Become a POKÉMON trading card game illustrator

Straight from Nintendo, this great bit of news for artists is a highlight for my day, personally. Please share this with any and all creative friends. This could be an amazing chance for someone you know. It’s so exciting lol. Anyway, read on Poke Painters

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Pokémon Art Academy Competition Announced to Find Winners Whose Illustrations will be Made into Promotional Pokémon TCG Cards

BELLEVUE, WA – February 12, 2015 – The Pokémon Company International and Nintendo invite Pokémon fans and budding illustrators to enter an international Pokémon Art Academy Competition using the Pokémon Art Academy game available exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems. The competition opens on February 18, 2015, and closes on March 29, 2015, and the winners will be announced in May 2015. The entries will be accepted via Miiverse, accessible via the Nintendo 3DS. This is an exciting opportunity for would-be Pokémon artists from around the world, as the competition’s winners will have their masterpiece turned into their very own Pokémon TCG card!

The game offers aspiring Pokémon artists 40 lessons in how to paint, sketch, and draw popular Pokémon. Students of Pokémon Art Academy can pick up illustration skills that they can transfer onto real canvas, or they can share their digital masterpieces with the world. Now, would-be artists can enter a special competition via Miiverse which allows them to showcase their talents as graduates of the Pokémon Art Academy!

Six talented winners will be selected by a panel of judges comprised of some of the creators of the much-loved Pokémon universe. Each winner will receive 100 cards featuring his or her winning image–meaning that they will be in possession of some TCG cards of their own making.*

There are two categories for budding Pokémon artists to enter: Dress-Up Pikachu and Your Favorite Pokémon.

Dress-Up Pikachu
Inspired by the special Cosplay Pikachu, which can be discovered in the recently launched Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire video games, this category gives entrants the chance to play fashion designer and create their very own Pikachu outfit!

In the Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire video games, Pikachu can dress up as Pikachu Belle; Pikachu Rock Star; Pikachu Pop Star; Pikachu, Ph.D.; and Pikachu Libre. Donning an array of new looks, Cosplay Pikachu can learn moves that ordinary Pikachu cannot learn in normal gameplay, and all have fun costumes that are sure to inspire the would-be costume designers who enter this category.

Your Favorite Pokémon
This category gives entrants the chance to submit their own artistic impressions of a favorite Pokémon, which they can do using the Free Paint mode of Pokémon Art Academy. So, if Snorlax awakens an inner Leonardo da Vinci, or Rayquaza gets fans painting with flying colors, then this is their perfect category!

Details of how to enter can be found below, so all that remains is for Pokémon fans to grab a stylus and start discovering their inner artist with Pokémon Art Academy!

*The winners’ cards will not be made available for sale in regular Pokémon TCG products nor will they be eligible to take part in Play! Pokémon officially sanctioned organized play events.

How to Enter the Pokémon Art Academy Competition

• Create and save an image in Pokémon Art Academy using Free Paint mode.
• Select the “Share” option from Pokémon Art Academy’s main menu and connect to Miiverse.
• Select the “Post to Competition” option and select “I Agree” if you agree to the Official Rules.
• Highlight the category you’d like to enter (Dress-Up Pikachu or Your Favorite Pokémon) and then choose “Select Competition”. Only the first post you make will be recognized as your entry.
• Slide over the image and select it and then choose “Share Selected”.
• Enter a title to accompany your artwork in the comment field and then select “Post”. The image will be posted to Miiverse and entered into the competition.
• The only way to enter the competition directly is from the Pokémon Art Academy game, available exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Must be a legal resident of the United States (including D.C.), Canada or Mexico. 6 prizes total, ARV $40 each. Additional terms and conditions apply. For a full set of rules visit: www.pokemon.com/artrules. Sponsors: The Pokémon Company International, Inc. and Nintendo of America Inc.

To connect with Pokémon online:

• Visit www.pokemon.com
• Like the official Pokémon Facebook page at Facebook.com/Pokemon
• Follow @Pokemon on Twitter
• Check out the official Pokémon YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/pokemon

About Pokémon
The Pokémon Company International, a subsidiary of The Pokémon Company in Japan, manages the property outside of Asia and is responsible for brand management, licensing, marketing, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, the animated TV series, home entertainment, and the official Pokémon website. Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996, and today is one of the most popular children’s entertainment properties in the world. For more information, visit www.pokemon.com.

“THE MIGHTY QUEST FOR EPIC LOOT” OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ON PC

Ubisoft’s game leaves Beta 

Enjoy this launch trailer and some images for what will hopefully be a fun and engaging jaunt into dungeons and such. Yes, and such.

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA – February 5, 2015 – Today, Ubisoft® announced that the Open Beta tag on The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot has been lifted, signaling the game’s official launch. Throughout the beta period, the humorous Hack and Slash action game established its direction and added many new features including crafting, open creation, barricades, new traps, rare creatures and clans to continuously grow and improve the game.

“For us the Beta phases of the game served as a way to continue iterating and forging the direction of the game,” said Quentin Gallet, executive producer. “Now that the core gameplay and tone are locked in, we’re focused on continuing to collaborate with our community to build upon this direction and refine what we have created. The Mighty Quest will receive regular updates with new features and with our community’s help it will continue to grow and improve.”

As part of the game’s official launch, a new way to purchase past and future in-game content has been added with the Infinite Pack, an all-inclusive pack that is now available. The pack gives players access to all four Heroes, previously released rare creatures and traps, two Epic Rings, one Bling Mine, one Material Mine and all future rare creatures and traps as they become available. The Infinite Pack can be purchased in-game, through the web shop or on Steam for $24.99 for a limited time.

