The PS3 is set to launch nearly a full month before Nintendo releases its Wii. Despite this, we actually have more information on the Nintendo console at this time, from package contents to details on the system's user interface. Nintendo has even started airing commercials and posting advertisement billboards in train stations and on trains throughout Tokyo, as you might have noted earlier this week at IGN Wii.
The Wii will get its own launch coverage starting in November, which will likely mark a kick into high gear for Nintendo's campaign. For now, since the PS3 is launching first, we'll start there. Turn the page for the first in our weekly PS3 Launch Watch columns.
PS3 LAUNCH WATCH
As this feature is being written, it's exactly one month prior to the PlayStation 3's Japanese launch. A quick check of major retailers in the Tokyo area has revealed that hardly anyone is taking pre-orders for the system at this point. And the few that did dare to open up reservations have since filled their expected lots.
With 100,000 systems expected to be available on launch day, the PS3 in 2006 is looking similar to the PSP in 2004. Of course, unlike the PSP, the PS3 is the successor to the most successful console in gaming history. And it's a console that managed to sell a million units at its own launch back in March of 2000.
We're expecting to have to camp out for a couple of days in early November.
Sony has been eerily quiet about the PS3's launch, but over time, we've slowly picked up on the major details. The PS3 hits Japan on Saturday 11/11. As promised, the system will arrive in two forms: a 20GB model carrying a tax-inclusive price point of 49,800 yen (down from the original announced price of 62,790 yen), and a 60GB model carrying an "open" price point, which means it can be set by retailers as they see fit.
The system's launch lineup has been known since the Tokyo Game Show:
- Genji (Sony Computer Enteratinment, 5,980 yen)
- Resistance (Sony Computer Entertainment, 5,980 yen)
- Gundam Target in Sight (Bandai Namco Games, 7,329 yen)
- Ridge Racer 7 (Bandai Namco Games, 7,329 yen)
- Mahjong Fight Club (Konami, 5,229 yen)
- Sega Golf Club (Sega, 7,140 yen)
Following launch, the year 2006 lineup sees titles like Motorstorm, Mahjong Taikai, Sonic the Hedghog and Armored Core. For an up-to-date PS3 release list, check out the release dates section way in the back of this week's Gaming Life in Japan.
Late last week, Sony released details on its lineup of peripherals for the system:
- Memory Card Adapter (Sony Computer Entertainment, 1,500 yen)
- Wireless Controller Six Axis (Sony Computer Entertainment, 5,000 yen)
- BD Remote Controller (Sony Computer Entertainment, 3,600 yen)
Japanese publications have started to take delivery of review systems, it seems. Recently, Famitsu.com posted this article in which it gave a close-up look at the 60GB PS3 model. This was followed in the most recent issue of the magazine with a full-fledged feature showcasing the system and its interface. Gemaga, the former Dorimaga, also recently got a close-up look at the system. While a full feature is being planned for the magazine's December issue (to be published on 10/31), the magazine's editors posted a sneak peak at the Gemaga blog.
More recently, ITMedia posted pictures from its own hands-on time with the system. The two page feature gave us a first look at backwards compatibility running on the PS3. That's Fantavision on the 2nd page.
From the Famitsu feature, we learned what will be included with the Japanese PS3 -- or what won't be included, that is. Sony will bundle a power cord, LAN cable, USB cable and composite AV cables with every PS3 unit. HD cables (component, D, HDMI) won't be included. As a saving grace, you will be able to reuse your PS2 cables with the PS3, so if you already invested in component or D cables, you should be good to go. As for HDMI, we presume that if you have enough cash for one of the pricey HDMI-equipped sets, you won't mind a few extra dollars on an extra HDMI cable.
That's pretty much all we know at this point. While Sony showed off packaging for the PS3 and its game lineup at the Tokyo Game Show, these haven't been posted at retailers yet, so it's unclear if they're the final deal.
The PS3 has started to appear in retailers in limited form. Last week, Sony put a PS3 unit in select retailers like the giant Yodobashi Camera in Akihabara:
The demo unit wasn't playable. Showing on the screen were videos of games like Afrika and Heavenly Sword. Still, this was enough to draw large crowds of gawkers.
Other shops have taken the promotions into their own hands, with their very own signs. This is what you see on the game floor of Shinjuku's Bic Camera outlet.
The Bic staffers seems to be pitting the PS3 directly up against the Wii in the battle for next generation supremacy. Wonder which system will see actual demo units first...
With such a lack of information kicking off this first PS3 Launch Watch column, we have nothing left to do but to look back at the PS2s launch. If you were wondering how the year 2006 PS3 launch compares to the launch of what would go on to become the most successful videogame anything ever, turn the page.
PS2 IN REVIEW
While we know better than to rely too heavily on historical precedent, there are some clear similarities between the Japanese launches of the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3. Both systems brought next-generation video playback to the masses. Both threatened to wipe out a competitor that launched earlier (we're talking Japan here... don't write, Xbox fanatics!). And both were considered expensive as far as game machines are concerned.
