The Japanese game scene is at last heating up. The past couple of weeks have seen a flood of new product announcement and news, breaking a long, boring dry period where IGN's Japanese staff had nothing to do but play through Astro Boy on Game Boy Advance over and over again. Looking below and at the recap list from last week, we're sure you can see that with all the news going around now there's no time to play games.
And that's a good thing, because there are no games to play. Publishers stuffed up most of their big releases into the period prior to the start of Summer break. Now that kids are back at school, few titles are coming out. While there are a few big games, Biohazard Outbreak and Sengoku Musou: Moushouden among them, due out over the next couple of weeks, the next time we'll earn mega Bic points as we buy two handfulls of software will come end of September (right as TGS kicks off, conveniently on a Japanese holiday).
This week, IGN Japan brought you playtests of Before Crisis: Final Fantasy VII, the gorgeous Phantom Dust and Quest of D and also took our cameras around the JAMMA arcade show floor. Catch up on everything below.
[PLAYTESTS & FEATURES]
09.03.04: Quest of D Playtest
AM2's new arcade title has everything. Hands on with videos.
09.03.04: JAMMA 2004 Photo Tour
Lots of pictures from the JAMMA-sponsored Amusement Machine Show.
08.31.04: Hands-On: Before Crisis Final Fantasy VII
We eventually log on to Square Enix's mobile prequel and put in some play time.
08.31.04: Phantom Dust Playtest
Microsoft's latest looks awesome. Playtest from the Japanese demo.
[NEWS AND INFO]
09.07.04: Square Enix Hints at New TGS Title
The producer of Crystal Chronicles and the Saga series is up to something
09.07.04: Mobile Suit Soul Calibur
Soul Calibur and Ace Combat teams to work on new Gundam project.
09.07.04: Namco Starts on Next Generation
Company developing tools for next generation platforms.
09.07.04: Xbox Live Video Chat Dated in Japan
Pics and details for the final Xbox Live Video Chat product.
09.06.04: Update: Tower of Purgatory
We now know a bit about Hudson's PSP launch title.
09.06.04: Cloud Appears in Itadaki Street
FFVII star features in Dragon Quest/Final Fantasy crossover.
09.06.04: More Ultraman For PS2
Another fighting sequel starring our Japanese friends.
09.06.04: New From Genki: Racing Battle
Company takes SP racing to closed circuits.
09.06.04: First Look: Legend of the River King
The classic fishing series returns on the PS2.
09.05.04: Yu Suzuki Talks Shenmue Online
The creator of the original Offline version reveals new info about the massively multiplayer Online version.
09.05.04: Virtua Fighter 2 Not at 60fps
AM2 expects truly perfect port.
09.03.04: Capcom TGS Lineup
Devil May Cry and Resident Evil to feature.
09.03.04: Final Fantasy & Dragon Quest Team Up
New Itadaki Street game to feature crossover of big RPG hits.
09.03.04: Neo Geo Battle Coliseum Trailer
Straight from the JAMMA arcade show, a look at SNK Playmore's latest fighter.
09.03.04: Type X Gets Shooter Support
Gigawing, Raiden III and Treasure support guarantee shooter fans will love new board.
09.03.04: Sega & Sammy TGS Lineups
Two companies to share a single booth
09.03.04: Square Enix TGS Lineup
Lineup missing key titles like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy.
09.03.04: Tokyo Xtreme Online to PS2
Genki brings Online PC racing game to PlayStation 2.
09.03.04: Girls With Guns
Hot girls show off Sega's Ghost Squad in these videos from the JAMMA arcade show.
09.03.04: Sega Golf Club Trailer
Straight from JAMMA comes this clip of Sega Golf Club in motion.
09.03.04: Metal Slug Advance Dated in Japan
Game gets another release date. Will this one stick?
09.03.04: More Surgical Action For DS
Spike joins in on the fun in this new DS genre.
09.03.04: Nintendo Seeks Momotarou DS
Maker of popular Hudson Soft board game courted at Nintendo headquarters.
09.03.04: Skip Does DS
Maker of Giftpia hints at development of Nintendo DS title.
09.03.04: Key of Avalon 2 Clips
Straight from the floor of JAMMA
09.03.04: Virtua Striker 4 Clips
Plus, final details on the game from the JAMMA arcade show.
09.03.04: Killer 7 Delayed in Japan
Game coming out next year here too.
09.03.04: Viewtiful Joe Television Series Update
More details on how Joe will go to the small screen.
09.03.04: Final Fantasy Destroys Square Enix
This explains why we couldn't log onto Before Crisis.
09.02.04: Viewtiful Joe Named and Dated
Japan gets a full name and a final date for part 2.
09.01.04: Nintendo Drops SP Price in Japan
Could new price point mean cheap DS is planned?
09.01.04: New From Square Enix: Radiata Stories
New game in development from TriForce, maker of Star Ocean.
09.01.04: Halo 2 Dated in Japan
Microsoft reveals a date surprisingly close to the American version.
09.01.04: Another Shining Force Update
More from Sega's new role playing title.
09.01.04: Bandai and Namco Team Up
New Gundam game to be co-developed by two makers.
09.01.04: Banpresto and From Software Team Up
Japanese robots with Armored Core gameplay in new game called A.C.E..
09.01.04: Japanese Date for Metal Gear Solid 3
Konami finally reveals a final date for the game.
08.31.04: Sony Gets Bleach
New game to be developed based on anime property.
08.30.04: Date Set for Final Fantasy
Square Enix launches a beta test for its mobile prequel to FFVII and reveals a final date for the game.