The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot is an asynchronous multiplayer Hack and Slash action game from Ubisoft Montreal. Players attempt to create impregnable castles to protect their treasure hoard while simultaneously attempting to ransack other players’ castles.

To get looting and for more information visit: www.themightyquest.com.
To play on Steam visit: http://store.steampowered.com/app/239220/

Screenshots

NEW DIGITAL CONTENT FOR NINTENDO SYSTEMS FEB. 5, 2015

Good grief it’s early to be posting an article on Nintendo’s Downloadable goodies. Yawn. Here are the goods, folks. Sales, price drops and DLC.

 Have I yawned already?

R

This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS

Ok we’re all here. Wait, where’s player 1? Player 3! You said He was with you.

 

• Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate – Demo Version – Experience big game hunting with the Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate demo, now playable on Nintendo 3DS. Play alone in a robust single-player experience or join with up to three other players via a local connection or online via Wi-Fi to tackle hundreds of quests and take down ferocious monsters. Click hereto watch a trailer for the game.

 

• Moon Chronicles – DLC – The three remaining episodes in Major Kane’s epic lunar journey are all available today for download, giving fans the opportunity to experience the entire season without delay. Players may purchase the new content individually, as separate episodes, or choose to purchase the Season Pass, which contains all three remaining episodes for a lower price. Click here to watch a trailer for Moon Chronicles.

 

Nintendo eShop on Wii U

• Kirby and the Rainbow Curse – Pre-Purchase – You can now pre-purchase Kirby and the Rainbow Curse in the Nintendo eShop on Wii U. Upon your purchase in the Nintendo eShop, you can pre-load the game onto your Wii U console, and then you’ll be able to play after a small game update when it’s officially released in the Nintendo eShop on Feb. 19 at 9 p.m. PT.
• Hyrule Warriors – DLC – The Majora’s Mask Pack is available for purchase in the Nintendo eShop for only $7.99 and includes new maps, costumes and the ability to play as Young Link and Tingle (Tingle!). The Majora’s Mask Pack is also part of the Hero of Hyrule Pack, the 4-Pack Hyrule Warriors DLC Bundle. The Hero of Hyrule Pack is available in the Nintendo eShop on Wii U and at select retailers for a suggested retail price of $19.99, and includes the Majora’s Mask pack, two previously released DLC packs, a “Boss Pack” that will launch in March and a bonus in-game Dark Link costume.

Virtual Console on Nintendo 3DS

• Game & Watch Gallery 3 – With the third installment of the Game & Watch Galleryseries, you can enjoy five different games in both their original and revised versions: Egg, Turtle Bridge, Green House, Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong Jr. There are also six extra games that can be unlocked and played in Classic mode.

Virtual Console on Wii U

• DIG DUG – Become Dig Dug as you drill and defeat all of the enemies to clear each stage. Defeat the deep-dwelling Pooka and Fygar by using the harpoon and pumping air into them, or by dropping rocks from above. Lure and defeat multiple enemies at once, and collect vegetables for bonus points.
• MAPPY-LAND – Nyamco and his gang of felines have hidden birthday presents across MAPPY-LAND. Help Mappy find them and make it back to Mapico’s birthday party on time! Activate traps or use special items to distract the cats as you collect six of the same presents in each stage.

Nintendo eShop Sales:

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  • Ubisoft Game Sale: Select Wii U and Nintendo 3DS games are on sale for up to 75 percent off until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 16.
• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • It’s the final week of the Curve Digital Sale! Save up to 25 percent on select games until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 12.
  • SpongeBob SquarePants: Plankton’s Robotic Revenge is 50 percent off (reduced from $39.99 to $19.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 12.
  • GetClose: A game for RIVALS is 40 percent off (reduced from $4.99 to $2.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 19.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • Moon Chronicles Episode 1 is 50 percent off (reduced from $8.99 to $4.50) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 26.
  • Enjoy discounts on Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan, Code of Princess and more games from ATLUS starting at 9 a.m. PT on Feb. 9 until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 16.
  • Get a discount on purchases of Soccer Up 3D and Soccer Up Online until 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 26.
  • Classic Games Overload: Card & Puzzle Edition is 33 percent off (reduced from $29.99 to $19.99) from 9 a.m. PT Feb. 5 through 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 19.

Theme Shop on Nintendo 3DS:

New themes this week include:

• Colorful Game & Watch
• NES: Fire-Breathing Bowser
• NES: Fire Mario

Price Reductions:

• Christmas Wonderland 3 for Nintendo 3DS will be reduced to $4.99 (from $7.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Feb. 6.
• Halloween: Trick or Treat 2 for Nintendo 3DS will be reduced to $4.99 (from $7.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Feb. 6.
• Mystery Murders: Jack the Ripper for Nintendo 3DS will be reduced to $4.99 (from $9.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Feb. 6.
• Mystery Murders: The Sleeping Palace for Nintendo 3DS will be reduced to $4.99 (from $7.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Feb. 6.

Also new this week:

• Dolphin Up (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Puzzle Monkeys (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Tri-Strip (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• KAMI (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• SpongeBob HeroPants (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)

Deathtrap from Neocore games now available on Steam

Good news Tower defense fans-Deathtrap is making its long awaited debut on Steam. The game is discounted 10% to encourage you to buy buy and die. Sorry, I get riled up and anxious for games from Neocore. Read on and learn.

