2013's releases for the Wii U and 3DS

Today, or yesterday, (actually since I live in Australia I have no idea) Nintendo released new Nintendo Direct clips for Europe, North America and Japan. Lots of new gameplay footage has been revealed in these videos, but probably more importantly we have found when many games are releasing for Europe and the USA!

Now, I know that Paper Mario: Sticker Star is already out, but surprisingly (even though it is a Mario game) I actually don't like Paper Mario games much, so I've pretty much ignored the game. Sorry if you're an RPG fanatic, but you'd probably prefer the Mario and Luigi series anyway.

We've been waiting years for a new Luigi's Mansion game!

Still, the new game Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon is coming to the 3DS soon, and is joined by games such as Animal Crossing: New Leaf, Fire Emblem: Awakening and Castlevania: Lord of Shadows to make for an impressive year of 3DS releases. Though, the Wii U isn't forgotten with Pikmin 3, Wii Fit U and LEGO City: Undercover coming soon. Here's an overview of the release dates:

• Fire Emblem: Awakening - April 2013 (EU), February 4th 2013 (NA)
• Brain Age: Concentration Training - February 10th 2013 (NA), March 8th 2013 (EU)
• Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon - March 2013 (EU)
• Wii Fit U - 1st half of 2013 (NA)
• Animal Crossing: New Leaf - Q2 2013 (EU)
• Pikmin 3 - Q2 2013 (NA & EU)
• Lego City: Undercover - early 2013 (NA)
• Castlevania: Lords of Shadow- Mirror of Fate - March 2013 (EU)

Personally, my most anticipated games are LEGO City: Undercover, Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Pikmin 3. Unfortunately, I wont be getting these games for a while. Still, it's nice to know when they're releasing!

NEW Super Mario Bros. 2 Announced for the 3DS

You may remember that a little while back I mentioned there was a 2D Mario game in the works for the 3DS. Well, I am glad to say that the game has now been officially announced as NEW Super Mario Bros. 2!

Though, nothing has been revealed yet apart from the fact that the raccoon tail and gold leaf are back (and that I will be raving on about in the future).

Anyway, here's some pictures-

Images from IGN

Capcom, Sega and Namco Present- A Strategy RPG?

As the title says, the BIG game that the people at Namco, Sega and Namco are working on is not the best fighting game ever. Instead they are making a Strategy RPG called Project X Zone for the 3DS!


This game will feature pairs of characters from multiple different hit games fighting and, uhhh.... well.... that's about as much as we know about the gameplay so far. No need to fret though, just look at the amount of characters in this game. Here's the announced characters for the game as of now according to Andriasang-


Ryu and Ken (Street Fighter 0)
X and Zero (Mega Man) 

Kaito and Black Rose (.hack) 

Demitri and Dante (Darkstalkers, Devil May Cry) 
Chris and Jill (Resident Evil) 
Pai and Akira (Virtua Fighter) 
Shinguji Sakura and Ogami Ichiro (Sakura Wars) Kurt and
Ulala and Touma (Space Channel 5, Shining Force EXA) 
Sanger Somvold (Super Robot Wars) 
Jin and Ling Xiaoyu (Tekken)
Kos-Mos and T-elos (Xenosaga) 
Yurie and Estel (Tales of Vesperia)
Kurt and Riela (Valkyria Chronicles) 


It's surely an impressive list, but where's Sonic and Tails?

Are there any other characters that you would like to see in the game? Remember that there's a comments section below just waiting for your opinion!

Your Favourite Mario Enemy!

A while ago I posted a poll on this page that let you guys vote on your favourite basic Mario enemies. Unfortunately, it was a tie between Koopa Troopas and Shy Guys. However, I AM the moderator of this blog and so therefore I overpower all voters and say that Koopa Troopas are better than Shy Guys. So, without further ado, I now present your (and my) favourite basic Mario enemy ever, the KOOPA TROOPA!

Also, Koopa fans rejoice as Koopa Troopas are playable in pretty much any Mario sports game on the Wii, 3DS or DS as well as Mario Kart games where they are my favourite character (after Yoshi, of course!).

What is Retro Studios Working On?

Today it was rumoured that Retro Studio's next game will have a hand-painted artstyle. Of course, this has got fans of Retro's Metroid Prime games very excited, even though it has been rumoured that it won't even be a Metroid game, but one starring a different Nintendo character.

So, what is it?