The original PlayStation 2 (model SCPH-10000) was released to Japan on March 4, 2000 at a price of 39,800 yen, just over one year following the March 2, 1999 announcement of the system's specifications, and one year and three months following Sega's launch of the Dreamcast. Following a massive commercial campaign, which featured a calendar counting down the remaining days as everyone from children to house wives eagerly awaited the system, PS2 sold a million units over three days, and a month later was the number one selling next-gen system in Japan.
Here's how the launch looked on IGN in 2000.
- PS2 Peripheral Pricing
- PS2 Pre-order Situation
- PS2 Pre-launch report
- PS2 Launch Eve Report
- PS2 Throngs
- Thousands Clamor for PS2
- PS2 Post-Launch report
Despite the tremendous hardware sales, 2000 wasn't the year of the PlayStation 2 neither in terms of news nor games. While there were some big PS2 news stories, including the announcement of multiple Final Fantasy games at the Square Millennium event, and a full event devoted to the PS2 prior to the system's launch, the biggest dates for the PS2's first year don't really have much of anything to do with the PS2.
IMPORTANT DATES IN 2000 01/31/2000: Square Millennium Event 02/01/2000: PlayStation.com e-commerce/information site launches 02/18/2000: PS Festival 2000 03/04/2000: PlayStation 2 release 03/10/2000: Microsoft announces the Xbox 03/31/2000: Tokyo Game Show Spring 2000 04/01/2000: PS2 Memory Card Recall 06/08/2000: Start of PlayOnline.com 06/15/2000: Release of SCPH-15000 model PS2 07/07/2000: Release of the PSOne at 15,000 yen 07/07/2000: Release of Final Fantasy IX 08/24/2000: Announcement of GBA and GameCube 08/26/2000: Release of Dragon Quest VIII 10/26/2000: US release of PlayStation 2 10/27/2000: Sega announces plans to release games for other platforms 11/24/2000: European release of PlayStation 2 12/08/2000: Release of SCPH-18000 model PS2 12/09/2000: Release of the Wonder Swan Color 12/12/2000: PlayStation Party 12/22/2000: Release of the PS2 DVD remote |
Then December came around, and the suck suddenly came to an end. On December 12, 2000, Sony held its annual PlayStation Party, and the focus was squarely on the PlayStation 2. Sony and its third parties announced and showed off a number of games at the event, including Ace Combat 4, Klona 2, Monster Farm, Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec, Toro to Kyojitsu, Rimokokoron, Onimusha, Kessen II, Densha de Go! 3, Para Para Paradise, Metal Gear Solid 2, Winning Eleven 5 and Z.O.E..
December also saw the release of the PS2 DVD remote control and the release of a new model PlayStation 2. The SCPH-18000 carried the same 39,800 yen price tag as the SCPH-10000 launch unit, but ditched the bundled Memory Card in favor of a DVD remote and IR receiver.
Perhaps more importantly, December also represented the start of true software support for the PS2. For a closer look at the PS2 lineup month-by-month, turn the page.
PS2: MARCH 2000
If you think the PS3 launch lineup sucks, take a look at this. The PS2 launched with Ridge Racer V and... well, that's about it. Okay, maybe Kessen was an acceptable launch title. But Eternal Ring balanced things out.
It's a common misconception that Tekken Tag Tournament and Dead or Alive 2 launched with the PlayStation 2 in Japan. The two fighters actually came out a few weeks following launch. But at least Capcom was on board with Street Fighter EX3!
March is also notable as marking the appearance of a Square title. That's right, Driving Emotion Type-S, from a time when Square was experimenting outside of its RPG forte.
In all, 17 titles were released for the PS2 in its launch month.
A Ressha De Ikou 6 PUBLISHER: Art Dink GENRE/THEME: Sim, Train RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Performance, Instrument RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: From Software GENRE/THEME: RPG RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: ASCII GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Shogi RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Sim, History RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Special Version (12800 yen), PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
Mahjong Taikai III Millenium League PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 4800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Koei the Best (2800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Yuki Enterprise GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Shogi RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Namco GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race, Arcade Style RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Mega Hits! (3800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Jaleco GENRE/THEME: Performance, Dance RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Capcom GENRE/THEME: Fighting, Versus RELEASE: 03.04.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Puzzle RELEASE: 03.09.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
AKA: Swing Away Golf (USA) PUBLISHER: T&E Soft GENRE/THEME: Sports, Golf RELEASE: 03.23.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
IQ Remix + intelligent qube remix + PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Puzzle RELEASE: 03.23.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Tecmo DEVELOPER: Team Ninja GENRE/THEME: Fighting, Versus, Arcade RELEASE: 03.30.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
AKA: Q-Ball: Billiards Master (USA) PUBLISHER: ASK GENRE/THEME: Sports, Billiards RELEASE: 03.30.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Low Priced Version (1500 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Square GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race, Sim RELEASE: 03.30.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Namco GENRE/THEME: Fighting, Versus RELEASE: 03.30.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Mega Hits! (3800 yen) |
Things slow down the month following launch as PS2 dabbles in lesbianism. Turn the page for April 2000.
PS2: APRIL 2000
The PS2 launch lineup was pretty lame, but the end of the month saw some big titles like Tekken Tag Tournament and Dead or Alive 2. This is all PS2 owners would be getting for quite some time.
The big game for April was... well, none of the system's April games made waves, although there was quite a stir over the girl-on-girl action in 0 Story.