R

NeocoreGames’ Tower Defense Action-RPG Hybrid Deathtrap Out Now on Steam Be clever, be quick and show no mercy! Budapest, Hungary – February 4th, 2015 – Today, NeocoreGames announced that Deathtrap, a spin-off title of their The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing series is now available worldwide for $19.99 on Steam with 10% OFF to celebrate the first week of its release. Deathtrap invites players to venture beyond the veil of this world, where a chain of strongholds were once built to keep the horrors of the void at bay. Now that the monsters are returning from the depths to conquer and kill, players will take direct control of either the Sorceress, the Mercenary or the Marksman and rebuild / improve the ancient traps to stop the monsters before they break through to the everyday world. Deathtrap features 4 gameplay modes (PvP, Endless, Single Player and Cooperative Campaign), 5 scenarios, 13 different campaign maps on Tiers 1-4, a built-in Map Editor, 3 classes, 25 basic traps, 15 special traps and 40+ enemy types from 3 monster races. http://youtu.be/AdDDxXYmSAc Zoltán ‘Pozs’ Pozsonyi, Producer of Deathtrap said: “I’m very proud of the final game and the fine work the team at NeocoreGames did on Deathtrap. Our goal was to push the tower defense genre forward with a unique gameplay mechanic that allows players to build a deadly maze of traps and towers while controlling a character directly from the traditional top-down view of an action-RPG. We estimate a solid 50+ hours of gameplay and we’d like to encourage the community to keep creating their own custom maps too, we might pick the best and add it as an extra scenario or PvP map later.” Deathtrap is a Tower Defense game with strong Action-RPG elements, a game of vicious tricks, killing machines, rotating blades and splattering blood.       (Download all)

Risk hits current Generation consoles with Ubisoft

Risk from Ubisoft available on PS4 and XBOX One

Risk Fact sheet

If you’re like me, you’ve been waiting for the classic appeal of Risk to hit next-gen. The wait is over as Ubisoft has revamped and updated the game for current generation consoles. It’s also available on PS3 and XBOX 360, but has special features that are exclusive to current generation consoles. Risk is available today, so if you want to know more read on for facts and a ton of images of your classic favorite board game.

Key features

Classic Risk® Rules

• Using the 2010 rules as standard, Risk® offers an exciting strategic experience, with variants from previous sets as options so you can play the game how you want. Choose the ‘capture all the capitals’ objective for a shorter game, pursue secret victory objectives…

The map you know with a modern warfare look

 

• Direct the war from your high-tech control room, fighting on the classic map layout that fans love, with a fresh visual twist.
• Stunning visuals bring the classic Risk® map up to date with a modern, military look.

Exciting reward videos

• Earn thrilling videos, watching global combat – from epic tank battles to air combat – set in 3D environments.

Tactical guidance

• IRIS is the main provider of information and she guides the player through every aspect of the game providing tutorials, tactical advice and feedback as to what is currently happening in the world.
• She also reinforces what buttons the players has pressed, what things do, what has just happened – like the result of combats, when the player has captured continents etc.

Online functionalities

• One-off Games.
• League play.
  • You play 6 games in a league, earning points for winning games, for knocking out other players or simply for staying alive.
  • There are four leagues and you can gain promotion to the top or get relegated to the bottom. You earn medals for being promoted and for winning leagues.

Specifications

Platforms:	Console digital – PS4, XBoxOne, PS3, Xbox 360
Publisher:	Ubisoft
Multiplayer:	Up to 4 players offline and online

hasbrogamechannel.ubi.com

Only on next-gen consoles:

• Access to the Hasbro Game Channel

• User has access to all other Hasbro Brands
• User can see which games his friends are playing
• User has access to unique missions and is rewarded with medals/trophies

Screenshots

Chaos ride featured at Indie Game stand

Indie Game stand is an oasis of goodness in an otherwise unforgiving and boring internet. Check out the promotion they’re running on Chaos ride.

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Indie Game Stand is running a promotion for Chaos Ride

Featured Deal

Chaos Ride is a futuristic arcade racing game, influenced by all the insanely-fast arcade racers of the early 00’s (think Wipeout, Ballistics, Extreme G, Outrun 2 et al). Players pilot their neon hover-cycles through nine different locations at speeds of up to 800mph.

 

Set entirely inside tubular-shaped tunnels, the game uses a unique method for navigating the tracks. Racers primarily build speed by gaining momentum, which they acquire by angling their vehicles at optimum trajectories as they race. As with any other racing game, it’s all about finding the best racing lines to shave seconds from your lap times – only in Chaos Ride, this happens at jet-engine velocities while things explode around you. Imagine piloting a rocket-powered bobsled, while avoiding and competing against nine other rocket-powered bobsleds, at 800mph, and you have a rough idea of the core gameplay experience!

The game includes 18 tracks, 90 events, a vehicle customisation system, a 15-hour single player campaign, split-screen multiplayer for up to four people, and full support for the DK2 Oculus Rift.

 

Check it out at IndieGameStand!

HEROES OF MIGHT & MAGIC III – HD EDITION IS AVAILABLE

With the holiday glut of new games now over, a lull in action has settled in over the gaming community. Many folks have given Dragon Age 3 a break, and may be looking for a different RPG experience. I am one of those people, and can’t wait to get my hands on a review copy if I can manage it. So, read on below for the news from Ubisoft about one of the greatest RPG franchises ever. Please also enjoy the DELUGE of screenshots I’m including. Remember who likes you the most!

R

HEROES OF MIGHT & MAGIC III – HD EDITION IS NOW AVAILABLE 

The epic title is back in high-definition

SAN FRANCISCO, USA – January 29, 2015 – Today, Ubisoft announced Heroes^® of Might & Magic^® III – HD Edition, the anticipated title issued from one of the most renowned Might & Magic series, is now available on Windows^® PC and for the first time on tablet (iOS and Android).

The fifteen year-old title returns in full HD thanks to the refined work done on graphics. Players will relive the iconic Heroes III adventure as they thrive through seven campaign scenarios and 48 skirmish maps. They will also enjoy a local multiplayer mode, a map editor and a Steam lobby (only for PC players), in which they can share their experience with other fans of the franchise.