LETTERS WITH TANAKA
Hello, I am John Tanaka. I am the question answerer and letter receiverer here at IGN Japan.
Before answering your questions for this week, I would like to ask you a question of my own. Do you have a question about the Japanese game market? Do you want to express your thoughts on anything Japanese game related? Do you like one of our young idols and want to let the world know about your perversions?
If any of these apply to you, send your mail to the Gaming Life in Japan mailbox. We get thousands of letters every day, so we will not be able to answer all of them personally. However, we will post the best ones here.
Let us begin the exciting column for this week.
LETTER #1
Love this new feature - just wanted to drop you a note to say keep it up! :) Also, any chance of a "retro" gaming swag article? I'd love to see that Super Magnetic Neo beanie you mentioned in the last article. -Greg A.
TANAKA RESPONDS: Hello Greg. Hey, is your last name Thomas, and did you make the NFL 2K series at Visual Concepts (smiles). Thank you for your feedback on this exciting new column. Unfortunately, the Super Magnetic Neo beanie was taken away from me (by a chick), so I no longer have it. Also unfortunately, the Super Magnetic Neo beanie was part of a larger Super Magnetic Neo fun pack Cave distributed back in the days of the Dreamcast. As you can see, it is an American product and therefor it does not qualify as Japanese swag.
Remember to send all your Japan-related questions and letters to the Gaming Life in Japan mailbox. Who knows, perhaps you will be made famous by having your letter printed in the next Gaming Life in Japan.
Turn the page for 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.
This week, we've got the latest issue of Famitsu along with a couple of Famitsu Xbox and Dorimaga .
WEEKLY FAMITSU - No.822
This week's Weekly Famitsu breaks all the rules by offering a cover with four Japanese wrestlers. We, of course, would have preferred another hot girl on the cover, just like last week's lovely Hitomi Shimatani, but how would having a hot girl on your cover match with a special report on King of Coliseum II? Note that these four don't qualify for Young Idol fame because they're not young and they're not idols.
As the Tokyo Game Show approaches, Famitsu has started getting some major scoops. This week, the magazine has exclusives on a A.C.E., a tie-up project between Banpresto and From Software; a new Gundam tie-up project between Bandai and Namco; Square Enix's Radiata Story; Genki's Racing Battle; a new surgery game for the DS from Spike; and more. The Square Enix story is, of course, the big news, although the last time Famitsu (as opposed to, for instance, Jump Magazine) got the scoop on a Square Enix game, the world ended up with the gift of Unlimited Saga.
Two of the above titles are tie-up projects between two companies, and taking note of that, Famitsu has a mini report on game tie-ups, with particular focus given to the Bandai/Namco tie-up. The magazine gets comments from Bandai's Shin Unozawa and Namco's Yoichi Haraguchi, with Haraguchi actually admitting that Namco has started development of tools for next generation game systems. Be sure and check out the links on the previous page for more.
There's just a small offering of reviews this week, although it looks like we finally have something to buy!
GAME | SYSTEM | PUB | SCORE |
Biohazard Outbreak File 2 | PS2 | Capcom | 8,8,8,8 |
Konohana 4: Yami wo Harau Inori | PS2 | Success | 6,7,6,6 |
King of Coliseum II | PS2 | Spike | 8,7,7,8 |
Dororo | PS2 | Sega | 8,8,7,7 |
Van Helsing | PS2 | Vivindi Universal Games | 7,7,7,8 |
Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo Bakutou Hajike Taisen | GBA | Hudson | 7,6,7,6 |
Dorimaga - 10/2004
The once great Dreamcast publication and now great all-format publication Dorimaga has Sakura Taisen V as its cover story. The magazine, which we presume has close ties with Sega, managed to get interviews with the game's staff, including Hiroi Ouji of Red Entertainment. We'll put up some of the details in a future update... maybe.
Dorimaga also managed to get its hands on some cool info regarding Shenmue Online and the PS2 Virtua Fighter 2. Be sure and check out our headlines from the previous page for the full word.
Also featured in the issue is a guide for all the Famicom Mini disk games (not full guides, of course, but seeing even the minimal maps of Zelda II made us all natsukashii) and a brief history of King of Fighters (which helps one understand how similar all the games in the series look).
Plus, the latest Dori-Maga papercraft lets players assemble their own mini Thunderblade arcade machines! If we get time for arts and crafts, we'll put this thing (and the Outrun machine from the last issue) together and show the result of our unskilled handiwork in the next Japanese Swag article.
Readers with reasonable memories may recall that Dori Maga used to always have hot chicks on its pages (resulting in no less than three Gaming Life in Japan young idols). This week, the magazine features Shouko Nakagawa, a young idol with DVDs and picture books and the like.
Not only is this 19-year-old Tokyo native quite a cutey, but she's also a talented artist who does a terrific take on Sakura Wars. As her skills, Nakagawa claims games, anime, illustrations and Cantonese, listing as her favorite games Final Fantasy (IV, VI, VII and X), Dragon Quest (III, IV and V), Sakura Wars series, Zelda, and so-forth. She could be the ideal Gaming Life in Japan idol once that section returns.
There are no editor reviews in this issue of the magazine, but then again there weren't any last month either. We're not sure if Dorimaga actually reviews games anymore.
Famitsu Xbox - 10/2004
A very special issue of Famitsu Xbox this month. The magazine put the Dead or Alive girl standups on hold for a DVD demo of Phantom Dust. IGN Japan hasn't been a fan of Microsoft Japan's Xbox titles until now (Magatama, N.U.D.E and Nezmix were lame you know it), but Phantom Dust looks like it may be a winner. Be sure and check out our playtest, linked to on the previous page, to see what we're talking about.