A total of 7 games were released for the PS2 in April 2000.
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Shogi RELEASE: 04.13.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
Gradius III & IV -- Fukkatsu no Shinwa PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Shooting, 2D, Retro RELEASE: 04.13.00 PRICE: Open Pricing ALSO AVAILABLE: Konami the Best (2800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 04.13.00 PRICE: Open Pricing ALSO AVAILABLE: Konami the Best (2800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Idea Factory GENRE/THEME: Sports, Extreme RELEASE: 04.20.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Enix GENRE/THEME: Adv, FMV, Digital Novel RELEASE: 04.27.00 PRICE: 7800 yen |
PUBLISHER: From Software GENRE/THEME: RPG RELEASE: 04.27.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Atlus GENRE/THEME: Other, Photography RELEASE: 04.27.00 PRICE: 4800 yen |
The biggest game for next month is from Electronic Arts.
PS2: MAY 2000
Dreamcast fanatics were up in arms over the PS2's success, you need only look at the May lineup to see why. The PS2 went full GameCube two months after launch, with just one release! And an Electronic Arts title at that!
Either because it was the only game in May, or because it was the only soccer game close to launch, FIFA went on to become one of the top 10 PS2 games of the year.
Fifa Soccer World Championship PUBLISHER: Electronic Arts Square GENRE/THEME: Sports, Soccer RELEASE: 05.25.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Things pick up ever so slightly in June.
PS2: JUNE 2000
Hooray! It's another Square title! Boo! It's a wrestling game!
All-star Pro Wrestling was the PS2's big game for this month, although Buchigire Kongou! did draw some crowds at the IGN office when the import arrived.
A total of seven games were released for the PS2 in its fourth month.
PUBLISHER: Square GENRE/THEME: Sports, Wrestling RELEASE: 06.01.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Kensetsu Juuki Kenka Battle: Buchigire Kongou! PUBLISHER: Art Dink GENRE/THEME: Fighting RELEASE: 06.01.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Street Mahjong Trance Asakami 2 PUBLISHER: Sun Denshi GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 06.15.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: super value 2800 (2800 yen) |
Hresvelgr: Formula Highpowered PUBLISHER: Gust GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race RELEASE: 06.22.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: International Edition (4800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Jaleco GENRE/THEME: Performance, Instrument RELEASE: 06.22.00 PRICE: 8800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Adv, Digital Novel RELEASE: 06.29.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Rhythm RELEASE: 06.29.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
Next month, a major sports franchise hits the PS2.
PS2: JULY 2000
Konami launched the PS2's first baseball game this month, and it just so happened to be part of the popular Powerful Pro Baseball series, which still holds popularity to this day. The game would go on to be one of the top 10 PS2 titles of the year.
Art Dink immediately followed with the system's second baseball game. That curious title at the bottom of this month's list is the PS2's first high school baseball game ("Koushien" is the name of the annual championship).
Just three games were released for the PS2 in July.
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Baseball RELEASE: 07.06.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
Bikkuri Mouse PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Rhythm RELEASE: 07.27.00 PRICE: 4800 yen |
Eikan ha Kimi ni Koushien e no Michi PUBLISHER: Art Dink GENRE/THEME: Sports, Baseball RELEASE: 07.27.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Next month, the PS2 sees the return of a classic PlayStation franchise, the start of a new series that would go on to sell millions, and the first RPG not made by From Software.
PS2: AUGUST 2000
The PlayStation 2 lineup at last started to look like a PlayStation 2 lineup in August. From Software released its first Armored Core game. Koei released its first Dynasty Warriors. Konami's first soccer game hit the system and was joined by its first RPG.
Fifteen games were released for the PS2 in August.
AKA: Armored Core 2 (USA) PUBLISHER: From Software GENRE/THEME: Sim, Robot RELEASE: 08.03.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen), Special Version (10290 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Jaleco GENRE/THEME: Performance, Singing RELEASE: 08.03.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
AKA: ESPN International Superstar Soccer (USA) PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Soccer RELEASE: 08.03.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
AKA: Orphen: Scion of Sorcery (USA) PUBLISHER: Kadokawa Shoten GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 08.03.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Kadokawa The Best (2980 yen) |
AKA: Dynasty Warriors 2 (USA) PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Act, History RELEASE: 08.03.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Special Version (10800 yen), PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
AKA: X-Squad (USA) PUBLISHER: Electronic Arts Square GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 08.03.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Capcom GENRE/THEME: Act, Robot RELEASE: 08.10.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Mahou GENRE/THEME: Sports, Baseball RELEASE: 08.10.00 PRICE: 2800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: NewPrice (1500 yen) |
AKA: Ephemeral Fantasia (USA) PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: RPG, Fantasy RELEASE: 08.10.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
AKA: Surfing H3O (USA) PUBLISHER: ASCII GENRE/THEME: Sports, Surfing RELEASE: 08.10.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: DaZZ GENRE/THEME: Sim, Anime RELEASE: 08.10.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Idea Factory DEVELOPER: Digital Dream Studios GENRE/THEME: Sim, Robot RELEASE: 08.24.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
AKA: ESPN International Track & Field (USA) PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Olympics RELEASE: 08.31.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: Atena GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 08.31.00 PRICE: 4800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Budget Version (2800 yen) |
AKA: Romance of the Three Kingdoms VII (USA) PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Sim, History RELEASE: 08.31.00 PRICE: 8800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Special Version (11800 yen), Special Version (13800 yen) |
Next month, the return of a classic game series from Gamearts, and Square's third title that also happens to not be an RPG.