For more information about Heroes^® of Might & Magic^® III – HD Edition, please visit: http://mmh3-hd.com/

Nintendo’s New digital content

Hello nerdilicious Nintendo Junkies. It’s been awhile since you’ve gotten your Nintendo news from yours truly. I’m back and trying to catch up, so let’s get going. Remember to tell your friends about the blog. I get Nintendo news directly from Nintendo, straight from Zelda’s mouth.

Nintendo has some great things going, and seem to have found their footing with the Wii U. Below I have a complete list, with some tasty photos, of all of their new digital content.

This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

Nintendo eShop on Wii U

• Punch-Out!! – Did you miss out on the Punch-Out!! game when it launched for the Wii console? Now you can download it in the Nintendo eShop on Wii U! Little Mac is back and ready to slug his way through some of the most outlandish boxers for a chance to win the Championship Belt. Hook, jab and swing through a hilarious cast of opponents in this modern update of the classic Punch-Out!! Also, get Punch-Out!! for 50 percent off (reduced from $19.99 to $9.99) until  8:59 a.m. PT on Jan. 29.

Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS

• Citizens of Earth – Get Citizens of Earth in the Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DSeach for the introductory price of $11.99. Recruit the yoga instructor, the cop, your mom and all the other citizens to join your party and fight your battles. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

Virtual Console on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS

• S.C.A.T. – Alien invaders have landed on Earth and seek to conquer it. In response, Earth has sent soldiers from the Special Cybernetic Attack Team (S.C.A.T.) to meet them on the battlefield. Play solo or with a friend as you battle through five stages of enemies and bosses in the name of saving humanity from total annihilation. S.C.A.T. is now available in the Nintendo eShop on both Wii U and Nintendo 3DS. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

Nintendo eShop Sales

• NintendoeShop on Wii U and Nintendo3DS
  • It’s week two of the Throwback Sale! Save up to 50 percent on select games of past and current Nintendo console generations. This week’s sale starts at 9 a.m. PT on Jan. 22 and ends at 8:59 a.m. PT on Jan. 29.
• NintendoeShop on Wii U
  • Only one week left to take advantage of deals on hit indie games with the Super Indie Connection Sale #2. Now through 8:59 a.m. PT on Jan. 29, fans who already own any participating games or purchase one at full price during this promotion will receive 60 percent off other participating games.
  • Super Toy Cars is 50 percent off (reduced from $7.99 to $3.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Jan. 29.
  • Darts Up is 40 percent off (reduced from $2.49 to $1.49) until 8:59am PT on Feb. 19.
• NintendoeShop on Nintendo3DS
  • Retro City Rampage DX is 30 percent off (reduced from $9.99 to $6.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Jan. 29.
  • Yu-Gi-Oh! ZEXAL World Duel Carnival is on sale (reduced from $19.99 to $12.99) from Jan. 24 through 8:59 a.m. PT on Feb. 6.

Also New this Week

• Breezeblox (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Midnight (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Undead Storm Nightmare – Full and Demo Versions (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)

In addition to video games available at retail stores, Nintendo also offers a variety of content that people can download directly to their systems. Nintendo adds new games weekly to the Nintendo eShop on the Wii U console and the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, the Nintendo DSi™ Shop for the Nintendo DSi system and the Wii™ Shop Channel for the Wii console.

The Nintendo eShop is a cash-based service that features a wide variety of content, including new and classic games, applications and demos. Users can add money to their account balances by using a credit card or purchasing a Nintendo eShop Card at a retail store and entering the code from the card. All funds from one card must be loaded in the Nintendo eShop on either Wii U or the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, but can be used in either Nintendo eShop if the systems are linked to a single Nintendo Network account.

The Wii Shop Channel offers games and applications and uses Wii Points™, which can be purchased via the Wii Shop Channel. The Nintendo DSi Shop offers games and applications and uses Nintendo DSi Points™, which can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop.

Remember that Wii U, Wii, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo 2DS and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage some of the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit http://www.nintendo.com/wiiu or http://www.nintendo.com/3ds.

NEW EVOLUTIONS IN POKÉMON OMEGA RUBY AND POKÉMON ALPHA SAPPHIRE

 

Get ready you greedy, eager little Pokey punters; Nintendo just let me know that Players can get to experience the exclusive Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire for 3DS tomorrow. Prepare yourself for Mega Evolutions of your fav. Pokémon, find new places to adventure and prepare for an amazing trek through the Hoenn region.

My mere mortal words cannot do much to describe what’s to come, so I’ll leave it to Nintendo’s press release below to fill you in on any details you might have missed. Something tells me though, that most of you reading already know what’s to come.

 

“Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire kick off the holiday shopping season with games that both old and new Pokémon fans will love,” said Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “The games let players explore and experience the world of Pokémon like never before, with hours of portable entertainment perfect for long holiday trips.”

While Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire provide fans of all ages with the classic game-play elements of catching, battling and trading Pokémon, the games contain many features never before seen in the Pokémon franchise. For the first time, the two Legendary Pokémon Groudon and Kyogre will undergo powerful transformations that rock the very region to its core as they become Primal Groudon and Primal Kyogre. These Primal Reversions take the Legendary Pokémon back to their primal forms and grant each of them commanding looks and moves. In addition, after catching the Pokémon Latias or Latios, players can learn to Soar, allowing them to hop on the back of these Dragon- and Psychic-type Pokémon and fly high above the Hoenn region. This ability lets players access new areas and discover even more Pokémon, including very powerful Legendary Pokémon from previous games in the series.

