 and Xbox One title from 2016, this chaotic racer features more than 30 maps covering forest, desert, winter and farm environments. You’ll also find 84 skill challenges and 12 “authentic” events. There are also 6 officially licensed Monster Jam stadiums included, if you’re keen on that kind of thing. Available from 31st October.

Switch eShop

Poi: Explorer Edition (PolyKid, $29.99USD) – A game “inspired by the cheerful classics of 3D platforming”, this particular edition also includes an unlockable soundtrack and digital artbook, new outfits, Joy-Con motion controls and support for HD Rumble. You can see the first 20 minutes with developer commentary right here.

Splasher (Plug In Digital, $14.99USD) – A colourful and fast-paced platformer, you use various inks and resources to ‘splash’ walls and surfaces in order to traverse environments and tackle enemies. Along with the standard mode there are also Time Trial and Speedrun options with online leaderboards, too, so the most talented players will have a chance to show off. We’ll let you know what we think in a review.

Moon Hunters (Kitfox Games, $14.99USD) – Quirkily described as a “co-operative personality test RPG”, you create your own legend and explore a mystical Mesopotamian-inspired world that’s different every time you play. It supports up to four players locally and this Switch iteration includes the Eternal Echoes DLC. We’ll take the test and bring you a review.

Violett (Forever Entertainment, $9.99USD) – A title actually released in ‘remastered’ form way back in December 2013 on Steam (PC); it’s a point-and-click title that certainly strives the catch the eye with its visuals and art design. We’ll point out whether it’s worth a purchase in a review.

Time Recoil (10tons, $13.99USD) – Another top-down twin-stick shooter from the Finnish developer. In this one killing the baddies triggers time slowdown, and additional kills extend the slowdown period and charge a special move. The more the player is able to kill the more powerful the special move becomes, all the way to a full time freeze. We’ll take our time and let you know what we think in a review.

King Oddball (10tons, $4.99USD) – You take control of a boulder (the King of boulders it would seem) with the aim of using your ridiculously long tongue to lick up other, smaller boulders, before launching them at tanks and helicopters. Despite sounding like something we’ve made up for the world’s earliest (or latest) April Fools article, the game is very much real and actually looks like a whole lot of fun. Available from 30th October.

Zombie Gold Rush (Amazing, $4.99USD) – This one sees you jumping into various cars and shooting down waves of zombies from a top-down perspective, collecting a whole lot of cash in the process. Screenshots of the game suggest that you will be able to upgrade your vehicles in a garage, spending the gold you earn to do just that, and it would also appear that leaderboards will be present to showcase your highest scores. We’ll get into gear for a review.

Mutation Nation (HAMSTER, $7.99USD) – Another beat ’em up to consider, and an ACA Neo Geo release that didn’t previously arrive in its more basic form on the Wii Virtual Console. It’s pretty simple; Ricky Jones and Johnny Hart (could they be even more ’90s, we do wonder) come down “the hood” to clean up mutated freaks off the streets, fist-in-the-face style.

Switch eShop Demo

Piczle Lines DX (Rainy Frog, free)

Heroes of the Monkey Tavern (Monkey Stories, free) – Available from 31st October.

3DS eShop

Creeping Terror (Aksys Games, $8.99USD) – 3DS owners don’t entirely miss out on spooky releases, as this one has you exploring an “abandoned mansion deep in the forest” while trying to survive being hunted by a beast.

Worcle Worlds (Lightwood Games, $9.99USD) – From a studio that specialises in word games, this looks like a potentially fun spin on the genre. You shoot balls into bubbles to form words in order to clear letters off the screen, with bonuses for multipliers and speed being of the essence. Ten game worlds are promised along with a Battle Mode for local and online play.

Halloween Night Archery (Petite Games, $1.99USD) – The name pretty much says it all, as this is a themed archery title in which you aim to hit targets at various distances.

New Nintendo 3DS eShop

GALAXY BLASTER CODE RED (RCMADIAX, $1.49 / $1.99CAD) – A basic shooter in which you try to hold off various foes descending from the top of the screen.

As always Nintendo of America wants you to browse the eShop and check out the official sales and deals website for discount details.

There are some big choices this week – let us know what you’ll be downloading in the poll and comments below.

