Both Sony and Nintendo released games centered on monkeys this past week as Donkey Konga 2 and Saru Battoure saw release. Be sure and check out our playtests of both games (along with our movies of Saru Battoure for some live-action monkey nonsense).
Outside of these games, the Japanese game scene was mostly centered on some big announcements. Square Enix indirectly announced a new game in the Mana series. Meanwhile, Sega, Namco, Sammy and Taito made moves in the arcade scene. New firefighting and love sim games were announced, and two Final Fantasy games saw their release dates set.
Read all about it in our recap from the week, below.
[PLAYTESTS & FEATURES]
07.05.04: Donkey Konga II Playtest
Movies, screens and impressions from the Japanese sequel to Donkey Konga.
07.05.04: Saru Battle Playtest
We try out the final Japanese version of SCE's Ape Escape party game. Movies and screens included.
[NEWS AND INFO]
07.06.04: Final Fantasy VII Advertisement
Square Enix's advertisements hint at big things to come for the series.
07.06.04: Final Fantasy Finalized in Japan
Square Enix delivers a final date for its Game Boy Advance compilation.
07.06.04: Special PS2 Color for Japan
Pearl White brings in the Summer season.
07.06.04: Sakura Taisen Goes International
Sega prepares game for simultaneous translated release throughout Asia.
07.06.04: Outbreak 2 Dated in Japan
Retail sources confirm a final date for the next Online entry in the Resident Evil series.
07.06.04: Date Set for Final Fantasy XI
Square Enix sets a date for the Japanese and American versions of the new FFXI expansion.
07.06.04: Advance Movie Download Service Begins
AM3 shows off the cool little machine that will download movies to the Game Boy Advance.
07.05.04: Capcom Runs Like Hell in Japan
Publisher brings more Western titles to Japan.
07.05.04: New From Spike: Hard Luck
The latest firefighting game for the PS2.
07.05.04: More Interchannel Games
The company formerly known as NEC Interchannel announces two new PS2 titles.
07.02.04: New From Sega: Ghost Squad
Latest Chihiro light gun arcade game makes use of IC Card system.
07.02.04: Network Golf From Sega
Latest arcade game makes use of Chihiro arcade board and network play.
07.02.04: Naruto GBASP
Tomy and Nintendo to release Naruto-themed GBA in Japan.
07.02.04: Final Fantasy Pushed Back
FF 1&2 Advance suffers from bugs.
07.02.04: Sega Shows off More Triforce Games
Virtua Striker and Key of Avalon get new sequels.
07.02.04: Square Enix Begins Mana Project
First artwork for what could be a new PS2 entry in the Mana series.
07.01.04: Sayonara Sonic Team
Sonic Team leaves, to be replaced by new Sonic Team.
07.01.04: See Tales Early
Rebirth makes its way to DVD with the PS2 release of Symphonia.
07.01.04: More Arcades in Japan
The big three open new shops following years of decline.
07.01.04: Sega, Sammy and Namco Team Up
Three arcade players to support same network system.
Turn the page for a look at the latest Japanese magazine info.
ZASSHI JOUHOU GO!
This section of Gaming Life in Japan takes a look at what's big in the latest issues of Japan's game magazines. From Famitsu to Dengeki to smaller publications like Dori Maga, Japan has lots of videogame magazines. While we tend to put up all the news and game information revealed in the magazines on the main pages of IGN, this section gives you a closer look just so you can be sure you're not missing out on anything.
FAMITSU 812
A Xenosaga theme graces the cover of issue 813 of Famitsu. But the biggest thing in the issue, as suggested by the "Invincible Scoop!" banner at the top of the cover, is Dragon Quest VIII and the five pages of coverage for the game.
Outside of DQ, the magazine has details on World Soccer Winning Eleven 8, Paper Mario RPG and continuing guides for J.League Pro Soccer Club wo Tsukurou! '04, Grand Theft Auto Vice City and San Nen B Kumi Kinpachi Sensei.
Also included is a look at touch panel displays and how they work. Did you know that DS isn't the first game system with a touch panel screen? NTT actually offers a 900i series cell phone with a touch panel display. The 900i series phones are the next generation cell phones being supported by Square Enix with games like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest. Unfortunately, no games actually use the stylus featured with the phone. This makes sense because only one 900i phone has touch screen capabilities (and given the size of this special phone, we doubt the idea will catch on any time soon).
The magazine's Weekly Famitsu Express section moves away from the PSP versus DS battle for a look at the latter half of 2004. First up, some big events and things to watch for in the last half of the year:
July/August: Summer release frenzy. PS2 scheduled for over 100 releases.
7/12: PlayStation Meeting 2004 - at this yearly meeting, Sony Computer Entertainment announces the PlayStation Awards recipients and usually makes a few big announcements. Last year's meeting saw the announcement of Katamari Damashii.
9/24 - 9/26: Tokyo Game Show 2004
November/December: End of year release frenzy. The magazine mentions PSP, DS and Dragon Quest VIII as things to look forward to.
The usual surveys feature in this story, with the magazine asking users and retailers for their expectations on this year. The magazine got the opinion from 297 readers of Famitsu.com and 114 retailers.
First off, a question on the most anticipated game-related things (product, event, etc.) for the year. Retailers and Users both picked DS with, respectively, 37 and 76 votes. Retailers followed this with the PSP release, the release of Dragon Quest VIII and the release of Final Fantasy XII (ha!). Users chose Dragon Quest VIII, PSP, Final Fantasy XII and Metal Gear Solid to follow up the DS.
Specifically regarding hardware, the DS comes out on top again. 44.1% of retailers and 29.7% of users picked DS as their most anticipated hardware of the year. Retailers chose PS2 to follow at 28.8%, PSP at 18.6%, GameCube at 3.4% and Game Boy Advance at 3.4%. Users actually picked PS2 first with 33.1%. Following DS comes PSP at 25.3%, Xbox at 6.8%, GameCube at 3.4% and GBA at 1.7%.
The magazine also asked users and retailers for expectations from each hardware maker. For Sony Computer Entertainment, 24 retailers and 32 users wanted the cheap release of the PSP. For Nintendo, 15 users wanted an expansion of target audience while 50 wanted a stronger lineup on current hardware. Twenty-four retailers wanted DS to be sold at a cheap price. The take on Microsoft was somewhat pessimistic. Forty-six retailers and 46 users said they weren't expecting anything while 16 retailers wanted MS to try hard.
Elsewhere in the issue, Famitsu reviews the latest games -- just a handful of titles this time around. Here are the scores:
GAME | SYSTEM | PUB | SCORE |
Crash Bandicoot Bakusou! Nitro Cart | PS2 | Konami | 7,6,7,7 |
Crash Bandicoot Bakusou! Nitro Cart | GCN | Konami | 7,6,7,7 |
Bokujou Monogatari Wonderful Life for Girls | GCN | Marvelous Interactive | 8,7,8,8 |
Tom Clancy Series Rainbow Six | XBOX | UBI Soft | 8,7,8,7 |
In line with the middle of the month, the set of games due out this week is definitely small. Looks like we'll have lots of time to build a farm as a girl.
FAMITSU WAVE
Famitsu's bi-monthly DVD magazine features lots of E3 content in its latest issue. The E3 trailer of Metal Gear Solid 3 takes the cover of the magazine, but also included is E3 footage of The Legend of Zelda (the short trailer that everyone saw -- not the secret one that was shown to IGN Cube), Devil May Cry 3, Tekken 5 and Ace Combat 5.
In addition to the new game footage, this week's issue includes lots of features. The "Yarikomi King" section features a look at some top notch Minna no Golf gameplay with some unbelievable hole-in-ones. The "Pause Time" feature determines what game you should play when you have your chick over at your place.