Catching and battling with Pokémon in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire is just as fun as ever, but now it can be done in different ways. Using the new PokéNav Plus, players can navigate the world and locate Pokémon in the city, in the wild or even high up in the sky. Any time players are near Pokémon, the PokéNav Plus will show them information about that Pokémon. Players can even sneak up on Pokémon in the wild, making it much easier to catch them. Mega Evolutions, first introduced in Pokémon X and Pokémon Y, return and now more Pokémon can evolve into this more powerful form. In a treat for fans who enjoy Pokémon lore, the mysterious origins of Mega Evolution reveal themselves in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire.

As with previous games in the series, players can battle and trade Pokémon with friends and other players around the world with a wireless broadband Internet connection. Using the Player Search System, anyone can seek out Pokémon battles and interact with players with the touch of a button. Fans of Pokémon X and Pokémon Y will also love to know that they can obtain the highly prized Eon Ticket to travel to a remote location to catch another Legendary Pokémon.

One of the unique features in the original Pokémon Ruby and Pokémon Sapphire games was the ability to discover and set up personal Secret Bases. These Secret Bases return as Super-Secret Bases in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire, and can be decorated with various items collected throughout the game. Fans who want to show off their beautifully decorated bases can invite friends to visit their Secret Bases using built-in communication features. And the customization aspects of the games don’t end there: Various Pokémon can be entered into in-game Pokémon Contest Spectaculars to show off their moves and win over the judges. Using Berries discovered in the game, players can make Pokéblocks to feed to their Pokémon, preparing these show stoppers to claim the top prize.

Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire will be available in stores, at Nintendo.com and PokemonCenter.com, as well as in the Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 2DS on Nov. 21 at a suggested retail price of $39.99 each. For anyone who wants to pick up both games together, the Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Dual Pack also launches on Nov. 21, exclusively at Best Buy retail stores, on BestBuy.com or on Amazon.com at a suggested retail price of $79.98. The Pokémon Dual Pack includes both games and a pair of in-game download codes that can be redeemed for 100 Potions each.

 

To learn how to receive a download code for the Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Special Demo Version, visit http://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/q-_odTxvSXW6AVesSiQazTQhq2lKENNc.

 

For more information about Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire, visit http://www.pokemon.com/omegaalpha.

 

Remember that Nintendo 3DS features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit http://www.nintendo.com/3ds.

Global Just Dance Challenge launched by Special Olympics and Ubisoft

Ubisoft has gotten some bad press lately with the messy release of the newest Assassin’s Creed game. But, there are bigger and more important things in life going on. With that said, video games can still make a difference in people’s lives, and that’s what the new initiative Ubisoft is involved with the Special Olympics and some really big stars can do. Full details are below. With some of the cool news that has come out today, it makes me feel a little better about being a news junkie and desk jockey. Read on.

 

Celebrity PSA can be accessed, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ni3P6fHjA2c and downloaded, here.

Special Olympics Launches Global Just Dance® Challenge to Raise Funds and Awareness While Engaging Video Game Fans

Musicians Including Nicole Scherzinger, Maroon 5, Jessie J, and Charli XCX from the Top Music and Dance Video Game Jumpstart the Campaign 

Washington, D.C., November 17, 2014 – Special Olympics today announced the kick-off of the first annual Just Dance Challenge, a global online fundraising campaign to get the public up and dancing to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics. In order to spread their message of inclusion to the broadest audience, Special Olympics has joined with Just Dance, the top dance and music videogame with millions of players globally, developed and published by Ubisoft^®. Popular YouTubers and musicians from the videogame including Maroon 5, Jessie J, Charli XCX, Nicole Scherzinger and more are lending their support in a variety of ways to get the word out and drive public participation.

The three-month campaign, which runs from November 2014 through January 31, 2015, encourages participants to raise donations through peer-to-peer fundraising and social media. While there are multiple customizable ways to participate, the core theme of the Just Dance Challenge revolves around playing the Just Dance videogame with friends, family and/or community. Participation is open to anyone around the world and the public can register and learn more at esports.specialolympics.org and view the celebrity PSA, here.

The launch of this partnership comes on the heels of the Special Olympics’ decision to engage with the video game industry to help spread its message of inclusion. Force Multiply Gaming, a social impact movement and brand of WarpSpeed Innovations Inc. inspired the unique and powerful connection which marks the first campaign uniting Special Olympics with the video game industry.

Republic Records will also be showing their support to the cause by offering incentives and giveaways centered around their talented artists and by sponsoring the Just Dance Challenge with an activation at their annual label holiday party. The musicians, Special Olympics, and Ubisoft are committed to the success of the campaign. Here’s what they have to say:

• “I’m thrilled that my music can be part of the Just Dance Challenge for Special Olympics,” said international singer and personality Nicole Scherzinger. “As a Global Ambassador for Special Olympics, I’ve seen first-hand, around the world, the transformative power of Special Olympics, and I’m thrilled that millions of people will have the opportunity to help them in their wonderful work – and to do it by dancing!”

• “It’s incredible and also humbling that my music can make a difference and drive awareness for Special Olympics through the Just Dance Challenge,” said singer and songwriter, Jessie J. “I’ve always strived to write songs and create music that pushes a message of inclusiveness, soon a personal level I’m really excited to see people from around the world dance to my songs and commit to raise funds for such a good cause!”

• “Obviously music and dance go hand and hand- it’s inspiring, plus it’s how I like to party!” said singer and songwriter, Charli XCX. “I couldn’t be happier about lending my support to the Just Dance Challenge for Special Olympics and getting people up dancing and motivated for this important campaign.”

• “We’re thrilled to team up with Ubisoft and its mega-popular Just Dance franchise—dance is the symbolic celebration of joy and a perfect fit for our athletes,” said Peter Wheeler, chief strategic properties for Special Olympics. “Special Olympics primarily brings people together through sports, and offering the first-ever Just Dance Challenge allows us to further spread our message of inclusion, diversity and empowerment through music, dance and gaming while at the same time, raising funds for Special Olympics.”

