Beginning this month and leading straight into the holiday season, Nintendo is bringing a variety of bundles to retailers all across Canada. If you’re in the market for a New Nintendo 2DS XL or a Nintendo Switch game, then they just might have something for you.

First up is a new purple/silver New Nintendo 2DS XL with Mario Kart 7 pre-installed, all for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $199.99. In addition, the already available black/turquoise and white/orange color schemes will also be updated on the same day to include the game.

That very same day, new “starter pack” versions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Splatoon 2, and Super Mario Odyssey will arrive in stores with strategy guides packed in. Each one retails for an MSRP of $79.99.

Fast-forward to December 7th and the release of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for the Nintendo Switch, and you’ll find a bundle containing the game, a steel case, and a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller emblazoned with the Super Smash Bros. logo, all for an MSRP of $179.99. If you’d rather just have the controller by itself, though, you can get that on the same day for an MSRP of $99.99.

Alongside these releases, new titles are on the way, including Super Mario Party on October 5th, Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! on November 16th, and the aforementioned Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on December 7th, all on the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo 3DS won’t be left out, either, as WarioWare Gold and Yo-Kai Watch Blasters were released recently, while Luigi’s Mansion is going to arrive just in time to make this Halloween the most spook-tacular it can be on October 12th.

“We want to give people a variety of options and price points when shopping for themselves or the Nintendo fans in their lives,” said Reggie Fils-Aime, President and Chief Operating Officer of Nintendo of America. “Whether looking for a portable system for a first-time gamer or a cool controller to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Nintendo has great gifts for all ages this holiday season.”

Earlier today, Nintendo streamed a brand-new Nintendo Direct that revealed all sorts of new and renewed games coming to the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch.

The biggest announcement of all of these is that a new Super Smash Bros. title is coming to the Nintendo Switch in 2018. Is it an enhanced port of the Wii U/Nintendo 3DS game? Is it a full-fledged sequel? We don’t know! All we know is that there are some familiar faces, the addition of the Inklings (not as Mii costumes this time), and that they don’t have an official title for it yet, which would probably help answer at least some of that.

In terms of anything else that is specifically regarding Canada, there isn’t much — it’s all pretty general. Well, except for one thing.

Nintendo has announced the ARMS US & Canada Online Open Tournament. That’s right — we may be shut out of stuff like the Nintendo World Championships (unless you want to travel to one of the handful of U.S. locations to try your luck), but this one is open to a little northern hospitality.

Just don’t expect any time to warm up — this thing is going on right now, and you have until March 18th to participate in ARMS‘ Ranked Match mode and be a contender. The eight top-ranked competitors will then get to take part in the finals, streamed live from Nintendo of America headquarters on March 31st at 10am PT, which you’ll be able to view through this link. The finalists will not only receive bragging rights, but also a custom piece of artwork as well.

If you don’t have your own copy of ARMS, you may also be interested to learn that a new Global Testpunch will run from March 30th to April 1st.

So that’s the big stuff. If you missed the Nintendo Direct, you can catch it right here, and find more details in the press release below.

THE SUPER SMASH BROS. SERIES HEADS TO NINTENDO SWITCH IN 2018

Nintendo Direct Presentation Highlights Many Upcoming Games for Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo 3DS Family of Systems

VANCOUVER B.C., March 8, 2018 – During its latest Nintendo Direct presentation, Nintendo announced that the Super Smash Bros. franchise is coming to Nintendo Switch this year. The video also showcased more than a dozen upcoming games for both the Nintendo Switch system and the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, with many of the featured games coming from third-party developers, including SQUARE ENIX, Capcom, Grasshopper Manufacture, From Software and Ubisoft.

“Nintendo Switch and Nintendo 3DS are being propelled through 2018 with an energized lineup of games of all kinds,” said Doug Bowser, Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “These games contain a solid mix of first-party franchises starring some of Nintendo’s most recognizable characters, acclaimed third-party titles and promising indies.”

To view the Nintendo Direct video in its entirety, visit http://www.nintendo.com/nintendo-direct. Some of the highlights revealed in the video include:

