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Check out the second teaser trailer for Netflix's 'Sonic Prime'
Can't come fast enough!
The official Sonic the Hedgehog YouTube channel has released the second teaser for the upcoming Sonic Prime series, set to premiere on Netflix on December 15th, 2022.
The teaser can be seen above. It’s just over a minute in length, and it features various locations, characters, and voices set to appear in the show later this year. Of note are some interesting new designs for several of Sonic’s friends.
The trailer even gives us some ideas of the plot of the series, especially thanks to two title cards reading “The world he knows is about to shatter.”
A short synopsis of the show can be seen below.
The 24-episode animated adventure for kids, families, and long-time fans draws upon the keystones of the brand and features the “Blue Blur” of video game fame in a high-octane adventure where the fate of a strange new multiverse rests in his gloved hands. Sonic’s adventure is about more than a race to save the universe, it’s a journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Masahiro Sakurai's latest video tackles how to deal with changes in development plans
Change is inevitable!
Super Smash Bros. director Masahiro Sakurai has shared the latest video in his game design series on YouTube. The video explores on Sakurai’s approach to plans changing during development.
Sakurai lays out how even the most detailed plans can fall apart somewhere along the lengthy and complicated development process. Perhaps executives ask for changes, perhaps technical improvements or limitations take place, or sometimes a game is simply lacking in fun. This last possibility, according to Sakurai, should be avoided at all costs.
He goes on to explain how flexibility is an important part of development. Being able to respond to changes quickly is key, according to him. Sakurai also puts heavy emphasis on communicating when you notice something is wrong so it can be addressed right away.
The biggest lesson Sakurai delivers in this video is his approach to decision-making. His approach involves getting whatever relevant information he needs, then coming to a conclusion right then and there in order to get started on improvements. He still lays out plans carefully, but this flexibility allows him to get to work quickly on any problem.
Reminder: Splatoon 3 has been updated to version 1.2.0
Get back in the game!
Yesterday, Nintendo revealed the patch notes for Splatoon’s version 1.2.0 update. As of now, the update is officially live and all players can download the new version.
The changes arriving in version 1.2.0 are pretty extensive and cover everything from Amiibo to Splatfests. You can check out our coverage of the patch notes here!
Platinum Games shares message regarding treatment of 'Bayonetta 3' voice actress Jennifer Hale
A call for peace
With the recent controversy surrounding Bayonetta 3’s voice acting, new information and statements have emerged from all corners of the issue. Along with this information, a large amount of backlash has built with some even calling for boycotts of the upcoming game.
Some of that backlash, unfortunately, has also turned to Bayonetta’s new voice actress Jennifer Hale. Through all the information and allegations that have arisen, Hale has consistently called for civil discussion surrounding the matter. She has made it clear that her priority is to deliver her performance and that she wishes no ill will against Taylor.
Today, Platinum Games themselves have made their first official statement on the matter. Their statement joins Hale’s calls for civility. Platinum also asks that disrespectful comments towards Hale and others associated with the matter stop.
The team’s full statement can be seen in the Tweet below.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 updated to version 1.2.1
Patch note, singular
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has been updated to version 1.2.1. The update is available to download now and should improve the game, though details are currently vague.
The very brief information for today’s update can be seen below.
Ver. 1.2.1 (Released October 20, 2022)
General
- Addressed several issues to improve game play experience.
The newest episode of the Ninjala anime series has released online, titled “Ron is Always at Your Back.” The 23 minute episode is available to watch on the official PlayNinjala YouTube channel by clicking the link above. This week’s episode will be available to view for free until October 27th, 2022, so check it out while it’s available! A plot synopsis of the episode reads:
As usual, Mr. Bruce confuses the students with his constant puns. One of his puns gives Ron a sense of déjà vu, however, he can’t remember where he heard it before. During break time, Mr. Bruce is seen panicking over losing his key to the night duty room, when Ron suddenly appears. He grabs Bruce by the shoulders, trying to calm him down, when suddenly, they both recall a common memory…
Famitsu Top 30 software sales - October 10th to October 16th, 2022
Another week in the sun for Splatoon 3!