Well, it could be anything, but here's some ideas-

It Could Be-

• Zelda 3DS- It has been reported that a new 3DS Zelda game that plays differently to other Zelda games is in the works, and Retro might be the one to make it! Also, Shigeru, creator of the Zelda franchise suggested that Retro Studios would make a great Zelda game.
• DK Country 3DS- After making Donkey Kong Country Returns for the Wii, Retro is in great shape for a 3DS sequel.
• New Star Fox Game- Well, it IS about time a new Starfox game was made! Also, Official Nintendo Magazine hinted at it when it said "Maybe it's time for Retro to do a barrel roll of a different kind!"
• Pikmin 3- I don't know why but why couldn't it be?

It Won't Be-

• Skyward Sword 2- There already is a Zelda game planned for the Wii U, and they wouldn't be making a second one.
• Mario Paint 2- Sorry MP diehards.

Well, whatever it is, we will probably know at the end of this year's E3!

Mario and Pokemon Pushmo/Pullblox QR Codes!

After writing the review for Pushmo (Pullblox in Australia and UK) yesterday I decided to create my own   levels. Now, of course my levels weren't going to be any levels, instead they are based around Mario and Pokemon. So, without further ado-

Now remember, all you need to play these levels are a 3DS with Pushmo or Pullblox on it. Also, you need to have completed the first bunch of stages. ANYWAY, go to Pushmo (or Pullblox) Studio and click on the "scan QR code" button and scan these codes. Easy!

Also, for more Nintendo themed puzzles go to http://neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=454838

Must Have 3DS eShop Games!

After a slow start, Nintendo is starting to publish some great games for the 3DS, even on the 3DS's eShop there is a flood of new stuff for less than $10! But, how are we supposed to separate the good from the bad? Here's my list of must have eShop games!

Pushmo/Pullblox


Saying that Pushmo is a great game really is an understatement. It is a perfect game! In case your wondering what I'm talking about, Pushmo is a puzzle/platformer game where you push and pull blocks around to get to the top of a level. Sounds simple, right? It might be to start off with, but soon you will be scratching your head wondering how to get to the top of the platform. The best part is that some of the levels are based on Nintendo characters. Meaning you will see yourself climbing Mario's face at one point! Also, there's a level editor along with the 250 levels offered, meaning that you'll never run out of stuff to push! 9.5/10

Sakura Samurai

Another great game, Sakura Samurai may look like any old Samurai brawler, but it's a lot more. It's an RPG with great combat and a wealth of towns, mountains and castles to explore. This one really is hard to explain in one paragraph, so I'll just show you this trailer instead! 9/10

Mutant Mudds

Mutant Mudds is, in short, a retro platformer with great music, a retro artstyle and some of the best level design around. It is great for retro game enthusiasts and casual game players alike, with no shortage of levels (there are 40 of them). Like Pushmo, this one packs a bang for your buck with lots of unlockables and some really simple yet addictive gameplay. 8/10

New Super Mario Bros. on the 3DS!

Nintendo has recently announced at a conference that a 2D Mario platformer will come to the 3DS within the next fiscal year (April 2012- March 2013). This means that this time next year we could quite possibly be enjoying a New Super Mario Bros. game on the 3DS!

I really can't wait to see what this title looks like!

Nintendo Network?

It seems the final box art for Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy is online and, well, just look at the top right corner. There is a logo saying NINTENDO NETWORK? Is Nintendo going to release an online network with messaging and everything similar to XBox Live and PSN? Or is it just another internet rumor? Only time will tell...

... but I would love an online enabled Mario game!

Mario On The Wii U

The Wii U is inarguably the main thing to come out of Nintendo this year. Currently there have been many games revealed for it including a Rabbids game, Pikmin 3, a version of Batman: Arkham City and a Darksiders game announced among others. But where are the Mario games? Below is a list of Mario's outings on the Wii U-

New Super Mario Bros. Mii
This was one of many Wii U demos available at E3 2011, and was surely one of the most eye-catching! New Super Mario Bros. Mii is pretty much the same as any other 2D platformer, except the graphics are stunning and you can play as your own Mii! This one is already sold!

Untitled Super Smash Bros.
Talking about "sold", while this game may not even have a name yet I am bursting with excitement for this. So is the internet, with rumours about the characters and stages in this game sprouting up everywhere! Plus, this game will ALSO be available for the 3DS!

Super Mario ~~~~
Insert your own name here as nothing is known about it apart from that the same team behind the Super Mario Galaxy games is making it. Will it be Super Mario Galaxy 3, Super Mario Sunshine 2 or Super Mario Planet? Only time will tell...