PS2: SEPTEMBER 2000
September saw some big PS2 titles. Although not doing too well with the critics, Square's attempt at baseball ended up becoming one of the system's best selling games for the year. The hardcore crowd could look forward to a return of Silpheed, from Capcom, GameArts and, it was learned later, shooting master Treasure.
Fourteen games were released for the PS2 in September.
PUBLISHER: Astrol GENRE/THEME: Sim, Pinball RELEASE: 09.07.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
AKA: Real Pool (USA) PUBLISHER: Takara GENRE/THEME: Sports, Billiards RELEASE: 09.07.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: The Best Takara Mono (1500 yen) |
Gekikuukan Pro Yakyuu: At the End of the Century 1999 PUBLISHER: Square GENRE/THEME: Sports, Baseball RELEASE: 09.07.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Sunrise Interactive GENRE/THEME: Act, Anime, Robot RELEASE: 09.14.00 PRICE: 7800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Imagineer GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race RELEASE: 09.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Performance, Instrument RELEASE: 09.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: Mahou GENRE/THEME: Sports, Golf RELEASE: 09.21.00 PRICE: 2800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: NewPrice (1500 yen) |
AKA: "" (USA) PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sim RELEASE: 09.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing ALSO AVAILABLE: Konami the Best (2800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Capcom DEVELOPER: GameArts GENRE/THEME: Shooting, 2D RELEASE: 09.21.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Capcom Collection (3000 yen) |
Game Select 5 Wa PUBLISHER: Yuki Enterprise GENRE/THEME: Table Game RELEASE: 09.28.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
Jikkyo G1 Stable PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sim, Horse Racing RELEASE: 09.28.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: Sun Denshi GENRE/THEME: Table Game RELEASE: 09.28.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: super value 2800 (2800 yen) |
AKA: Super Bust-A-Move (USA) PUBLISHER: Taito GENRE/THEME: Puzzle RELEASE: 09.28.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Taito Best (2800 yen) |
Winning Post 4 Maximum PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Sim, Horse Racing RELEASE: 09.28.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: First Run Bundle Version (11800 yen) |
Two months of double digit games! Can the output continue? Turn the page for October.
PS2: OCTOBER 2000
The answer (to the question posed at the end of the previous page, in case you're arriving here via direct link, or aren't reading the commentary) is no. Things slowed down in October, perhaps similar to the slowdown we're experiencing in 2006. The only notable title, as far as Japan is concerened, at least, was MotoGP.
Just four games were released for the PS2 in October.
Grappler Baki: Baki Saidai no Tournament PUBLISHER: Tomy GENRE/THEME: Fighting, Versus RELEASE: 10.12.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Ide Yosuke no Mahjong Kazoku 2 PUBLISHER: Seta GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 10.12.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Namco GENRE/THEME: Drive, Motorcylce, Race RELEASE: 10.12.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
AKA: SSX (USA) PUBLISHER: Electronic Arts Square GENRE/THEME: Sports, Extreme, Snowboarding RELEASE: 10.26.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Did you buy your PS2 for Rhythm games and boys love? Then you'll love what awaits you in November.
PS2: NOVEMBER 2000
The PS2's first Boys Love game (a game where you play as a girl and attempt to get guys to fall for you) arrived this month in the form of Angelique Trois from Koei. The system also saw a couple of rhythm games and Konami's gunless port of Silent Hill.
Ten games hit the PS2 in November.
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Performance, Instrument RELEASE: 11.02.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: Enix GENRE/THEME: Rhythm RELEASE: 11.02.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
G1 Jockey 2 PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Sim, Horse Racing RELEASE: 11.02.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: KOEI The BEST (2800 yen), First Run Bundle Version (11800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Shooting, Arcade RELEASE: 11.16.00 PRICE: Open Pricing ALSO AVAILABLE: Konami the Best (2800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Capcom GENRE/THEME: Sports, Snowboarding RELEASE: 11.16.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Capcom Collection (3000 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Adv, Love RELEASE: 11.22.00 PRICE: 7800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Special Version (6800 yen), Premium Box (9800 yen) |
Ore ga Kantokuda! Gekitou Pennant Race PUBLISHER: Enix GENRE/THEME: Sports, Baseball RELEASE: 11.22.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Sunrise Interactive GENRE/THEME: Act, Anime, Robot RELEASE: 11.22.00 PRICE: 7800 yen |
AKA: ESPN Winter X Games Snowboarding (USA) PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Extreme, Snowboarding RELEASE: 11.30.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: Tecmo GENRE/THEME: Rhythm RELEASE: 11.30.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Next month, the PS2 flood begins! A small independent developer called Level 5 releases its first PS2 RPG, right along side Namco and Nippon Ichi. Plus, a landmark as the PS2 gets its first Gundam game.