Famitsu has released its estimated weekly sales charts for physical game software sales in Japan. This week’s list sees Splatoon 3 holding on to the first place spot yet again, Dragon Quest X: Rise of the Five Tribes Offline keeping pace in second, NieR: Automata The End of YoRHa Edition finding its footing in third place in its second week of sales, and much more.
Nintendo Switch games overall took nine of the top ten spots, and 24 of the top 30 compared to their 23 slots last week.
The complete list is as follows, including total lifetime sales, via Gematsu:
- [NSW] Splatoon 3 (Nintendo, 09/09/22) – 97,071 (3,118,118)
- [NSW] Dragon Quest X: Rise of the Five Tribes Offline (Square Enix, 09/15/22) – 11,1145 (199,927)
- [NSW] NieR: Automata The End of YoRHa Edition (Square Enix, 10/06/22) – 9,672 (39,890)
- [NSW] Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo, 04/28/17) – 7,337 (4,873,017)
- [NSW] Minecraft (Microsoft, 06/21/18) – 6,941 (2,821,843)
- [NSW] Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival (Bandai Namco, 09/22/22) – 5,685 (52,358)
- [NSW] Dragon Ball: The Breakers (Bandai Namco, 10/13/22) – 5,312 (New)
- [NSW] Nintendo Switch Sports (Nintendo, 04/29/22) – 4,609 (754,799)
- [NSW] Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Nintendo, 12/07/18) – 3,856 (4,992,703)
- [PS4] Dragon Quest X: Rise of the Five Tribes Offline (Square Enix, 09/15/22) – 3,697 (70,841)
- [NSW] Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Nintendo, 03/25/22) – 3,562 (904,584)
- [NSW] FIFA 23 Legacy Edition (Electronic Arts, 09/30/22) – 3,543 (20,114)
- [PS4] FIFA 23 (Electronic Arts, 09/30/22) – 3,058 (30,143)
- [NSW] Mario Party Superstars (Nintendo, 10/29/21) – 2,962 (1,051,936)
- [NSW] Ring Fit Adventure (Nintendo, 10/18/19) – 2,859 (3,287,419)
- [PS4] Valkyrie Elysium (Square Enix, 09/29/22) – 2,721 (29,032)
- [NSW] Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo, 03/20/20) – 2,491 (7,340,557)
- [NSW] Fortnite Anime Legends Pack (Epic Games, 10/13/22) – 2,349 (New)
- [NSW] Momotaro Dentetsu: Showa, Heisei, Reiwa mo Teiban! (Konami, 11/19/20) – 2,139 (2,728,583)
- [PS4] Dragon Ball: The Breakers (Bandai Namco, 10/13/22) – 2,046 (New)
- [NSW] The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo, 03/03/17) – 1,949 (2,087,402)
- [NSW] Monster Hunter Rise + Sunbreak Set (Capcom, 06/30/22) – 1,890 (277,663)
- [NSW] Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury (Nintendo, 02/12/21) – 1,833 (1,082,203)
- [NSW] RPG Time! The Legend of Wright (Aniplex, 10/13/22) – 1,812 (New)
- [NSW] Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics (Nintendo, 06/05/20) – 1,628 (1,027,370)
- [PS5] Valkyrie Elysium (Square Enix, 09/29/22) – 1,575 (19,752)
- [NSW] One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 (Bandai Namco, 03/26/20) – 1,464 (163,925)
- [NSW] Pokemon Legends: Arceus (The Pokemon Company, 01/28/22) – 1,400 (2,299,574)
- [PS4] Earth Defense Force 6 (D3 Publisher, 08/26/22) – 1,252 (104,093)
- [NSW] eBASEBALL Powerful Pro Baseball 2022 (Konami, 04/21/22) – 1,249 (235,907)
'Loop8: Summer of Gods' receives a new trailer, along with a Japanese release date for March 16, 2023
Not too much longer now!
Time-travel based RPG Loop8: Summer of Gods was announced just last month for Nintendo Switch and other platforms. At the time, a release window of Spring 2023 was announced for the game, which promises to deliver “Choices That Can Change the World.”
Now, thanks to a brand new trailer from the team at XSEED Games, we know the game will head to Nintendo Switch in Japan on March 16th, 2023. Along with the release date, the trailer shows off plenty of characters and gameplay. You can check it out above to get a taste of what’s in store!