Nintendo Switch

• Nintendo Switch Super Smash Bros.(working title): The Super Smash Bros. series comes to Nintendo Switch in 2018. The teaser trailer featured recognizable faces like Mario, Link and the Inklings from the Splatoon series.
• New Single-Player Expansion Coming to Splatoon 2: The first paid DLC is coming to Splatoon 2this summer. Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion adds a hefty new single-player mode that lets players play as new character Agent 8, an Octoling (!) with lost memories. The new single-player campaign features 80 missions, as well as new stories that shed new light on beloved characters. Players that complete the Octo Expansion campaign will unlock the ability to play as Octolings in multiplayer battles. While Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion launches this summer, players can pre-purchase the DLC starting today in Nintendo eShop to immediately receive Octo-themed in-game gear to use in battle right away. (The full version of the game is required to use DLC.)
• Major Splatoon 2Update: In April, Splatoon 2 is getting a major free update (Version 3.0) that contains 100+ new pieces of gear, more stages rolling out throughout spring (Piranha Pit, Camp Triggerfish and Wahoo World) and a new rank (Rank X). Rank X is an extreme rank, even higher than S+.
• Mario Tennis Aces: Unleash an arsenal of shots and strategies in all-out tennis battles with friends, family and fan-favourite Mushroom Kingdom characters. With up to four-player local (additional accessories may be required and are sold separately) and online* multiplayer, and a story mode that even includes creative boss battles, Mario Tennis Acesis one of the most robust Mario sports games yet. The intuitive and deep gameplay allows for exciting competitions in the living room or, really, anywhere using the power of Nintendo Switch. In Swing Mode, players can use their Joy-Con controllers like a tennis racket, swinging them to initiate the tennis swings in the game. Mario Tennis Aces launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on June 22.
• Mario Tennis AcesPre-launch Online Tournament: More details will be revealed in the future, but a free Mario Tennis Aces demo is coming soon. For a limited time, players can try out online* tournament matches in the game before it launches. To participate, players just have to download the Pre-launch Online Tournament in Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch.
• Kirby Star Allies: Kirby is coming to Nintendo Switch for the first time next week! As players make their way through the robust adventure, they will reach dream palaces where fan-favourite legacy characters can become Kirby’s Dream Friends. Eventually, more Dream Friends will be added to the game through free updates. The first such update hits March 28 and adds classic characters Marx, Gooey and character set “Rick & Kine & Coo” to the game. Kirby Star Allieslaunches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on March 16. A free demo for the game is currently available in Nintendo eShop.
• Octopath Traveler: Producer Masashi Takahashi from SQUARE ENIX revealed new details about the upcoming RPG, including the final game name, Octopath Traveler, two more main characters (Tressa the Merchant and Alfyn the Apothecary) and the ability to equip multiple jobs per character for use in battle. Octopath Travelerlaunches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on July 13. Octopath Traveler: Wayfarer’s Edition, a special edition bundle that includes a stylized pop-up book, a helpful cloth map, the Octopath Traveler: Sound Selections CD and a replica coin based on the in-game currency, launches the same day.
• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker: Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, which originally launched for Wii U, is coming to Nintendo Switch. The new version includes new miniature courses based on various Kingdoms in the Super Mario Odysseygame. Also, anyone can play with a friend or family member by sharing a pair of Joy-Con controllers. While one player controls Captain Toad, the other can assist with things like turnip cover fire. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker launches for Nintendo Switch on July 13. A Nintendo 3DS version of Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, which includes stereoscopic 3D visuals and touch-screen controls, also launches on July 13.
• Crash Bandicoot Crashes Nintendo Switch: Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, which includes remastered versions of the first three Crash Bandicootgames, launches for Nintendo Switch on July 10.
• Okami HD: The gorgeous and ethereal remake of classic action-adventure game Okamiis coming to Nintendo Switch. In the Nintendo Switch version of the game, players can use the touch screen in Handheld Mode or the Joy-Con motion controls in TV or Tabletop Mode to control the Celestial Brush to defeat enemies and solve puzzles. Okami HD launches in Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch this summer.
• South Park: The Fractured But Whole: The South Park gang is back in an outrageously offensive superhero RPG adventure. And with Nintendo Switch, players can now drop into South Park anytime, anywhere. In addition to the main game, all of the game’s add-on content will be available for purchase. South Park: The Fractured But Wholelaunches for Nintendo Switch on April 24.
• Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushido: Originally announced for Nintendo 3DS at last year’s E3, Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushidois also coming to Nintendo Switch! The action puzzle game finds players devouring conveyor-belt sushi, matching plates and then throwing them to defeat enemies. The basics are simple, but the gameplay is deep … and tasty! In the game’s multiplayer mode, players can even compete locally or online* against other players in intense matches. Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushido launches for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo 3DS on June 8.
• DARK SOULS: REMASTERED: The remake of the genre-defining and beloved original DARK SOULSgame launches for Nintendo Switch on May 25. On the same day, an amiibo figure based on Solaire of Astora will also be released. By tapping this amiibo, the popular “Praise the Sun” gesture can be used with reckless abandon from the start of the game. (The gesture can also be obtained through regular gameplay.) Players who want to take the game for a spin can participate in a “network test.” The free network test launches in Nintendo eShop, and will allow players to download and play a part of DARK SOULS: REMASTERED before it launches to try out the gameplay and unique online features. More details about the network test will be revealed soon.

• Travis Strikes Again: No More Heroes: When Travis Touchdown wanders into the game world, he goes on a rampage of epic proportions. The latest title in the cult classic No More Heroesseries contains a total of seven game titles, including an action game, racing game and puzzle game. By using another Joy-Con controller, two players can team up for co-op multiplayer action. Travis Strikes Again: No More Heroes launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch this year.
• Little Nightmares: Complete Edition:From award-winning developer Tarsier Studios comes Little Nightmares, a charmingly horrific puzzle-platforming adventure. The Complete Edition contains the two haunting tales of Six and The Runaway Kid in one package. You can even tap the PAC-MAN amiibo figure (sold separately) to unlock the Pakku Mask when playing. Little Nightmares: Complete Edition launches on May 18.
• UNDERTALE: The million-selling role-playing game in which nobody has to die is headed to Nintendo Switch. Launch details will arrive at a later date.
• Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition: The definitive edition (it’s in the title!) of Hyrule Warriorsbrings together dozens of characters from the Legend of Zelda series in an over-the-top action game. The game launches for Nintendo Switch on May 18.
• ARMSUS & Canada Online Open Tournament**: Players who want to show off their ARMS skills will be able to enter the ARMS US & Canada Online Open Tournament, which takes place in the Nintendo Switch game’s Ranked Match mode now through March 18. The eight top players in these preliminary rounds will have an opportunity to move on to the online finals on March 31. The finals will be streamed live from Nintendo of America HQ at https://arms.nintendo.com/videos/.
• ARMSTestpunch: A new global Testpunch for the ARMS game, which lets Nintendo Switch owners try out select modes for free, will be running for three days starting on March 31. To participate, players just have to download the Testpunch in Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch.

Nintendo 3DS

• WarioWare Gold: The frenetic WarioWareseries is back, and for the first time it’s on Nintendo 3DS! With 300 fast-paced microgames that can be controlled by pressing buttons, tilting the system, tapping the touch screen or using the microphone, WarioWare Gold is the biggest entry in the series. And for the first time, the game includes fully voiced characters. WarioWare Gold launches exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems on Aug. 3.
• Luigi’s Mansion: The original Luigi’s Mansion, which was a launch game for the Nintendo GameCube system in 2001, is coming to Nintendo 3DS. This remake has an updated look and new features, like a map that displays on the bottom screen and a boss rush mode. Luigi’s Mansionlaunches exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems this year.
• Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey: In this Nintendo 3DS remake of a classic Mario & Luigiaction RPG adventure, fans can replay (or play for the first time) Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story, one of the most critically acclaimed games in the Mario & Luigi series. It features new graphics and a new mode that tells the behind-the-scenes story of Bowser Jr. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey launches exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems in 2019.
• Dillon’s Dead-Heat Breakers: Action meets tower defense in Dillon’s Dead-Heat Breakers. In this new game, players take on the role of armadillo ranger Dillon, who teams up with an animalized version of the player’s Mii character to help stop enemy invasions and save the post-apocalyptic frontier. Dillon’s Dead-Heat Breakerslaunches exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems in Nintendo eShop on May 24. A free demo for the game will be available to download on May 10.
• Detective Pikachu: Starting today, this new detective adventure game starring self-proclaimed “great detective” Pikachu is available for pre-purchase on Nintendo eShop and Nintendo.com. The game, as well as an extra-large Detective Pikachu amiibo figure (sold separately), launches on March 23. (The game is playable in 2D only.)

Remember that Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo 3DS family of systems feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about other features, visit https://www.nintendo.com/en_CA/switch/ or https://www.nintendo.com/en_CA/3ds/.

*Nintendo Account is required. Online services and features, including online gameplay, are free until the paid Nintendo Switch Online Service launches in September 2018.

**NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of US and CAN; high-speed internet required. Qualifier Period begins 3/8/18 at 5PM PT and ends 3/18/18 at 4:59PM PT. To participate, play at least 50 matches in Ranked Matchduring Qualifier Period (Ranked Match only available after you beat Grand Prix). Based on ARMS in-game ranking system and winning percentages during Qualifier Period, 8 Finalists and 4 Alternates will be selected to be available to participate in Finals to be held 3/31/18. Winner of Finals will get 1 color artwork (ARV $125). Other Finalists and Alternates will get 1 artwork (ARV $50 each). Odds of winning depend on no. of participants. Restrictions apply. Visit https://arms.nintendo.com/rules.pdf and https://arms.nintendo.com/fr/rules.pdf for additional details and full rules. Sponsor: Nintendo of America Inc.

About Nintendo: The worldwide pioneer in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Nintendo Switch^™ system and the Nintendo 3DS^™ family of portable systems. Since 1983, when it launched the Nintendo Entertainment System^™, Nintendo has sold more than 4.5 billion video games and more than 710 million hardware units globally, including Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo 3DS family of systems, as well as the Game Boy^™, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS^™ family of systems, Super NES^™, Nintendo 64^™, Nintendo GameCube^™, Wii^™ and Wii U^™ systems. It has also created industry icons that have become well-known, household names, such as Mario, Donkey Kong, Metroid, Zelda and Pokémon. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo’s operations in the Americas. For more information about Nintendo, please visit the company’s website at https://www.nintendo.ca/.

The Nintendo Switch has been selling hot and fast ever since its early March release, so there’s a possibility you may not have one yet. Whether that’s the case, or you just want to try out the hottest new games on the new on-the-go home console, Nintendo of Canada has just the news for you.

Throughout the summer of 2017, fans across Canada will have the chance to take part in the Nintendo Switch Play Together events featuring 1-2-Switch, Snipperclips – Cut It Out, Together!, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, ARMS, and eventually Splatoon 2, once it’s been released on July 21st. Other activities for visitors include snapping pics at the themed Photo Walls, competing in the Competition Zone for prizes, getting to grab some Nintendo goods (while supplies last, of course), and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 4pm*, meet Mario or Luigi!

Lucky participants will also score a Nintendo Switch Play Together prize pack, which includes a Nintendo Switch system and one copy each of ARMS, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2. Full contest rules and regulations can be found here.

Here is the full schedule as it currently stands:

*Mario/Luigi schedule subject to change. 12-4pm is approximate timing and does not include breaks.
** Closed August 21 and 28
+Require general ticket purchase to events for access to grounds.

For further information and updates, be sure to check here and also visit Nintendo.ca.

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David Oxford is a freelance writer of many varied interests. If you’re interested in hiring him, please drop him a line at david.oxford (at) nyteworks.net.

From Thursday, April 28th through Sunday, May 1st, Nintendo of Canada is bringing the Nintendo Experience to the Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga, Ontario. In addition to getting to play Wii U and Nintendo 3DS titles such as Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, Star Fox Zero, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon, and Super Mario Maker, you’ll also have the opportunity to meet and have your picture taken with Mario from 12pm to 4pm on Saturday, April 30th and earn a ballot for daily prize drawings and the grand and first prizes on May 1st!

Source: Nintendo of Canada on Facebook

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David Oxford is a freelance writer of many varied interests. If you’re interested in hiring him, please drop him a line at david.oxford (at) nyteworks.net.

As if out of nowhere, Nintendo announced and showed a new Nintendo Direct on the evening of Thursday, March 3rd. Here it is in full:

I like how I hit things before, so I’m going to repeat that this time, with the post here focusing on the facts as we know them for the Canadian side (i.e. the prices we pay versus the States).

Star Fox Zero arrives for Wii U on April 22nd, and in two forms: the Nintendo eShop version for $64.99, and in a physical retail bundle with Star Fox Guard for $74.99. Star Fox Guard can also be purchased as a digital download from the Nintendo eShop for $19.99, and buying either game in the Nintendo eShop gives you a $10 discount to use towards the other game.

In anticipation of Monster Hunter Generations, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate will be $27.99 in the Nintendo eShop for 48 hours beginning at 3pm on Thursday, March 3rd.

Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation, the third path in which you don’t choose a side, will be available as downloadable content to either the Birthright or Conquest versions of the game on March 10th for $24.99.

With Azure Striker Gunvolt 2 announced, you can get the original Azure Striker Gunvolt game for $10.49 in the Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS until June 1st.

While Mini Mario & Friends: amiibo Challenge will be available for early access free with the purchase of any amiibo from Best Buy, Amazon.com, and GameStop in the States, it doesn’t appear that Canada has any such deal going, and we’ll have to wait until April 28th to play this free Wii U and Nintendo 3DS downloadable title.

Huh… and that’s really it. Not a lot of pricing information going on here. If you want a full look at the press release for other details, head on over to the next page.

As for my own thoughts, you can find what stuck out most to me over at PoisonMushroom.Org.

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David Oxford is a freelance writer of many varied interests. If you’re interested in hiring him, please drop him a line at david.oxford (at) nyteworks.net.

The first Nintendo Direct since President Satoru Iwata sadly passed away has finally arrived, and what a whopper it was! One kind of gets the feeling that they’ve been holding things back these last few months with how jam-packed it was with all kinds of great news for Nintendo fans and owners. In case you missed it, check it out here:

Normally, I wouldn’t approach the program this way, but at the moment, I just have entirely too much to do to have time for a point-by-point breakdown like I usually do. Since I try to hew on the Canadian side of things first and foremost, I’m highlighting what Nintendo of Canada has shared in a press release in terms of specifics to this country. In other words, pricing.

The November 13th release of Animal Crossing: amiibo Festival for Wii U will retail for $79.99 and includes amiibo figures of Isabelle and Digby, as well as three amiibo cards. Standalone Animal Crossing amiibo figures are slated for release the same day. For what it’s worth, I got to check out the game briefly at Nintendo’s recent holiday event, and as an Animal Crossing fan, I rather enjoyed what little I got to see.

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash info has been coming at a trickle recently, with the inclusion of Rosalina and Bowser Jr. in his Clown Car and using select amiibo figures as partners in online battles as highlights. This one comes out on November 20th at a price of $64.99.

Xenoblade Chronicles X comes out on December 4th (please look forward to my review) for $74.99, but those interested in the physical version can go into the Nintendo eShop now and download any or all of the optional four free high-speed data loading packs, which increase the speed of loading times in the game. For those getting the digital release, the packs come built-in.