Mario 10 Years Ago!

As we enter 2012 it is time to reflect on how Mario's life was 10 years ago, before we ever heard of dual screened gaming consoles and before Mario ever went to space!

2002 was one of Mario's greatest years. Sure, only four games were released that feature him, but he got to go on vacation in Super Mario Sunshine, the only Mario game to feature proper voice acting and my favourite Mario game ever!

The Gamecube's best selling game, Super Smash Bros Melee, had only just been released in the USA and was released in Australia and Europe in 2002. The game featured Mario, Yoshi, Princess Peach, Bowser and Donkey Kong among other characters from Nintendo's many franchises.

Meanwhile, on the Game Boy Advance, Super Mario Advance 3: Yoshi's Island was released as a remake of Super Mario World 2. The game was known for it's cute art style and surprisingly hard gameplay. 

Finally, to top it all off, Mario Party 4 was released on the Gamecube. It is, in my opinion, the best Mario Party game ever released!

If you have never played some of those games, I'd recommend you do. Remember, the Wii can play any Gamecube games (unless you've got one of those new ones) and the DS Lite can play any Gameboy games. OR, if your a 3DS Ambassador (like me) you can download Yoshi's Island for FREE!

Mario on the PS3 and Xbox 360!

How many of you readers have ever felt like playing a Mario game, only to realise that you own no Nintendo consoles? Not many, but if you are looking for a Mario-like game on the PS3 or Xbox 360, you have come to the right place. Here are my top 3 Mario-like platformers for the PS3 and Xbox 360-

1. Rayman Origins
This wacky four player platformer really is some of Rayman's best. Gone are the annoying Rabbids that we have come to know so well- Rayman Origins is a traditional platformer with a splash of creativity. Plus, it's only $19.95 at US Toys'r'Us stores!


2. Fancy Pants Adventures
Fancy Pants is one of the most smooth and agile characters ever to appear in a platfomer. He is super fun to play as and his game is great quality with it's simplistic artstyle and engaging gameplay. The best part is that it's only $16 on the PlayStation Store. If you like Mario, this game is utterly essential.


3. Sonic Generations
Sonic may be Mario's ultimate rival, but that doesn't mean you can't play his games. In Sonic Generations, Werehogs, Swords and Secret Rings are gone, leaving us with only the parts of Sonic games we love. Although it is only one payer and quite different to Mario, if you like Mario games you'll love this gem!


If you own a Nintendo console- Sonic Generations is available for the 3DS and Rayman Origins for the Wii.


Did this help you on your quest for a Mario filled life? Do you have any more suggestions? Sound off in the comment section below!

Happy New Year!

That's right, it's now officially 2012, and today I am going on holidays for a week, over to a place with no internet connection. I know, it's terrible, isn't it?

On the Mario side of my life, for Christmas I received a copy of Super Mario 3D Land, which is downright amazing. I would say that if you do not currently have Super Mario 3D Land, get it!

But Super Mario 3D Land is only the beginning, I reckon this year will be the "Year of the Mario" as it marks the return of Mario Party, the release of the Wii U and the rise of the 3DS with Mario Tennis, Paper Mario 3DS and Luigi's Mansion 2 due to be released.

I've even designed a corny poster for it-

The Mini Mario Kart 7 Review!

I received Mario Kart 7 for the 3DS last Tuesday and have since been hard at work completing 100cc on Grand Prix mode. So now, I'm a toughened veteran of the new "gliding" business and am ready to write a mini-review of this game.

First, may I note that Mario Kart 7 is the most FUN Mario Kart game I have EVER played! Don't get fooled by the simplistic menus, this game is jam-packed full of new features. For example, your Kart now has a glider, meaning it is possible to glide places! Also, you can now customise the Kart's wheels and glider attachment, each altering the speed, acceleration, handling and weight of your character's kart. It doesn't end there though- The new tracks are some of the best the series has offered so far, with a truly confusing Rainbow Road track. And the online features are also better than ever! Unlike some other 3DS games, the fact that it is in 3D is almost lost in the jungle of all the other improvements that have been made in this game. 

These features may have what it takes to make the game fun, but does it last? Well, there may be plenty of kart and wheel options in this game, but there are only 16 characters to play as in the whole game! Also, the eight unlockable characters are all unlocked by playing in the 150cc mode, meaning it is pointless playing the game in 50cc or 100cc. There are only 6 courses in battle mode too, which is a disappointment.

