Bubsy Will Strike Back With His Paws On Fire

I never hated Bubsy the Bobcat, the furry fella created by Michael Berlyn who just loves to talk and believes he can be a hero [7] [10] [12] [13] [18], despite the backlash he received throughout the years [2] [15] [16] [17]. Of course, who can forget the overwhelmingly negative reception of Bubsy 3D back in 1996 and so on [2] [4]? When Bubsy: The Woolies Strike Back was announced as another side-scroller back in June 2017, not many video gamers and game journalists seemed too delighted about it [12]. With his self-awareness and determination to become relevant again in The Woolies Strike Back, we can say that he was trying so hard to relive the days of his classic side-scrolling and became the envy of the seven deadly sins of 2017’s gaming [8] [9] [16]. At least Bubsy’s grand return featured his new and more tolerable voice, compared to his high-pitched and hyperactive bellowing from Bubsy 3D [10] [12] [13] [14]. I would honestly say Bubsy the Bobcat could be the marmite of old school gaming. You either love him or hate him. Despite this, along with the mixed to negative critical reception of his big return [8] [9] [16], the Bubster is yet to star in another instalment of his franchise that will be titled, “Bubsy: Paws On Fire” [1].

Could 2019 be the best year for the berated bobcat? [1]

Looks like a few characters from the Bubsy 2 and the Bubsy cartoon pilot that failed to impress many viewers back in 1993 shall make their big comebacks in Bubsy’s next chapter after years of absence [11] [15] [17]. Two of them have been hinted to be playable, along with a woolie who ironically seems to be on the bobcat’s side [1]. Arnold’s character development in the cartoon pilot was quite unnerving [3] [11] [15]. I just hope he will not be so paranoid about getting run over by a truck anymore since I believe the way he was in the cartoon pilot was not a considerate portrayal of anxiety, extreme paranoia, and post-traumatic stress disorder [3] [11] [15]. And yes, Virgil Reality, the same guy who created the unfashionable virtual reality helmet gets to be playable too [1] [11] [15]. Bubsy’s nephew and niece, Terrance and Teresa might not be playable, but they shall appear at the…Shoppery [1]? Really? Despite its odd name, at least the clothes shop shall offer some nice clothing items for Bubsy and the other playable characters [1]. The game’s overall plot should hopefully be more stimulating than the failed cartoon pilot for a better chance of the game being a better installment of the Bubsy franchise [11] [15] [17].

Bubsy and the three other playable characters. Nice shoes, Bubster. [1]

I think “Dorothy Purrkins” would have been a better name for the clothes shop. [1]

I quite like how the game will feature a variety of gameplay methods, as well as an increased amount of playable characters [1]. After curling up into a ball, Arnold shall roll his way through a tunnel during his gameplay sections, collecting emeralds and possibly avoiding...bags of farts [1]? Seriously?! At least the blue armadillo will be much braver and hopefully leave his fears of trucks behind [3] [11] [15]. It appears that Virgil gets to crash through layers of glass without taking damage and collect strange blue orbs that might be involved with the power of the virtual reality helmet [1]. We can tell by how his aura has the same shade of blue. Bubsy and the playable woolie will be able to shoot obstacles in a UFO in some gameplay sections [1], which makes the variety of gameplay methods seem more interesting. I also like how three jigsaw puzzle pieces and five letters that spell out the word “Bonus” can be collected in the side-scrolling sections because it can make them more rewarding and increase the gameplay’s freshness [1]. Since Bubsy will not be in his next chapter alone, the way his allies are joining him in 2019 is making the upcoming instalment seem interestingly fresh [1].

Bags of farts?! Really?! At least the third-person view for Arnold’s gameplay section shows that there shall be more than one playstyle for Bubsy’s next big step. [1]

The jigsaw puzzle pieces and letters that spell out the word “Bonus” in the side-scrolling sections can provide two more objectives that can make them more rewarding. [1]

There can be some further enhancements for the final outcome of Bubsy: Paws On Fire [1]. One of them could be a better relationship between the Bubster and the blue armadillo [11] [15]. Hopefully, Bubsy will be a better friend to Arnold during at least one cutscene, compared to how he physcially irritated him in the failed cartoon pilot [11] [15]. Speaking of one cutscene, there can perhaps be more than one to make the plot and premise stand out more, compared to how there was only one cutscene in The Woolies Strike Back [9] [16]. Furthermore, they can feature decent animation of the characters instead of just a camera zooming in and out of different parts of one image of the Bubster’s reaction to an incident [9]. The voice acting for the other characters, such as the twins could perhaps be improved as well, compared to the voice acting in the cartoon pilot [11] [15], but who knows? So far, we know that Bubsy is once again voiced by Dan Castellaneta [1] [8]. But ultimately, if none of those suggestions occur in the outcome, the gameplay still seems to be at least fairly decent and can be acceptable with bearable controls, along with non-repetitive level design [9].

I am pretty sure that Arnold needs better character development and a more tolerable friendship with Bubsy for his big comeback in 2019. [11]

The Bubsy franchise still seems quite poorly received to this day [8] [9] [16]. However, the small variety of playstyles hinted in the official teaser trailer are a few signs that Bubsy’s next step shall be quite refreshing [1], especially for those who were not familiar with him back in the days of the Super Nintendo, the SEGA Genesis, and the Atari Jaguar [5] [6] [18]. Even if he still annoys plenty of gamers with his ego, one-liners, and belief of being “The Prince of Purrsonality” [11] [18], there will at least be more effort put into the upcoming instalment than The Woolies Strike Back [1]. Quite shockingly, there will be over one hundred levels, according to the teaser’s description [1]! After its production from the developers of Runner 3, Paws On Fire shall hit the market in 2019 for the PS4, the Nintendo Switch, and any gamer’s PC [1]. What has been revealed in the teaser makes it look like a somewhat decent game, but will it turn out to be truly better than The Woolies Strike Back? Or will it be a sign that the bobcat is still just a Sonic the Hedgehog reject, according to plenty of those who remember berating him [2] [7] [16]? What could possibly go wrong?