Come January 22nd, Mario & Luigi return, as well as Paper Mario in Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam. This title is going for $49.99, and you can use compatible amiibo to create powerful character cards to use in battle — and there are quite a number to collect, featuring images of Mario and company from across all their many games.

Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon is available on November 20th for $49.99, and while you can play as one of 20 Pokémon, the entire roster of 720 are available to meet and encounter throughout.

Finally, this isn’t Canada-specific, but fans of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U/Nintendo 3DS will want to stay tuned for a special video presentation in December.

For those interested, you can find the full press release on the following page.

Update: And if you’re interested in what caught my eye over the course of the show, I’ve written it up over on PoisonMushroom.Org over the weekend.

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David Oxford is a freelance writer of many varied interests. If you’re interested in hiring him, please drop him a line at david.oxford (at) nyteworks.net.

Going out in a bit to check out Skylanders SuperChargers, so I’m keeping this one quick.

The Bridge for Wii U – “It’s Isaac Newton meets M.C. Escher” in this 2D logic puzzle game. You’ll have to master the art of manipulating gravity in order to find your way through these wild puzzles. Check out a trailer here.

Splatoon Testfire for Wii U – From 3 to 5pm PT each day from August 21st to 23rd, you can check out several maps and weapons in the multiplayer Turf War mode for free. You can download the demo now so you’ll be ready when the time comes to see what everyone’s been talking about.

Genghis Khan II: Clan of the Gray Wolf for Wii U – This Super NES strategy game tasks you with uniting the Mongolian tribes and conquering the world in one of two scenarios.

Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising for Wii U – More strategy, this time from the Game Boy Advance library as you must beat back the Black Hole army with your new Super Commanding Officer Powers.

Crab Cakes Rescue for Wii U – 100 puzzling levels test your ingenuity as you shed shells to create blocks so you can proceed. But you can only shed so many times before you run out!

Factotum for Wii U – You’re trapped in your ship with no power, lost in deep space. Fortunately, by using a control panel to guide two walker robots through 30 levels, you might be able to restore the power and and get life support back online. You might even solve the mystery of the voice who is guiding you…

Mortar Melon for Wii U – Ready, aim, and fire to collect all the fruits scattered across 72 levels. Just don’t let buzzsaws and other obstacles turn your watermelon into a fruit salad.

Woah Dave! for Wii U – Obliterate aliens, scoop up the pocket change they leave behind, and triumph. Up to two players compete simultaneously to see who is the better Dave.

Little Battlers eXperience for Nintendo 3DS – The year is 2050, and customized palm-sized robots are used to do battle. Equip parts from more than 130 sets to create one of 300,000 possible designs, then engage in real-time battles. You can team up with characters from the TV show, or join with friends for 3-on-3 battles.

3D Gunstar Heroes for Nintendo 3DS – Treasure’s SEGA Genesis classic is back, and now it’s in 3D! Team up with a friend wirelessly or go it alone in M2’s recreation of the shoot ’em up and save the world. Check out the trailer here.

Hatsune Miku: Project Mirai DX – Demo Version for Nintendo 3DS – Do you have the rhythm to keep up with the world’s most famous virtual singer? Find out if you’ve got what it takes before dropping the full price with this demo.

I Love My Cats – Demo Version for Nintendo 3DS – You love your cats, but do you love them enough to drop pay out for the full game? Find out if it’s for you with this demo.

Nintendo eShop Sales (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  • Take up to 66 percent off Capcom games like Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate and many more from 9 a.m. PT on Aug. 24 to 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 31. Visit http://www.nintendo.com/eshop/offers for more details.
• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
• Life of Pixel is 30 percent off (reduced from $9.99 to $6.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 3.
• Ping 1.5+ is 20 percent off (reduced from $4.99 to $3.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 3.
• Tilelicious: Delicious Tiles is 50 percent off (reduced from $5.99 to $2.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 10.
• Super Destronaut is 50 percent off (reduced from $1.99 to $0.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 3.

• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked is 33 percent off (reduced from $29.99 to $19.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 24.
  • Aqua Moto Racing 3D, Snow Moto Racing 3D and Real Heroes: Firefighter 3D from Zordix are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 3.
  • Senran Kagura Burst is 33 percent off (reduced from $29.99 to $19.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Sept. 15.

Permanent Price Reduction (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• Hazumi is reduced to $2.99 (from $3.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Aug. 20.

Activities

Art Academy: Home Studio Art Contest – For a chance to win a $20 Nintendo eShop Card code, just upload a time-lapse video of your work to YouTube by using the “Recordings” feature in Art Academy: Home Studio and tweet a link to the video to @NintendoAmerica with the hashtags #ContestEntry and #NintendoArtContest between 7am PT on August 6th and 5pm PT on August 20th. The contest is open to Canadians, excluding Quebec. For all the official rules, click here.

For more information, screens, and videos for each of this week’s releases, click on the corresponding links above.

We’ve got a fairly decent lineup of games and content this week, with a promise of more “hardcore” content coming to the Virtual Console throughout August, starting now. So let’s get right to it!

Super Smash Bros. DLC for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS – In addition to a free update which gives you the K.K. Slider costume for Mii Fighters as well as new Community Tournament and Regular Tournament modes, you can now upload saved replays to YouTube. Want more? It’ll cost you, but Mii Fighter costumes are available, as are the Peach’s Castle and Hyrule Castle stages from the original Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 64.

New Splatoon Update for Wii U – New modes include the Squad Battle, which allows players to create a squid squad with their friends and head into Ranked Battle modes together, and Private Battle lets two to eight friends throw down in customizable matches. Beyond that, there are new weapons, level cap increases, and more than 40 new pieces of gear. More is still to come throughout the Summer and Fall, too.

Golden Sun: The Lost Age for Wii U – After the heroes of Golden Sun have been abandoned, it’s time for a new age as the world enters darkness. Use your psychic energy to shape the land and fell your foes before the original heroes can stop you as you try to safeguard humanity. Check out the trailer here.

ONIMUSHA TACTICS for Wii U – Join the young Ogre Clan warrior Onimaru as he seeks to bring down the empire of Nobunaga and his Genma armies in this feudal strategy title.

Astral Breakers for Wii U – Team up with or compete against a friend in this puzzle strategy game, or play solo if you would prefer. Either way, it’s up to you to save the universe by smashing spheres and racking up combos.

Kung Fu FIGHT! for Wii U – Run, jump, and fight the bad guys to save the girl in this retro-styled action game.

Etrian Odyssey 2 Untold: The Fafnir Knight for Nintendo 3DS – Experience a fully voice-acted new story with cutscenes and a fixed party, or revisit the original Etrian Odyssey 2 game with updated graphics and a full roster of classes. The choice is yours, and you can find a trailer for this one here.