Luckily for Mario fans everywhere that is where Mario Kart 7's bad points end, with the rest of the game being composed of pure awesomeness. In fact, if you don't have a 3DS and this is only game on it you want, buy a 3DS just for this! IT IS THAT GOOD!

I rate it-                                                               9.5/10

Also, don't forget to join my MK7 community called Glide Crazy!

Am I Betraying Mario?

Recently I haven't been updating this blog much, which I am quite sorry about. You see, I'm a Syward Sword addict now and also I have been busy making strange Youtube videos like this one-

Lucky for my faithful readers though, I am here to announce that I am back into this three times a week blogging business! Plus, I recently got Mario Kart 7 which I will post a micro-review of later.

Super Mario 3D Land AND Skyward Sword

Today is a lucky day for Australian fans of Nintendo (like me) as it marks the release of Super Mario 3D Land as well as The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword on Australian shores. I know what you're thinking, and yes, Australia is late. While people in the UK and USA have already finished these games, they only just came out in Australia. That is why I placed my order on Skyward Sword from the UK. (But it still hasn't arrived yet!!!).

Anyway, my point is now is a great time to be a Nintendo fan as the latest and best Zelda game arrives almost simultaneously to the 3DS's first killer game from Nintendo that isn't a port!

So, I hope you guys have fun with these games, and I hope my shipment comes soon!

Drive a Full-Sized Mario Kart!

Have you ever wanted to drive a real life Mario Kart? Well, now you can if you are a member of GameStop's PowerUp Rewards program, who will be holding a competition where for every purchase at gamestop two entries are given to the buyer. Then, two super lucky winners will win an actual full-sized Mario Kart.

Note: Reggie (driver) not included.

Now I wish they had GameStop stores in Australia!

PETA Anti-Mario Campaign Was a Joke?

If you've been keeping up with Mario news recently, you might have noticed that PETA has made a campaign against Mario wearing a Tanooki suit, saying that it encourages fur trade for Tanookis in Japan.

Of course, most people who have read about this are just thinking "It's just Mario, a game. How could it encourage fur trade?" Well, PETA responded today stating-

Mario fans: Relax! PETA’s game was meant to be tongue-in-cheek, a fun way to call attention to a serious issue, that raccoon dogs are skinned alive for their fur. We wish real-life tanukis could fly or swat enemies away with their tails and escape from those who profit from their skins. You can help them by never buying real fur.

But still, I thought this whole venture was a bit mean to Mario!

Mario Pictures on Tumblr

Recently, as you may be aware, I started partially running this blog on Tumblr. Well, I have found some nice pictures of Mario there- Here are some of them!

From- http://flyingmouse365.tumblr.com/

From- http://slimemansion.com

From- http://www.gamememo.com 

Also from GameMemo

Rayman VS Mario, Who's The Real Winner?

If you remember, a while back I created a face-off between Mario and Rayman, foreseeing the winner. Well, now both Super Mario 3D Land and Rayman Origins have been reviewed by IGN, and that means I will be comparing the two in different game aspects-

Graphics- SM3DL has what is arguably the best graphics on the 3DS, which creates a nice, neat game. Meanwhile, Rayman Origins has one of the most interesting and unique artstyles ever, making it just above Mario in this aspect.
Winner- Rayman!

looks better in 3D!

Sound- In Rayman Origins the music track almost perfectly matches the gameplay, and includes some catchy tunes. However, the constant babbling from secondary characters can get annoying. Super Mario 3D Land, however, has an outstanding array of sound effects and old and new music that make this game have one of the most catchy soundtracks in any platformer to date.
Winner- Mario!

Gameplay- Whereas Rayman boasts co-op play and hilarious moves, Super Mario 3D Land has the most addicting and fun game mechanics of any other Mario handheld game to date, and that is saying something!
Winner- Mario!

Did I forget to mention that you can slap your friends?

Lasting Appeal- Rayman Origins offers tons of replayability to have with your mates with numerous amounts of collectibles, however Super Mario 3D Land has a sheer mass of levels! And, with added Streetpass connectivity, it is one of the most replayable games in the Mario series, making this a clear winner.
Winner- Mario!


Winner- Although its graphics will never match Rayman Origin's, Super Mario 3D Land has managed to  trump its competitor in all other categories, making it a must-have for the 3DS. So, therefore, let me say this battle is over and the winner is Super Mario 3D Land!