The best part of this issue, though, is the Final Fantasy XII segment. Famitsu already shared the FFXII E3 trailer via its Famitsu PS2 magazine. The trailer included in Famitsu Wave is the same as the Famitsu PS2 trailer, but it's prefaced by a brief behind-the-scenes look at the game. Square Enix allowed the Famitsu Wave cameras into its Tokyo office, giving viewers a rare chance to see where the game is made. Definitely worth checking out if you want to see the developers making and testing out the game before your eyes.
Also included are some clips of the game's E3 appearance along with some shots of developer interviews with foreign members of the press.
Can you find IGNPS2 Editor-in-chief Jeremy Dunham in the video?
Unlike the main weekly Famitsu, Famitsu Wave is a cool collector's item, with a bound magazine-sized booklet and a DVD case housing the included DVD. Each issue is definitely 980 yen well spent for game collectors.
Turn the page for a look at the latest releases from Japan.
IN STORE NOW!
This section of IGN Japan recaps the games that made their way onto store shelves over the course of the previous week. If you're having trouble keeping up with what's new in the Japanese market, turn to this section every week.
The more competent readers will notice that this section is available on the regular IGN channels as well every Monday. Don't feel jealous -- we're just using it to tease outsiders.
The following games were released between 06.28.04 and 07.04.04. Click on the name to see all of IGN's current coverage on the title.
PLAYSTATION 2
Kishin Houkou Demon Bane
Publisher: Kadokawa Shouten
Genre: Robot, Action, Adventure, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 8190 yen, Memory: 200K
Includes: Anime DVD
DX Pack: includes Dr. West business card, business card holder, Nitro+Special DVD
Ported over from the PC title Zanma Tasei Demon Bane, this title improves upon that version's presentation aspects. You play as Kurou, a character who encounters a book of black magic and is pulled into a great battle. The story behind the game is split into fifteen chapters with three paths. The latter half of the game is greatly affected by the path you end up on in the first half. An included DVD presents fans with an alternative story from the Demon Bane universe.
Gatcha Mecha Stadium Saru Batoure
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Genre: Variety, Fighting, Action, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 6090 yen, Memory: 125K
Peripherals: Multitap compatible
Ape Escape returns as a four player party game. Choose from various characters from the Ape Escape universe, including Poposaru himself, and face off against friends or the CPU in a variety of mini games. The game offers numerous weapons.
Smash Court Pro Tournament 2
Publisher: Namco
Genre: Tennis, Action, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 7140 yen, Memory: 210K
Peripherals: Multitap compatible
The Japanese version of Smash Court Tennis Pro Tournament 2 arrives just a bit after its American counterpart.
Tetsujin 28-go
Publisher: Bandai
Genre: Anime, Robot, Action, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 7140 yen, Memory: 85K
Peripherals: Multitap compatible
This game is based off the classic robot cartoon known as "Gigantor" in America. You play as Professor Kaneda's son, Shoutarou, and fight alongside Tetsujin #28 to defeat the X group. In addition to a story mode, the game features a challenge mode and battle mode for up to four players.
Monkey Turn V
Publisher: Bandai
Genre: Anime, Race, Action, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 7140 yen, Memory: 105K
This boat racing game lets you play as characters from the popular Japanese comic and cartoon off which it's based. Pick up power ups as you race and beef up your boat between races to defeat your rivals. The game includes original characters not found in the cartoon.
3LDK
Publisher: Princess Soft
Genre: Love, Adventure, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 7140 yen, Memory: 290K
First Run Edition: includes original drama CD (8190 yen)
This latest love simulation has been ported to the PS2 from the PC. The character you play as, Masato Asakawa, is fortunate enough to live with five girls in a three bedroom house. Your goal is to get a happy ending with one of the girls. Clearing the game unlocks an image and music gallery.
GAMECUBE
Donkey Konga 2: Hit Song Parade
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Music, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 4500 yen, Memory: 5 Blocks
Peripherals: Compatible with conga controller
Nintendo and Namco improve on their original conga-based game with four player support and a new selection of songs, including a Latinized Zelda theme and the Pikmin 2 commercial theme.
GAME BOY ADVANCE
Super Donkey Kong 2
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Adventure, Action, Release: 07.01.04
Price: 4800 yen, Backup Memory, Link Cable
The game known in America as Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy Kong's Quest hits the Japanese Game Boy Advance first.
Turn the page for the latest ads and commercials from Japan.
HOUKOKU CORNER
Welcome to the Gaming Life in Japan Japanese ad section, where you'll find the latest game advertisements and commercials from Japan. Every week, we'll be bringing you commercials and ads that we've spotted on TV, in magazines and at retailers. Also be sure and check out the back issues section for previous installments.
This week, we've got the latest issue of Sega Press for you. You'll notice that Sega Press now includes products from Sammy. We've also got ads for Final Fantasy I-II Advance (featuring an old release date), Zoku Bokura no Taiyo and another Saru Battoure commercial.
Download the latest Sega Press and all the commercials below.
PAMPHLETS
click on the image to supersize
COMMERCIALS
All commercials are presented in 640x480.
Select from Windows Media 9 (WMV) or
Quicktime, then right click to download.
| Zoku Bokura no Taiyo Konami, GBA Release: 07.22.04
|
| Digimon Battle Chronicle Bandai, PS2/Xbox/GCN Release: 07.29.04
|
| Donkey Konga 2 Nintendo, GCN Now Available
|
| Final Fantasy I-II Advance Square Enix, GBA Release: 07.29.04
|
| SD Gundam Force Bandai, GBA Release: 07.29.04
|
| Hamtarou Hamu Hamu Sports Nintendo, GBA Release: 07.15.04
|
| Harvest Moon for Girls Marvelous Int., GCN Release: 07.08.04
|
| Advance Movie AM3, GBA Now Available
|
| Power Pro Ken Pocket 1&2 Konami, GBA Release: 07.29.04
|
| Puyo Puyo Fever Sega, GBA Release: 07.24.04
|
| Rockman X Command Mission #1 Capcom, PS2/GCN Release: 07.29.04
|
| Rockman X Command Mission #2 Capcom, PS2/GCN Release: 07.29.04
|
| Saiyuki Reload Gunlock Bandai, PS2 Release: 08.05.04
|
| Saru Battoure SCE, PS2 Now Available
|
| Sonic Advance 3 Sega, GBA Now Available
|
| Tetsujin #28 Bandai, PS2 Now Available
|
Turn the page for the latest charts.
RANK-IN!!!
What's hot in the Japanese gaming scene? This section of IGN Japan brings you the latest charts from Japan for hardware, software and arcades, along with top thirty most wanted lists. We've sourced retail tracker Media Create for the software and hardware sales charts, Famitsu Weekly for the arcade charts and both Famitsu and Dorimaga for the most wanted charts.
Check back every week to find out what Japanese gamers are into!
GAME-RANK-IN: 06.14.04 - 06.20.04 |
Media Create reports that the top 100 games sold a total of 844,747 units this week, 190.72% of last week's total and 79.95% the weekly average. New releases for the week accounted for 551,026 units, with the first two entries accounting for 90% of sales for new titles.