Pokémon Rumble World Update Bonus for Nintendo 3DS – A new version of the game is now available, allowing you to visit a new area and gain bonus items. It gets a little complicated for a mere blurb, but you can find the details here.

Best of Arcade Games – Brick Breaker for Nintendo 3DS – It’s basically Breakout with some extra options.

Best of Arcade Games – Tetraminos for Nintendo 3DS – It’s basically Tetris… I think? Maybe a little too close to Tetris, as the link to the game’s page on Nintendo’s website no longer works as of this writing.

Japanese Rail Sim 3D Journey to Kyoto – Full and Demo versions for Nintendo 3DS – Or it’s just me, and Nintendo’s website is messed up at the moment. As of this writing, I’m getting the “Whoops” page here, too.

Jewel Quest 4 Heritage for Nintendo 3DS – “Whoops” again. If the links work again, you should be able to click right through and learn more, at least.

PICROSS e6 for Nintendo 3DS – And four makes me think it’s them and not me. Pretty sure you can look up almost any picross game and get the gist of this one, though.

Theme Shop on Nintendo 3DS

This week’s new themes are “Aeternoblade” and “Puzzle & Dragons Super Mario Bros. Edition.”

Nintendo eShop Sales (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  • ​Citizens of Earth on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS is 66 percent off (reduced from $14.99 to $4.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Aug. 10 until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 17.
• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • GetClose: A game for RIVALS is 66 percent off (reduced from $2.99 to $0.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on August 27.
  • Stealth Inc. 2: A Game of Clones is 50 percent off (reduced from $14.99 to $7.49) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 27.
  • Blok Drop U, Spikey Walls, TOSS N GO and more titles from RCMADIAX are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on September 30.
  • Plenty of Fishies is 40 percent off (reduced from $4.99 to $2.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on September 30.
  • Tiny Galaxy is 33 percent off (reduced from $5.99 to $3.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on August 7 until 8:59 a.m. PT on September 30.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl is 50 percent off (reduced from $29.99 to $14.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 10.
  • Brunch Panic, KAMI and Sweet Memories – Blackjack from Circle Entertainment are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 27.

Permanent Price Reduction (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• A-Train 3D: City Simulator has been reduced to $19.99 (from $29.99).
• Shin Megami Tensei IV will be reduced to $19.99 (from $29.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Aug. 10.

Activities

Art Academy: Home Studio Art Contest – For a chance to win a $20 Nintendo eShop Card code, just upload a time-lapse video of your work to YouTube by using the “Recordings” feature in Art Academy: Home Studio and tweet a link to the video to @NintendoAmerica with the hashtags #ContestEntry and #NintendoArtContest between 7am PT on August 6th and 5pm PT on August 20th. The contest is open to Canadians, excluding Quebec. For all the official rules, click here.

For more information, screens, and videos for each of this week’s releases, click on the corresponding links above.

I’m back! Did you miss me? I’m still catching up with some things, plus I’ve got some additional work on my plate, but I should be back in the regular swing of things soon enough. But bringing us one step closer to that is this week’s Nintendo Download, with a few good fascinating releases.

BADLAND: Game of the Year Edition for Wii U – The award-winning mobile game comes home to Wii U in this special release of the physics-based sidescroller. Go solo or bring along up to three players locally, and if you get tired of them, there are death matches to partake in as well! Check out the trailer here.

Xeodrifter for Wii U – Explore the stars as an interstellar drifter who uncovers secrets and defeats guardians to unlock ancient mysteries. Check out the trailer here, and know that if you buy the Wii U version of the title, you’ll get the previously-released Nintendo 3DS version free — or vice-versa.

Splatoon Update for Wii U – On August 5th, get ready for a free download which will add two new matchmaking modes, new weapon types, an increase to the level caps, and 40 new pieces of gear. “Following this update, more content will continually roll out through the rest of the summer and fall, including the Rainmaker Ranked Battle mode, additional maps and new weapons.”

Just Dance 2016 Demo Version for Wii U – Play this demo for free, and don’t worry if you don’t have a Wii Remote — downloading the free Just Dance controller app to your iOS or Android device will allow you to use it instead!

Kirby turns 23 on August 1st, but you can celebrate now with a triple heaping helping of the tough cream puff’s previous hits!

Kirby Squeak Squad for Wii U – This Nintendo DS game pits Kirby against the notorious Squeak Squad who have stolen his cake. To even the odds in his favor, you can now combine Kirby’s powers by dragging them together in his stomach, as portrayed on the bottom screen!

Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards for Wii U – Kirby goes 3D for this Nintendo 64 adventure as he tries to collect the 100 shards scattered across six worlds to put an end to the threat of Dark Matter. Similar to Squeak Squad, you can also combine two powers for a new superpower.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land for Wii U – Finally, Kirby’s bit Wii adventure is now available on the Wii U Virtual Console. While Player 1 controls Kirby, up to three friends can join in as King Dedede, Meta Knight, Waddle Dee, or even another Kirby for some teamwork. You can check out my review of the original release here.

Endless Golf for Wii U – “There is no win or lose, just Endless Golf.” Tee off on the touch screen in this procedurally-generated round of greens, hills, and traps.

Best of Board Games – Mahjong for Nintendo 3DS – A 60-board Adventure mode, a leisurely Free mode, and other features abound in this rendition of the classic board game Mahjong.

Best of Board Games – Solitaire for Nintendo 3DS – Hey, you’re going to have to pay for it in Windows 10 anyway, so you might as well consider your options. For the same price as a year of Microsoft’s version without ads, you’ll get five variations (Freecell, Golf, Pyramid, Klondike and Spider) with multiple options each, 40 challenges in Adventure mode, and the simple pleasure of Free mode.

Flick Golf 3D for Nintendo 3DS – Six courses challenge you to reach the high score in Quickshot, World Tour has you compete for trophies, and Quickshot Pro puts your skills to the “ultimate” test. Flick it to sink it!

Theme Shop on Nintendo 3DS

This week’s new theme is the “Etrian Odyssey Untold 2: Classic Theme.”

Nintendo eShop Sales (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • Elliot Quest is 15 percent off (reduced from $12.99 to $10.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on August 13
  • High Strangeness is 50 percent off (reduced from $9.99 to $4.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on Aug. 3 until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 9.
  • 99Moves, Abyss and Rock Zombie from EnjoyUp are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 27.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • Castle Conqueror Defender, Demon King Box and Quell Memento from Circle Entertainment are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 20.
  • Toys vs. Monsters is 50 percent off (reduced from $3.99 to $1.99) until 8:59 a.m. PT on Aug. 23.