Hitomi is on the cover of the issue, apparently because it's revealed inside that Hitomi will be a playable character in Dead or Alive Ultimate. We'd assumed that she'd be playable from the start, so we weren't too surprised by this news. Dead or Alive Ultimate is, of course, given the requisite four pages of coverage along with a couple of pages devoted to the magazine's regular "Team Ninja Freaks" section.
Elsewhere, the issue contains looks at Outrun 2 and Street Fighter Anniversary Collection, and smaller features on Halo 2, Blinx 2, Gun Griffon and so-forth -- just about every Xbox game coming out in Japan.
This week, the magazine has a new column. Titled "My Xbox Game Life," this column has lengthy impressions of Xbox titles new and old. For this first installment, the magazine has editor Norick give impressions of Ninja Gaiden. Editor Eh gives impressions of Voodoo Vince. Both games get the highest score from the two, A. As a title he has memories of, Eh lists Blinx: The Time Sweeper.
Just four reviews in this issue, but some glowing comments for Phantom Dust.
GAME | SYSTEM | PUB | SCORE |
Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy | Xbox | Microsoft | 6,6,6,7 |
Dead Man's Hand | Xbox | Microsoft | 6,6,7,7 |
SNK VS. Capcom SVC Chaos | Xbox | SNK Playmore | 7,6,6,5 |
Phantom Dust | Xbox | Microsoft | 9,9,9,9 |
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 08.30.04 and 09.05.04. Click on the name to see all of IGN's current coverage on the title.
PLAYSTATION 2
Ghost Hunter
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Suspense, Horror, Action, Adventure; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 7329 yen, Memory: 420K
This Sony Computer Entertainment take on Ghost Busters was published in America by Namco, but Electronic Arts has stepped in for the Japanese version. The game's producer is a Japanese guy -- his name is even Tarou! -- so at least EA is getting closer to having a Japanese lineup (we think next year will see the company get even closer).
Run Like Hell
Publisher: Capcom
Genre: SF, Action; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 7140 yen, Memory: 200K
Other: Dolby Pro Logic 2
Capcom's latest target for Japanese localization is this two-year-old Digital Mayhem title that caused the IGN PS2 guys to proclaim "After you run like hell to the store, are you gonna run like hell to the trash?".
Sangokushi IX With power Up Kit
Publisher: Koei
Genre: History, Simulation; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 11340 yen, Memory: 940K
Other: Makes use of PlayStation BB Unit (only hard disk)
Koei released Sangokushi IX for the PlayStation 2 in December of last year. This new entry adds lots of new elements to the game, including scenarios that require you to clear a stage and an expert mode featuring stronger enemy strategies. You can now edit not just your generals, but items as well. Three different types of "Trial Story" scenarios require that you perform certain tasks in order to progress.
Dokodemo Issho: Toro to Ippai
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Genre: Other, Communication; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 6090 yen, Memory: 1645K
Other: Compatible Eye Toy, Network Adapter, PlayStation BB Unit
People stopped buying Toro games with the death of the original PlayStation, but that hasn't stopped Sony Computer Entertainment from continuing to make 'em. A word-based communication game like other entries in the series, Toro to Ippai has you teach new words to Toro, who then passes the information on to a set of black cats known as Kuro (actually, the Kuros steal the words from Toro). The game lets you use Eye Toy to take pictures which can then be attached to words.
Prince of Persia ~ Jikan no Suna ~
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Action, Adventure; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 7140 yen, Memory: 82K
Sony Computer Entertainment is handling the Japanese release of Prince of Persia. The game is getting a huge push, with television commercials and lengthy magazine ads. Will Japanese gamers buy into one of last year's finest titles?
Simple 2000 Series Vol. 58: The Geka-i
Publisher: D3 Publisher
Genre: Medicine, Adventure; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 2100 yen, Memory: 2100K
This adventure game takes place in a university hospital. You play as a surgeon and work your way through adventure and surgery sections as you progress through the game's storyline. Adventure parts have you move around the hospital, speaking with other characters and listening to nurse's gossip (those nurses!). The surgery parts require that you perform surgery in a time limit in order to progress. Different operations require different procedures, with the story changing depending on your success or failure at the task at hand. Perform an operation well and you earn new "skills" which make performing future operations easier at the expense of some vitality.
Simple 2000 Series Vol. 60 The Tokusatsu Henshin Hero
Publisher: D3 Publisher
Genre: Action; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 2100 yen, Memory: 41K
This game is based on the Henshin Heroes television show and allows players to create their own hero, setting costume, secret skills, punches and kicks freely. The game features a story mode based on all twelve episodes of the television series, with players working their way through 3D levels and taking out enemies. At the end of a level, a giant beast awaits. Earn new parts for your original hero by performing well in the stages.
XBOX
Star Wars Jedi Knight : Jedi Academy (Xbox World Collection)
Publisher: Microsoft
Genre: Movie, SF, Action, Adventure; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 5040 yen, Memory: 24 Blocks
Other: Xbox Live compatible
More from the Xbox World Collection, this time with Jedi Knights. Hmm... Japan likes Star Wars too, so you'd think Microsoft would've given the game at least someone of a translation.