What is this? Bubsy in a UFO too?! Well, let us wish him good luck on his upcoming chapter. [1]

References:

1. Accolade Game. (2018). Bubsy™: Paws on Fire - Teaser Trailer. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ov3wjgvoaOA. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
2. blameitonjorge. (2018). 10 Incredibly Lame 90’s Mascots That Time Tried To Forget | blameitonjorge. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mDenbjmQcs. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
3. Bubsy Bobcat Wiki. (2018). Arnold. Available: http://bubsy.wikia.com/wiki/Arnold. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
4. Bubsy Bobcat Wiki. (2013). Bubsy 3D. Available: http://bubsy.wikia.com/wiki/Bubsy_3D. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
5. Bubsy Bobcat Wiki. (2018). Bubsy II. Available: http://bubsy.wikia.com/wiki/Bubsy_II. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
6. Bubsy Bobcat Wiki. (2015). Bubsy in Fractured Furry Tales. Available: http://bubsy.wikia.com/wiki/Bubsy_in_Fractured_Furry_Tales. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
7. Bubsy Bobcat Wiki. (2018). Bubsy T. Bobcat. Available: http://bubsy.wikia.com/wiki/Bubsy_T._Bobcat. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
8. Bubsy Bobcat Wiki. (2017). Bubsy: The Woolies Strike Back. Available: http://bubsy.wikia.com/wiki/Bubsy:_The_Woolies_Strike_Back. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
9. Caddick, J. (2018). Bubsy: The Woolies Strike Back - Caddicarus.Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khciDV8XvpY. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
10. Deefor the Labrador. (2018). Bubsy The Woolies Strike Back - Bubsy's voice clips. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AA27g_c-zQ. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
11. geekzilla. (2012). Bubsy Pilot. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmNdbdSCuC4. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
12. Gematsu. (2017). Bubsy: The Woolies Strike Back - Teaser Trailer.Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RHdrmZsNs0. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
13. jamesuk9999. (2012). Bubsy 3D near complete voice collection.Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXGCb38zVNQ. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
14. killchainmail. (2009). Bubsy 3d intro. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NakglXeEyNU. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
15. Rozanski, J. (2013). Animated Atrocities #03: "Bubsy" [Dropped Pilot].Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF7W1ZjjBjI. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
16. Samination. (2017). Taco-Man Plays Bubsy: The Woolies Strike Back (PC) #87. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuvOgsJ8Lxs. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
17. Strider, J. (2017). Top 6 Worst Cancelled Cartoons. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiSHGrZn8jU. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.
18. whoisthisgit. (2009). Bubsy (SNES) - Every Chapter Intro. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FC6FMNaIPUs. Last accessed 1st Nov 2018.

Catherine: Full Body - A Remake With Possibly Full Maturity

Disclaimer:
This article will discuss revealed examples of content within an upcoming port of a game that contains erotic content and moments of horror. Reader discretion is advised.

Minasan, Kon’nichiwa! It is time once again to discuss how Catherine: Full Body is highly likely to welcome the cowardly, but determined Vincent Brooks back to the more mature side of the gaming industry in the best way yet whilst staying faithful to what made the original Catherine for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 a seductive success back in the earlier 2010s [4] [5]. Vincent may be a bit of an alcoholic man-child who is rather dissatisfied with his life [11] [17], but perhaps the additions of the original’s story could increase his small amount of likeability. There is strong hope that the original voice actors will reprise their roles for the English dub, as well as the new sexy events in the expanded plot and gameplay difficulty options being outstanding evidence of why the port’s title includes the term “Full Body” [4]. With its promising expansions on the plot that fascinated many of our fellow Catherine fans and the art style that many Persona fans love, will it be able to horrify many PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita players in a charming and thrilling way in 2019 and so on [4]?

The official cover for the PS4 version of Catherine: Full Body. [4]

A few ways to make a few differences to the nightmare gameplay can make it more tame or interesting, depending on the player’s preferences [4] [7]. One of the new alternations will be Autoplay Mode, which seems like a method of making the process of guiding the lost lamb through the shortest route very efficiently [4]. Another alternation will be Safety Mode for coping with the block-climbing without the time-limit and “Love Is Over” screen [4]. Not only will there be new gimmicks and the option to alter the gameplay’s difficulty that can make the challenge fairer for many Catherine players, but there will possibly over 500 stages in the entire port [4]. Wow, now that is lots and lots of stages – twice the amount of stages in the original Catherine! Quite unfortunately, a larger amount of stages within the main story mode will make the game far more time-consuming to complete, compared to the original Catherine [4]. But all the same, new sets of challenges can increase the thrill and also help the premise remain fresh. No matter which mode is chosen, how difficult the progress of guiding Vincent to the top seems and how long the progress is, just do not die.

Autoplay Mode, huh? [4]

There shall to be some new small aspects of the daytime gameplay in the enhanced port as well. Some whole new patrons will be up for a little chat with the Brookster at the Stray Sheep, so Rin will not be the only Full Body exclusive character [4]. Holy cracked sheep skulls! In the official second trailer, there will definitely be a moment when Vincent’s friends are seen in their swimsuits, along with Vincent wearing a weird eye mask [4] [14]. Those smaller ram horns attached to it could apply that it might be a nightmare version of the bar gameplay or simply an accessory that the player can make Vincent wear to witness something rather humourous [14]. Aside from Vincent’s new strange accessory, it is likely that Rin shall receive his phone number. If the pink-haired pianist will be occasionally absent from the Stray Sheep, the seemingly sweet and innocent newbie could start sending him text messages that will be perhaps not as overbearing as Katherine’s messages and not as provocative as Catherine’s messages [7] [15]. Perhaps there could be a few other new little features in the daytime gameplay so that the overall remake can feel more…well…full-bodied.