# | SYS | GAME | PUB | RELEASE | SALES |
1 | PS2 | J.League Pro Soccer Club wo Tsukurou '04 | Sega | 06.24.04 | 215,207 |
2 | PS2 | Xenosaga Episode II | Namco | 06.24.04 | 186,407 |
3 | GBA | Dragon Quest Characters: Toruneko no DAibouken 3 Advance ~ Fushigi no Dungeon ~ | Square Enix | 06.24.04 | 46,180 |
4 | PS2 | Jissen Pachislo Hisshopou: Fist of the North Star | Sammy | 05.27.04 | 31,320 |
5 | GCN | San Nen B Kumi Kinpachi Sensei Densetsu no Kyouten ni Tate! | Chun Soft | 06.24.04 | 25,532 |
6 | GBA | Mario vs Donkey Kong | Nintendo | 06.10.04 | 20,241 |
7 | PS2 | Memories Off ~ Sorekara ~ | Kid | 06.24.04 | 19,379 |
8 | GCN | Pikmin 2 | Nintendo | 04.04.29 | 15,872 |
9 | GBA | Famicom Mini: Ganbare Goemon! | Nintendo | 05.21.04 | 13,445 |
10 | PS2 | Silent Hill 4 The Room | Konami | 06.17.04 | 12,132 |
PS2=PlayStation 2, GCN=GameCube, WS=Wonderswan
PS=PlayStation, DC=Dreamcast, GBA=Game Boy Advance
HARD-RANK-IN: 06.21.04 - 06.27.04 |
# | MAKER | SYSTEM | THIS WEEK | LAST WEEK |
1 | Sony Computer Entertainment | PlayStation 2 | 29,213 | 26,853 |
2 | Nintendo | Game Boy Advance SP | 24,823 | 27,641 |
3 | Nintendo | GameCube | 4,297 | 4,690 |
4 | Nintendo | Game Boy Advance | 2,340 | 2,181 |
5 | Microsoft | Xbox | 294 | 493 |
6 | Sony Computer Entertainment | PlayStation | 172 | 264 |
7 | Bandai | Swan Crystal | 57 | 89 |
ARCADE-IN: 06.14.04 - 06.20.04 |
# | MAKER | GAME | GENRE |
1 | Sega | World Club Championship Football 2002-2003 | Soccer/Simulation |
2 | Sega | Sega Network Taisen Mahjong MJ2 | Mahjong/Table-Game |
3 | Konami | Mahjong Kakutou 3 | Mahjong/Table-Game |
4 | Namco | Dragon Chronicle | Battle/Raising/Simulation |
5 | Sega | Initial D Arcade Stage Ver. 3 | Comic/Race/Action |
6 | Sega | Avalon no Kagi | Fantasy/Board-Game/Card-Game |
7 | Namco | Taiko no Tatsujin 5 | Music/Action |
8 | Banpresto | Z Gundam | Robot/Anime/Action |
9 | Sega | Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution | Fighting/Action/td> |
10 | Namco | Time Crisis 3 | Gun Action/Shooting |
MOST WANTED - FAMITSU |
# | SYS | GAME | MAKER | RELEASE |
1 | PS2 | Final Fantasy XII | Square Enix | Winter '04 - Spring '05 |
2 | PS2 | Dragon Quest VIII: Sora to Umi to Daichi to Norowareshi Himegime | Square Enix | Winter '04 |
3 | GCN | Biohazard 4 | Capcom | Winter '04 |
4 | PS2 | Metal Gear Solid 3 Snake Eater | Konami | 2004 |
5 | PS2 | Tales of Rebirth | Namco | TBA |
6 | PS2 | Kingdom Hearts 2 | Square Enix | TBA |
7 | PS2 | Gran Turismo 4 | Sony Computer Entertainment | Fall '04 |
8 | PS2 | Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakkyu 11 | Konami | 07.15.04 |
9 | GBA | Mother 3 (tentative) | Nintendo | TBA |
10 | PS2 | Sakura Taisen V: Saraba Aishiki Hito-yo | Sega | TBA |
11 | PS2 | Tenchu Kurunai | From Software | 07.22.04 |
12 | PS2 | To Heart 2 | Aqua Plus | Summer '04 |
13 | PS2 | World Soccer Winning Eleven 8 | Konami | 08.05.04 |
14 | PS2 | Gensou Suikoden IV | Konami | 08.19.04 |
15 | GCN | Paper Mario RPG | Nintendo | 07.22.04 |
16 | GCN | Fire Emblem: Souen no Kiseki | Nintendo | Winter '04 |
17 | GBA | Final Fantasy 1&2 Advance | Square Enix | 07.15.04 |
18 | PS2 | Devil May Cry 3 | Capcom | TBA |
19 | Xbox | Dead or Alive Ultimate | Tecmo | Summer '04 |
20 | PS2 | Tales of Symphonia | Namco | 09.22.04 |
21 | PS2 | Digital Devil Saga ~ Avatar Tuner ~ | Atlus | 07.15.04 |
22 | GCN | Killer 7 | Capcom | Winter '04 |
23 | GBA | Fire Emblem: Seima no Kouseki | Nintendo | Fall '04 |
24 | PS2 | Gradius V | Konami | 07.22.04 |
25 | PS2 | Magnacarta | Banpresto | 09.XX.04 |
26 | PS2 | Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War | Namco | 2004 |
27 | PS2 | Tengai Makyo III Namida | Hudson | 2004 |
28 | GCN | Mario Tennis GC (tentative) | Nintendo | 2004 |
29 | GCN | Homeland | Chun Soft | 2004 |
30 | PS2 | Berserk Millennium Falcon | Sammy | Winter '04 |
PS2=PlayStation 2, GCN=GameCube, WS=Wonderswan
PS=PlayStation, DC=Dreamcast, GBA=Game Boy Advance
Turn the page for the latest release dates.
RELEASE DATES
Trouble keeping up with what's due out in Japan? We don't blame you! Every day, as many as five Pachinko sims are released for the PSX alone. And then there's the horse racing games. Good lord... don't mention the horse racing games!
This Import release section of IGN Japan will help you sort through the mess. We only include games that have either their day or month of release confirmed. There are, of course, many more games than this coming out to Japan, but most of them currently have TBA dates. Most of the sections are complete up to the data recorded in the latest issue of Japan's Famitsu magazine.
Check back every week for the latest!