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Review: Super Mario Odyssey (Switch)

For some gamers the idea of a ‘sandbox’ Mario game is pure retro. Super Mario 64 played a big part in revolutionising gaming, not just 3D platforming, and then Super Mario Sunshine took the idea in some interesting new directions on GameCube. Yet the Wii was a transformative console in taking Nintendo back to the top of the home console space; by the time Super Mario Galaxy rolled around it was a revolution, flipping Mario quite literally on his head. In that game and its sequel Mario’s playgrounds became tightly structured and designed stages, following the approach that served his 2D adventures so well.

On Wii U we then had Super Mario 3D World, in a sense a hybrid – it incorporated some of the ideas and ‘feel’ of 2D Mario but had some dizzying creativity; it was also a rarely successful multiplayer Mario platforming experience. Yet that blend hasn’t been repeated, with the only thing that’s ‘hybrid’ about Super Mario Odyssey being the hardware on which it belongs. Make no mistake, Odyssey owes its heritage and roots to Super Mario 64, a link that Cappy wears like a badge of honour.

Cappy, of course, is not only Mario’s sidekick but is actually the star. Without Cappy the rotund hero is rather vulnerable, as he explores lands where no power-ups can help him. The little – and charmingly courageous – hat brings the key feature of the game: capturing. In giving Mario dozens of creatures, enemies and even inanimate objects to capture, Nintendo gifts us with more toys than we’ve ever had in a Mario world and makes them all fun, in what’s an impressive display of development and design bravura.

In any case, let’s go back to the beginning. Super Mario Odyssey starts off with an impressive cinematic in which Mario is anything but the cocky hero – Bowser is besting him. The famous foe is intent on marrying Peach and Mario can’t stop him, getting swept off Bowser’s ship to the land below. Cappy follows and we start off in Bonneton (the Cap Kingdom), where sentient hats bemoan the loss of one of their own to serve as Peach’s tiara. Naturally Bowser and his evil rabbit wedding planners have left a mess and destroyed all of the flying hat-shaped ships (stick with us here). Mario, dishevelled but determined, meets Cappy and begins his journey.

It’s bonkers, and delightfully so. You learn very early on that it’s a game where sanity and conventional wisdom have no place. In fact, it goes out of its way to emphasize those points – within the first hour you possess a couple of animals made famous in the many promotional videos for the game; there are wacky boss encounters, retro 2D transitions and sweeping orchestral music. The early tempo is right on the money to set the scene, and though there’s a little scope for freedom the first hour or two is relatively tightly structured as the game teaches you – albeit relatively organically – how to go about saving the princess.

A lot of these lessons are necessary for those more used to linear Mario games, but the training wheels do eventually come off. Much feels familiar, regardless – Mario may initially feel a little lighter and more athletic, with a bit of a ‘skid’ to his run and the instinctive ability to climb ledges. Nevertheless in no time all the old moves come back – the triple jump, high jump, long jump and more. There are excellent ways the game teaches newcomers, but for veterans it won’t take long to get into the groove.

Throwing Cappy is the key – he defeats enemies, captures them, solves puzzles and even acts as a spring to boost Mario’s jumps. The basic throw is easy, but Nintendo has also utilised motion controls for broader moves such as a circular attack (also vital for some puzzles) and the option to fling him vertically. The key moves to progress in the game can all be done with a button press, but some of the smarter throws do require motion inputs. The game pushes you towards using the two Joy-Con as they’re light and responsive, though this scribe has a left controller that occasionally does the dreaded disconnect trick. Thankfully the Pro Controller also works well with the motion inputs, even if it feels less intuitive and stylish shaking the bulky pad around; for long spells of exploration we’d rarely use the motion-only moves, in any case.

What these optional controls also do is remind us that, at its heart, this is a console game best enjoyed on the TV. In theory the motion inputs work in handheld mode, and we had fun in portable play sessions, but it’s not ideal to move and shake the console around – it’s probably best advised not to. It’s a game with sizeable worlds that feels like it yearns for a bigger screen than the system itself can offer.