Dead Man's Hand (Xbox World Collection)
Publisher: Microsoft
Genre: Western, Action; Release: 09.02.04
Price: 5040 yen, Memory: 3 Blocks
Other: Xbox Live, System Link compatible
Now this is more like it! The Wild Wild West is something Japan probably can't relate to, making this a perfect title for the World Collection label. Still... 5040 yen for a game people can't understand is quite a bit, don't you think?
Any thoughts on the latest Japanese game releases mentioned in the above section? Send your comments to the IGN Japan mailbag.
Turn the page for the latest ads and commercials.
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 just a handful of commercials for you, but a whole lot of print ads.
If you have questions about these ads, mail us at the IGN Japan mailbag.
COMMERCIALS
All commercials are presented in 640x480.
Select from Windows Media 9 (WMV) or
Quicktime, then right click to download.
| Aqua Kids Yukes, PS2 Now Available
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| Biohazard Outbreak 2 SCE, PS2 Release: 09.02.04
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| Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo games Hudson, PS2/GBA
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| Dear S Media Works, PS2 Now Available
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| Dengeki PlayStation Media Works
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| Dororo Sega, PS2 Release: 09.09.04
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| Kenran Butousai #2 SCE, PS2 Release: Winter '04
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| Kenran Butousai #1 SCE, PS2 Release: Winter '04
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| Kuon From Software, PS2 Now Available
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| Lupin Banpresto, PS2 Release: 11.XX.04
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| Magnacarta Banpresto, PS2 Release: 11.XX.04
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| Naruto 2 #1 Bandai, PS2 Release: 09.30.04
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| Naruto 2 #2 Bandai, PS2 Release: 09.30.04
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| Naruto 2 #3 Bandai, PS2 Release: 09.30.04
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| Naruto RPG Tomy, GBA Now Available
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| One Piece Land Land Bandai, PS2 Now Available
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| Sengoku Musou: Moushouden Koei, PS2 Release: 09.16.04
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| Spiderman 2 Taito, PS2 Release: 09.30.04
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| Tennis no Oujisama Saikyo Team wo... SCE, PS2 Release: 09.16.04
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| Zoid VS. III Tomy, GCN Release: 09.30.04
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PRINT ADS
click on the image to download
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Dokapon The World Asmik Ace, PS2 Release: 11.04.04 (JPG, 367KB)
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Clover Heart's & Desire Interchannel, PS2 Release: 08.26.04 & 09.30.04 (JPG, 379KB)
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Metal Slug 4 SNK Playmore, PS2 Release: 09.22.04 (JPG, 352KB)
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Xbox Fighting Games Various Publishers (JPG, 218KB)
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Xbox Platinum Collection Various Publishers (JPG, 252KB)
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Any questions about these commercials? Want to find out what's going on in an ad? Send your questions to the IGN Japan mailbag.
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 and Famitsu Weekly for the arcade and most wanted charts.
Check back every week to find out what Japanese gamers are into!
GAME-RANK-IN: 08.23.04 - 08.29.04 |
Other new games in the top 50 include Simple 2000 Series Vol. 61: The Onechan Bara (PS2, 12), Monochrome (PS2, 15), Zwei!! (PS2, 19), Blood Rayne (PS2, 22), Clover Hearts: Looking For Happiness (PS2, 35) and Virtua Fighter Cyber Generation (PS2, 43). That's right, Sega actually managed to make a game with the Virtua Fighter name NOT sell. Good job, kids.
Media Create reports that the top 100 games for this week sold a total of 571,863 units, 71.64% of last week's total. New titles took up 23.78% of sales. We're not sure what percent of sales came from Virtua Fighter: Cyber Generation, but it's probably too low to count.