PLAYSTATION 2 |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
07.08.04 | Dokapon DX - Wataru Sekai ha Oni Darake | Asmik Ace Entertainment | 6279 |
07.08.04 | Aku Daikan 2 - Ansouden (Global The Best) | Global A Entertainment | 3150 |
07.08.04 | Ashita no Joe: Masshiro no Moe Tuskirou! (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
07.08.04 | Kyoufu Shimbun [Heisei Ban] Kaiki! Shinrei (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
07.08.04 | Crash Bandicoot Bakusou! Nitrocart | Konami | 6090 |
07.08.04 | Gegege no Kitarou IbunYoukai Kitam (Konami the Best) | Konami | 7140 |
07.08.04 | Corokke! Ban Ou no Kiki wo Sukue! | Konami | 7140 |
07.08.04 | Tantei Gakuen Q! (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
07.08.04 | Dear Boys Fast Break! (Konami Kyuutou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
07.08.04 | SuperLite 2000 Adventures Shibana Pack mitsu no Jikenbo | Success | 2100 |
07.08.04 | Violet no Atelier Guramunaato Renkinjutsushi (Gust Best Price) | Gust | 3990 |
07.08.04 | Biohazard Outbreak (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Capcom | 3800 |
07.08.04 | Fu-Un Shinsengumi (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Genki | 2800 |
07.08.04 | Boku no Natsuyasumi 2 Umi no Bouken-hen (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 1800 |
07.08.04 | Minna no Golf 4 (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 3800 |
07.08.04 | Ratchet and Clank 2 ! Gagaga! Ginka no Commandoes (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2800 |
07.08.04 | Kotoba no Puzzle Mojibittan (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Namco | 1800 |
07.15.04 | Eikan ha Kimi ni 2004: Koshien no Kodou (Artdink the Best) | Artdink | 2940 |
07.15.04 | Gambler Densetsu Tetsunari 2 Kurouto Choujou Kessen (Athena Best Collection Vol. 1) | Athena | 3150 |
07.15.04 | Digital Devil Saga Avatar Tuner | Atlus | 7329 |
07.15.04 | NBA Street 2 Dance Tengoku (EA Best Hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
07.15.04 | Harry Potter to Kensha no Ishi (EA Best Hits) | Electronic Ats | 3129 |
07.15.04 | Harry Potter to Himitsu no Heya (EA Best hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
07.15.04 | Medal of Honner Shijou Saida no Sakusen (EA Best hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
07.15.04 | Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakyuu 11 | Konami | 7329 |
07.15.04 | Lets Play Sports! | Konami | 4179 |
07.15.04 | Uo Nanatsu no Mizu to Densetsu no Nushi | Sony Computer Entertainment | 6090 |
07.15.04 | Play Station 2 Memory Card Premium Series -- Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakyuu 11 | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2940 |
07.15.04 | Eikan ha Kimi ni 2004: Koshien no Kodou (Artdink the Best) | Artdink | 2940 |
07.15.04 | Silent Hill 2 Saiki no Shi (Konami Tendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
07.22.04 | Gakuen Heaven Boys Love Scramble! Type B | Interchannel | 7140 |
07.22.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 56 The Survival Game | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
07.22.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 58 The Gaikai | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
07.22.04 | Bakuen Kakusei Neverland Senki Zero | Idea Factory | 7140 |
07.22.04 | True Love Story Summer Days and Night (Enterbrain Collection) | Enterbrain | 2940 |
07.22.04 | Street Fighter III 3rd Strike: Fight for the Future | Capcom | 3990 |
07.22.04 | Street Fighter III 3rd Strike: Fight for the Future Limited Edition (sold only through e-Capcom) | Capcom | 8800 |
07.22.04 | Full House Kiss | Capcom | 7140 |
07.22.04 | Karaoke Revolution Kazoku Idol-ka Sengen | Konami | 4179 |
07.22.04 | Karaoke Revolution ~ Family Pack ~ | Konami | 6090 |
07.22.04 | Gradius V | Konami | 7329 |
07.22.04 | Keiei Simulation Jurassic Park (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
07.22.04 | Pskiyo Shooting Collection Vol. 1 Strikers 1945 I & II | Taito | 6090 |
07.22.04 | Missing Blue (Best Price) | Tonkin House | 2940 |
07.22.04 | Taiko no Tatsujin Atsumare! Matsuri da! Yondaime | Namco | 4725 |
07.22.04 | Taiko no Tatsujin Atsumare! Matsuri da! Yondaime (with Tatakon) | Namco | 7329 |
07.22.04 | Tenchu Kurenai | From Software | 7140 |
07.22.04 | Igo 4 Value 2000 Series | Magnolia | 2100 |
07.22.04 | Shougi 4 Value 2000 Series | Magnolia | 2100 |
07.29.04 | Loop Sequencer Music Generator | Success | 7140 |
07.29.04 | The Nightmare of Daruga Fushigi no Dungeon | Arika | 7329 |
07.29.04 | Samurai Spirits Zero | SNK Playmore | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Rockman X Command Mission | Capcom | 6090 |
07.29.04 | Kaiketsu! Osabakina | Kid | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Yugioh Capsule Monster Coliseum | Konami | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Yugioh Dual Monsters II Keishousareshi Kiroku (Konami Tendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
07.29.04 | Natsu Shoujo Promised Summer | Success | 7140 |
07.29.04 | I Love Baseball Pro Yakyuu wo Koyonaku Aisuru Hitotachi e | Sammy | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Guilty Gear Isuka | Sammy | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Komorebi no Naokomichi ~ Utsurikawaru Kisetsu no Naka de | GN Software | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Komorebi no Naokomichi ~ Utsurikawaru Kisetsu no Naka de (First Press Version) | GN Software | 9240 |
07.29.04 | Sega Ages 2500 Series Vol. 14: Alien Syndrome | 3D Ages | 2625 |
07.29.04 | Sega Ages 2500 Series Vol. 15: Decathalete Collection | 3D Ages | 2625 |
07.29.04 | Athens 2004 | Sony Computer Entertainment | 6090 |
07.29.04 | DJbox | Sony Computer Entertainment | 7140 |
07.29.04 | DJbox Premium Kit (with PlayStation BB unit) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 18690 |
07.29.04 | Shikigami no Shiro (Taito Best) | Taito | 2940 |
07.29.04 | Shirachuu Tankenbu (Taito Best) | Taito | 2940 |
07.29.04 | Densha de Go! Professional 2 (Taito Best) | Taito | 3150 |
07.29.04 | Digimon Battle Coliseum | Bandai | 7140 |
07.29.04 | One Piece Land Land | Bandai | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Patishie na Nyanko - Hatsukoi ha Ichigo Aji | Pione Soft | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Patishie na Nyanko - Hatsukoi ha Ichigo Aji (First Press Version) | Pione Soft | 8190 |
07.29.04 | F ~ Fanatic ~ | Princess Soft | 8190 |
07.29.04 | F ~ Fanatic ~ (First Press Version) | Princess Soft | 8190 |
07.29.04 | Tokyo Majin Gakuen Gehoutyou Ketsufuroku | Marvelous Interactive | 7329 |
07.29.04 | Tokyo Majin Gakuen Gehoutyou Ketsufuroku (First Press Version) | Marvelous Interactive | 10479 |
08.05.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 57: The Pro Yakyuu 2004 | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
08.05.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 58: The Gaikai | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
08.05.04 | Sukusuku Kenpuku | Hamster | 6090 |
08.05.04 | EA Sports Fight Night 2004 | Electronic Arts | 7140 |
08.05.04 | Meiwaku Seijin Panic Maker | Capcom | 7140 |
08.05.04 | Rockman Power Battle Fighters | Capcom | 2940 |