• “We’re dedicated to making the Just Dance Challenge a phenomenal success and ultimately helping to drive Special Olympics forward with its message of diversity and empowerment,” said Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Ubisoft. “Just Dance has millions of fans worldwide; the game’s core DNA revolves around accessibility for everyone and above all, providing a fun game experience for players at every level. We’re proud to bring the world’s most popular music and dance game to this important global movement.”

For more information about the Just Dance Challenge, visit esports.specialolympics.org.

About Special Olympics  

Special Olympics is a global movement that unleashes the human spirit through the transformative power and joy of sports, every day around the world. We empower people with intellectual disabilities to become accepted and valued members of their communities, which leads to a more respectful and inclusive society for all.  Using sports as the catalyst and programming around health and education, Special Olympics is fighting inactivity, injustice and intolerance.  Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics movement has grown to more than 4.4 million athletes in 170 countries.  With the support of more than 1.3 million coaches and volunteers, Special Olympics delivers 32 Olympic-type sports and more than 81,000 games and competitions throughout the year.  Special Olympics is supported by individuals, foundations and partners, including the Christmas Records Trust, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics®, The Coca-Cola Company, The Walt Disney Company and ESPN, Lions Clubs International, Mattel, P&G, Microsoft,  Bank of America, Essilor Vision Foundation, the B. Thomas Golisano Foundation, Finish Line, The Safeway Foundation, and Safilo Group. Visit Special Olympics at www.specialolympics.org.  Engage with us on: Twitter @specialolympics; fb.com/specialolympics; youtube.com/specialolympicshq, instagram.com/specialolymics and specialolympicsblog.wordpress.com.

Pikachu to be Santa and visit malls across America

So, finally a marketing scheme with good intentions. Nintendo will be bringing smiles and fun to malls across the country this holiday season by sending Mario and Luigi and even Pikachu to malls from November 21st through December 21st. Kids everywhere rejoice (and more adults than I’d care to admit) and get to one of the locations listed below. Nintendo is promoting what it calls “Toys-to-life” and the promotion includes Amiibos and many games from Wii U, 2ds and 3ds. The games include a LOT of Pokemon favorites, so let the crazy cheers and screams begin.

I have to give it to Nintendo-they’re reaching out to the right people, and doing it at the right time and it seems like genuine fan outreach; not a marketing ploy. Sony was said to be the fan-centric company of all of the consoles when this generations console war started. Nintendo has honorably kept above the fray and has quietly moved into a great position. Enough of my blabbing! Find the full list of details and malls below.

Remember to follow me here and on twitter  @rpdgame for the fastest Nintendo announcements, game and comic reviews and more.

Nintendo Happy Holidays Holiday Mall Experience

“Friendly faces from the Nintendo family, including Mario, Luigi and Pikachu, will deliver an unexpected shot of joy to the holiday shopping season. From Nov. 24 through Dec. 21, Nintendo will visit 16 malls across the country to offer holiday shoppers a great escape featuring hands-on play time with the season’s must-have games for Wii U, Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 2DS. Visitors can even check out amiibo, Nintendo’s new foray in the toys-to-life category, which are based on some of its most recognizable video game characters.

“A fun, interactive space tailored to kids – and kids-at-heart – will feature many Nintendo games, including a Mario Kart 8 tournament played on a large, high-definition display. Visitors can also battle it out in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U. Additionally, free giveaways, including the Nintendo Holiday Gift Guides, will be available to consumers, while supplies last.”

The scheduled lineup of Wii U games includes Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, Mario Kart 8, Hyrule Warriors, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Super Mario 3D World, Skylanders: Trap Team and Nintendo Land.

For Nintendo 3DS, fans can expect to see Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, Pokémon Omega Ruby, Pokémon Alpha Sapphire, Mario Kart 7, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Kirby: Triple Deluxe, Tomodachi Life, Yoshi’s New Island and Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal.

 

Join the fun of Nintendo’s holiday shopping experience at the following locations: 

• Oak Park Mall in Overland Park, Kansas
• Arrowhead Towne Center in Glendale, Arizona
• Queens Center in Elmhurst, New York
• Tysons Corner Center in McLean, Virginia
• Washington Square in Portland, Oregon
• Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota
• Memorial City Mall at Memorial City in Houston
• The Florida Mall in Orlando, Florida
• Grapevine Mills in Grapevine, Texas
• King of Prussia in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
• South Shore Plaza in Braintree, Massachusetts
• Woodfield Mall in Schaumberg, Illinois
• Westfield North County in Escondido, California
• Westfield Southcenter in Seattle
• Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara, California
• Westfield Culver City in Culver City, California

The Holiday Gift Guide can also be found online at http://happyholidays.nintendo.com.

New digital content for Nintendo systems includes Pokemon trading card game

I was serious when I said that Nintendo was serious about their downloadable content, games and indie games, people! ( Read about it here)You didn’t believe me, and here we are again with more goodies. Pokemon trading card games, bit.trip on sale, A World of Keflings and another really bad Sonic the Hedgehog game. Or, is it TWO Sonics? Seriously, it’s so bad now that the term Sonic is a synonym for crappy, under-cooked horrible games. If you are struggling for the meaning of synonym, than you should play less video games.

Really though, there are some great offerings here on not only the Wii U by 3DS as well. What games are you looking forward to? Oh, yeah, I’ve included a @#$% ton of links and some great images. More in fact than anyone else in the industry, so how about you show some appreciation and tell your friends about it or tell me thank you!!! Or, don’t because I don’t wanna really hear from you anyway. Pout, tear, cry baby face. You’re actually into some weird stuff and I really don’t want to know about it. Okay, really, stop smearing that there and try to concentrate on the games.