Vincent’s allies in their swimsuits, thanks to a new strange accessory with sheep horns. [14]

As I mentioned in my previous article about Catherine: Full Body, Vincent will have another love interest named Rin, otherwise known as “Qatherine” on the official Catherine website, who has been rumoured to be a transsexual or transgender character [1] [4] [9]. Another interesting fact about the pink-haired pianist that backs up the theory of possible transgenderism would be how that cute pink hairstyle and those blue and white clothes match the colours of the Transgender Pride flag [9]. There was even some small speculation about Rin possibly being an angel sent from above as there are two little angel wings on the back of that sailor collar [9]. I honestly do not think that Rin will be a male cross-dresser because the Japanese voice for the new star of Vincent’s story sounds far too feminine. And yes, Rin needs to be at least between 22 years old and 32 years old, at least physically, so that the new romance will be at least legitimate. Since “Rin” is a Japanese name, there is a possibility that Rin will be also named “Qatherine” in the English release for the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Seriously, what is up with the groovy bracelet?

Ummmm…you can stand up now Qatherine. [4] [9]

In the official second trailer, we see Rin in some adorable PJs hugging Vincent, applying that there will indeed be some positive aspects of their relationship [4] [9] [14]. Even though Rin seems like a gentle and friendly individual, there will need to be some flaws within the development of Rin and Vincent’s relationship, so that the players who buy and play the remake in 2019 will not sense any bias from the developers when it comes to choosing any of the three different lovers. The differences between Katherine’s caring and Catherine’s flirtatiousness were developed to be “black and white”, right [5]? Rin’s role in the nightmares is a healing presence for Vincent, which makes Rin’s development seem more unique [9]. Despite how clumsy the pink-haired co-star can be sometimes [9], we are yet to see what aspects of overall character development will make the co-star at least likeable and unique, aside from a special occupation as a pianist at the Stray Sheep. Since Rin will have amnesia and receive some help with fitting in, can Vincent help his fifth dear remember some valuable aspects of the past again [9]?

Let us simply drink some coffee at peace, you handsome transphobe. [9]

Well, what do you know? The enhanced port shall feature Vincent and Katherine when they were in high school. Teenaged Katherine seems to be a cheerleader who does NOT want any pervert to look up her cheerleader attire, similar to how Juliet Starling from Lollipop Chainsaw could try and prevent the play from looking up her skirt [13]. Could that pretty girl with long blonde hair in a white dress be Catherine in the form of a photogenic high schooler? It would also be interesting to be what Erica was like during the time when she was a teenaged boy named “Eric”, despite how a romantic relationship hit rock bottom and a terrible rumour of “Eric” committing suicide occurred [6]. Some back story of the characters when they were younger might make them more relatable to some players who still remember certain moments of their high school days. Even though it seems not highly likely to occur, a gameplay section featuring a teenaged Vincent in his high school could also make the remake more ambitious when it comes to expanding on the characters’ developments and such.

Vincent Brooks and two of his friends in their high school days. [4] [11]

Holy shipping any of the three lovers with Vincent! We get to see examples of added erotica and horror aspects in the upcoming port’s second official trailer [14]. Looks like there will be a flashback of Vincent and Katherine getting really close to each other in the nude after their high school years and before their early thirties [8] [11]. In the expanded present, Vincent could either be in a sauna or restroom with Catherine that might increase the plot’s steaminess [3] [4] [11]. Vincent and Rin can be seen running away for their lives from presumably a giant woman, which could perhaps be part of a new nightmare [14]. Speaking of Rin and a new nightmare, could Rin cause a new boss to try and kill Vincent? There shall be even a moment when things get rather gory and brutal with Katherine and Catherine [3] [4] [8] [11] [14]. Looks like you made them go Juliet Starling, Alice Liddell and Jack Torrance on you, Mr. Brooks! With a few new sexy moments, some hints of new nightmares and an additional cutscene featuring splats of blood from Catherine’s hostile side, not only will the expanded story seem more erotic, but more suspenseful.

Good grief! [3] [4] [8] [14]

There are also a few new neat aspects of the upcoming remake. Oh my godly door to reality! The karma meter, also known as “The Mysterious Meter” that determines Vincent’s eventual destiny is yet to be cracked and altered, possibly implying that a few new choices may lead to Vincent staying with Rin [10]. There will be an option to change the voice of the seductive temptress in the Japanese version of the upcoming remake [4]. The chosen voice actresses have all played the role of a seductive character, so the option makes sense. Wow! Trisha, the hostess of Golden Playhouse gets a new look [4]. And let us not forget that there will be some Persona 5 content for many Persona 5 players out there, including Trisha witnessing the presence of the Phantom Thieves [4] [14]. Isn’t it neat how there will be a remix of the original’s theme song “Yo!” with female vocals [2]? As usual, featuring plenty of new aspects in a remake of a game will not only fascinate those who remember fondly playing the original, but it may interest those who are completely new to the franchise without any experience.

The glamorous and lovely Trisha’s new look. [4]

The mysterious meter going a little crazy after Vincent pulls down one of the ropes. [4] [10]

The love triangle from 2011 shall soon become a love square. I know that has already been said, but it cannot be any truer. With three love interests at once, Vincent could be the next Don Lothario [12] [16]. Nonetheless, he does not really have a similar romance aspiration to your average romance sim, aside from how he will simply depend on the player to choose his destiny. Which of the trio will the player try and choose as Vincent’s ideal sweetheart throughout the whole week by the time after Catherine: Full Body hits the market? It sadly appears that the full release of the remake may not be available for the PlayStation Vita outside of Japan, but there can only be strong hope that it will happen for our fellow Vita misters and sisters, as well as the returning characters’ original voices making grand returns [4]. We will see the gorgeous and anxious Brookster climbing for his life in every stage of “The Woman’s Wrath” and trying to choose the ideal sweetheart in the “dump of a city” on the 14^th of February 2019 in Japan and a little later in Western states [4]. Stay golden, fellow gamers.

