Japan was hit with yet another flood of game releases to close off February. From big names like Suikoden V, Samurai Warriors 2, Monster Hunter 2 and Disgaea 2, to the latest love sims like Separate Hearts, Jewels Ocean, Desert Love, Clannad and Full House Kiss, gamers in Japan were kept busy these past two weeks.
The PSP saw some big support. Sony released the system's first true RPG (well, non ported RPG, that is) in the form of Monster Kingdom. Japan-only support for the system included Mai Hime, Kinniku Man and Initial D. The PSP even had a major port, with Genso Suikoden I&II serving as the perfect way to prepare for the PS2 release of part 5.
The following games were released between 02.12.2006 and 02.25.2006. Follow the links for more details. Please note that some of the links lead to Japanese content.
The magazine review scores listed with each game are, in most cases, out of 10. Dengeki PlayStation has scores out of 100 and also gives scores to some games using an S, A, B, C, D, E letter system with S highest and E lowest.
BLEACH -- Hanatareshi Yabou Sony Computer Entertainment (PUB)
02.16.2006
PS2
SCPS-15101
7140
RPG
The popular Bleach anime and comic gets its first RPG, featuring a story supervised by the original creator. The game features a battle system that stays true to the original work as well as a new zapping system which allows you to try out sub stories separate from the main storyline. Bleach fans can expect to encounter some original characters as they play.
Clannad was popular on the PC, and has now made its way to the PS2 with a new feature: full voice. Just like the PC version, the PS2 version includes dozens of endings, with your path determined by where you go and the lines of dialogue you select.
This latest entry in the Dance Dance series was created especially for the home. In addition to over 50 songs, promotional videos are included thanks to a tie-up with Toshiba EMI. A new mode of play, Dance Master Mode, tops off all the modes you've come to expect, including the Diet Mode, supervised by Konami Sports.
Desert Love - Sweet Plus - Marvelous Interactive (PUB)
02.23.2006
PS2
???
7140
Adventure
Following a successful appearance on the PC, this boys love simulation has made the trip over to the PS2. You play as an office lady who helps out with the design and development of sweets. You'll get to experience love-based scenarios with seven characters, including your superiors and ex boyfriend.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 6, 5, 5), Dengeki PlayStation (C)
Devil May Cry 3 Special Edition **AKA: Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening Special Edition (USA)**Capcom (PUB)
02.23.2006
PS2
SLPM-66160
3990
Action
This update to the original Devil May Cry lets you play as Dante's twin brother and adds new modes, including a demo digest, very hard mode, international mode and a "turbo" setting for game speed.
Capcom has followed up on its original boys love sim with a sequel where you play as the female head of a common house shared by a group of idol-like male students. You also serve as secretary to the school's director. The game is split into house keeping and adventure parts.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 8, 8, 8), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
The fifth entry in the Genso Suikoden series arrives 10 years after the series kicked off and takes place in the Falena Kingdom, which has so far appeared in the series only in name. You play as Queen Falena's son in a story surrounding a special sun crest. A new formation system lets you quickly group up to six party members into pre-set formations during battle.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (9, 8, 8, 7), Dengeki PlayStation (S), Dengeki PlayStation (95, 85, 85, 85), Hyper PlayStation (8, 8)
Hisshou Pachinko Pachislot Kouryaku Series Vol.3 CR Marilynn Monroe D3 Publisher (PUB)
02.23.2006
PS2
SLPS-25620
5040
Simulation
The popular CR Marilyn Monroe pachinko machine has at last been converted into digital form using actual data from the maker. In addition to setting various aspects of the machine, you can at last enjoy performances by the legendary Marilyn Monroe in your home.
Based off a 2005 arcade game, this shooter features two selectable ships and six female bosses. Outside of the arcade mode of play, the game includes arranged and practice modes as well as a gallery.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 7, 6, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
Jewels Ocean: Star of Sierra Leone Pione Soft (PUB)
02.23.2006
PS2
SLPM-66245
7140
Adventure, Simulation
This love sim combines adventure and simulation RPG gaming in one! In the adventure part, you work through a story involving girls and enemies. The simulation part makes use of a turn based grid system where you summon monsters to defeat enemies. You can raise your monsters into more powerful beasts.