PS2: DECEMBER 2000
If you had to pick a point where the PS2's software fortunes at last began to turn around, it would be December of 2000. While the system didn't see any million sellers, it did see a wide variety of quality titles, from Level 5's (Dragon Quest VIII, Rogue Galaxy) first PS2 RPG, Dark Cloud, to updated soccer and baseball games from Konami. Namco and Nippon Ichi had strategy and RPG fans taken care of with Seven and Marle Kingdom Story, and Bandai released one of the year's biggest PS2 titles: Gundam.
Forty games hit the PS2 in the last month of 2004.
Greatest Striker PUBLISHER: Taito GENRE/THEME: Sports, Soccer RELEASE: 12.02.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Calario Hagaki Print PUBLISHER: Seiko Epson GENRE/THEME: Other RELEASE: 12.07.00 PRICE: 3800 yen |
AKA: FIFA 2001: Major League Soccer (USA) PUBLISHER: Electronic Arts Square GENRE/THEME: Sports, Soccer RELEASE: 12.07.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Guitar Freaks 3rd Mix & DrumMania 2nd Mix PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Performance, Instrument RELEASE: 12.07.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
AKA: The Adventures of Cookie and Cream (USA) PUBLISHER: From Software GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 12.07.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Asmik Ace Enterainment GENRE/THEME: Sim, Flight RELEASE: 12.07.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
Toudai Shogi: Shikenbisha Dojo PUBLISHER: Mainichi Communications GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Shogi RELEASE: 12.07.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: MYCOM BEST (2800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment DEVELOPER: Level 5 GENRE/THEME: RPG, Fantasy RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
AKA: Dead or Alive 2: Hardcore (USA) PUBLISHER: Tecmo GENRE/THEME: Fighting, Versus RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
Dog of Bay PUBLISHER: Marvelous Interactive GENRE/THEME: Rhythm RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Dream Audition 2 PUBLISHER: Jaleco GENRE/THEME: Performance, Singing RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
AKA: Swing Away Golf (USA) PUBLISHER: T&E Soft GENRE/THEME: Sports, Golf RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
Hajime no Ippo Victorious Boxers AKA: Victorious Boxers (USA) PUBLISHER: ESP GENRE/THEME: Sports, Boxing RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Special Version (2800 yen) |
Happy! Happy!! Boarders PUBLISHER: Atlus GENRE/THEME: Sports, Snowboarding RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
AKA: Kengo: Master of Bushido (USA) PUBLISHER: Genki GENRE/THEME: Fighting, Japanese RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: PlayStation 2 the Best (3000 yen) |
PUBLISHER: DaZZ GENRE/THEME: Sports, Fishing RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
Mahjong Sengen Sacenderon! PUBLISHER: Taito GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 3800 yen |
Neo Atlas 3 PUBLISHER: Art Dink GENRE/THEME: Shooting RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PrimalImage for Printer PUBLISHER: Atlus GENRE/THEME: Other RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
Truck Kyosokyoku: Ai to Kanashimi no Rodeo PUBLISHER: METRO CORPORATION GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race RELEASE: 12.14.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing ALSO AVAILABLE: Konami the Best (2800 yen) |
Blood: The Last Vampire (Gekan) PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Adv, Digital Novel RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
Blood: The Last Vampire (Joukan) PUBLISHER: Sony Computer Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Adv, Digital Novel RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing ALSO AVAILABLE: Konami the Best (2800 yen) |
AKA: Gadget Racers (USA) PUBLISHER: Takara GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 6800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Choro Q Jenny Hi-Grade Box (9800 yen), Special Version (2980 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Success GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Mahjong RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 2000 yen |
Chou-Kousoku Reversi PUBLISHER: Success GENRE/THEME: Table Game, Reversi RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 2000 yen |
PUBLISHER: UEP Systems GENRE/THEME: Sports, Snowboarding RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Basketball RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
PUBLISHER: Psikyo GENRE/THEME: Sports, Pingpong RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakyuu 7 Ketteiban PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Baseball RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
Jikkyou World Soccer 2000 Final Edition PUBLISHER: Konami GENRE/THEME: Sports, Soccer RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: Open Pricing |
AKA: Mobile Suit Gundam: Journey to Jaburo (USA) PUBLISHER: Bandai GENRE/THEME: Act, Robot RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Mamimume -- Mogacho no Print Hour PUBLISHER: Idea Factory GENRE/THEME: Other RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 4800 yen |
PUBLISHER: Namco GENRE/THEME: Sim RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 7800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Special Version (2980 yen) |
Tenshi no Present: Marle Oukoku Monogatari PUBLISHER: Nippon Ichi Software GENRE/THEME: RPG RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 5800 yen ALSO AVAILABLE: Limited Edition (8800 yen) |
PUBLISHER: Koei GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 12.21.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
AKA: The Bouncer (USA) PUBLISHER: Square GENRE/THEME: Act RELEASE: 12.23.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Crazy Bump's -- Kattobi Car Battle AKA: Smuggler's Run (USA) PUBLISHER: Syscom Entertainment GENRE/THEME: Drive, Race RELEASE: 12.28.00 PRICE: 5800 yen |
AKA: Theme Park Roller Coaster (USA) PUBLISHER: Electronic Arts Square GENRE/THEME: Sim RELEASE: 12.28.00 PRICE: 6800 yen |
Turn the page for the year 2000 in review.