08.05.04 | Tennis no Oujisama Sweat & Tears 2 (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
08.05.04 | Tennis no Oujisama Smash Hit! (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
08.05.04 | Tennis no Oujisama Smash Hit! 2 (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
08.05.04 | World Soccer Winning Eleven 8 | Konami | 7329 |
08.05.04 | Super Lite Renai Adventure Memories Off Duet | Success | 2100 |
08.05.04 | SOCOM II: US NAVY SEALs | Sony Computer Entertainment | 7140 |
08.05.04 | PlayStation 2 Memory Card (8MB) Premium Series - World Soccer Winning Eleven 8 | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2940 |
08.05.04 | Saru Eye Toy O-sawagi! Wakki Waki Game Tenkomori!! (with Eye Toy included) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 7329 |
08.05.04 | Saru Eye Toy O-sawagi! Wakki Waki Game Tenkomori!! | Sony Computer Entertainment | 4725 |
08.05.04 | Darling Special Pack Rush ~ Ai no Ekizousuto Heat ~ | D3 Publisher | 5040 |
08.05.04 | Hayari Gami Keishicho Kaii Jiken File | Nippon Ichi Software | 6090 |
08.05.04 | Saiyuki Reload Gunlock | Bandai | 7140 |
08.05.04 | XIII ~ Daitouryou wo Koroshita Otoko | Marvelous Interactive | 7329 |
08.05.04 | Saikyou Daishougi 5 (MYCOM BEST) | Mainichi Communications | 2940 |
08.05.04 | Utau! Tumbling Dice ~ Watashitachi Sannin, A-Ge-Ru | Reindeer | 7140 |
08.05.04 | Shin Megamitensei III Nocturne (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Atlus | 2800 |
08.05.04 | ICO (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 1800 |
08.05.04 | Gran Turismo 4 Prologue Version (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 1800 |
08.05.04 | Rei ~ Akai Cho ~ (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Tecmo | 2800 |
08.05.04 | Bomberman Land 2 (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Hudson | 3800 |
08.05.04 | Armored Core Nexus (PlayStation 2 the Best) | From Software | 3800 |
08.05.04 | Bokujou Monogatari 3 Heart ni Hi wo Tsukete (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Marvelous Interactive | 2800 |
08.12.04 | KOF Maximum Impact | SNK Playmore | 7329 |
08.19.04 | Gunslinger Girl Vol. 3 | Marvelous Entertainment | 7140 |
08.19.04 | Genso Suikoden IV | Konami | 7329 |
08.19.04 | Genso Suikoden (Limited Edition) | Konami | 9954 |
08.19.04 | PlayStation 2 Memory Card (8MB) Premier Series - Genso Suikoden IV | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2940 |
08.26.04 | Clover Hearts Looking for Happiness | Interchannel | 7140 |
08.26.04 | Clover Hearts Looking for Happiness (First Run Edition) | Interchannel | 8190 |
08.26.04 | Spectral Force Radical Elements | Idea Factory | 7140 |
08.26.04 | Spectral Force Radical Elements (Limited Edition) | Idea Factory | 9954 |
08.26.04 | Blood Rayne | Electronic Arts | 7140 |
08.26.04 | Monochrome | Kid | 7140 |
08.26.04 | Monochrome (Limited Edition) | Kid | 9240 |
08.26.04 | Taiko Risshiden | Koei | 7140 |
08.26.04 | Virtua Fighter Cyber Generation - Judgement Six no Yanou | Spike | 7140 |
08.26.04 | Jusou Kihei Valken | Mesaya | 5229 |
08.XX.04 | Zwei | Taito | 7140 |
08.XX.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 59: The Uchujin to Hanasou! ~ Uchu~jin-tte Na~ni? ~ | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
08.XX.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 60: The Tokusatsu Henshin Hero! | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
08.XX.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 61: The Onechan Bara | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
08.XX.04 | Aqua Kids | Yukes | 6090 |
09.02.04 | Doko De Mo Issho ~ Toro to Ippai | Sony Computer Entertainment | TBA |
09.02.04 | PlayStation 2 Memory Card (8MB) Premier Series - Doko De Mo Issho ~ Toro to Ippai | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2940 |
09.02.04 | Ghost Hunter | Electronic Arts | 7329 |
09.02.04 | Sangokushi IX with Power Up Kit | Koei | 11340 |
09.02.04 | Gradius III & IV (Konami Tendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
09.02.04 | Genso Suikoden III (Konami Tendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
09.02.04 | Tokimeki Memorial 3 ~ Yakusoku no Ano Basho De ~ | Konami | 1890 |
09.09.04 | Viewtiful Joe | Capcom | 4980 |
09.09.04 | Dororo | Sega | 7140 |
09.09.04 | Hitman: Silent Assassin (Eidos Best) | Eidos | 3129 |
09.09.04 | Toudai Shougo Jouseiki no Doujou - Kanketsu Hen | Mainichi Communcations | 6090 |
09.16.04 | Sengoku Musou Buraiden | Koei | 4494 |
09.16.04 | Sengoku Musou Premium Pack | Koei | 10290 |
09.16.04 | Angelique Etowal | Koei | 6090 |
09.16.04 | Angelique Etowal Premium Box | Koei | 9240 |
09.16.04 | Van Helsing | 9240 | |
09.22.04 | Kengo 3 | Genki | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Sakura Taisen V Episode 0 ~ Kouya no Samurai Musume ~ | Sega | TBA |
09.22.04 | Tales of Symphonia | Namco | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Apokurifa/Zero | GN Software | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Apokurifa/Zero - First Press Edition | GN Software | 9240 |
09.22.04 | Double Reaction! Plus | Datum Polystar | 6090 |
09.30.04 | Pinrcess Maker 2 | Genex | 6090 |
GAMECUBE |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
07.08.04 | Bokujou Monogatari Wonderful Life for Girls | Marvelous Interactive | 7140 |
07.08.04 | Crash Bandicoot Bakusou! Nitro Cart | Konami | 6090 |
07.08.04 | Korokke: Ban-Ou no Kiki wo Sukue | Konami | 7140 |
07.15.04 | Jikkyo Powerful Pro Baseball 11 | Konami | 7329 |
07.22.04 | Paper Mario RPG | Nintendo | 5800 |
07.29.04 | Digimon Battle Chronicle | Bandai | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Rockman X Command Mission | Capcom | 6090 |
07.29.04 | Shin Seki GPX Cyber Formula: Road to the Evolution | Sunrise Interactive | 7140 |
08.05.04 | Konjiki no Gashbelle!! Yuujou Tag Battle Full Power | Bandai | 7140 |
08.10.04 | Bomberman Land 2 (Hudson the Best) | Hudson | 3800 |
08.26.04 | Virtua Fighter Cyber Generation: Judgement Six no Yabou | Sega | 7140 |
09.XX.04 | Zoid Versus III | Tomy | 7140 |
GAME BOY ADVANCE |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
07.15.04 | Monster Summoner | Ertain | 5000 |
07.15.04 | Kaiketsu Zorori to Mahou no Yuenchi ~ Ohimesama wo Sukue! ~ | Bandai | 5040 |
07.15.04 | Final Fantasy 1&2 Advance | Square Enix | 6090 |
07.15.04 | Deji-Communication 2 Datou! Black Magma-dan | Broccoli | 6090 |
07.15.04 | Tottoko Hamu Tarou Hamu-Hamu Sports | Nintendo | 4800 |
07.15.04 | Wagamama Fairy Mirumo De Pon! Yume no Kakera | Konami | 5229 |
07.16.04 | Konjiki no Gashbell!! Makai no Bookmark | Banpresto | 5050 |
07.16.04 | Zettai Zetsumei Denjarasu Jiisan Byo ~ Okori no Oshioki Blues | Kids Station | 5040 |
07.22.04 | Naruto - Naruto RPG Uketsugereshi Hi no Ishi | Tomy | 5040 |
07.22.04 | Hagane no Renkinjutsushi: Omoide no Soumeikyoku | Bandai | 5040 |
07.22.04 | Gakkou no Kaidan: Hyakushou-hako no Fuuin | TDK Core | 5229 |
07.22.04 | GetRide Amdriver Senkou no Hero Tanjou | Konami | 5229 |
07.22.04 | Korokke! 4 Bank no Mori no Shugojin | Konami | 5229 |
07.22.04 | Zoku - Bokura no Taiyou ~ Taiyo Shonen Jango | Konami | 5229 |
07.22.04 | Metal Slug Advance | SNK Playmore | 5040 |
07.23.04 | Dragon Ball Z - The Legacy of Goku II International | Banpresto | 5040 |
07.24.04 | Puyo Puyo Fever | Sega | 5040 |