Come at me Brooks! [4] [9]

References

1. Atlus. (2017). Catherine: Full Body. Available: http://fullbody.jp/. Last accessed 14th Jan 2018.
2. Blazzer Sora. (2018). Catherine: Full Body - Opening Movie (1080p 60fps). Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faFuDKBpDRA. Last accessed 25th Sept 2018.
3. Catherine Wiki. (2011). Catherine. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Catherine. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
4. Catherine Wiki. (2017). Catherine: Full Body. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Catherine:_Full_Body. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
5. Catherine Wiki. (2011). Catherine (game). Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Catherine_(game). Last accessed 27th Sept 2018.
6. Catherine Wiki. (2011). Erica Anderson. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Erica_Anderson. Last accessed 27th Sept 2018.
7. Catherine Wiki. (2011). Gameplay. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Gameplay. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
8. Catherine Wiki. (2011). Katherine. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Katherine_McBride. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
9. Catherine Wiki. (2017). Rin. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Rin. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
10. Catherine Wiki. (2011). The Mysterious Meter. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/The_Mysterious_Meter. Last 27th Sept 2018.
11. Catherine Wiki. (2011) Vincent. Available: http://catherine.wikia.com/wiki/Vincent_Brooks. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
12. Electronic Arts. (2004). The Sims 2. Microsoft Windows. California. United States.
13. HappyThumbsGaming. (2012). Lollipop Chainsaw: I Swear! I Did It By Mistake! Trophy/Achievement - HTG. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpskZcuEtao. Last accessed 27th Sept 2018.
14. Izuniy. (2018). Catherine: Full Body New Trailer + Persona 5 DLC (PS4) 2018. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NOl76nPFnI. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
15. PewDiePie. (2015). GETTING IT ON! -- Catherine -- Part 5. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YswpifZJrUE. Last accessed 17th Sept 2018.
16. The Sims Wiki. (2008). Don Lothario. Available: http://sims.wikia.com/wiki/Don_Lothario#Relationships. Last accessed 27th Sept 2018.
17. WatchMojo.com. (2016). Top 10 Worst Heroes in Video Games. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs6mKkrX7vE. Last accessed 25th Sept 2018.

Another Deluxe Delight For Mario’s Switch Era Is On Its Way

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is the upcoming port of New Super Mario Bros. U for the Nintendo Switch that was announced in September 2018 [4] [5] [7]. The title says all that is needed to describe a somewhat upgraded chapter of Mario and Luigi’s lives. In all honesty, I think the “U” in the port’s title does not seem very necessary since we are not really in the days of the Wii U’s cred anymore. But nevertheless, it is indeed to show that it will be an official port of the base game that will already consist of the content of New Super Luigi U [4] [5] [7], so I guess there is some need for the “U”. After all, Super Mario 64 DS was a remake of a successful Nintendo 64 game for the Nintendo DS that kept the number 64 in its title [11]. I like how the golden font of “Deluxe” is wedged between the two joy cons to represent its full compatibility with the Switch. Of course, a port’s title with the word “Deluxe” must lead to a few marvelous expansions [11]. The port shall be released worldwide in January 2019 [4] [5] [7].

The New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe cover. [7]

The two loveable plumbers are yet to spring in action once again on the Switch [4] [5] [7]. The noble Yellow Toad who was first playable in New Super Mario Bros. Wii still remains as one of their daring assistants [4] [5] [7] [14]. As a new member of the subseries saviours, Toadette will now also participate in the quest to head back to the castle [4] [5] [7]. It would be interesting to see her in her new outfits from receiving:

• A Fire Flower
• An Ice Flower
• A Propeller Mushroom
• A Penguin Suit
• A Super Acorn
• A P-Acorn

As much as several of us are up for a spoonful of female empowerment with Toadette, some of us will certainly miss playing as Blue Toad as it appears that he may not be fully playable in the port’s outcome [4] [5] [7]. Nabbit will once again be on Luigi’s side, despite how he is well-known as a cunning thief [4] [5] [7]. Originally exclusive to the stages of New Super Luigi U, the purple menace will be available to roam through the stages of the original New Super Mario Bros. U [4] [5] [7]. Mario and friends, at ease…until New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe hits the market.

Mario, Yellow Toad, Toadette, Nabbit and Luigi, the main playable characters for the upcoming port. [7]

Behold, the newest transformation in Super Mario history, Peachette [9]. Toadette can receive a Super Crown from a block, approach it and wear it to become Peachette [10]. The fusion of Toadette and Princess Peach really does have a Steven Universe vibe. Toadette’s Peach disguise can help her flee from falling into a pit [4] [5] [9] [10]. Furthermore, Peachette can float in the air after a single jump, like the plumbers and Toads in their Flying Squirrel suits [10]. If you really think about it, the Super Crown that makes Toadette transform into Peach is similar to how Yoshi can wear Mario’s cap to transform into a visual of him in Super Mario 64 DS [11]. Even though Peachette’s overall design seems like something a young artist would simply do for fun on DeviantArt, it is still lovely and adorable. It is possible that Toadette viewed the princess in pink as a role model at some point during the history of their chemistry [13]. Let us hope that Peach will not be…well…freaked out when she gets rescued by a strange clone of herself instead of her mustached knight. Oh, and have you noticed that the Super Crown also inspired the Bowsette trend in social media [2]?