# | SYS | GAME | PUB | RELEASE | SALES |
1 | PS2 | Genso Suikoden IV | Konami | 08.19.04 | 46,548 |
2 | PS2 | World Soccer Winning Eleven 8 | Konami | 08.05.04 | 45,690 |
3 | PS2 | Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi Dream Carnival | Bandai | 08.26.04 | 40,680 |
4 | GBA | Super Mario Ball | Nintendo | 08.26.04 | 25,612 |
5 | PS2 | Taiko Risshiden IV | Koei | 08.26.04 | 25,540 |
6 | GBA | Famicom Mini: Super Mario Brothers 2 | Nintendo | 08.10.04 | 20,791 |
7 | GCN | Paper Mario RPG | Nintendo | 07.22.04 | 16,380 |
8 | PS2 | Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakyuu 11 | Konami | 07.15.04 | 15,956 |
9 | PS2 | Jissen Pachislo Hisshopou: Fist of the North Star | Sammy | 05.27.04 | 14,496 |
10 | GBA | Summon Night Craft Sword Monogatari 2 | Banpresto | 08.20.04 | 14,050 |
PS2=PlayStation 2, GCN=GameCube, WS=Wonderswan
PS=PlayStation, DC=Dreamcast, GBA=Game Boy Advance
HARD-RANK-IN: 08.23.04 - 08.29.04 |
# | MAKER | SYSTEM | THIS WEEK | LAST WEEK |
1 | Nintendo | Game Boy Advance SP | 38,160 | 40,229 |
2 | Sony Computer Entertainment | PlayStation 2 | 31,173 | 32,291 |
3 | Nintendo | GameCube | 6,464 | 8,161 |
4 | Nintendo | Game Boy Advance | 2,518 | 3,437 |
5 | Microsoft | Xbox | 266 | 366 |
6 | Sony Computer Entertainment | PlayStation | 110 | 134 |
7 | Bandai | Swan Crystal | 70 | 102 |
ARCADE-IN: 08.09.04 - 08.22.04 |
# | MAKER | GAME | GENRE |
1 | Sega | World Club Championship Football 2002-2003 | Soccer, Simulation |
2 | Sega | Sega Network Taisen Mahjong MJ2 | Mahjong, Table-Game |
3 | Namco | Taiko no Tatsujin 6 | Music, Action |
4 | Konami | Mahjong Kakutou 3 | Mahjong, Table-Game |
5 | Namco | Dragon Chronicle | Battle, Raising, Simulation |
6 | Namco | Wangan Midnight Maximum Tune | Comic, Race, Action |
7 | Sega | Avalon no Kagi | Fantasy, Board game, Card game |
8 | Sega | Virtua Fighter 4 Final Tuned | Fighting, Action |
9 | Sega | Initial D Arcade Stage Ver. 3 | Comic, Race, Action |
10 | Namco | Race On! | Race, Action |
MOST WANTED - FAMITSU |
# | SYS | GAME | MAKER | RELEASE |
1 | PS2 | Dragon Quest VIII: Sora to Umi to Daichi to Norowareshi Himegime | Square Enix | Winter '04 |
2 | PS2 | Final Fantasy XII | Square Enix | Winter '04 - Spring '05 |
3 | PS2 | Tales of Rebirth | Namco | TBA |
4 | PS2 | Metal Gear Solid 3 Snake Eater | Konami | 2004 |
5 | GCN | Biohazard 4 | Capcom | Winter '04 |
6 | PS2 | Magnacarta | Banpresto | 11.XX.04 |
7 | PS2 | To Heart 2 | Aqua Plus | Summer '04 |
8 | PS2 | Tales of Symphonia | Namco | 09.22.04 |
9 | PS2 | Kingdom Hearts 2 | Square Enix | TBA |
10 | PS2 | Gran Turismo 4 | Sony Computer Entertainment | Fall '04 |
11 | PS2 | Sakura Taisen V: Saraba Aishiki Hito-yo | Sega | TBA |
12 | GBA | Mother 3 (tentative) | Nintendo | TBA |
13 | GBA | Pocket Monster Emerald | Pokemon | 09.16.04 |
14 | PS2 | Sengoku Musou: Moushouden | Koei | 09.16.04 |
15 | PS2 | Devil May Cry 3 | Capcom | TBA |
16 | GCN | Mario Tennis GC (tentative) | Nintendo | 2004 |
17 | GBA | Fire Emblem: Seima no Kouseki | Nintendo | Fall '04 |
18 | PS2 | Kengo 3 | Genki | 09.22.04 |
19 | Xbox | Dead or Alive Ultimate | Tecmo | Summer '04 |
20 | PS2 | Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War | Namco | 10.21.04 |
21 | GCN | Fire Emblem: Souen no Kiseki | Nintendo | Winter '04 |
22 | GCN | Super Robot Taisen GC | Banpresto | Winter '04 |
23 | PS2 | Biohazard Outbreak File 2 | Capcom | 09.09.04 |
24 | GCN | Killer 7 | Capcom | Winter '04 |
25 | PS2 | DRIV3R | Atari | 10.XX.04 |
26 | PS2 | Shining Tears | Sega | Winter '04 |
27 | GCN | The Legend of Zelda | Nintendo | 2005 |
28 | PS2 | Tengai Makyo III Namida | Hudson | 2004 |
29 | GBA | Super Robot Taisen: Original Generation 2 | Banpresto | Winter '04 |
30 | PS2 | Berserk Sennen Teikoku no Taka (Millennium Falcon) hen - Seima Senki no Sho | Sammy | 10.07.04 |
PS2=PlayStation 2, GCN=GameCube, WS=Wonderswan
PS=PlayStation, DC=Dreamcast, GBA=Game Boy Advance
Any corrections, comments or questions regarding these charts? Send them to the IGN Japan mailbag.
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 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.
A request to our readers. If you encounter an error in these charts (like a game listed twice, for instance), please tell us.
Check back every week for the latest!