07.29.04 | Legends ~ Yomigaeru Shiren no Shima ~ | Bandai | 6279 |
07.29.04 | Power Pro Ken Pocket 1&2 | Konami | 4179 |
07.29.04 | Donchan Puzzle Hanabi de Don! Advance | Aruze | 5040 |
07.29.04 | Hanabi Hyakuryo Advance | Aruze | 5040 |
08.05.04 | SD Gundam Force | Bandai | 5040 |
08.05.04 | B Densetsu! Battle Beedaman ~ Moero! B-Tama | Atlus | 5040 |
08.05.04 | Shining Force: Kuroki Ryu no Fukkatsu | Sega | 5040 |
08.05.04 | Ultra Keibitai Monster Attack | Rocket Company | 5040 |
08.05.04 | Himawari Doubutsu Byouin ~ Pet no O-ishassan Ikusei Game ~ | TDK Core | 5040 |
08.05.04 | Densetsu no Starfee 3 | Nintendo | 4800 |
08.06.04 | Rockman EX 4.5 Real Operation | Capcom | 5040 |
08.06.04 | Rockman EX 4.5 Real Operation (with Battle Chip Gate) | Capcom | 6279 |
08.06.04 | Ureshii Ni-pon Iri Twin Series 1 - Game (1) Mezase Debut! (Fashion Designer Monogatari), Game (2) Kawaii Pet Game Galery 2 | Culture Brain | 5040 |
08.20.04 | Summon Night Craft Sword Monogatari 2 | Banpresto | 6090 |
08.26.04 | Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo Bakutou Hajike Taisen | Hudson | 5040 |
08.26.04 | Crash Bandicoot Bakusou! Nitro Cart | Konami | 5040 |
08.26.04 | Super Mario Ball | Nintendo | 4800 |
08.26.04 | Ochaken Kururin ~ Honwaka Puzzle de Hottoshiyo? ~ | MTO | 4179 |
08.26.04 | Ureshii Ni-pon Iri Twin Series 2 - Game (1) Oshare Princess EX (Purimo ni Narou), Game (2) Renai Urenai Daisakusen | Culture Brain | 5040 |
09.16.04 | Angel Collection 2 Pichimo ni Narou | MTO | 5040 |
09.22.04 | Advance Guardian Heroes | Treasure | 5040 |
09.XX.04 | DAN DOH!! (tentative name) | Takara | TBA |
11.XX.04 | Crash Bandicoot Advance Waku Waku Tomodachi Daisakusen | Vivendi Universal | TBA |
11.XX.04 | Spyro Advance Waku Waku Tomodachi Daisakusen | Vivendi Universal | TBA |
XBOX |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
07.08.04 | Tom Clancy Series: Rainbow Six 3 | UBI Soft | 7140 |
07.15.04 | Top Spin | Microsoft | 5040 |
07.22.04 | X2: Wolverine's Revenge - Xbox World Collection | Microsoft | 5040 |
07.22.04 | Magic the Gathering Battle Ground - Xbox World Collection | Microsoft | 5040 |
07.29.04 | Sengoku Musou | Koei | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Digimon Battle Chronicle | Bandai | 7140 |
07.29.04 | Grand Theft Auto Double Pack | Capcom | 7980 |
08.05.04 | XIII: Daitouryou wo Koroshita Otoko | Marvelous Interactive | 7329 |
09.02.04 | Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy (Xbox World Collection) | Microsoft | 5040 |
09.02.04 | Dead Mans Hand (Xbox World Collection) | Microsoft | 5040 |
09.23.04 | Phantom Dust | Microsoft | 6090 |
11.XX.04 | Blinx 2: Battle of Time & Space | Microsoft | TBA |
BACK NUMBERS
Did you miss an issue of IGN Japan because you were too ignorant to join IGN Insider earlier than now? Don't fret, as we keep all our old issues Online for future reference. Just click on the appropriate link below to jump back to a previous date, all thanks to the power of mass storage.
06.28.04: Print ads for Michigan along with commercials for Saru Battle, Magna Carta and Saka-Tsuku '04. Plus, the week in review with playtests of Xenosaga Episode II and Berserk and stories on Momotarou's US debut and Sakura Wars.
06.23.04: The World Hobby Fair, Microsoft's Xbox strategy briefing, Silent Hill, lots of monkeys and commercials for Donkey Konga 2, Godannar, Xenosaga Episode 2, Dragon Quest Characters, Eye Toy, Saka-Tsuku, Popeye Pachinko and more!
06.16.04: Commercials for Dear S, Full Metal Alchemist, Eye Toy and more, plus print ads and the week in review.
06.08.04: The first issue of GLIJ Mini, featuring charts, release dates and not much else.
06.02.04: Spike's Michigan porn star (from Taiwan!), the return of letters with Tanaka, a PSP and DS survey and commercials for Famicom Mini 2, Grand Theft Auto Vice City, Densha De Go Final and Mario VS Donkey Kong.
05.26.04: The latest on Final Fantasy XII, commercials and ads for Ultraman, Famicom Mini, Crimson Sky and Crash Bandicoot: Nitro, and a look at where some of your favorite young idols from previous issues are today.
05.13.04: Print and television ads for the likes of Metroid Fusion, the Pikmin 2 CD (must see!), Gundam MX, Ultraman and Wario World, plus Chisato Morishita (Nintendo's Japanese Samus Aran) as young idol of the week.
05.06.04: Store Joutai Get returns, straight from Akihabara! Plus, game of the month Pikmin 2, the first weekly news recap, lots of print ads, a Game Boy Advance pamphlet and dimpled Miho Shiraishi as young idol of the week.
04.29.04: IGN Japan returns with a commercial-packed issue. Featuring television spots for Crayon Shin-chan, Mega Man Zero 3, EyeToy: Play, Pikmin 2, Mario Golf and more! Also, looks at Michigan, Okami and Final Fantasy XII.
04.06.04: A look at Famitsu Issue 800 (which entails a look at the original Famitsu) along with classic advertisements, reports on Phantasy Star Online: Blue Burst and Home Land, and the simply ridiculous Kawori Manabe as this week's young idol.
03.31.04: Full form Gaming Life in Japan returns,with comments from Dragon Quest father Yuji Hori and a look at sexy Ai Tominaga and her McDonalds sauce of choice. Plus, IGN Japan votes for its favorite game of March 2004! Which deceptively-simple-looking Namco title won?
03.25.04: A half-issue as IGN Japan catches up with the billion releases from the past week.
03.17.04: Ramblings about Online gaming, twenty commercials (including Zelda), quick looks at Metal Wolf Rev and Sakurazakai Shouboutai, plus Sakura Mizutani as young idol of the week.
03.10.04: The babes of Custom Robo! Vote for your favorite (voting is now closed). Quick looks at Biohazard 4, Panic Maker, Curry House CoCo and commercials for GameCube Gundam and more.
03.03.04: A slightly new look for Gaming Life in Japan, with separate babe and ad pages. Featuring looks at Mario Golf GBA, 3LDK, Vib Ripple, Raimuiro and The Daibijin, details on next-gen Japanese cell phone gaming, and ads for DOA Online and Sega Ages. Plus, Yuko Ogura as this week's young idol.
02.25.04: IGN Japan looks at Dorimaga and its anime/Sega lovin' readerbase. Plus, Love Aerobics, 35 game commercials (including Katamari Damashii), the horrendously offensive AOU arcade show and Weekly Young Idol featuring Minako Komukai VS Shigeru Miyamoto and Hideo Kojima.
02.18.04: Nintendo roolz, Sony droolz. Details on Sakurazaka Shouboutai, Steady X Study, Orange Pocket, and more. Plus, a Famitsu survey on the Nintendo DS, a look at the Japanese commercial scene, Misaki Ito as young idol of the week and lots of print ads.
02.11.04: SCE's simplicity campaign, girls playing Eye Toy, upcoming NEC Interchannel games, a look at Japanese retail, Akihabara burning down, Famitsu reader top 100. Plus, the babe of the week: Aya Ueto.
01.27.04: Skiing Ostrich versus Snowboarding Chiwawa! You make the call! Plus, looks at the new PS2 Kinpachi-sensei game, Sengoku VS. Gendai and Soccer Life, some hot Microsoft Xbox ads and a World Hobby Fair picture collection.
1/21/2004: 22 commercials, featuring skiing ostrich (this is a precursor to the next issue's snowboarding dog). Plus, reports on Atelier Iris Eternal Mana, Michigan, The Hajimete no RPG, Galaxy Angel Moonlit Lovers. Also features a Famitsu powered look at the rest of 2004!