Toadette can put on a Super Crown to become Peachette. [9] [10]

The most important aspect of the upcoming port would be ensuring that the controls will be as practical as the controls for the original Wii U version [6]. First of all, the method of controlling any one of the playable characters with the left joy-con or right joy-con can be very similar to the method of using a Wii Remote during the Wii and Wii U days [6] [8]. Secondly, the way of playing the deluxe version with the Joy-Cons attached to the tablet will need to be similar to controlling with the Wii U GamePad in the original [6] [8], so that there can still be an option to play the game without making a family member miss their favourite television program. And thirdly, playing the enhanced port with a Switch Pro Controller or the Joy-Con Grip will need to feel exactly like playing the original with a Wii U Pro controller [6] [8]. More than one method of playing the game joyfully and comfortably must be present for the port’s final outcome, so that it can stay true to what made both the Wii U and Switch ambitious for a variety of Nintendo nerds.

The 2D artwork of the four heroes playing the game shows how the experience could be exactly like the original New Super Mario Bros. U. [7]

First Mario Kart 8, now New Super Mario Bros. U. What’s next? Super Mario 3D World Deluxe? With a few exceptional control methods for our fellow Switch lovers, many of them can soon get ready for a great mission to rescue Princess Peach or a good old coin battle [7]. After the release of New Super Mario Bros U. Deluxe, it would be best for Nintendo to lay off the re-releasing of Wii U titles for perhaps a few years, so that there will be new and refreshing opportunities for the plumber in red, his brother and his allies in the near future. Nevertheless, a few re-releases can somewhat make up for how the Wii U sadly turned out to be the worst selling Nintendo console in gaming history before the Switch arrived on the market in 2017 [1] [3].  With a few promising additions, including Toadette’s first official platforming experience [7], the upcoming port of New Super Mario Bros. U for the Switch seems like Super Mario Bros. Deluxe, the enriched port of the original Super Mario Bros. for the Game Boy Colour from 1999 all over again [11].

The glorious logo of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. [7]

References

1. Duwell, R. (2017). The Wii U ends its life as the worst selling Nintendo console, just 13.5 million lifetime sales. Available: https://www.technobuffalo.com/2017/02/02/the-wii-u-ends-its-life-as-the-worst-selling-nintendo-console-just-13-5-million-lifetime-sales/. Last accessed 24th Sept 2018.
2. Know Your Meme. (2018). Super Crown - Bowsette. Available: https://knowyourmeme.com/photos/1412465-super-crown. Last accessed 23th Sep 2018.
3. Mahmood, S. (2017). Nintendo Wii U is Officially Nintendo’s Worst Selling Console. Available: https://segmentnext.com/2017/02/01/wii-u-officially-nintendos-worst-selling-console/. Last accessed 24th Sept 2018.
4. Nintendo. (2018). New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe - Announcement Trailer - Nintendo Switch. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wTFy-pJFMI. Last accessed 23rd Sept 2018.
5. NintendoAU. (2018). New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – Nintendo Switch Announcement Trailer. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLPdj-E2Q_Y&feature=youtu.be.  Last accessed 23rd Sept 2018.
6. Super Mario Wiki. (2012). New Super Mario Bros. U. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/New_Super_Mario_Bros._U. Last accessed 20th Sep 2018.
7. Super Mario Wiki. (2018). New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/New_Super_Mario_Bros._U_Deluxe. Last accessed 15th Sept 2018.
8. Super Mario Wiki. (2017). Nintendo Switch. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Nintendo_Switch. Last accessed 23rd Sept 2018.
9. Super Mario Wiki. (2018). Peachette. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Peachette. Last accessed 15th Sept 2018.
10. Super Mario Wiki. (2018). Super Crown. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Super_Crown. Last accessed 15th Sept 2018.
11. Super Mario Wiki. (2007). Super Mario 64 DS. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Super_Mario_64_DS. Last accessed 20th September 2018.
12. Super Mario Wiki. (2008). Super Mario Bros. Deluxe. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Super_Mario_Bros._Deluxe. Last accessed 23th Sep 2018.
13. Super Mario Wiki. (2008). Toadette. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Toadette#Relationships. Last accessed 15th Sept 2018.
14. Super Mario Wiki. (2009). Yellow Toad. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Yellow_Toad_(character). Last accessed 23rd Sept 2018.

Super Mario Party: Another Upcoming Occasion For The Nintendo Switch

Mamma mia! The plumber wearing a red hat, his brother, his friends and his foes are going to throw yet another party in October 2018 [15]. There were a few hints of the developers aiming to revert the craze of Mario Party back to its original roots at E3 2018 [1] [4]. This could mean that the sudden devolution of the search for stars can help celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the first main Mario Party instalment from December 1998 and early 1999 [9]. However, the party for the Switch shall consist of some elements from the newer Mario Party games in order to appeal to the younger Nintendo nerds within the current generation of gaming [15]. After another period of young ones finding Mario toys in happy meals at McDonald’s [16] [17], Mario and his friends shall once again try to gather as many stars as possible in order to be crowned as “The Superstar”.

The Super Mario Party logo. [6]

The way how Super Mario Party will set the gameplay back to its turn-based and linear ways without all of the competitors travelling across the board together in one vehicle will be great news for those who especially grew up with the original trilogy from the Nintendo 64 days and the Gamecube era of Mario Party [1] [4] [10] [15]. There will be some boards that consist of the non-linear style for the fans of the current era of Mario Party [10]. Each playable character will have their own dice block, which is a feature from Toad Scramble Mode in Mario Party: Star Rush as an example of how the developers aimed to combine the current era of Mario Party with the previous eras of Mario Party [4] [5] [11]. It is interesting how the eras of Mario Party shall collide into one game for the Switch, Nintendo’s most advanced and impressive console yet.