While no date for the western release of the title has been announced yet, it was also initially revealed with a Spring 2023 release window. This means that players in North America and Europe hopefully won’t have to wait too long to get their hands on this game.
Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak receives 12.0.1 update, available now
Fresh patch notes for your reading pleasure!
Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak has received another free update addressing bug fixes and balance adjustments. This brings the game to version 12.0.1. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is also due to receive its next major title update sometime next month.
This update is available to download now and includes a whole range of tweaks and changes. The full patch notes can be seen below.
Ninjala Anime Episode 40 releases on YouTube
The perfect time for a pumpkin-themed episode!
The newest episode of the Ninjala anime series has released online, titled “There Goes the Pumpking.” The 23 minute episode is available to watch on the official PlayNinjala YouTube channel by clicking the link above. This week’s episode will be available to view for free until October 20th, 2022, so check it out while it’s available! A plot synopsis of the episode reads:
A special pie is being served in the academy cafeteria, made from pumpkins homegrown by Ms. Amy. When reminiscing about his past, Van starts talking about his favorite picture book when he was young. The book was titled “The Pumpking”, where the hero, the Pumpking, fights off the pumpkin-eating Devil Ant. As Van told his childhood story, Mr. Bruce could be seen listening in with a lonely expression on his face…
Famitsu Top 30 software sales - October 3rd to October 9th, 2022
Splatoon 3 passes 3 million in Japan!
Famitsu has released its estimated weekly sales charts for physical game software sales in Japan. This week’s list sees Splatoon 3 maintaining its inkredible first-place run, NieR: Automata The End of YoRHa Edition finding a strong launch in second place, Dragon Quest X Offline keeping up the fight in third, and much more.
Nintendo Switch games overall took eight of the top ten spots, and 23 of the top 30 compared to their 19 slots last week.
The complete list is as follows, including total lifetime sales, via Gematsu:
- [NSW] Splatoon 3 (Nintendo, 09/09/22) – 120,564 (3,021,047)
- [NSW] NieR: Automata The End of YoRHa Edition (Square Enix, 10/06/22) – 30,218 (New)
- [NSW] Dragon Quest X: Rise of the Five Tribes Offline (Square Enix, 09/15/22) – 21,908 (188,782)
- [NSW] Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo, 04/28/17) – 10,522 (4,865,680)
- [NSW] Minecraft (Microsoft, 06/21/18) – 6,857 (2,814,902)
- [NSW] Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival (Bandai Namco, 09/22/22) – 6,677 (46,673)
- [PS4] Dragon Quest X: Rise of the Five Tribes Offline (Square Enix, 09/15/22) – 5,483 (67,144)
- [PS4] FIFA 23 (Electronic Arts, 09/30/22) – 5,364 (27,085)
- [NSW] Hakuouki Shinkai: Ten’un no Shou (Idea Factory, 10/06/22) – 5,101 (New)
- [NSW] FIFA 23 Legacy Edition (Electronic Arts, 09/30/22) – 4,788 (16,571)
- [NSW] Nintendo Switch Sports (Nintendo, 04/29/22) – 4,777 (750,190)
- [NSW] Nintendo Switch Sports (Nintendo, 04/29/22) – 3,638 (4,988,847)
- [NSW] Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Nintendo, 03/25/22) – 3,557 (901,022)
- [PS4] Valkyrie Elysium (Square Enix, 09/29/22) – 3,016 (26,311)
- [NSW] Mario Party Superstars (Nintendo, 10/29/21) – 2,909 (1,048,974)
- [PS4] The Legend of Heroes: Kuro no Kiseki II -CRIMSON SiN- (Falcom, 09/29/22) – 2,866 (39,127)
- [NSW] Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo, 03/20/20) – 2,554 (7,338,066)
- [NSW] Ring Fit Adventure (Nintendo, 10/18/19) – 2,277 (3,284,560)
- [NSW] Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury (Nintendo, 02/12/21) – 2,167 (1,080,370)
- [PS5] Horizon Forbidden West (SIE, 02/18/22) – 2,044 (88,383)
- [NSW] Momotaro Dentetsu: Showa, Heisei, Reiwa mo Teiban! (Konami, 11/19/20) – 1,958 (2,726,444)
- [NSW] Monster Hunter Rise + Sunbreak Set (Capcom, 06/30/22) – 1,952 (275,773)
- [NSW] The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo, 03/03/17) – 1,880 (2,085,453)
- [PS4] Earth Defense Force 6 (D3 Publisher, 08/26/22) – 1,780 (102,841)
- [NSW] Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics (Nintendo, 06/05/20) – 1,747 (1,025,742)
- [PS5] FIFA 23 (Electronic Arts, 09/30/22) – 1,575 (8,953)
- [NSW] One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 (Bandai Namco, 03/26/20) – 1,574 (162,461)
- [NSW] JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle R (Bandai Namco, 09/01/22) – 1,568 (25,784)
- [NSW] Sword Art Online: Aliciziation Lycoris (Bandai Namco, 09/29/22) – 1,533 (7,403)
- [NSW] LIVE A LIVE (Square Enix, 07/22/20) – 1,525 (124,986)
Xenoblade Chronicles 3: DLC Wave 3 gets a sneak peek, Wave 4 teased
Consider me intrigued!