PS2 YEAR 2000
On the whole, few would argue with the sentiment, argued by the exactly seven Dreamcast holdouts, that 2000 was a crappy year for PlayStation 2 software. In fact, the biggest games for the PlayStation brand in 2000 were on the original PlayStation.
According to stats from Enterbrain, the top three PlayStation brand games for 2000 were Dragon Quest VIII (Enix, 3,784,682 units), Final Fantasy IX (Square, 2,659,222) and Super Robot Taisen Alpha (Banpresto, 714,789), all three for the original PlayStation. The first PS2 game appears at four. Here's how the top 30 looks with the PS1 games removed. The list covers from launch until 12/31/2000:
4. Ridge Racer V (Namco, 611,507)
7. Pro Baseball: At the End of the Century (Square, 482,061)
8. Tekken Tag Tournament (Namco, 457,340)
9. Kessen (Koei, 363,277)
12. Dead or Alive 2 (Tecmo, 341,362)
17. Jikkyo Powerful Pro Baseball 7 (Konami, 313,630)
19. Dynasty Warriors 2 (Koei, 302,101)
25. FIFA Soccer World Championship (EA-Square, 252,358)
27. Bouncer (Square, 219,858)
29. Gundam (Bandai, 208,564)
30. Armored Core 2 (From Software, 205,107)
Of course, the lack of software didn't keep the system from selling. By the end of 2000, the PlayStation 2 had long surpassed the Dreamcast's total and was on its way to reaching the magic 10,000,000 worldwide shipped mark.
Even the poor software situation began to turn around, as suggested by that big December 2004 release list. The PS2 would see its first million seller in early 2001 along with the long-awaited release of some classic franchises.
Check back next week for our look at 2001.
Turn the page for the latest magazines from Japan.
ZASSHI JOUHOU GO!
This section of Gaming Life in Japan takes a look at what's big in the latest game magazines from Japan. From Famitsu to Dengeki to smaller publications like Dorimaga, Japan has lots of videogame magazines. While we tend to put up all the news and game info revealed in the magazines on the main pages of IGN, this section gives you a closer look just so you can be sure that you're not missing out on anything.
Be sure and click on the covers of each magazine for larger versions. Print them out and hold them in your hand as you read!
FAMITSU -- NO.931
That fine piece of Japan on the cover of this week's Famitsu may or may not actually be from Japan. Melody -- that's her name -- was born on 2/24/1982 in Hawaii, which, depending on the island, officially makes her American.
Of course, it doesn't really matter where she's from, as you'll learn by turning to page 181. Oh those legs! Plus, unlike most of the brainless babes who appear on Famitsu covers, Melody has a major role in gaming, as the performer chosen by Electronic Arts, the world's largest and therefor best gaming company, for the Need for Speed Carbon theme song. She was even used in the game as the Yumi character.
Outside of magnificent Melody, this week's issue features Famitsu's look back at the Tokyo Game Show. Most of what's shown in the magazine was already covered on IGN over the course of the show, built here's a quote we missed:
Ken Kutaragi: "If the tax-inclusive price of the PlayStation 3 crosses the 60,000 yen mark, there will be people who feel that it is expensive. If that happens, I will not be able to realize my dreams." |
This week's issue also includes a feature on next generation gaming with views from some of Japan's biggest developers. We already provided translations of some of the key points on the main IGN channels. Just follow these pertinent links: There are some new game announcements in this week's issue. Spike is working on Kenka Banchou 2 Full Throttle, a PS2 sequel to last year's street fighting simulation. GenX announced Secret of Evangelion for the PS2, a dialogue driven game based on the 1998 movie and consisting of a new story with over 30 chapters.
But the real story is the flood of new DS non-games. Non-games tend to sell just as bad as real games here in Japan, but Bandai Namco Games, Taito and other third parties continue to release them. Here's a list of what's shown in this issue.
Heisei Kyouiku Iinkai DS: From Bandai Namco Games, this edutainment title is due out on 12/21. The game is based on the popular Fuji Television variety show of the same name (minus the "DS" part, of course). Questions cover language, math, chemistry and society, with a set up designed to mimic the show, which aired regularly until 1997.
Akko ni Omakase! Brain Shock: This quiz game from Taito is due for December release. It's based on the Akko ni Makase televiions program that has been airing since 1985. The game tests your brain skills by having you do things like memorize the order of pictures and find patterns or similarities in pictures. Up to four players can face off against one-another wirelessly.
Ryoukiki no Susume: Also from Taito, this training game is due for release in December. The game promises to train you to use both hands equally well. For what, we're not sure. In addition to left and right hand exercises, the game has a mode that lets you check the balance of each hand and use each hand in competition with one-another.
Gotouchi Kentei DS: This quiz game from Spike is due for release on 11/22. It includes information on 47 regions throughout Japan, quizzing you on dialects, tourist attractions and other points of interest.
Daredemo Kantan! Akira Watanabe no Tsume Shogi: A Shogi game from Mainichi Communications that's set for release on 12/21. The game includes 680 problems and advice from pro Shogi player Akira Watanabe.