 

Gameplay footage of the demo of Super Mario Party. [15]

Some positive potential of the gameplay already stood out at E3 2018, according to Nintendo Treehouse, a group of fellow Nintendo fans [1] [4] [5]. Holding the right joy-con quite tightly and punching the air upwards in order to make the chosen party guest hit a dice block might give each player the feeling of hitting a question mark block like how Mario and Luigi would in their main adventures [4]. The demo at E3 2018 seemed to have already given some items to the lucky volunteers who showed up at the time [4], so that there will be some awareness of how those items will benefit the player’s experience in the full version of the game, especially in the main party mode. And let us not forget that an event will occur once a competitor stops at a green space, which has been quite a dramatic aspect of the main party mode since the first main Mario Party game [1] [4] [5]. Once the full version of the game arrives on the market, the Mario partyers who are planning to buy it might as well aim to feel like superstars once again as they experience the familiar, yet refreshing aspects of the main gameplay.

The start of the game introduces a new way of hitting the dice block that is very similar to how Mario and Luigi would hit a question mark block. [4]

There are some aspects that made the main gameplay in the Mario Party series thrilling that could be seen in the demo of Super Mario Party [1] [4]. Once again, the variety of items, including a Fly Guy Ticket and a Buddy Phone shall allow the player to occasionally bend the rules against another competitor [1] [4] [15]. Let us hope the Golden Drink that will turn the player into solid gold will taste good [15]. The ally system, a feature that was also introduced in Mario Party: Star Rush can also benefit the player’s gameplay progress in the Super Mario Party demo [11] [15]. Once you get your hands on a full copy in late 2018, feel free to buy an item from a Flutter to increase your chance of getting the most stars [1] [4] [15]. The aspects of challenging the rules of the main party mode that have been shown in the demo further enhance the likely success of Super Mario Party for staying loyal to what made the Mario Party series successful throughout almost two decades [10].

What a trendy looking device! Could it be the Mushroom Kingdom equivalent to the real world’s iPhone? [1] 

That will be three golden coins, big guy. [15]

Of course, what would a Mario Party be without fierce competition in many different locations? One example of a minigame in Super Mario Party that is shown in the official E3 2018 trailer seems like a quirky rehash of Tanks from Wii Play [2] [6]. There are whole new minigames that involve connecting two Switch tablets together, which is an interesting concept with a practical outcome that further enhances the ambitions of the Switch [1] [4] [5] [6]. For example, both tablets will show one half of a banana and it would be up to a player to put them together and swipe their finger across both screen once the banana is complete [1] [4]. And of course, there is nothing like one competitor going against a team of three, even if it involves trying to steal packages [4]. By the power of consistent motion controls and a new control method for enhancing the current generation of Nintendo, every new minigame should hopefully be quite enjoyable for their playability, as well as their signs of individuality once the game is released for those who did not try the demo out at E3.

Isn’t this a remarkable concept being brought into action? [4]

Another minigame that involves two Switch tablets being linked together. [5]

Looks like some new competitors will be invited to the craze as well. Pom Pom, who debuted in Super Mario 3D Land with Boom Boom might as well show Wendy O. Koopa how partying as a female koopa is done [13]. At least the Monty Mole would refrain from deceitfully cheating by not throwing rocks or burrowing underground [12]. And last but not least, the ordinary goomba will not need hands to hit a dice block [15]. And perhaps the player’s Mii can be a guest as well? Ah, the good old days of partying in Mario Party 8, when a Mii would wear the usual plumber attire and be a complete mute [3]. It may seem weird to witness Bowser as a playable competitor once again, but at least he might be on his best behaviour in a slightly out-of-character manner, similar to how he competed in Mario Party 4, Mario Party 10 and Mario Party Star Rush [11]. As the eras of Mario Party from the previous 3D game consoles created by Nintendo are somehow combined with the current era [1] [4] [5] [15], the old and new guests shall do their very best to get the most stars.

Stand aside, Wendy and Hammer Bro! [13]

Goomba can somehow steadily ride a tricycle without any hands! [15]

The exciting thing about Super Mario Party for all of the worshipers of Princess Peach, otherwise known as Princess Toadstool is that it will be marked as her 100^th official appearance in a video game [14]. The pretty princess in pink has appeared in more games than any other female character throughout the entire history of gaming since her debut in 1985 [14], so there is no wonder that her 100^th appearance will be celebrated by her loyal fanbase. Do you think she might have made some cake for Mario and the other party guests while she was in another castle? Or has the cake already been baked for her as a reminder of her 100^th appearance? Either way, let us hope that her royal highness will enjoy the celebration. After all, she has been Mario’s presumed sweetheart for over three decades.

Princess Peach has made it this far from her debut in 1985. [14]

Remember 2013 being referred as “The Year of Luigi”? Well, perhaps 2018 could be The Year of Peach since Super Mario Party will be her 100th appearance. [15]

After almost twenty years of competitors buying stars and hitting dice blocks, Super Mario Party could be a splendid example of how a game would revert back to its original roots with a few modern elements [1] [4] [15]. Even though compiling several memories from each main Mario Party instalment from every era of 3D Nintendo games into one 3DS game seemed like a wonderful opportunity for a closure in late 2017 [10], I suppose that there would still be plenty of room for another incredible instalment, as long as the developers at Nintendo maintain that creativity and reliability that could last and stay fresh up to a possible Mario Party 64. After all, the Mario Party series still holds the record for the longest-running minigame series in the history of gaming and it might as well keep that record for a long, long time [10]. If you would like to help celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Mario Party series, then Super Mario Party might be the way to witness an outstanding celebration.