Permanent Price Reduction (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham has been reduced to $19.99 (from $29.99).

Activities

Miiverse has a new look and features, including a Screen Shot Album and Play Journal.

In Code Name S.T.E.A.M., a new “Sink or Swim” tournament will run from July 31st through August 9th.

For more information, screens, and videos for each of this week’s releases, click on the corresponding links above.

On Friday, May 29th, I headed over to the Eaton Centre to check out the Inkling invasion of the mall’s central water fountain. Rather than the normal run of water that usually flows through its plumbing, this weekend saw the addition of a pair of Inklings and colored dye which turned the water orange… and gave me a tremendous craving for an orange Fruitopia.

Here’s a video package of it in action, complete with people checking it out:

Hey! Guy at 0:49! Don’t drink that! Just go to the McDonald’s downstairs like I did! The drinks there are only a dollar; it’s not worth risking your health over!

Anyway, while I was there checking it out, I also ran into the Nintendo of Canada crew, including spokesperson Heather Potter. As such, I opted to bring up a few questions about the game’s launch…

—

MH: Nintendo has launched some other new intellectual property (IP) in recent years, such as Pushmo, Dillon’s Rolling Western, and Code Name S.T.E.A.M. However, Splatoon feels like the first really big one (like, up there with Mario or Zelda big) to come along in quite a while. What has the atmosphere around the company been like in anticipation of this release?

HP: I think anytime we have a game launching, whether it’s a fan favourite like Mario Kart 8 or a new IP like Splatoon, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation. We spend a lot of time with these titles before they launch and the entire time we are thinking about how fans and families will receive them. With a new IP, there is a sense of the unknown which can be exciting. Once you start to see the excitement build with fans, you just can’t wait to release it.

How has the hype for the game been outside of the company? Any word on pre-order numbers at retail or in the Nintendo eShop yet? And how was the turnout for the Global Testire?

The excitement for Splatoon has been growing ever since last year’s [Electronic Entertainment Expo]. Once we announced the Global Testfires, we saw the excitement grow to a whole other level. Then fans had a chance to try out the Turf Wars and it became clear that fans were pumped for not only a new IP from Nintendo but a unique take on a 3rd person shooter.

Splatoon seems like a perfect summertime-themed game, which is only emphasized by its release date. Beyond the current Yogurty’s/Yogen Fruz promotion and the fountain events, are there any other further plans for more Splatoon events throughout the summer?

We are pleased to announce that we are bringing Splatoon across Canada this summer. Our Splatoon Splatter trucks are hitting the road on June 20th and touring the country until Labour Day weekend! Fans can come down to try out the Battle Dojo mode of Splatoon and take their photo with their friends and an inkling! There will also be onsite draws for some great Splatoon prizes. You can check out nintendo.ca for the full tour schedule.

What’s one Splatoon event or promotion you’d like to see? Part of me thinks that something with paintball or Super Soakers would be appropriate…

Splatoon definitely owes a nod to paintball and water fights and both are great summer activities. We’d love to see fans getting out there and using their Splatoon skills in their real life Turf Wars and vice versa!

Just for fun, what is your favorite Splatoon weapon?

My favourite weapon to play online with is the Splattershot. I like its rapid fire ability and the range it gives me. When I play the Battle Dojo mode though, I like to use the Splat Roller. Rolling over your opponent makes for a more dramatic win!

Finally, are there any other Nintendo events coming up in Canada this summer you’d like to talk about? I know E3 is just around the corner…

E3 is just around the corner and we’re excited for fans to hear what we’ve got coming for the rest of 2015. Mario Maker is coming out later this year and of course its Mario’s 30th anniversary, so fans have a lot to look forward to. Stay tuned.

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And stay tuned, I shall, and bring you whatever news comes our way! Until then, here’s my own footage of the fountain’s eruption cycle:

Splatoon was released for the Wii U on May 29th, 2015 at a price of $69.99 or in a bundle with the Wii U Deluxe Set w/Nintendo Land $329.99.

Nintendo of Canada has announced that the Splatoon Splatter truck will kick off the Splatoon Canadian Summer Tour on June 20th and travel across the country through September 7th, 2015.

At the truck’s numerous stops, fans will have the opportunity to enter a contest to win the following prize pack:

Each week, two lucky winners will win a packaged copy of the Splatoon video game, a Splatoon amiibo 3-pack, and a Splatoon decal with which to decorate your Wii U GamePad controller.

Via Nintendo of Canada, following is the chronological list of locations:

 

Date	Location	Address
June 26-27	Yogurty’s	3454 Avenue du Parc Montreal, QC H2X 2H5
June 26-28	Golden Spike Days	2715 Esplanade Street Port Moody, BC V3H 3P4
July 1	Canada Day at the Park	Jacues Cartier Park Rue Laurier Gatineau, QC
July 1	Abbotsford Canada Day	32315 South Fraser Way Abbotsford, BC V2T 1W7
July 3	Yogen Fruz	1280 Robson Street Vancouver, BC V6E 3Z6
July 3 – 5	Taste of Lawrence	Wexford Heights BIA Victoria Park Avenue & Lawrence Avenue East Scarborough, ON
July 4	Surrey Night Market	17726 62nd Avenue Surrey, BC V3S 1W8
July 5	Richmond International Night Market	8700 McKim Way #3063 Richmond, BC V6X 4A5
July 9	Yogurty’s	2203 Bloor Street West Toronto, ON M6S 1N5
July 10 – 12	Whistler Blackcomb	4545 Blackcomb Way Whistler, BC V0N 1B4
July 11	Yogurty’s	482 Dundas Street West Oakville, ON L6H 6R8
July 12	Yogurty’s	527 Bloor Street West Toronto, ON M5S 1Y5
July 16 – 19	Mondial des Jeux – Loto Quebec	2101 Boul St-Laurent Montreal, QC H2X 2T5
July 17	Yogurty’s	3803 Calgary Trail, Unit 650 Edmonton, AB T6J 5M8
July 18 – 19	Westerner Days	4847A 19th Street Red Deer, AB T4R 2N7
July 23 – 25	Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede	2055 21st Avenue SE Medicine Hat, AB T1B 1A5
July 23 – 25	L-Abondance en Fete	CP 4737 Mont-Tremblant, QC J8E 1A1
July 30 – 31	Yogurty’s	26 McKenzie Towne Gate SE Calgary, AB T2Z 0N2
August 1	Calaway Park	245033 Range Road 33 Calgary, AB T3Z 2E9
August 1 – 3	Natal Day Festival	Multiple Park Locations Halifax, NS
August 2	Cobbs Corn Maze and Family Fun Park	1500 84th Street NE Calgary, AB T2A 7X4
August 6	Yogurty’s	9999 Highway #1 Saulnierville, NS B0W 2Z0
August 6 – 9	Penticton Peach Fest	Okanagan Lake Provincial Park Summerland, BC V0H 1Z0
August 8 – 9	Digby Scallop Days	Water Street, Digby B0V 1A0 Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
August 14 – 15	Dieppe Kite Festival	Water Street, Digby B0V 1A0 Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
August 16	Kelowna Art Gallery	1315 Water Street Kelowna, BC V1Y 9R3
August 16	Acadie Rock	140 Botsford Street Moncton, NB E1C 4X5
August 19 – 22	Whoop Up Days	3401 Parkside Drive South Lethbridge, AB T1J 4B3
August 20 – 23	Expo Quebec	250 Boulevard Wilfrid-Hamel Quebec, QC G1L 5A7
August 28 – 30	Sunlife Financial Waterloo Buskers Carnival	100 Regina Street South Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8
August 29	Market Mall	2325 Preston Avenue Saskatoon, SK S7J 2G2
August 30	Yogurty’s	210 South Service Road Melville, SK S0A 2P0
September 3 – 6	Fan Expo	222 Bremner Boulevard Toronto, ON M5V 3L9
September 5 – 6	GoldEyes	Shaw Park Winnipeg, MB
September 7	CNE	210 Princes’ Boulevard Toronto, ON M6K 3C3