 

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD HIGHLIGHTS NEW DIGITAL CONTENT FOR NINTENDO SYSTEMS – NOV. 13, 2014

This week’s Nintendo Download includes the following featured content:

Nintendo eShop on Wii U

Wait, is this the first or second bad Sonic game?

• Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric – In Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric, Sonic, Knuckles, Amy and Tails, each with his or her own unique abilities, must work together to save the world and stop the evil alliance of Lyric and Dr. Eggman. With two-player co-op, a “Team Challenges” mode for up to four players and the ability to unlock special upgrades with Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal on the Nintendo 3DS system (for those that own the system and the game), this may be Sonic’s biggest adventure yet! Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric is available exclusively on Wii U. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

• A World of Keflings – Embark on a giant kingdom-building adventure to exotic lands and help your new tiny Kefling friends along the way. Play as your Mii character and help the friendly little Keflings harvest resources, assemble buildings and create thriving cities. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.
• Tengami – Discover the wonders of a folding world. Go on a serene journey through Japan with striking visuals, unique game play and haunting music. Fold and slide the beautifully crafted paper world to solve puzzles and discover secrets. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

Simple, but stilll impactful. The artwork of Tengami is powerful.

 

Virtual Console on Wii U

• Mario Kart: Super Circuit – Some of your favorite kart-racing characters are ready to kick it into high gear in Mario Kart: Super Circuit! This Game Boy Advance classic offers 20 courses and hidden bonus tracks, each loaded with classic power-ups and primed for the free-for-all racing that only Mario Kart can deliver. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS

• LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham – Brainiac, using the power of the Lantern Rings, shrinks worlds to add to his twisted collection of miniature cities from across the universe. Now the greatest superheroes and the most cunning villains must unite and journey to different Lantern Worlds to collect the Lantern Rings and stop Brainiac before it’s too late. LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham is now available on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

“HAHAHA. Someone, somewhere is playing a NEW Sonic game that they paid for with REAL money. HAHAHA.” Laughed the Joker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s that other Sonic title we’ve been hinting about.

Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS

• Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal – Play as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and new friend Sticks, each with unique abilities, as you work as a team to save Amy and locate the Crystal before it’s too late! In addition to the secret-filled adventure, you can experience a StreetPass collectibles mini-game and play through the story to unlock special upgrades for Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric on Wii U (for those that own the system and the game). Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is available exclusively on Nintendo 3DS. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Danger of the Ooze – The Turtles are back in action against the evils of the world. Stop Shredder and his army of mutants as he threatens to unleash the power of a new Super Mutagen that could destroy their beloved New York City. Click here to watch a trailer for the game.

HAHAHO. Did you turtles hear the one about the people that keep buying Sonic Games? Yes Raphael I am aware of the iront and our own track record of being exploited as a license. You always ruin my jokes.

• Tetris Ultimate – With six exciting modes plus an exclusive Nintendo 3DS challenge mode, fun new features and unique visuals, the evolution of this iconic game is a must-have on Nintendo 3DS.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I really enjoy seeing these lo-res type screen shots. They have that nostalgic feel.

Virtual Console on Nintendo 3DS

• Pokémon Trading Card Game – Build new decks, hone your skills and test your abilities in Pokémon Trading Card Game. Expand your card collection, duel your way through eight Club Masters and earn the right to challenge the Grand Master. Shadowy figures, wise instructors and powerful opponents await you in this trading card game adventure. Click here to watch a trailer for the game. Plus, you’ll get a code for the Pokémon Omega Ruby and Pokémon Alpha Sapphire Special Demo Version with your purchase of the Pokémon Trading Card Game game. You’ll find the free demo code on your Nintendo eShop receipt. Download codes are available while supplies last and expire on May 31, 2015.

Nintendo eShop Sales

• NintendoeShop on Wii U
  • BIT.TRIP Presents…Runner2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien is more than 60 percent off (reduced from $14.99 to $4.99) starting at 9 a.m. PT on Nov. 14 until 8:59 a.m. PT on Nov. 24.
  • Abyss is 25 percent off (reduced from $1.99 to $1.49) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Dec. 4.
    • Chubbins is 25 percent off (reduced from $3.99 to $2.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Nov. 20.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
• • European Conqueror 3D is more than 30 percent off (reduced from $3.99 to $2.79) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Nov 27.
  • Darts Up 3D is more than 60 percent off (reduced from $2.99 to 0.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Dec. 4.
  • Soccer Up 3D is more than 70 percent off (reduced from $6.99 to $1.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Dec. 4.

It’s good to see games like this available on 3DS.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also New this Week

This game looks like it shouldn’t have been made, or wasn’t thought out very well. Yeah…

• Xavier (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Flowerworks HD: Follie’s Adventure – Demo Version (Nintendo eShop on Wii U)
• Castle Conqueror Defender (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• European Conqueror 3D – Demo Version (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• I’ve Got to Run: Complete Edition! (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• PICROSS e5 (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• Scarygirl Illustration Kit (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)
• Winx Club Saving Alfea (Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS)

 

 

Scarygirl Illustration Kit is one of the new offerings for 3DS this week.

This is a font that should have never survived the 80s. Why this font, let alone this game is around is quite beyond me.

This actually looks like a fun and adventurous screenshot…It’s Sonic. Why isn’t Sonic running somewhere?

Co-op Mode available for Deathtrap Early Access

The clever and brutal tower defense type horror game Deathtrap is one of my most anticipated games of the year. Neocore Games has been kind enough to pass along some information for me to give to you about the game. They’ve moved their early access into co-op mode now, and I’d love to know more form people that are able to play the game. As far as I know, the MAC version is still delayed so yours trul can’t revel in the sadistic madness quite yet. For some great videos and information, please have a look at their press release below.