1/14/2004: The first issue of IGN for 2004 presents a look back at year 2003's sales and a huge awards presentation with awards for best game, best graphics, best sound and more! Plus, Cho-Kuso game of the year!
12/19/2003: The last issue of IGN Japan for 2003 features some ramblings about the PSX, a look at Uchuu no Stellvia and lots of high res print ads.
12/10/2003: Love Ping Pong, a preview of the Jump Festival and commercials for games like Donkey Konga, Winning Eleven Tactics, Ninja Gaiden and Cute Puppy.
11/18/2003: Thirty television spots including Sonic Heroes, and F-Zero in this limited IGN Japan as we prepare for the big Final Fantasy XII unveiling feature gorgeous Square Enix PR girls.
11/11/2003: Sony's unexpected price drop and "Sorry to have kept you waiting" ad campaign, Japan's most hated game developer and development company and not much else. IGN Japan is made up of lazy bastards! LAZY BASTARDS!
11/03/2003: A look at the year end sales race in Japan, the hottest Famitsu cover girl ever, a look at the new Sister Princess expansion disk, the best selling Dreamcast games, a big Famitsu Tokyo Game Show survey and a ton of television spots.
10/27/2003: Nintendo's Japanese price drop ineffective? Plus, the latest magazine info on Gran Turismo 4 Prologue, Final Fantasy International + Last Mission, a Famitsu survey on the PSX and a Gran Turismo 4 pamphlet scan.
10/20/2003: The start of Nintendo's Fall attack, a game maker ranking and lots of print ads and detail from Famitsu.
9/22/2003: Rare collector's issue! The final Grand Theft Auto Watch and Tokyo Game pre-show report. Plus, a print ad featuring a really, really super mega hot chick!
9/14/2003: A video and picture tour of JAMMA 2003, with lots of hot Japanese girl snips. Plus, the continuing Grand Theft Auto watch, a look at Naruto for the PS2, and more from the Tokyo Game Show pre-game show report.
9/8/2003: Grand Theft Auto watch, Tokyo Game Show and JAMMA pre-game info, a look at the marathon game, plus commercials for Drag On Dragoon and more.
8/25/2003: A PSP survey and lots of game ads in the IGN Japan for the week that Grand Theft Auto 3 hits the number six spot on the Famitsu most wanted list. Also details on the Mario 4 e-Cards and Donkey Kong tatsujin.
8/11/2003: Lots of television commercials for some tremendously obscure games. Presented in high res for your obsessive enjoyment. Plus Tokyo fireworks. Hmm... we're running out of things to talk about.
8/1/2003: The state of Tokyo's Sun. Plus, an Xbox Conference, PSP specs and the history of Namco. Oh -- and the August Sega press. YEAH!
7/17/2003: The Nintendo Famicom turns 20 causing Japanese magazines to give a little history lesson. The full Famicom history, inside.
6/16/2003: A full report from Capcom's Street Fighter 15th Anniversary special, complete with videos and cos-player pics! Plus, a Famitsu survey on Sony's upcoming PSX system.
6/06/2003: Famitsu conducts a big survey on Sony's PSP hardware. Plus a look inside the halls of Square where the company's foreigner population chills with president Wada. Can you spot Colin in this update?
5/23/2003: A particularly wordy issue of IGN Japan in the week following E3. Features a look at seven big game company financial statements, a briefing on the upcoming Street Fighter anniversary celebration and looks at Nintendo's Japanese demo disk and Sony's upcoming Japanese broadband program. Plus, Sammy and drumming game commercials!
5/9/2003: A look at a Japanese business gaming magazine, a bunch of print ads, the May Sega Press and a big Store Joutai Get section!
4/18/2003: The new Sega Press, our hatred of boy bands, the latest peeing statue commercial, a Famitsu retail survey and that's about it as a flood of games see Japanese release.
4/11/2003: The return of Pepsi Man, Sega's Game Jam, Bob Sapp gets his ass kicked bug still gets bigger, the April Sega Press and commercials for Yummeria, Dragon Quest: Caraven Hearts and Taiko no Tatsujin.
4/4/2003: Pics from cell phones, the Sony festival, the latest store joutai and ads for Dragon Quest Caravan Hearts, Doka-Pon DX, NUDE and Super Robot Wars.
3/26/2003: The Soul Calibur release, the Panasonic Center (with the Nintendo GameFront) and... that's about it. Gad, this IGN Japan column really sucks.
3/19/2003: IGN Japan returns after an extended break with a sayonara to Quiter, Foma Man and commercials for Soul Calibur 2, Made in Wario, P.N.03 and (not much) more.
2/28/2003: One Bob Sapp to rule all. Plus, looks at the AOU arcade show, a hate-filled message about Japanese boy-bands SMAP and Tokio, and commercials featuring Ewan McGreggor's big schwartz and Sony's multi-colored PS2 systems.
2/20/2003: Some ramblings about the GBA SP Japanese launch, a Famitsu retailer/consumer survey, a new Guess the Picture feature, plus commercials and ads for Super Robot Wars, Shin Megamitensei 3, Gun Survivor 4, and ZOE 2.
2/12/2003: More Japanese stupidity, plus some good is very Engrish, pamphlets for Venus & Braves, Star Ocean 3 and Puzzle Collection, and CMs for Star Ocean 3, FF Tactics and Mega Man GameCube, and more.
2/3/2003: A look at Dori-Maga (complete with Dreamcast sales charts), Final Fantasy X-2 limited edition goods, the Japanese retail scene, the World Hobby Fair, pamphlets for Sakura Wars and Sony's Voice recognition games, the February Sega Press, and commercials/ads for Venus & Braves, Nintendo Puzzle Collection, ZOE 2, FF Tactics and more!
1/24/2003: 2003's second issue of IGN Japan as the evil Fran Maribella the Third takes over the ranks of IGN Insider. Features a look at the Xbox Live launch party, a Famitsu survey regarding gamer's hopes for the coming year, a look at our Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball preorder goods, a pot shot at Square, and commercials for DOAX, Devil May Cry 2 and Operator's Side. And what's up with the weather always raining (and snowing) on Microsoft's party?
1/16/2003: The first issue of IGN Japan for 2003 really sucks. First of all, we were drunk off free Xbox liquor when we wrote it. The only redeeming factor is the start of a new feature: Guess the Shoes! Oh, and a recap of Japanese game sales for 2002, our pick for Japanese-only game of the year and commercials for Dead or Alive Whack-off Volleyball, Game Boy SP and Xbox Live.
12/20/2002: The last IGN Japan for 2002 features a bunch of silly Japanese commercials gaming-and-non-gaming, print ad scans, shots from around Tokyo's gaming scene (Xbox Price Drop?) and an explanation, from Tanaka, of our new naming system. Plus, Andria opens a ton of mail and Juyon introduces herself.
11/28/2002: Tanaka takes over and welcomes Juyon and Andria Lee Sang to the IGN Japan ranks as the entire Japanese gaming industry goes topsy-turvey. Included, weird Xbox and Sega print ads along with a 16-page Dark Chronicle mini magazine scan.
11/22/2002: A look back at our favorite Japanese commercials as the IGN Japan staffers close their doors for inventory purposes.
11/15/2002: Capcom announces five big titles for the GameCube while Japan celebrates National Toilet Day. Features a look at Japanese retail, a special letter about Engrish, a Famitsu survey about the big games for the year's end, television commercials and Tanaka in a suit vying for the head spot at Xbox Japan.
11/07/2002: The debut of Kita-he: Diamond Dust for the PS2, the November Sega Press, the lame CESA awards, more Xbox stupidity and commercials for such titles as Resident Evil 0, Ratchet & Clank and Xbox.
10/30/2002: The first Kenji Eno spotting in ages, the Tokyo CG festival, crazy commercials for Xbox and PS2 and a ton of print ads.