Back to the core game – once you’ve mastered Cappy you set off on the Odyssey across over a dozen lands. There’s a bit of linear plot to guide you for a while, tied to the Odyssey’s range as a ship. As you reach new Kingdoms your priorities are twofold – to follow key checkpoints to defeat bosses and progress the story, but also to find extra Power Moons to fuel the ship. The design is particularly clever in the first go around, as a lot of extra moons can be discovered on your route from A to B. They’ll catch the corner of your eye, or you’ll see the tell-tale sign of a puzzle or hidden area.

On top of this you’re also looking for gold and purple coins. Gold coins are – in essence – your lives, not that you’ll actually run out; when you die you sacrifice a small number, but it’s pretty inconsequential. That does mean there’s no sense of ‘game over’ peril, but that’s nothing new as Mario games have had endless continues for years. In a game focused on exploration and joyful experimentation this is an understandable approach.

Each Kingdom has two stores – a broad range is purchasable with the common gold coins, with region-specific outfits and souvenirs (which can be stuck on and inside the Odyssey) available with that area’s purple currency. Finding the fixed number of each region’s currency is a nice sub-quest outside of Power Moons, especially if you want to plaster your ship in stickers and build up your varied collection of outfits for Mario.

In the first half of the game, in zones you’ve likely seen in Nintendo’s various videos, veterans may ultimately feel they’re not being stretched. The return to a collect-a-thon approach is risky in that sense, as clearing mini stages and simple puzzles doesn’t always have the same dizzying allure of full inventive levels. Yet the freedom to play and explore does become intoxicating as you realise just how much Mario and Cappy can do. Importantly, too, after the first five zones (in our case) it felt like the experience ramped up, progressing from being excellent Mario gaming to exceptional.

Surprise encounters come at the right moments, and the first arrival at New Donk City feels like a heralding of the real game, with the lessons and easy introductions being mostly finished. It’s a fantastic environment to explore, and the areas that follow seem to take that ball and run with it. That’s not to say there’s anything particularly negative about the first half of the game, but it becomes special once you reach the familiar cityscape.

The transformations, the varied challenges (some with online leaderboards), the visuals, it all continues to up the ante. We found ourselves accumulating many more moons than technically required simply because some lands drew us in and gave us the urge to experiment, the desire to find the next delightfully silly solution. You start finding more standalone stages, too, which become increasingly clever and entertaining as a result. One surprise encounter towards the end is also incredibly random, making us wonder where the heck it came from and what inspired it. That sense of not knowing what’s next is one of the best things about the experience.

The latter lands are the apex, with Bowser evidently taking his game up a notch as he seeks the wedding of his dreams. It becomes riveting at this point, and as you reach the initial ending you’re greeted by one of the best final boss encounters that Nintendo has ever created. It’s right up there.

Once the credits roll, though, Nintendo has found a smart way to keep you interested, and the post-game is both sizeable and fun. There are a few new areas (we won’t spoil them here) to reach, and in the process you can find even more challenge stages and puzzles to solve. It’s a true collect-a-thon at this point, but it’s superior in its design to what we saw in the genre’s early days. We felt more than happy to chase the ‘real’ ending, and it had a few delights of its own. You can even keep going after that if you’re a true completionist.

In our case this was played mostly as a solo experience, but Nintendo has integrated co-op support where one controls Mario – and generally runs the show – and another helps as Cappy. It’s a smart addition, especially if any young or inexperienced gamers want to join in but aren’t ready for three-dimensional running and jumping. Though Mario can snap Cappy back and take charge, it’s useful when player two roams free to collect coins or take out enemies. Cappy has slightly more range in co-op, so player two doesn’t necessarily need to feel tethered at all times.

It’s better than the ‘co-op’ in the Galaxy games, but not in the same league – obviously – as the genuine multiplayer of Super Mario 3D World. It was memorably described to this writer as ‘better than Tails’ in Sonic Mania, in terms of the feeling of actual participation; in that respect it’s a welcome inclusion. One other note for parents or players planning multiple run-throughs, meanwhile, is that ‘Data Management’ is found under options; here you can have five save files per system user.

Also included here, which can be optionally turned on or off at any time, is Assist Mode. This does a few things – Mario starts with a bigger health bar, he doesn’t immediately drop coins if he falls off the stage, and it puts fallen players near where they perished as opposed to the last checkpoint flag. On top of this there are guidance arrows to direct players to the key objectives, nudging them towards progress. As an extra this is a smart addition, as we know Switch converts that are keen to try the game but are worried by their inexperience when it comes to 3D Mario. Nintendo, quite rightly, wants those players to feel welcome.

