04.12.07
Wii: Internet download service
DQ Swords (download section has a wallpaper up) is coming out on 12th July for approx. £34 in Japan. Square Enix has also been busy with six new titles for the DS coming out this summer, that’s hardly games-related, but dealing with the genres of hobbies and interests called DS: Style: 地球の歩き方DS (3 separate softwares that deal with a detailed guide for tourists to Italy, France and Thailand); 花咲くDSガーデニングLife (for gardeners… ironic, considering a lot of people won’t be able to afford a garden living in the suburbs); DSでクラシック 聴いてみませんか？ (listening to classical music on DS); 今日から始めるDSヨガレッスン（仮称） (Yoga lessons). As regards the first tourist based software, they’re thinking of releasing Taiwan, NY and Hawaii versions as a second set, and following them with ten more titles within this year.
From today, it’s now possible for Wii users to use the Internet channel download service. Download for free until the end of June – afterwards, 500Wii points will be deducted via credit card. Those of you who had downloaded during the free service time, will be able to continue using it for free… so say this source. i-filter for Wii will ensure that your kids don’t get access to dodgy sites etc – again deals for the launch is available, but only if you can read Japanese. Either way at £1.50 a month, it’s not much to quibble about. The virtual console on Wii is due to release Star Fox 64 this month, among other titles.
According to this article, Heroes of Mana has changed the perceptions of many Mana fans. Action adventure, it has been pretty much, and yet this one’s turned to the realms of RTS (real time strategy). “Get your ingredients, make your army” type, basically. I guess the review makes it sound like Puzzle Quest, another hybrid adventure game.