PLAYSTATION 2 |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
09.09.04 | King of Coliseum II | Spike | 8190 |
09.09.04 | Broken Sword: Nemureru Ryo no Densetsu | Marvelous Interactive | 7140 |
09.09.04 | Biohazard Outbreak File 2 | Capcom | 7140 |
09.09.04 | Biohazard Outbreak File 2 Memory Card 8MB | Hori | 3360 |
09.09.04 | Viewtiful Joe Aratana Yabou | Capcom | 4980 |
09.09.04 | Konohana 4: Yami wo Harau Inori | Success | 3990 |
09.09.04 | Pateeshe na Nyanko Hatsukoi ha Ichigo Aji | Pione Soft | 7140 |
09.09.04 | Pateeshe na Nyanko Hatsukoi ha Ichigo Aji (First Run) | Pione Soft | 8190 |
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 | Analogue Shindou Pad 2 Turbo - Silver | Hori | 2415 |
09.16.04 | Analogue Shindou Pad 2 Turbo - Black | Hori | 2415 |
09.16.04 | Analogue Shindou Pad 2 Turbo - Blue | Hori | 2415 |
09.16.04 | Analogue Shindou Pad 2 Turbo - White | Hori | 2415 |
09.16.04 | Analogue Shindou Pad 2 Turbo - Red | Hori | 2415 |
09.16.04 | Zettai Zetsumei Toshi (PS2 the Best) | Irem Software Engineering | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Pro Yakkyu Spirits 2004 Climax | Konami | 7140 |
09.16.04 | Shutokou Battle 01 (PS2 the Best) | Genki | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Wild Arms: Alter Code F (PS2 the Best) | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Ace Combat 4: Shattered Sky (PS2 the Best) | Namco | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Dragon Ball Z (PS2 the Best) | Bandai | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Dragon Ball Z 2 (PS2 the Best) | Bandai | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Dai-ni-ji Super Robot Taisen Alpha (PS2 the Best) | Banpresto | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Angelique Etowal Memory Card 8MB | Hori | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Spectral Force Radical Elements | Idea Factory | 7140 |
09.16.04 | Spectral Force Radical Elements (limited edition) | Idea Factory | 9240 |
09.16.04 | Usagi - Yasei no Toubei - THE ARCADE Sanshiro Mahjong-hen | Taito | 7140 |
09.16.04 | 9-ron Youma Gakuen Ki | Atlus | 7329 |
09.16.04 | 9-ron Youma Gakuen Ki - Deluxe Pack | Atlus | 10479 |
09.16.04 | Star Wars: Jango Fett (EA Best Hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
09.16.04 | Star Wars: Star Fighter (EA Best Hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
09.16.04 | Tengai Makyo II Manji Maru (PlayStation 2 the Best) | Hudson | 2800 |
09.16.04 | Final Fantasy XI/Final Fantasy XI: Promathia no Jubaku All-In-One Pack 2004 | Square Enix | 8190 |
09.16.04 | Final Fantasy XI: Promathia no Jubaku | Square Enix | 4179 |
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 | Vivendi Universal Games | 7140 |
09.16.04 | Tennis no Oujisama Saikyo Team wo Kesseiseyo! | Konami | 7140 |
09.16.04 | Pro Yakyuu Spirits 2004 Climax | Konami | 7140 |
09.16.04 | Sengoku Musou Moushouden Treasure Box | Koei | 9240 |
09.16.04 | 007 Everything or Nothing (EA Best Hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
09.16.04 | Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (EA Best Hits) | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
09.22.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 62: The Super Puzzle Bobble DX | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
09.22.04 | Simple 2000 Series Vol. 63: Mogitate Suichaku! Jo-mamire no The Suiei Taikai | D3 Publisher | 2100 |
09.22.04 | Patishi Na Nyanko: Hatsukoi ha Ichigo Aji | Pione Soft | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Patishi Na Nyanko: Hatsukoi ha Ichigo Aji (limited first press edition) | Pione Soft | 8190 |
09.22.04 | Meineliebe ~ Yuubi Naru Kioku | Konami | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Rakugaki Oukoku 2: Maoushiro no Tatakai | Taito | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Metal Slug 4 | SNK Playmore | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi 2 Akaki Elixer no Akuma | Square Enix | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Formula One 2004 | Sony Computer Entertainment | 6090 |
09.22.04 | Meine Liebe: Yubi Naru Kioku | Konami | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Kengo 3 | Genki | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Sakura Taisen V Episode 0 ~ Kouya no Samurai Musume ~ | Sega | TBA |
09.22.04 | Sakura Taisen V Episode 0 ~ Kouya no Samurai Musume ~ Memory Card 8MB | Hori | 3360 |
09.22.04 | Tales of Symphonia | Namco | 7140 |
09.22.04 | Tales of Symphonia - Memory Card 8MB | Hori | 3360 |
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 |
09.22.04 | Air Force Delta Blue Wing Knights (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
09.22.04 | Mahjong Yarouze! 2 (Konami Tendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
09.30.04 | Desire | Interchannel | 6090 |
09.30.04 | Shrek 2 | D3 Publisher | 6090 |
09.30.04 | Broken Sword: Nemureru Ryo no Densetsu | Marvelous Interactive | 7140 |
09.30.04 | Friends ~ Seishun no Kagayaki ~ | Interchannel | 7560 |