For you amiibo collectors, these also offer a bit of assistance whenever you please. We weren’t testing the new ‘wedding’ figures for this review, but tried a variety of older amiibo. Non-Mario figures give you small rewards, for example, and scanning one of the ‘Anniversary’ Mario pixel amiibo figures gave us a nice surprise. You can also use amiibo to get tips on Power Moons you haven’t yet discovered, helping with the hunt later in the game. The functionality is generally a cute but entirely optional, and should also help some players in tricky areas when they need a small boost.

Our focus up to now has been gameplay, where Super Mario Odyssey shines, but Nintendo has also hit top gear in the game’s technical achievements. Whether on the TV or portable the gameplay rocks along at 60fps, entirely solid 99% of the time. It’s easy to forget now, but the original ‘sandbox’ Mario games ran at half that rate. On top of that the game is a looker, borrowing the visual approaches that are now so familiar from Nintendo – the Pixar-style cartoon-to-life vibe. It’s a bright and colourful game and also, at times, genuinely beautiful. It’s certainly a contender as the best-looking Switch game to date.

That’s certainly the case when docked, as we feel that playing the title through a good TV is the best way to experience the game. Nintendo, to its credit, has done more than bump the resolution from portable to docked; there are notable enhancements that use the extra resources. The game still looks impressive on the portable, but there are more noticeable artifacts and edges – bringing the action to a TV improves these areas. It’s not just a variation in pixel counts, there are genuine differences. We’re pleased to see this, as while Odyssey provides silky smooth and good-looking gaming on the go, it feels like a genuine ‘console’ game when kicking out of a large display.

As always, we should also give a nod to the music. Famously this title has a ‘lead’ track with vocals that’s even available for download, which is reflective of the confidence and swagger Nintendo demonstrates with the game as a whole. The music, overall, is excellent, in some cases ambient and in the background and at other points designed to get the player hyped up. Then there are the smart touches, like music distorting and changing if you’re underwater, or shifting to a chiptune version in a retro 2D section – all good stuff.

Beyond the sweeping scope, in fact, it’s a game all about small touches. From tourist-style maps for each Kingdom that give you little details on the locale, to silly Power Moon tasks and fun transformations, it’s a game keen to make players smile. It acknowledges the heritage of the title that started it all, Super Mario 64, but is still very much a game of this time – that is its greatest strength.

Posted on October 26, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Pimp Out Your Super Mario Odyssey Experience With This Light-Up Switch Dock Shield

Accessories maker PDP is releasing a light-up dock protector for the Switch which provides the perfect way to play TV mode on Mario’s upcoming adventure.

Available on November 10th, this officially licensed Super Mario Odyssey “dock shield” clips onto your existing dock and supplies a “custom LED light show”. Two different designs are available (the other is Zelda) and there are 17 (count ’em) colour and effect settings to mess around with. The dock shield features an electronic base which connects to the dock via USB. Price to you? Just $19.99.

Here’s some PR:

Decorate and protect your Switch dock with a custom LED light show! Provides 17 different color/light effect settings to transform your dock into a cool glowing display. Features an electronic base which holds the dock and connects to the dock via USB and 2 acrylic framing panels with Nintendo artwork. Easily control the stunning light settings with the press of a button. With Flash Mode, Strobe Mode, Fade Mode, and Smooth Mode, you can choose your favorite color and set the animated light effects to your liking.

Will you be investing in one of these rather unique accessories? Will you pick Mario or Zelda? Let us know by posting a comment.

Posted on October 26, 2017 by Mdp4life — Leave a comment

Fire Emblem Warriors is here! Celebrate with a mission and new rewards

The Fire Emblem™ Warriors game is now avaialble for the Nintendo Switch and New Nintendo 3DS family of systems!

My Nintendo™ members can get ready by earning 100 Platinum Points by finding the hidden Gleamstones on the official game website.

Plus, members can redeem points for these new Fire Emblem Warriors wallpapers and more rewards for Nintendo smart-device apps. on my.nintendo.com.

Not yet a member of My Nintendo? It’s free to create an account and start earning points. Visit my.nintendo.com to learn more. Additional terms apply.