10/23/2002: Scans and videos from the Square press conference (see CG Yuna wield twin guns and do a back flip), plus a look at the Smash Brothers Orchestra CD.
10/16/2002: A look at AsoBitCity (the replacement for Laox), the meaning of Zelda's new name, plus television commercials for Rygar, GBA Gold and Silver, and Eternal Darkness.
10/9/2002: Xbox Cafe, more DOA Xtremem Beach Volleyabll ads and (what we thought was) the death of the Laox Akihabara games store.
10/2/2002: More DOA Xtreme Beach Volleyball ads, plus information on Tama-chan, the seal we'd so very much like to eat.
9/18/2002: Preview of Tokyo Game Show, plus scans of Sega Press September, Sega Driving and Star Fox Adventure pamphlets.
9/11/2002: Japan's toilet paper crisis, Hikki gets hitched, plus ads for DOA Volleyball and pamphlets for Mario Advance 3 and PSO Ep. 1&2.
9/3/2002: Japanese gamers reveal what they want on Xbox Live and some group predicts the future of broadband and internet gaming in Japan. Plus, print ads for Dead or Alive Volleyball, Contra and more!
8/29/2002: Television ads for Tekki, Automodelista and the Dakara peeing statue ad. Plus, we make fun of the Xbox!
8/20/2002: Hmm... not much of anything in the week where Nintendo unveils Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicle through a television commercial.
8/13/2002: Big look back at Japanese sales for the first half of 2002. No surprises.
7/31/2002: Mario Sunshine adversely affects yet another issue of IGN Japan. We do find time to scan a bunch of advertisements from the latest Japanese magazines, though.
7/22/2002: IGN Japan was very busy shine getting and didn't spend much time on this story. Lots and lots of television commercials to download though.
7/15/2002: A look at the World Hobby Fair, Famitsu's survey on what's hot this summer, and Megumi!
7/9/2002: Sega parties, Doreamon is king, a bunch of advertisements and horrible weather.
7/2/2002: Famitsu's latest Online surveys, plus the return of television ads!
6/26/2002: I will use Haiku. Evil scandals rock Japan. Mario and Zelda.
6/19/2002: Naked man jumping off bridge. Plus, the Japanese retail report. It's Anoop's birthday. Send presents to Anoop.
6/12/2002: A look at Sega's arcade show. And, the most watched Japanese sports broadcast is...
6/5/2002: Japan earns its first point ever in World Cup history as Fooligans arrive in and are quickly deported from Tokyo.
5/28/2002: Best ad ever! Plus, PS2 price drop info and... not much more in this very uneventful issue.
5/21/2002: Price drops, no Final Fantasy, and more World Cup fever.
5/14/2002: Problems with Final Fantasy XI and a Famitsu survey on what can be done to fix the Xbox.
4/28/2002: The full IGN Japan returns with a review of the Lotteria Pure Burger and... not much else. Have a first look at new correspondents Cindy and Mindy, both Communists!
4/19/2002: Week three of our failed experiment to spread out this bloody article over multiple days. Features a look at Halo`s Japanese marketing campaign, a big soccer face-off, and more.
4/12/2002: Week two of our failed experiment to spread out this bloody article over multiple days. Features a big look at Sony`s broadband plans (find out how Japanese gamers will play FFXI) and some cool Famitsu reader surveys.
3/29/2002: Week one of our failed experiment to spread out this bloody article over multiple days. Features an interview with Chikako-chan, IGN Japan`s resident kid gamer, along with some odd-ball Japanese commercials.
3/12/2002: Week 1 of the Xbox in Japan. Plus, some other stuff that isn`t as important.
3/6/2002: A look at Sony's Online gaming plans in Japan, plus some shots of the free Xbox merchandise that we have and that you want.
2/28/2002: Uhh, yeah, so this issue kinds sucks. Sorry... we were loving every minute of Jet Set Radio Future and pretending to enjoy Dead or Alive 3, so we didn't get around to doing anything special for this week's column. Plus, there were all those controversies at the Olympics, and we were just concerned that maybe, just maybe, the world was slipping back into the Cold War era. HOW WERE WE TO CONCENTRATE!!!???
2/21/2002: One last big look at the Xbox pre-launch mania in Japan, plus Nintendo's touch and try event in Shibuya, complete with a horribly-rushed video!
2/14/2002: Worst issue ever! On the day that Sony announced its sweeping plans for the Online gaming scene in Japan, IGN Japan reports on Sony's month old plans, when little was known. Also, a look at the Xbox Experience event in Akihabara, with babe selections by Andria Lee Sang.
2/7/2002: The biggest IGN Japan yet! In addition to all new navigation buttons, this issue provides a look at the Virtua Fighter Carnival, complete with a ton of video of the best VF players in Japan going at it, and a look at the Xbox in Japan, complete with pre-order info, developer surveys and comments (via Famitsu Xbox) and commercials! View it today!
1/29/2002: A visual tour of the World Hobby Fair, complete with video (note: the video now works). Plus, a fun look at how poorly developers, retailers and users think Xbox will do in Japan.
1/22/2002: The first Xbox commercial, plus commercials for Grandia Xtreme and Virtua Fighter. Plus, first details on the upcoming World Hobby fair in the all new events calendar.
1/15/2002: IGN Japan returns. And this time, it's personal! Included in this issue, our pick and the reader's pick for import game of the year. Plus, a look back at 2001 and a look forward to 2002. Oh yes... and a very special interview with the evil biases of IGNPS2.
12/14/2001: This week, a review of the Pikmin music CD, plus the debut of upcoming release dates!
12/7/2001: We were too lazy to do anything game related this week, so we uploaded footage of Japanese beach girls getting their bikini angles measured by giant protractors. Plus, the top five Ramens! And, a ton of television and print ads!
11/27/2001: The most boring IGN Japan yet! Featuring Japanese retail predictions on what`s gonna be hot this holiday season (in Japan).
11/20/2001: A look at the Sony building in Tokyo, along with our attempts at pre-ordering an Xbox in Akihabara. Plus, Smash Brothers goes on sale!
11/13/2001: An absolutely boring update not worthy of the IGN name. Does feature ads for Smash Brothers, Rez, Jack and Daxter and Japanese beer, though. Plus, a look at the first ever Ayumi Hamasaki "Game."
11/06/2001: A ton of Japanese ads, including Metal Gear Solid and Seaman. Plus, news on Pride, SNK and the super duper Sakura Wars-themed bus.
10/29/2001: We take a trip down to Tokyo Tower to see a bunch of wax, and a li'l bit of PS2 Seaman.
10/22/2001: After a month long gap, IGN Japan returns from a brand new building in Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku district. Featured in this issue -- the debut of weekly news updates and... well, that's pretty much it. Yes, we're lazy bums, but it ads to our charm.
09/21/2001: Report from the Rez Rave in Yokohama and Sega`s Jet Set Radio Future ad.
09/13/2001: The Shenmue 2 packaging, a look at the pre-Gamecube launch frenzy, plus Capcom`s cool Capcom vs SNK 2 television ad.
09/05/2001: AM2 and Yu Suzuki appear live in Tokyo (videos included), PS2 hardware sales stats and ads for Shenmue and Seaman
08/31/2001: Our trip to Space World (including directions on how to get there), Parappa ads, the Devil May Cry sound sampler, and a look at the slowing down of Final Fantasy sales.
08/21/2001: Adventures pre-ordering four GameCube systems, Muscular Ranking playtest and ads for GameCube and Devil May Cry.
08/14/2001: Premiere issue -- rare collectors` item! IGN Japan heads on out to Yokosuka, Japan in order to find the real Shenmue. Featuring video footage!