09.30.04 | Friends ~ Seishun no Kagayaki ~ | Interchannel | 7560 |
09.30.04 | Sinbad Adventure ha Kanako Enomoto De Dou Desuka | Nihon Amusement Housou | 5050 |
09.30.04 | Spiderman 2 | Taito | 7140 |
09.30.04 | Magnacarta | Banpresto | 7329 |
09.30.04 | Kougeki Helicopter Senki | Taito | 7140 |
09.30.04 | Ys III: Wanderers from Ys | Taito | 6090 |
09.30.04 | W Wish (Double Wish) | Princess Soft | 7140 |
09.30.04 | W Wish (Double Wish) - First Run Edition | Princess Soft | 8820 |
09.30.04 | Naruto - Narutimate Hero 2 | Bandai | 7140 |
09.30.04 | Siki na Mono ha Suki Dakara Shouganai!! - RAIN - Sukisyo! Episode #03 | Interchannel | 7140 |
09.30.04 | Desire | Interchannel | TBA |
09.30.04 | Princess Maker 2 | Genex | 6090 |
09.30.04 | LoveSongs ADV Futaba Riho 14-sai ~ Natsu ~ | D3 Publisher | 6090 |
09.30.04 | Slotter Up Core 4 Ton-chan Gekidan! Jissen Pachi-slo Ore Shugi | Dorat | 4515 |
10.06.04 | Uchu Senkan Yamato Iscandar e no Tsuioku | Bandai | 7140 |
10.07.04 | Tsuki ha Higashi Ni Hi ha Nishi Ni ~ Operation Sanctuary ~ | Alchemist | 7140 |
10.07.04 | Bomberman Battles | Hudson | 6279 |
10.07.04 | Kidou Senshi Gundam Seed: Owaranai Ashita E | Bandai | 7140 |
10.07.04 | Fuai-Naru - Approach | Princess Soft | 7140 |
10.07.04 | Fuai-Naru - Approach (First Run) | Princess Soft | 8190 |
10.07.04 | Star Wars: Battle Front | Electronic Arts | 7140 |
10.07.04 | Berserk Sennen Teikoku no Taka (Millennium Falcon) hen - Seima Senki no Sho | Sammy | 7329 |
10.07.04 | Berserk Sennen Teikoku no Taka (Millennium Falcon) hen - Seima Senki no Sho - Branded Box | Sammy | 10479 |
10.14.04 | Daidassou The Great Escape | Marvelous Interactive | 7329 |
10.14.04 | Burnout 3: Take Down | Electronic Arts | 7140 |
10.14.04 | Sega Ages 2500 Series Vol. 16: Virtua Fighter 2 | Sega | 2625 |
10.14.04 | Hitman: Contract | Eidos | 6090 |
10.14.04 | Kappa no Kai-kata | Konami | 7140 |
10.21.04 | Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas | Capcom | 7140 |
10.21.04 | Sukinamono ha Sukidakara Shouganai!! ~ RAIN ~ Sukisyo ~ Episode #03 | Interchannel | 7140 |
10.21.04 | Tim Burton Nightmare Before Christmas Gyakushuu | Capcom | 7140 |
10.21.04 | DRIV3R | Atari | TBA |
10.21.04 | Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War | Namco | 7140 |
10.21.04 | Akaiito | Success | 7140 |
10.21.04 | Cool Girl (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
10.21.04 | Fire Fighter F.D.18 (Konami the Best) | Konami | 2940 |
10.21.04 | La Pucelle Hikari no Seijo Densetsu Ni-shume Hajimemashita | Nippon Ichi Software | 2940 |
10.21.04 | Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (Konami Dendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
10.21.04 | Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance (Konami Dendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
10.21.04 | Tokimeki Memorial Girls Side (Konami Dendou Selection) | Konami | 1890 |
10.28.04 | Apokurifa/Zero | GN Software | 7140 |
10.28.04 | Apokurifa/Zero (Limited First Edition) | GN Software | 9240 |
10.28.04 | SuperLite 2000 Renai Adventure ~ Ever17 ` the out of infinity - Premium Edition | Success | 2100 |
10.28.04 | J.League Winning Eleven 8: Asia Championship | Konami | 7329 |
10.28.04 | True Crime: Streets of LA | Capcom | 7140 |
10.28.04 | Stella Deus | Atlus | 7329 |
10.28.04 | Sentimental Prelude | Interchannel | 7560 |
10.28.04 | The King of Fighters 2003 | SNK Playmore | 7140 |
10.28.04 | Suizuki Mayoi Gokoro | Kid | 7140 |
10.28.04 | Wa-ga Ryo wo Mi-yo | Sony Computer Entertainment | 6090 |
10.28.04 | Armored Core: Nine Breaker | From Software | 6090 |
10.28.04 | To Heart 2 | Aqua Plus | 7140 |
10.28.04 | To Heart 2 - Limited Deluxe Pack | Aqua Plus | 10479 |
10.28.04 | To Heart 2 (First Run) | Aqua Plus | 8379 |
10.28.04 | PlayStation 2 Memory Card (8MB): Premium Series To Heart 2 | Sony Computer Entertainment | 2940 |
10.28.04 | Kitahe. Diamond Dust (Hudson the Best) | Hudson | 3990 |
10.28.04 | Kitahe. Diamond Dust + Kiss is Beginning | Hudson | 7140 |
11.03.04 | Shining Tears | Sega | 7140 |
11.03.04 | Dokapon The World | Asmik Ace Entertainment | 7140 |
11.03.04 | Otona no Garu Sho ~ Kimi ni hane-man~ (Jaleco the Best) | Jaleco | 2940 |
11.04.04 | Neo Contra | Konami | 7329 |
11.11.04 | Standard Taisenryaku: Dengeki Sen | Sammy | 7140 |
11.11.04 | Bokujou Monogatari Oh! Wonderful Life | Marvelous Interactive | 7140 |
11.11.04 | Futakoi | Media Works | 7140 |
11.11.04 | Futakoi (Limited First Edition) | Media Works | 10290 |
11.18.04 | DDR Festival Dance Dance Revolution | Konami | 6279 |
11.18.04 | DDR Festival Dance Dance Revolution (with DDR controller) | Konami | 9240 |
11.18.04 | Beatmania II DX 8th Style | Konami | 7329 |
11.18.04 | Pop 'n Music 10 | Konami | 7140 |
11.18.04 | Pop 'n Music 10 (Control Set) | Konami | 9240 |
GAMECUBE |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
09.30.04 | Zoid Versus III | Tomy | 7140 |
10.14.04 | Kururin Squash | Nintendo | 3800 |
10.28.04 | Mario Tennis GC (tentative name) | Nintendo | TBA |
11.18.04 | Mario Party 6 | Nintendo | 7140 |