Game Rated:

Suggestive Themes
Violence

Posted on October 25, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Feature: Our First Steps in Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp had its big Nintendo Direct reveal, and what we saw was a title that – in various respects – is rather close to the experience in the main games. Smaller in scope and with some mobile elements, of course, but the iOS / Google Play title has nevertheless turned some heads.

As you may also be aware it’s had what could be described as a ‘soft launch’ in Australia, even though it’s not due worldwide until late November. It’s actually pretty common for mobile apps to get limited early releases, but with this being Nintendo plenty have naturally looked to get hold of it early. In this case, however, your humble scribe happens to live in Australia; as a result we’ve been playing it without any workarounds required.

Here, then, are our impressions after a few hours building our campsite.

How to Get the Game

If you’re in Australia, downloading Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is easy; it’s been officially released, after all. You open Google Play for Android devices or the App Store for iOS devices and twiddle your thumbs while you wait. After the initial installation is complete you’re presented with a notification that the game is free-to-start, with Leaf Tickets being an optional purchase. From here you are given the standard option to login into your My Nintendo account so you’ll always have access to existing save data. After you’ve decided on whether to use the My Nintendo account feature (we recommend you do use this if you’re in Australia) a data download will start to install additional game files. This is one of a few as you slowly work your way through the opening sections of the game.

Meanwhile, if playing outside of Australia there are different ways to get the game, but you may want to avoid attempting to use My Nintendo (it necessitates an Australian account in any case).

The Animal Crossing UI and Controls, Made for Mobile

If you’ve played any of the existing Nintendo titles on mobile or tablet devices, you’ll know many of these games are an absolute joy to operate with your fingertips. Pocket Camp is no different. In fact it feels like a perfect match for this type of platform. With relative ease you can move your character about by simply tapping on a point of interest, or holding your fingertip down on the screen to move them about step by step. Shaking fruit from trees, talking to characters or reeling in a fish feels no different to the console or handheld counterparts. If anything, it’s easier on this type of device. Placement and positioning of furniture is similar to the interface featured in Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer. This makes setting up the campsite tent the first time round no problem at all.

In terms of the user interface, at the bottom of your screen you’ll find the main toolbar which includes all the necessities to aid you in the development of your campsite. A lot of the menu design appears as if it has taken inspiration from Miitomo, meanwhile. There’s an items tab, crafting tab, map, contacts tab and even more options tucked away as well as standard game settings, account linking and social management. At the top right of the screen is quick access menu covering commonly used features such as a daily and stretch goals hub, the mailbox and the market box. Menus are cleanly presented, and given how much customisation there now is in Animal Crossing, Pocket Camp does a good job at managing every aspect of the series, from cloths to furniture. It’s all divided up into many easy-to-navigate tabs.

Welcome to Pocket Camp

Once you’ve customised your character to your liking and answered a few of K.K.Slider’s questions to help personalise the experience, you are welcomed to your new campsite by Isabelle. As you are the new campsite manager (the days of being a town mayor are over), Isabelle will give you a rundown about the general operations and ask you how you would describe your site to add a further sense of personal identity. As seen in the Animal Crossing Direct, you can also set up your amenities and furniture any way you like.

After deciding on your nickname, and further personalising your campsite by describing it in a single word, Isabelle tasks you with getting to know the residents in the surrounding areas. Collecting materials in Pocket Camp is essential to the development of your campsite. With this in mind, Isabelle gets you to drive out to “Breezy Hollow” to meet the locals. The animal you first encounter depends on how you have answered the opening questions; in this case Apollo the eagle was the first we met. After gathering fruit for one of the starter animals you’ll be given vital materials with which to craft furniture and amenities.

Once you return to the campsite Isabelle will introduce you to two familiar faces – Reese and Cyrus. Cyrus in Pocket Camp can work wonders, and with the materials you supply him he’ll create new furniture for you. This also depends on the theme you’ve chosen to go with. In this playthrough, the iconic “Modern Sofa” (a true staple of the series) was crafted as the cool theme had been selected. Cyrus can also craft more furniture for you if you tap the craft catalogue at the bottom of the screen – provided you have the correct and necessary amount of materials. Leaf tickets can speed up the process, if required.