Further stops may be added, and Nintendo of Canada encourages following them on Twitter and Facebook for further updates.

The full list of rules and other details (including a province-by-province list of stops) can be found here.

Sorry about the lateness on this one, but in case you missed it, Nintendo presented a “Nintendo Direct Micro” yesterday which brought a bunch of interesting news as we head into this year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo. Check it out:

The highlights from the press release include a new Chibi Robo game for Nintendo 3DS called Chibi-Robo!: Zip Lash, which will have a bundle with a Chibi-Robo amiibo figure that can transform the character into Super Chibi-Robo in certain stages and help level the character up. Dr. Mario: Miracle Cure is coming to Nintendo 3DS on June 11, and features a combination of classic Dr. Mario and Dr. Luigi modes, as well as the new titular “Miracle Cure” which can clear away large swaths of viruses and pills all at once.

Late this year, Nintendo 3DS owners can get their hands on LBX: Little Battlers eXperience on August 21 and Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon this winter. Meanwhile, Bravely Second End Layer is officially confirmed for a North American release, though that won’t be until 2016.

As an aside, I’m still working on my review of Puzzle & Dragons Z + Puzzle & Dragons Super Mario Bros. Edition, but that hasn’t stopped Nintendo from releasing free additional content for it. “In addition to two extra free unlockable worlds in both the Puzzle & Dragons Z and Puzzle & Dragons Super Mario Bros. Edition games, players can now start enjoying free weekly online distributions exclusively for Puzzle & Dragons Z.”

Oh, and on that note, while I’m still doing my review, the Tiny Girl Tiny Games version is up now. Better still? You can win a copy if you enter before June 6!

Moving on to Wii U, but not entirely away from Nintendo 3DS: Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games is coming in August 2016! Soccer and Table Tennis are in the Nintendo 3DS version, whereas Soccer, Rugby, and Beach Volleyball are on Wii U. There’s also a Golf event in one of them, along with new characters. The best part, in my opinion, is that they’re doing another Nintendo 3DS one after skipping out on that version for Sochi. In fact, that mode is why I tend to prefer the portable versions over their console big brothers.

On the full Wii U front, Nintendo showed off the above trailer for Bandai Namco’s Project Treasure and announced that Art Academy: Home Studio will be coming to the Nintendo eShop on June 25. Perhaps more exciting for the here and now, however, is the first free downloadable content for Splatoon: the new Port Mackeral map, the opening of Ranked Battle mode, and the N-Zap ’85 weapon, seen at the top of this article.

For those too young to remember, the N-Zap ’85 is based on the Zapper light gun peripheral which came with many a Nintendo Entertainment System upon its release in the United States in 1985. According to the Splatoon website, “The N-Zap 85 is a shooter with excellent ink efficiency and rapid-fire capability. Its attack power isn’t all that, but it’s fabulous at quickly charging up the Echolocator special weapon. Combined with Splat Bombs, this set caters to fighters who like to cover a lot of ground in battle.”

If it’s of any interest to you, the 2015 Nintendo World Championships kick off at 3pm PT on Sunday, June 14, but there will be pre-show broadcasts prior to the event. Also, while the full roster of games won’t be made known until showtime, “hopeful contestants can prepare to compete in the original The Legend of Zelda, as well as a mix of other Nintendo games.”

Finally, Nintendo is expanding its social media presence, and you can follow them on both Periscope and Snapchat under the username @NintendoAmerica, where they will have behind-the-scenes content before and during the Electronic Entertainment Expo, which runs from June 16 to June 18.

For those who might happen to be near Toronto’s Eaton Centre or Place Montreal Trust from May 29 through May 31, you might want to check out the local water fountain. If you do, you’re sure to find something… inky.

Nintendo of Canada is celebrating the launch of Splatoon with this “inkredible” event, featuring lots of colourful bright orange flow from the fountains and Inkling girls created by Fresh Never Frozen Art. There’s no mention of the actual game being there, for those wondering, but it still makes for a cool thing to see if you’re in the area!

Here are the details:

Eaton Centre Hours

Wednesday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Saturday – 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM

Sunday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Place Montreal Trust Hours

Wednesday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Splatoon goes on sale… today, actually. Right now, if I’m not mistaken, if you’re going through the Nintendo eShop on Wii U to purchase it. And you can find my pre-release review for it right here.

Mega May wraps up with a surprise bang, among other cool releases.

Splatoon for Wii U – Available May 29, but you can check out my review right now. Challenge friends and strangers alike in 4 on 4 Turf Wars online, or unlock the secrets of Octo Valley on your own! Check out the trailer here.

Don’t Starve: Giant Edition for Wii U – You help a guy out, and then he tosses you out into the wilderness to survive on your own. Typical. Science, magic, and other creepiness await in the randomly generated world, and there are no extra lives here — death is permanent. Fortunately, you can share the adventure thanks to a special launch promotion that gives you a second code to gift to a friend! Check out the trailer here.

Mega Man Battle Network 4 Blue Moon and Mega Man Battle Network 4 Red Sun for Wii U – This is where the Mega Man Battle Network series really tries to do something new, particularly with the two-versions strategy. Both games have the same core plot line, but the various stages and bosses between those portions are not only different between versions, but also change with each New Game + playthrough! Plus, Battle Chips and other items differ between versions as well.