Nippon Ichi's followup to the original Disgaea features a story focusing on Adell, who fights to save his family, and Rozalin, the daughter of Zenon. The game includes new battle systems and promises over 100 hours of gameplay.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (9, 9, 8, 8), Dengeki PlayStation (S), Dengeki PlayStation (85, 80, 80, 80), Hyper PlayStation (9, 8)
Following an appearance on the Dreamcast Metal Wolf has been ported over to the PC with added artwork, new characters, full voice for all characters and additional music. The game takes place in the near future as you work to solve the mysteries of the Metal Wolf.
Capcom's popular online monster hunting games gets a full-fledged sequel with new worlds and beasts. Each field of play has three seasons, ranging from hot to cold. You'll get to equip a number of new weapons and defensive items as you engage in online hunting sessions.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (10, 10, 9, 8), Dengeki PlayStation (S)
My Home wo Tsukurou 2 Juujitsu! Kantan Sekkei!! Marvelous Interactive (PUB)
02.23.2006
PS2
SLPS-25615
5040
Simulation
This entry in the My Home wo Tsukurou! series allows you to build a home 50% larger than previous titles. In addition to added furniture and materials, the game includs a refined "takumi" mode where you take on jobs to build homes for other people.
This flight sim lets players take part in famous battles from World War II, while adding some "What-If" scenarios. Japanese, foreign and test planes add up to 60 machines in all.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 7, 7, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (C)
That unexpected fusion of hip hop and historical drama that has made the Samurai Champloo cartoon such a hit has been converted to the game screen by Grasshopper Manufacturer (Killer 7, Michigan). Taking control of Mugen and Jin, you'll work through an original storyline that surrounds a rhythmic action gameplay system. By clearing certain conditions in story mode, you can open up a "Trance Mode" time attack mode.
Sega Ages 2500 Series Vol.22 Advanced Daisenryaku: Doitsu Dengeki Sakusen Sega (PUB)
02.23.2006
PS2
SLPM-62708
2625
Simulation
The original Daisenryaku first appeared on the Mega Drive back in 1991. This first PS2 appearance is a remake of that, with improved graphics and game balance and faster AI routines.
Sega Ages 2500 Series Vol.25 Gunstar Heroes Treasure Box Sega (PUB), Treasure (DEV)
02.23.2006
PS2
SLPM-62712
2625
Action
Sega and Treasure have teamed up to bring three Genesis classics to the PS2: Gunstar Heroes, Dynamite Heady and the elusive Alien Soldier. This entry of the Sega Ages series includes multiple versions of each game, digital English instruction manuals and other bonus materials.
The second entry in the Samurai Warriors series once again places players in control of Sengoku era generals. In addition to new generals, the game includes new gameplay systems and updated areas.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (10, 9, 9, 8), Dengeki PlayStation (A), Dengeki PlayStation (90, 85, 80, 80), Hyper PlayStation (10, 8)
In this love sim, you play as Junichi, who gets involved in an accident and loses his memory. You hook up with a large cast of girls who assist you in rediscovering the past. The game features interactive dialogue sequences that lead to branching paths.
Sega's most famous mascot characters, as well as a few newbies, star in this Sonic themed racing game. Sonic and friends race aboard hover boards, and to successfully compete, you have to make skillful use of the air for performing tricks and gaining speed. Modes of play include a free race mode, where you race on a course of your choosing, and multiplayer race options including survival and tag modes.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (9, 8, 8, 7), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
Koei's game of naval warfare takes place in a make-believe world and puts you in charge of your own naval ship. For part 2, Koei has upped the drama, with a more in-depth storyline filled with multiple paths. Gameplay has been made deeper, with weather effects and powerful mega weapons.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 8, 8, 8), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
Turn the page for more of the latest releases from Japan.
Follow the links for more details on the games, including IGN's full collection of stories and media. Note that some of the links have Japanese content.