It’s worth emphasizing that, early on, we’ve not felt particularly tempted by the microtransactions; the Leaf tickets, as mentioned, can be used to acquire goods or even speed up construction. The true test will be how this evolves over time and how aggressive attempts at monetisation will become. We’ll be talking more about that once we’ve played more of the game.

Embracing the Outdoors

If you’re a veteran, the introduction to Pocket Camp will feel rather lengthy. The good news is it does include some handy tips via the “Beginner’s Guide” and, once completed, you’ll be rewarded with a special “Outdoor-fun starter pack” by Isabelle. Now you can finally start embracing the freedom of the great outdoors.

The daily routine is what you make of it. If you’ve played an existing Animal Crossing game you’re free to do what you like. To start with, visiting the different locations in your camper van is advisable. Much like the main game, in these unique areas you’re able to fish, harvest fruit trees, collect shells, catch bugs and search for minerals. There’s also a few new items introduced in Pocket Camp, including sea throw nets and the ability to use honey lures to catch bugs.

The more catching and collecting you do, the easier it is to fulfill an animal’s requests. Animal requests are your primary concern in Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp. Fulfilling requests allows you to obtain crafting materials from the animals, which in return enables Cyrus to craft furniture for you to fill both your campsite and camper van.

Making friends

As you talk to animals and fulfil their requests you develop a stronger relationship with them; at this point you invite them back to your campsite. To achieve this you’ll need certain items at your campsite and a certain relationship level with an animal. The more animals you bring to your campsite, the more you’ll level your character and earn rewards. Higher levels also allow you to meet a wider variety of animals and craft more furniture.

In addition to animal encounters you’ll also come across fellow players from time to time. Whether you’re at Saltwater Shores, on Sunburst Island or even at Lost Lure Creek, you can visit other player’s places by talking to them and then travelling to their camp. At their campsite you can give the player “kudos” and check out their camper van to gain some creative inspiration. There are also other interactions including the ability to send a friend request to the player you have visited.

Just like in the mainline games, the market acts as a hub area for trade. Here you’ll find the Able Sisters selling stunning new outfits and the Nooklings selling various wares. A rotating selection of vendors will setup shop in the market on a regular basis; these items will change daily. Of course, you’ll need Bells, and you can earn them by performing basic tasks. When you’ve built up your bank over time, the crew over at OK Motors can customise your camper van – making it bigger and more beautiful, as seen in the Animal Crossing Direct. The first time round they’ll give your van a free pattern and paint job, and from there onward you’ll need to use a special app to pay off what you owe. So as you can probably tell by now, it’s business as usual once you develop a daily routine in Pocket Camp.

The market box can make the financial side of life easier – allowing players to put items up for sale and enabling them to buy other player’s items. In addition to this, the timed goals (daily) and stretch goals (lifetime) allow even more items, tickets and Bells to be acquired.

Initial Thoughts

Despite having only played a few hours of Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, the game looks promising. The micro-transactions appear to be non-intrusive in the early running and as a whole the game feels like a classic Animal Crossing experience. By no means does it feel limited by the platform it has been released on, nor is it a watered down entry. It feels like it has its own unique identity but also maintains the core and much-loved aspects the series is well known for.

In many cases it feels right at home on mobile platforms. Sure, there are additional features like login rewards, special limited-time items and timers indicating when fruit will grow back on trees, but this doesn’t detract from the enjoyment this writer has personally had with the game thus far. Now, as with all Animal Crossing games, we’ll settle in for the long haul.

Posted on October 25, 2017 by sick skills — Leave a comment

Yoshiaki Koizumi Says Non-Traditional Nintendo IPs Are Bound For Switch Next Year

The Switch has had a storming first year on sale, with the likes of Zelda, Mario and Fire Emblem all contributing to a bumper 2017.

Naturally, Switch owners will also be thinking about the games they’ll be playing over the next 12 months, and Nintendo’s Yoshiaki Koizumi wants us to expect the unexpected.

In an interview with Famitsu, Koizumi said that fans should expect more than just “traditional” Nintendo franchises on the console in 2018:

As for what he could mean, your guess is as good as ours. Could we see the long-awaited return of F-Zero, or is Nintendo planning to unearth more obscure gems from its past? Let us know which games you’d like to see by posting a comment below.