Let’s-a play in late-a 2018! [15]

References:

1. GameSpot Gameplay. (2018). Super Mario Party Live Gameplay Demo | E3 2018. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IvmajTJivI. Last accessed 10th Jul 2018.
2. Nintendo. (2006). Wii Play. Nintendo Wii. Kyoto. Japan
3. Nintendo. (2007). Mario Party 8. Nintendo Wii. Kyoto. Japan
4. Nintendo. (2018). Super Mario Party Gameplay Pt. 1 – Nintendo Treehouse: Live | E3 2018. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjpKtIGIqKc. Last accessed 7^th July 2018.
5. Nintendo. (2018). Super Mario Party Gameplay Pt. 2 – Nintendo Treehouse: Live | E3 2018. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVaIpD8q79Y. Last accessed 7^th July 2018.
6. Nintendo. (2018). Super Mario Party - Official Game Trailer - Nintendo E3 2018. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pu9t5AL1Ss. Last accessed 6th July 2018.
7. Nintendo Wiki. (2007). Tanks (Wii Play). Available: http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Tanks_(Wii_Play). Last accessed 6th July 2018.
8. Super Mario Wiki. (2007). File:Classic Princess Peach.png. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/File:Classic_Princess_Peach.png. Last accessed 9th Jul 2018.
9. Super Mario Wiki. (2008). Mario Party. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Mario_Party. Last accessed 10th Jul 2018.
10. Super Mario Wiki. (2007). Mario Party (series). Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Mario_Party_(series). Last accessed 10th Jul 2018.
11. Super Mario Wiki. (2016). Mario Party: Star Rush. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Mario_Party:_Star_Rush. Last accessed 10th Jul 2018.
12. Super Mario Wiki. (2008). Monty Mole. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Monty_Mole. Last accessed 6th July 2018.
13. Super Mario Wiki. (2012). Pom Pom. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Pom_Pom. Last accessed 6th July 2018.
14. Super Mario Wiki. (2007). Princess Peach. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Princess_Peach. Last accessed 5th Jul 2018.
15. Super Mario Wiki. (2018). Super Mario Party. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Super_Mario_Party. Last accessed 14th Jun 2018.
16. ThomasPussyCat. (2015). Super Mario McDonald's Commercial (UK, 2015). Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A54lRJj0om4. Last accessed 8th July 2018.
17. Valay, B. (2018). Super Mario Happy Meal toys returning to the UK this summer. Available: https://nintendoeverything.com/super-mario-happy-meal-toys-returning-to-the-uk-this-summer/. Last accessed 11 Jul 2018.

Attending Miitomo’s Funeral

Plenty of fellow Nintendo nerds have gathered around on social media this week to mourn the end of Miitomo, Nintendo’s first app for iOS and Android smart devices [3] [4] [7] [13]. Miitomo began in March 2016, bringing the creation of Miis to modern mobile devices [4] [7] [13]. Who can forget the moment when the Mii that closely resembles a fellow Miitomo user enters the room in a plain white jumper and grey joggers? A Mii could have a personality, similar to how a Mii could have one in Tomodachi Collection and Tomodachi Life [4] [5] [13]. Our fellow Nintendo nerds who adored the app would later receive a major update that featured sidekick Miis and the option to customize rooms. But sadly, the app’s service was put to rest in May 2018 [3] [7] [13]. Let us look back on the aspects of Miitomo that made it quite a hoot for those who adore making Miis.

March 2016 was when Miitomo began. [4]

May 2018 was when Miitomo ended. [4]

The simple gameplay offered a way to unwind after a hard day [4]. Simply going with the flow as the user answered questions and replied to comments from other users every day increased the number of coins, which was honestly quite rewarding as an effective way of saving up for some new clothing items from the shop [4] [7] [13]. And not to mention that a fellow Miitomo user can gain My Nintendo points for accomplishing a few tasks every day in order to get tickets for Miitomo Drop and sometimes a secret clothing item. The option to change a Mii’s attire was my favourite aspect of Miitomo [4]. The developers clearly could not go wrong with carefully planning out the five planes of user experience in order to give the app’s concept the best outcome possible for Mii-loving Nintendo nerds. Overall, the gameplay in Miitomo was basically similar to Tomodachi Collection and Tomodachi Life [14] [15], only far less ambitious, so it could be classified as a spin-off from the Tomodachi franchise by many Mii lovers [13] [15].

Miitomo users could also raise their popularity levels and style levels in order to receive special hats and crowns. This was yet another way to reward users for doing their daily routines, including staying in touch with other users and changing the main Mii's attire. [4]

The option to use QR Code patterns for Mii character from Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Wii U systems was another sign Miitomo's compassion towards Mii lovers. [4]

Another way to receive new clothing items for a fellow user’s Miis was playing Miitomo Drop. Miitomo Drop was the gameplay aspect that made Miitomo more than just watching an avatar walk and talk [4] [7] [13]. To get a certain item, it was all about three-dimensional thinking and the right timing. Each month, there would be a theme for one or two sections of Miitomo Drop that would be around for a rather limited time only, which showed how the graphic designers were willing to express their creativity for a variety of outfits for many occasions. In earlier versions of Miitomo, sweets were given to friends’ main Miis in order to receive more answers to questions from them [4]. Later on, they were used to try and win a game ticket coupon or a single game ticket. I would say that the better purpose of the sweets being in the app was Candy Drop since aiming for new clothing items, wallpapers or floors would be more adventurous than just browsing another gamer’s views. Trying to get the desired item in Miitomo Drop was a thrilling challenge for many users [4].

One of Miitomo's last Miitomo Drop themes. [4]

Another one of Miitomo's last Miitomo Drop themes. [4]

 Aside from Miiverse before it was closed down in late 2017 [12], Miitomo was the way to be a Nintendo socialite. Miitomo data could be linked with a Twitter account and a Facebook account, which was an effective way to expanding the list of friends. It was really nice to wish your fellow Miis and their makers a very happy birthday. Data would be securely saved, thanks to the option of linking it to a Nintendo account, so that our fellow Miitomo users would not have to worry about losing their precious data if they delete the app on their device [4]. It is no wonder how Miitomo was rather appealing for how the casual crowd of mobile gaming could socialise by answering questions and replying to messages, as long as their devices stayed connected to the internet [4] [7] [13]. Good times.