Itsudemo Dokodemo Dekiru Igo AI Igo Marvelous Interactive (PUB)
02.23.2006
NDS
NTR-P-AIIJ
3990
Table Game
This take on the game of Go features an AI engine developed by renowned AI specialist David Fortland. In addition to play versus a smart, speedy computer opponent, the game includes wireless multiplayer support. The game adjusts computer difficulty based on player performance and, for beginner players, includes a guide to Igo and a practice mode with adjustable difficulty settings.
Itsudemo Dokodemo Dekiru Shougi AI Shougi Marvelous Interactive (PUB)
02.23.2006
NDS
NTR-P-AI4J
3990
Table Game
This Shogi game includes computer opponents at multiple levels and a challenge mode which requires that players clear various conditions. Wireless support is included for multplayer support. Those who are new to the game of Shogi can turn to the included Shogi guide.
This quiz game features over 7000 questions, and a variety of different quiz types that test not just your intelligence, but your memory and calculation ability as well. A series of classic-style characters work with you as you aim for the world quiz crown.
Koei's banner Sangokushi series hits the DS with this brand new entry that makes use of the touch pen for movement. The top screen shows the status of your generals and kingdom while the bottom screen gives you a full view of your map. Online support is included, allowing players to battle and trade custom generals.
Based around the classic Top Gun film, this shooter puts you in control of a fighter jet as you work your way through missions. You can select from Maverick, Ice Man and two other pilots from the movie and take to the controls of F-14, F-16 and F/A-18 jets. Support for DS download play is included, allowing four players to dog fight using a single cartridge.
Frantix Kira Kira Nazotoki Daibouken **AKA: Frantix (USA)**Ubisoft (PUB)
02.23.2006
PSP
ULJM-05088
5040
Puzzle
In this puzzle game, your goal is to clear traps and collect gems in a fixed time limit. You'll have to make use of items in order to work through the game's 180-plus stages.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 8, 7, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (C)
Gamble Con Fight **AKA: The Con (USA)**Ertain (PUB)
02.23.2006
PSP
ULJM-05092
5040
Action, Fighting
This fighting game starts you off with two friends as a low D-rank fighter. Your goal is to make it to S rank and appear in The Big Time Tournament, which offers a cool 10 million prize. The game includes a quick play mode, along with a character edit mode. Wireless LAN play is also included.
This racer takes place both on the ground and in the air. You'll have to avoid enemy traps, use items to take out obstacles and customzie your buggy in order to work through the game's 100 courses. The game includes a course edit mode.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 7, 7, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
The PSP installment in Sega's series of racers based off the Initial D manga uses Arcade Stage Ver. 3 as its base. Sega's added a new card system where players collect collection and tuning cards, the latter variety used for making modifications to your vehicle. Wireless LAN support is included for multiplayer play.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 7, 7, 7), Dengeki PlayStation (B), Hyper PlayStation (8, 8)
Jitsuroku Oniyome Nikki -- Shiuchi ni Taeru Otto no Rifujin Taiken Adventure AQ Interactive (PUB), Shennanet Works (DEV), Cavia (DEV)
02.23.2006
PSP
ULJM-05100
5040
Adventure
This unique PSP adventure game uses characters and story elements from one of Japan's most popular blogs. In addition to a story mode, featuring 66 short, five minute stories, players can create their own episodes and exchange them with friends via infrastructure internet mode.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 6, 6, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (C)
Over fifty "chojins" feature in this latest Kinnikuman fighter. The game includes new systems, including a grapple system, tag touch system and a friend power gauge. Matches and tournaments can be played multiplayer via Ad-Hoc.
Mai Hime Senretsu Shin Fuuka Gakuen Gekitoushi?! Sunrise Interactive (PUB)
02.23.2006
PSP
???
6090
Fighting
Sunrise has converted the popular Mai Hime anime into a 3D fighter. The game features simple controls, a story mode set in the world of the anime, and mini games.
Mobile Train Simulator Keisei, Touei Asakusa, Keikyuu Sen Ongakukan (PUB)
02.23.2006
PSP
ULJM-05085
5040
Simulation
This entry in Ongakukan's portable train simulation series simulates three Tokyo train lines. The game includes over 100km of track and 75 train stations.