Mega Man Zero 3 for Wii U – A surprise addition to the roster to wrap up the Mega May lineup, Mega Man Zero 3 is my personal favorite of the series. In truth, it probably most closely resembles the Mega Man X series with this installment, too, so there may be a correlation. The evil Dr. Weil has returned to Neo Arcadia with the legendary Reploid Omega, and it seems he may have the key to the missing part of Zero’s mysterious past.

Rival Turf! for Wii U – Six stages of 90’s-style Super Nintendo Entertainment System brawling await you, on your own or with a friend — or you can take each other on instead!

Baila Latino for Wii U – Up to four players of all ages can enjoy the 20 American Latin songs included in this dance fitness game.

SDK Paint – Demo Version for Wii U – Unsure if the life of a 2D painter and a 3D modeler is for you? Then try the free demo first!

GLORY OF GENERALS THE PACIFIC for Nintendo 3DS – Four battlefields, 64 campaigns, 105 world famous generals, and over 300 terrains await you in this strategy game as you make your way from soldier to marshal. Plus, if you have the prequel, you can earn a bonus as a veteran commander.

G.G Series WONDERLAND for Nintendo DSiWare and Nintendo 3DS – Who would have imagined anyone would make a vertically-scrolling shooter out of Alice in Wonderland? But here we are, as you shoot and bomb your way to go down the rabbit hole.

Theme Shop on Nintendo 3DS

New themes this week include “Mighty Switch Force!,” “Pokémon Shuffle,” “Pokémon: Mega Charizard X,” “Pokémon: Eevee Collection,” and as of May 29th, “Splatoon: Fresh Squid.”

Nintendo eShop Sales (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS
  • Transformers Prime (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS), The Amazing Spider-man 2 (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS) and more games from Activision are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 4.
  • 1001 Spikes (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS) is 50 percent off (reduced from $15 to $7.49) until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 18.
  • Color Zen (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS), Color Zen Kids (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS) and more games from Cypronia are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 30.
  • Luv Me Buddies Wonderland (Wii U and Nintendo 3DS) is up to 48 percent off (reduced to $12.90) until 8:59 a.m. PT on July 31.
• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • Zumba Fitness World Party is 75 percent off (reduced from $39.99 to $9.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on June 1 until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 8.
  • Fit Music is 56 percent off (reduced from $29.90 to $12.90) until 8: 59 a.m. PT on July 31.
• Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS
  • Crash City Mayhem is 75 percent off (reduced from $19.99 to $4.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on June 1 until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 8.
  • Cave Story, VVVVVV and more games from Nicalis are on sale until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 18.
  • Monster Combine TD is 35 percent off (reduced from $3.99 to $2.59) until 8:59 a.m. PT on June 25.

Price Reduction (Taken directly from Nintendo’s press release; prices in USD)

• Nintendo eShop on Wii U
  • Shuttle Rush is reduced to $3.99 (from $7.99) beginning at 9 a.m. PT on May 28.

Activities

Best Buy StreetPass Event – We may not get to partake in the Nintendo World Championships, but that isn’t stopping Nintendo from holding a StreetPass event to commemorate the occasion anyway. This event takes place from May 29 to May 31 exclusively at all Best Buy locations, where you can bring your Nintendo 3DS to “enhance StreetPass-enabled games you already own,” including such titles as Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Saphire. Plus, there’s the opportunity to gain more Puzzle Swap pieces and fill out other StreetPass Plaza games, too.

Pokémon Shuffle Update – A new update to the game brings new stages and features, such as the “Super Catch Power” that makes catching ’em all easier than before. Among other improvements are “How Hearts Accumulate, Checking Out Pokémon, and Combo Numbers Shown Longer,” which I’m sure means more to someone who has actually played the game. More details are available here just the same, though.

Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. “amiibo Agent” Tournament – The next Nintendo Public Tournament for Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. is running now until May 31, and you can find all the details about it here.

For more information, screens, and videos for each of this week’s releases, click on the corresponding links above.

Splatoon will finally be released for the Wii U on Friday, May 29, and all through the summer, Nintendo of Canada is teaming up with Yogurty’s and Yogen Früz to celebrate!

The two frozen yogurt chains will be offering three unique flavors inspired by the game between June 1 and September 8, 2015. You can choose between the Squidsicle sorbet and the Inkberry froyo, or for the third option, swirl the two together in order to create “Squid Ink.” What’s more, Yogen Früz locations will offer to splat your selection with “juice-bursting popping bubbles,” which come in mango and strawberry flavours.

Prior to this, however, there is going to be a special event held on Saturday, May 30 at the Toronto Yogurty’s located at 527 Bloor St W. From 2pm to 6pm, the first 100 people there to play Splatoon will get a free cup of frozen yogurt and toppings.

Then, beginning June 15, fans can visit the following participating Yogurty’s locations for a chance to play Splatoon:

Quebec

Yogurty’s Montreal – 3454 Avenue Du Parc

Saskatchewan

Yogurty’s Melville – 210 South Service Road

Alberta

Yogurty’s Calgary – 26 McKenzie Towne Gate SE, Unit 630
Yogurty’s Edmonton – 3803 Calgary Trail, Unit 650

Ontario

Yogurty’s Thornhill – 8020 Bathurst Street, Unit 4B
Yogurty’s Toronto – 1703 Avenue Road
Yogurty’s Toronto – 527 Bloor Street West
Yogurty’s Grimsby – 70 Livingston Avenue, Unit 1
Yogurty’s Milton – 147 Main Street East
Yogurty’s Vaughan – 9001 Dufferin Street, Unit A10
Yogurty’s Hamilton – 1807 Stone Church Road
Yogurty’s Niagara Falls – 4025 Dorchester Street
Yogurty’s Innisfil – 945 Innisfil Beach Road, Unit 9
Yogurty’s Burlington – 5010 Pinedale Avenue, Unit 1001 A

Nintendo of Canada is also encouraging Splatoon and froyo fans to share photos of their Splatoon froyo creations on Instagram and Twitter for a chance to win Splatoon prizes. For Yogurty’s customers, use the hashtags #SplatYourFroyo and #Splatoon; Yogen Früz patrons should instead use the combination of #InkYourFruz and #Splatoon.

If you’re interested in more information about Nintendo’s partnerships for this event, details for Yogurty’s can be found here, while Yogen Früz can be found here. More info about Splatoon can be found on the official webpage.

Be sure to check back at 10am ET on Wednesday, May 27 for my review of the game!