You can have quite a lot of good memories in Miitomo, like how you could in Miiverse. [4] [8]

Sometimes the user's Mii would have a chat with a fellow Miitomo user's Mii. The user then could quickly read the friend's Mii's answers and answer a question that Mii asks. In later versions of the app, two fellow Miis could send each other secret messages. [4]

There were three centrals where our fellow Miitomo users could show who their Miis truly are: Sidekick Central, Style Central and Answer Central [4]. Sidekick Central might give the Nintendo nerds who loved showing off their Miis in the Nintendo Wii days a flashback of the Mii Contest Channel [6]. In addition to this, users could mark any sidekick Mii as their favourites. The same method applies to any Mii modelling in a stunning or quirky outfit in Style Central. Quite oddly enough, the moment when a Mii created by another user said their answer to a question in Answer Central resembled the moment when two Miis gave their thoughts on a news report in Tomodachi Life [5]. All three centrals were one of the reasons why Miitomo at least still had plenty of loyal users to stay relevant.

One of my sidekick Miis was shared on Sidekick Central before Miitomo was shut down. [4]

A Mii created by another Miitomo user answering a question in Answer Central. [4]

Our fellow Nintendo nerds could express a little creativity by making Miifotos [4] [7] [13]. The user’s Mii could strike a big variety of different poses and be carefully placed anywhere within the shot, along with various little images and chunks of text depending on the user’s choices, which proves how Miitomo was the key for our fellow Nintendo nerds to be creative outside of Nintendo consoles [4]. A fellow Nintendo nerd can go as far as making a parody of a song with them. Any quirky Miifoto could be shared on social media, such as Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr and Instagram [4], which would increase the motivation to create a Miifoto in some users. The process of making a Miifoto for fun was a nice rehash of the Photo Channel from the Nintendo Wii system and Nintendo DSi Camera from the Nintendo DSi days, but with Miis and appealing neat text [9] [10].

Lisa or Lena? [4]

In the early months of Miitomo, users would receive a premade Miifoto every day. [4]

In theory, the routine of answering questions and changing a Mii’s outfit every day must have gotten quite stale to some users, which is why the app began to lose a fraction of its relevance in around 2017 [7]. The way how members of Team Valor, Team Mystic and Team Instinct could try and catch new Pokémon in Pokémon GO anywhere in their local areas was and is still very progressive and adventurous [2] [11], compared to how a Mii would stand still and inform the user of other users’ answers in Miitomo as the user just lounges around [4]. If the app had an update with new bigger features, such as the option to write lyrics for a song of a few genres of music like how a fellow Nintendo nerd would in Tomodachi Life [5] [12], then Miitomo would have remained as popular as it was in the beginning. Despite the app’s decline of daily use, there were at least still plenty of loyal users who continued to do the daily routine until Nintendo decided to shut down the service.

The announcement of Miitomo shutting down might not have been much a big surprise to many due to the app's declining relevance. [4]

At least the end of Miitomo will not corrupt Nintendo's future due to how appealing their other mobile apps and recent games are. [4]

Overall, Miitomo was a casual app with exceptional potential and a splendid outcome that only lasted for two years [4] [7] [13]. At least our fellow Nintendo nerds, especially the Mii lovers can still have fun with their Miis in Tomodachi Life and Miitopia. As we move on from Miitomo’s departure, many of us can at least look forward to what Nintendo has to offer next. Perhaps there could be a successor to Miitomo for mobile devices named “Miitomo 2” in the future, similar to how there will be a “Vine 2” in loving memory of Vine [1]. Again, Miitomo is Nintendo’s first application for two third-party platforms and it would be a shame to not let its legacy somehow live on. A successor to it that would perhaps be around in the early 2020s would continue and further enhance Nintendo’s mobile era, as long as it will have new bigger features that will make it last much longer than the original Miitomo. Rest in peace, questions, answers, groovy fashion and funny Miifotos, Miitomo. Many of those who embrace the current generation of Nintendo will never forget you and your legacy.

Miitomo's last featured question. [4]

My main Mii pays tribute to Miitomo. [4]

References

1.    Feldman, B. (2018). Here Are the First Details About ‘v2,’ Which Is Not Vine 2 (But Basically Is). Available: http://nymag.com/selectall/2018/01/when-does-v2-not-vine-2-launch.html. Last accessed 1st May 2018.

2.    Niantic. (2016). Pokémon GO. iOS. California. United States.

3.    Nintendo. (2016). Miitomo. Available: https://miitomo.com/en/. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

4.    Nintendo. (2016). Miitomo. iOS. Kyoto. Japan.

5.    Nintendo. (2013). Tomodachi Life. Nintendo 3DS. Kyoto. Japan.

6.    Nintendo Wiki. (2013). Check Mii Out Channel. Available: http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Check_Mii_Out_Channel. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

7.    Nintendo Wiki. (2016). Miitomo. Available: http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Miitomo. Last accessed 5th May 2018.

8.    Nintendo Wiki. (2013). Miiverse. Available: http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Miiverse. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

9.    Nintendo Wiki. (2010). Nintendo DSi Camera. Available: http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Nintendo_DSi_Camera. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

10. Nintendo Wiki. (2009). Photo Channel. Available: http://nintendo.wikia.com/wiki/Photo_Channel. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

11. Pokémon GO Wiki. (2016). Teams. Available: http://pokemongo.wikia.com/wiki/Teams. Last accessed 5th May 2018.

12. Tomodachi Life Wiki. (2014). Concert Hall. Available: http://tomodachi.wikia.com/wiki/Concert_Hall. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

13. Tomodachi Life Wiki. (2016). Miitomo. Available: http://tomodachi.wikia.com/wiki/Miitomo. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

14. Tomodachi Life Wiki. (2014). Tomodachi Collection. Available: http://tomodachi.wikia.com/wiki/Tomodachi_Collection. Last accessed 9th May 2018.

15. Tomodachi Life Wiki. (2014). Tomodachi (Series). Available: http://tomodachi.wikia.com/wiki/Tomodachi_(Series). Last accessed 9th May 2018.