Monster Kingdom Jewel Summoner Sony Computer Entertainment (PUB)
02.23.2006
PSP
UCJS-10026
5040
RPG
Kouji Okuda's first game since going independent is also the first true, original RPG for the PSP. The game includes over 100 monsters, elaborate battle scenes and a real time, 24 hour monster growth system. Ad-Hoc wireless play allows for battles and monster trading.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (9, 9, 9, 8), Dengeki PlayStation (B), Dengeki PlayStation (85, 85, 75, 70), Hyper PlayStation (7, 7)
Namco has brought together 11 classic aracde titles for this latest collection disk. Games include Mappy, Tower of Daruga, Dragon Spirit, Rolling Thunder and Dig Dug. Two of the titles can be played both in original and arranged modes, with the arranged mode offering superior visuals.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 7, 7, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
This twist on the variety/mini-game formula places players in a theme park called "Oedo Land." As you clear attractions, you'll make the park grow. A total of 18 mini games are included, playable via Ad-Hoc.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (6, 6, 6, 5), Dengeki PlayStation (B)
Simple 2500 Series Portable!! Vol.2 The Tennis D3 Publisher (PUB)
02.23.2006
PSP
ULJS-00038
2625
Sports
The second Simple 2500 Series game brings tennis to the PSP with a simple circle and x button configuration allowing for lobs, smashes and all the moves you could want. Mini games can be downloaded to a friend's PSP unit. The game also supports four player wireless play for those with four copies of the game and four PSPs.
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (6, 6, 6, 6), Dengeki PlayStation (C)
The second PSP Tiger Woods game features a new Swing Meter which lets players figure out the power of a shot at a glance, allowing for precise adjustments.
Turn the page for more of the latest releases from Japan.
Follow the links for more details on the games, including IGN's full collection of stories and media. Note that some of the links have Japanese content.
Sonic Riders Sega (PUB)
02.23.2006
Xbox
55A-00001
6090
Racing
Sega's most famous mascot characters, as well as a few newbies, star in this Sonic themed racing game. Sonic and friends race aboard hover boards, and to successfully compete, you have to make skillful use of the air for performing tricks and gaining speed. Modes of play include a free race mode, where you race on a course of your choosing, and multiplayer race options including survival and tag modes.
This third entry in the Nekketsu Kuniokun collection series includes two games: Ike Ike! Nekketsu Hocky-bu and Kuniokun no Jidaigeki da yo Zennin Shugou. First released in 1987, the Nekketsu series saw 23 titles over a 7 year period and total sales of over six million units.
Yu-Gi-Oh Duel Monsters Expert 2006 Konami (PUB)
02.23.2006
GBA
RK388-J1
4980
Card Game
To prepare for the year 2006 Yu-Gi-Oh World Championships, you'll need Yu-Gi-Oh DM Expert 2006. The game includes 1500 cards, the greatest number in Yu-Gi-Oh history, and includes cards from the TV Tokyo anime Yu-Gi-Oh Duel Monsters GX. In addition to the expected competitive link play, the game includes modes for single players.
The year 2006 entry in EA's golf series features ten pro golfers and six tough courses, included the world famous Pebble Beach. Included in the seven modes of play is an Xbox Live multiplayer mode, where you can earn points to obtain new items for your characters.
Baten Kaitos II Hajimari no Tsubasa to Kamigami no Shishi Nintendo (PUB), Namco (DEV)
02.23.2006
GCN
DOL-P-GK4J
6800
RPG
Baten Kaitos II is a prequel to Namco's 2003 GameCube RPG. Set twenty years prior to the start of the original, the game features Sagi, a new main character, bur retains the idea of the player taking a role in the game as a spirit who guides Sagi on his adventure. Developer Monolith has simplified the card-based battle system, resulting in faster progression.
Sega's most famous mascot characters, as well as a few newbies, star in this Sonic themed racing game. Sonic and friends race aboard hover boards, and to successfully compete, you have to make skillful use of the air for performing tricks and gaining speed. Modes of play include a free race mode, where you race on a course of your choosing, and multiplayer race options including survival and tag modes.
That does it for this week's list of recent releases. Next week, things slow down just a bit as the attention turns to the release of the DS Lite. Big potential hits include Children of Mana, Devil Summoner and Tenkabito.