11.18.04 | Kaiju no Shima ~ Amazing Island (O-Kaitoku-Ban) | Sega | 2940 |
11.18.04 | Giant Egg ~ Billy Hatcher no Daibouken (O-Kaitoku-Ban) | Sega | 2940 |
11.18.04 | Sonic Adventure Deluxe (O-Kaitoku-Ban) | Sega | 2940 |
12.02.04 | Mr. Incredible | D3 Publisher | TBA |
12.16.04 | Viewtiful Joe 2 | Capcom | 6980 |
GAME BOY ADVANCE |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
09.16.04 | Pocket Monster Emerald | Pokemon | 4800 |
09.22.04 | Angel Collection 2 Pichimo ni Narou | MTO | 5040 |
09.22.04 | Advance Guardian Heroes | Treasure | 5040 |
09.22.04 | DAN DOH!! (tentative name) | Takara | TBA |
09.24.04 | Minna no Soft Series: Minna no Shogi | Success | 3654 |
09.24.04 | Fruits Mura no Doubutsutachi | TDK Core | 5040 |
09.24.04 | Futatsu Asoberi Twin Series Vol. 2 - Oshare Princess EX Purimo Debut Monogatari + Renai Urenai Daisakusen | Culture Brain | 5040 |
10.07.04 | Fire Emblem Seima no Kouseki | Nintendo | TBA |
10.14.04 | Mawaru Made in Wario | Nintendo | TBA |
10.21.04 | F-Zero Climax | Nintendo | 4800 |
10.28.04 | Fruits Mura no Doubutsu Tachi | TDK Core | 5040 |
10.28.04 | Patroller X | Bandai | 5040 |
11.04.04 | Zelda no Densetsu: Fushigi no Boushi (tentative) | Nintendo | TBA |
11.11.04 | Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories | Square Enix | 6279 |
11.18.04 | Gakuen Alice ~ Doki Doki Fushigi Taiken ~ | Kids Station | 5040 |
11.19.04 | Finding Nemo Aratana Bouken | Yukes | TBA |
11.XX.04 | Bura Bura Donkey | Nintendo | 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 |
11.XX.04 | Dragon Ball Advance Adventure | Banpresto | TBA |
12.02.04 | Mr. Incredible | D3 Publisher | TBA |
XBOX |
RELEASE | GAME | MAKER | YEN |
09.22.04 | Metal Slug 4 | SNK Playmore | TBA |
09.22.04 | SNK vs Capcom SVC Chaos | SNK Playmore | 5040 |
09.23.04 | Phantom Dust | Microsoft | 6090 |
09.30.04 | Full Spectrum Warrior | Microsoft | 6825 |
10.07.04 | Star Wars Battle Front | Electronic Arts | 7140 |
10.07.04 | Dead or Alive Ultimate | Tecmo | 9240 |
10.07.04 | Xbox: Kasumi-chan Blue | Microsoft | 23940 |
10.14.04 | Hitman: Contract | Eidos | 6090 |
10.28.04 | Cyberia 2 ~ Extend Edition ~ | Success | 5040 |
10.18.04 | True Crime: Streets of LA | Capcom | 7140 |
10.28.04 | Street Fighter Anniversary Collection | Capcom | 5040 |
11.11.04 | Halo 2 | Microsoft | 7140 |
11.11.04 | Halo 2 Limited Edition with Xbox Live | Microsoft | 9975 |
11.18.04 | Blinx 2: Battle of Time & Space | Microsoft | TBA |
12.02.04 | Mr. Incredible | D3 Publisher | TBA |
12.16.04 | Guilty Gear Isuka | Arc System Works | 5040 |
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.
08.31.04: Following a dry spell, things kick into high gear as part of the pre-TGS build-up. IGN Japan samples Suikoden IV and VF Cyber Generation, offers a look at our latest toys and provides coverage from the Kessen III press conference and details on Sakura Taisen, Siren 2 and Shining Force. Plus, CMs for Pokemon and Dororo and ads for Dead or Alive Ultimate, Metal Gear Solid 3, Sakura Taisen V and Kessen III.
08.27.04: IGN Japan makes the move to Shibuya (and to an update earlier in the week) resulting in a tiny update with not much fun.
08.19.04: Rapping Mario features in the latest Nintendo ad as IGN Japan spreads some hate on Michigan and Nippon Ichi announces its latest title.
08.12.04: A tiny update for a slow week in gaming as Japan celebrates the return of the dead and Nintendo releases the latest Famicom Mini games.
08.04.04: Nintendo unveils the final design for the DS as IGN taps into its growing collection of Japanese freebies to share with the world. Playtests of Mega Man X8, Mega Man X: Command Mission and Final Fantasy I - II Advance, a deeper look at former IGN Japan young idol Yin Ling of Joytoy, plus commercials for Fullmetal Alchemist: Dream Carnival, Lupin, King of Fighters: Maximum Impact and Famicom Mini Round 3.
07.28.04: As fireworks are heard throughout Japan, IGN Japan falls in love with Paper Mario RPG and finds some information on Mario Tennis. That and commercials for Nighmare of Druaga and Eye Toy.
07.20.04: Playtests of the Kinpachi Sensei game and Digital Devil Saga along with letters with Tanaka and commercials for Genso Suikoden, Power Pro Baseball 11, Naruto RPG and Taiko no Tatsujin. Plus, an all new IGN Japan young idol, Mayuko Iwasa.
07.13.04: As Sony unveils more on PSP and PS3, Famitsu takes a look back at the first half of the year and Nintendo announces the new Famicom Mini games. Playtests of two more Sega Ages games along with commercials for Paper Mario, Moji Pittan, Final Fantasy and Dragon Ball Z 2.
07.07.04: Commercials for Sonic, Megaman, Power Pro Ken and Saru Battle, the July Sega Press and the week in review with playtests of Saru Battle and Donkey Konga 2 and stories on Final Fantasy ads, the Advance Movie service, Sega's new arcade projects, Spike's new firefighting game and Square Enix's Mana project.
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.
12/09/2002: 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!