Mahjong Haou DS Special: A mahjong game from Mainchi Communications that's also due out on 12/21. This is actually the latest entry in the long-running Mahjong Haou series. Mainichi has gotten the support of pro mahjong player Aya Furukawa, who appears in character form and gives you advice as you play.
Nazotte Oboeru Otona no Kanji Renshuu: This kanji learning game is set for release in December through Now Productions, who really ought to be making a Ranger X sequel. The game trains you in writing kanji.
Hamster to Kurasou: Interchannel explores what it's like to live with a hamster. Due for release on 12/14, this simulation includes four hamster species, whom you interact with using the stylus and your live voice.
Whew! All that in one week! And we didn't even write about the digital comics and horse racing games!
Another slow week for releases, it seems.
GAME | SYSTEM | PUB | SCORE |
Final Fantasy V Advance | GBA | Square Enix | 8, 8, 8, 8 |
Bleach: Blade Battlers | PS2 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 7, 7, 7, 6 |
Driver Parallel Lines | PS2 | AQ Interactive | 8, 7, 7, 7 |
Simple 2000 Series Vol.109 The Taxi 2 -- Untenshu ha Yappri Kimi da! | PS2 | D3 Publisher | 7, 6, 6, 6 |
Simple 2000 Series Vol.110 The Toubou Prisoner -- Lost City Shinjitsu he no 10-ji-kan | PS2 | D3 Publisher | 6, 4, 4, 3 |
MotoGP 06 | X360 | THQ Japan | 8, 8, 7, 6 |
Rockstar Games presents Table Tennis | X360 | Microsoft | 8, 8, 7, 7 |
FAMITSU XBOX360 -- NOV'06
Lost Odyssey takes the cover for this first post Tokyo Game Show issue of Famitsu Xbox 360. Inside, in addition to a TGS recap, the magazine has an interview with Mistwalker's Hironobu Sakaguchi, producer of both Lost Odyssey and Blue Dragon. Sadly, this is just a reprint of the Famitsu interview, with a few extra passages (this is a bad habit for Famitsu Xbox 360).
Other coverage in this issue includes Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom (which is now on its way to America), Winning Eleven X, Idol Master, Phantasy Star Universe and Zegapain NOT.
Wait.. someone is actually making a sequel to the atrocious Zegapain XOR? Let's hope the "NOT" means that it won't suck this time. The only difference we can see is that you play the same story from XOR, only from the perspective of the enemy.
The top 10 sales list is still comically low. This month's chart covers from 8/14 to 9/10.
RANK | GAME | PUB | SALES | TOTAL |
1 | Samurai Warriors 2 | Koei | 4929 | 4929 |
2 | Condemned Psycho Crimes | Sega | 3213 | 3213 |
3 | Bullet Witch | AQ Interactive | 2367 | 12299 |
4 | Kengo Zero | Genki | 1989 | 1989 |
5 | Dead or Alive 4 | Tecmo | 1382 | 93572 |
6 | Shutokou Battle X | Genki | 1272 | 9202 |
7 | Ridge Racer 6 | Bandai Namco Games | 1257 | 63840 |
8 | Bomberman Act Zero | Hudson | 1122 | 3713 |
9 | Rumble Roses XX | Konami | 1047 | 28445 |
10 | Chrome Hounds | Sega | 963 | 12499 |
The 360 sold 4,479 hardware units over the period, bringing the grand total up to 159,565.
The most wanted Xbox 360 game is currently Dead or Alive Xtreme 2. It's followed by Blue Dragon, Resident Evil 5, Dead or Alive code:Cronus, Onechanbara vorteX, Gundam Operation Troy, Lost Odyssey, Earth Self Defense Force 3, Culdecept Saga and Tenchu Senran (the latter was released this past week).
Four of six games reviewed in this issue are Japanese!
GAME | SYSTEM | PUB | SCORE |
Dead Rising | X360 | Capcom | 10, 10, 9, 9 |
MotoGP 06 | X360 | THQ Japan | 7, 7, 7, 6 |
Project Sylpheed | X360 | Square Enix | 8, 8, 8, 7 |
Rockstar Games presents Table Tennis | X360 | Microsoft | 9, 8, 7, 7 |
Tenchu Senran | X360 | From Software | 8, 8, 7, 7 |
Tomb Raider Legend | X360 | Spike | 8, 8, 7, 7 |
Turn the page for a look at the latest releases from Japan.
NOW PLAYING
This section 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.
You may have noticed that this section can also be found on the regular channels. Yes, even outsiders need to keep up with what's new in the import scene.
The following games were released between 10.01.2006 and 10.07.2006. Follow the links for more details. Please note that some of the links lead to Japanese content.