Deathtrap Early Access Now Available in Cooperative Mode Mercenary class and Leaderboards are also added for your gaming pleasure. Be clever, be quick – and show no mercy. As of today, Deathtrap Early Access is also playable in Cooperative Mode, so this is the right time to team up with other heroes and save the world together. Do you like the power of magic? Play as the Sorceress, use the elements of nature to freeze, burn or vaporize all your enemies. Are you rather a melee fighter? Take on the role of the Mercenary, rush through the lines of the Legendary Beasts, smash the heads of the Undead, and kick all the Artificial Abominations in the butt! Stop the monstrous hordes together from breaking through the gates and conquer the Leaderboards. Watch the deadly duo as they scatter the terrible invasion in the Co-op Gameplay Trailer: http://youtu.be/HzCx_mozpfw Also take a closer look at the new guy, the mighty Mercenary: Deathtrap is a tower-defense game with strong action-RPG elements, a game of vicious tricks, killing machines, rotating blades and splattering blood. Name: Deathtrap Genre: Tower-defense Developer: NeocoreGames Publisher: NeocoreGames Release date: Q1 2015 Price: $19.99 Platforms: Steam (Windows, Mac); Xbox One, PS4 (coming later) Multiplayer: Co-Op, PvP http://deathtrapthegame.com/  Facebook: /DeathtrapTheGame  Twitter: @DeathtrapGame  DevBlog: devblog.neocoregames.com  Twitch:/neocoregames  Forums: forum.neocoregames.com  YouTube: NeocoreGamesVideos Steam Store: /app/310510< /a>

‘Square Heroes’ from Gnomic Studios preview

I’m square and ready to make combat with your friends via cross-platform mayhem.

Square Heroes is a game that I’ve been looking forward to for months now. Although I’m mainly an RPG guy, with interests in RTS and some sports games, my eyes have been opened by some great indie games lately. Many of my regular readers know that even though we report on big companies like Ubisoft and Marvel comics, our love is independent comics, games and music. So, when I found Square Heroes while trolling through Twitter for goodies to review, I was pleased to find this quirky looking indie game.

Cartoon shooter with cross-platform play

Cross platform was one of the features that was supposed to change games as we knew them. Windows and Xbox 360 promised this feature last generation, but it never truly materialized. It seemed like one of those features that would fall by the wayside. Like Smartglass , Cross-platform took a bad seat to features like twitch integration and a renewed focus on VR like Oculus Rift. Luckily, Indie companies don’t always follow the trends and do what they want. That’s the case with Gnomic studios and Square Heroes. Being able to play with friends that have Windows while I fire up my Mac laptop is important. I can’t even count the amount of times I was disappointed to find out I couldn’t play a game with friends because they’re still playing on Windows based PCs. It’s a missed opportunity in my opinion, and I’m pleased to be able to soon encourage my pals to play Square Heroes with me. The co-op options and arena format lend themselves perfectly to this game.

Speaking of teaming with friends, another feature that has been ‘Left 4 Dead‘ is couch co-op. This type of play hasn’t been a hallmark of PC/MAC games, but it’s offered in Square Heroes. Not only can you play LAN or online if you happen to find yourself in a friends living room or bedroom, but it looks like you’ll be able to snuggle in closer than comfortable on your pals futon and really smell those Doritos he had for dinner. I’m not certain about how the couch co-op works with PC/MAC yet, but I’ll find out soon once I take a look at the MAC version that Gnomic provided to me.

Features

I pointed out a few, but here is the full list of features provided by Gnomic.

• Online and local multi-player, at the same time. AKA couch vs couch gaming.
• Cross platform multi-player.
• Unique arms-race gameplay mechanic where chosen weapons are earned during each round by collecting loot.
• Unlockable weapons and hats with stat-buffing perks.
• Various game modes including Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, Gnome Hunt, Team Gnome Hunt and Survival.
• Numerous challenging Achievements.
• Seven stylish 2.5D arenas of doom.
• Originally scored music and professionally crafted sound effects. ( I really want to start reviewing sound effects and music for games, so I’m going to be paying extra attention to this in Square Heroes)

The Appeal

What do you mean I need legs to be in an arena combat game? Wait, I don’t have legs?

Again, this isn’t typically my kind of game, but I’m willing to take a look at a game by hard-working indie companies. So, what’s the appeal to me other than it’s independent? I’m a big fan of Castle Crashers, and Square Heroes reminds me of that in a way. The visuals are closer to Super Meat-Boy, but the semi-side scrolling nature and the possibility of co-op mayhem looks fun to me. Collecting “Mountains of loot” as the trailer points out is always a fun time too.

The ability, though apparently simplistic, to customize a character is always a huge draw for me. Creating a custom Nord in Skyrim or creating a neanderthal in NHL 2014 was fun for me, and there’s something personal and engaging about making my own character. I’ll never forget my characters in Fallout-3 and Fallout New Vegas either. My time with my character in New Vegas helped provide me with part of the name of this blog too.

More info and the Blah Blah Blah

Here’s more information on Square Heroes that includes their website and even a video for the game. Please check back here for the latest on the game and for my review that’s coming soon. The game released already on Linux and PC, and I’m waiting anxiously for my MAC version to post so I can dig in. Spread the word about the this blog too, where we make it a point to give unvarnished reviews, news as soon as we get it and some opinions and more fun quirky per square inch than any other game/comics/nerd site anywhere.

Developer:
Gnomic Studios
Based in Perth, Western Australia

Release date:
Oct, 2014

Platforms:
PC / Mac / Linux
Steam Greenlight

Website:
squareheroes.com