Wave 2 of Xenoblade Chronicles 3’s DLC released earlier today, and players are already delving into all it has to offer. Now, a new Tweet from Nintendo of America is giving us a sneak peek at the next Wave heading to the game, and even gives a bit of information about Wave 4!
The Tweet in question can be seen above. It lays out what can be expected in the next Wave, including a new Hero and new kinds of Challenge Battles. The Tweet also features an image of a silhouetted character, presumably the new Hero mentioned, alongside an image of a battle in-game.
The info given on Wave 4 is a bit less concrete, but it promises to deliver a brand new story to the game. Release windows for either of these waves are currently unknown, so keep your eye out for more information soon!
Kingdom Hearts 2003 animated series pilot animatic released (UPDATE)
What could have been...
UPDATE: This pilot animatic has been removed from YouTube. Animator Seth Kearsley mentioned that “an old friend at Disney politely asked” for the animatic to be taken down. Hopefully you saw it while it was available!
You can see our original post on this topic below.
A couple of weeks ago, veteran animator Seth Kearsley revealed details for a scrapped Kingdom Hearts television series.
Kearsley initially posted some cast notes and script segments related to the canceled project. As it turns out, however, that wasn’t all he had in store for us.
Today, Kearsley posted the full pilot animatic for the series. The video was uploaded to his personal YouTube channel and runs just over 11 minutes in length, the standard for many animated series. It can be seen in its entirety above.
The upload isn’t a fully finished and polished version of the pilot. Instead, it’s a rough draft called an animatic. Animators commonly put these animatics together in order to get a general idea of how the finished product will look. The video here features full voice acting, though it’s unclear if this was the final product planned or an early version used for this draft.
Kearsley also mentioned that this pilot, which features Sora, Donald, and Goofy traveling to the Cave of Wonders from Disney’s Aladdin, was actually shown to a test audience of children. According to the him, “… it tested better than anything else they were testing in that round.”
Premium Bandai reveals nearly life-sized Garchomp plush, shipping in Japan February 2023
Even terrifying bipedal sharks need a nap sometimes
Japanese toy manufacturer Premium Bandai has revealed its next release, and it’s a big one! The company will be selling a life-sized Garchomp plush exclusively in Japan, and orders are set to open soon with a shipment date of February 2023.
The plush depicts Garchomp, the Mach Pokémon, sound asleep. It measures in at 160 cm or about 5’3. The listed price is 57,200 yen, or about $390 USD at the time of writing. Even more pictures of the plush can be seen in the gallery below!
Ninjala Anime Episode 39 releases on YouTube
Ready your blade!
The newest episode of the Ninjala anime series has released online, titled “Swordmaster Kappei.” The 23 minute episode is available to watch on the official PlayNinjala YouTube channel by clicking the link above. This week’s episode will be available to view for free until October 13th, 2022, so check it out while it’s available! A plot synopsis of the episode reads:
Kappei finds an abandoned bamboo sword on the riverbed. Hearing footsteps behind him, Kappei turns to see Jimmy, a young boy with a troubled expression on his face. When Kappei asks Jimmy why he threw away his bamboo sword, Jimmy reveals that he has been going to a Kendo dojo for years, but has not improved at all. Jimmy explains that if he goes winless in the next promotion exam, he will have to leave his dojo. Hearing this, Kappei volunteers to coach Jimmy…