PlayStation 2 |
Dragon Ball Z Sparking Neo | ||||||
10.05.2006 | PS2 | SLPS-25690 | 6800 YEN | Fighting | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 8, 7, 6) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page, PlayStation.jp Game Page | ||||||
STAFF: Akira Sanoe (Producer) |
Ice Age 2 | ||||||
10.06.2006 | PS2 | SLPM-66497 | 3800 YEN | Action | ||
| ||||||
ALSO AVAILABLE AS: DVD Package (-100 YEN, includes Ice Age DVD) | ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 7, 6, 6) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page |
Nintendo DS |
Guilty Gear Dust Strikers | ||||||
10.05.2006 | NDS | NTR-P-AGZJ | 4800 YEN | Fighting | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 7, 6, 6) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page, Official Site, Nintendo.co.jp Game Page |
Ice Age 2 | ||||||
10.06.2006 | NDS | NTR-P-AIAJ | 3800 YEN | Action | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 6, 6, 6) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page, Nintendo.co.jp Game Page |
Kawaii Koinu DS | ||||||
10.05.2006 | NDS | NTR-P-AKKJ | 4800 YEN | Simulation | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (7, 6, 6, 6) | ||||||
LINKS: Official Site, Nintendo.co.jp Game Page |
PlayStation Portable |
Gundam Battle Royal | ||||||
10.05.2006 | PSP | ULJS-00083 | 4800 YEN | Action | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 8, 8, 7), Dengeki PlayStation (A), Dengeki PlayStation (90, 90, 90, 85) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page, PlayStation.jp Game Page | ||||||
STAFF: Takeo Isogai (Producer) |
Xbox 360 |
Tenchu Senran | ||||||
10.05.2006 | X360 | 9NW-00001 | 6800 YEN | Action | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (8, 7, 7, 7), Famitsu Xbox 360 (8, 8, 7, 7) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page, Official Site, Xbox.com Game Page | ||||||
STAFF: Masanori Takeuchi (Producer) |
Tomb Raider Legend | ||||||
10.05.2006 | X360 | VE4-00001 | 6800 YEN | Action, Adventure | ||
| ||||||
SCORES: Weekly Famitsu (9, 9, 8, 7), Famitsu Xbox 360 (8, 8, 7, 7) | ||||||
LINKS: IGN Game Page, Xbox.com Game Page | ||||||
STAFF: Kei Iwamoto (Producer) |
Turn the page for a look at the latest commercials from Japan.
HOUKOKU CORNER
Welcome to the Gaming Life in Japan ad section, where you'll find the latest game advertisements, commercials and pamphlet scans from Japan. Every week, we'll be bringing you commercials, ads and pamphlets that we've spotted on TV, in magazines and at retailers.
This week, we have 25 commercials for you. Included in the bunch are four Pokemon spots and a couple of LocoRoco ads. Yes, Sony's still pushing the game over here, with new commercials.
Don't worry print-ad fanatics, we've got some good wallpaper-sized images coming for you in probably (possibly) next week.
COMMERCIALS
All commercials are presented in 640x480.
Select from Windows Media 9 (WMV) or
Quicktime, then right click to download.
OR, DOWNLOAD ZIP FILE
WITH ALL COMMERCIALS
WINDOWS MEDIA (ZIP file, 146,324KB)
QUICKTIME (ZIP file, 204,115KB)
| Boxer's Road 2 Ertain, PSP Now Available
|
| Chao Manga School TDK Core, NDS Release: 11.09.06
|
| Pinky Street Kira Kira Music dimple, NDS Release: 10.26.06
|
| Detective Evangelion Broccoli, PS2 Release: 11.22.06
|
| Gunpei Reverse Bandai, NDS Release: 10.19.06
|
| Homestar Portable Sega, PSP Release: 10.19.06
|
| Kirarin Revolution Konami, NDS Now Available
|
| LocoRoco SCE, PSP Now Available
|
| LocoRoco SCE, PSP Now Available
|
| Minna no Tennis SCE, PS2 Now Available
|
| Momotetsu Mobile Hudson, iMode Now Available
|
| Naruto Daikesshu 4 Takara Tomy, NDS Now Available
|
| Naruto RPG 3 Takara Tomy, NDS Now Available
|
| Negima!? Marvelous, NDS Release: 10.26.06
|
| Pokemon Diamond & Pearl Pokemon, NDS Now Available
|
| Pokemon Diamond & Pearl Pokemon, NDS Now Available
|
| Pokemon Diamond & Pearl Pokemon, NDS Now Available
|
| Pokemon Diamond & Pearl Pokemon, NDS Now Available
|
| PlayStation 2 SCE, PS2 Now Available
|
| Pricey Cup Ramen Commercial
|
| Oshare Majo Love & Berry Sega, NDS Release: 11.22.06
|
| Taiko no Tatsujin Poratble 2 Bandai Namco, PSP Now Available
|
| Tokimeki Memorial Online Konami, Windows Now Available
|
| Tales Weaver Nexon, Windows Now Available
|
| Yugioh Duel Monsters Konami, PSP Now Available
|
Turn the page for the latest charts.
RANK-IN!!!
Wondering what's hot in the Japanese gaming scene? This section of Gaming Life in Japan brings you the latest charts for hardware, home software and arcade titles, along with a top thirty most wanted list.
We've sourced retail tracker Media Create for the software and hardware charts and game magazine Famitsu Weekly for the most wanted chart.
We'll also occasionally provide sales data from more specialist magazines in the weekly magazine recap section. Check out that area for looks at sales for titles on individual systems.
Be sure and check back every week to find out what Japanese gamers are into!
GAME-RANK-IN: 09.25.06 - 10.01.06 |
A few games debut outside the top ten.
12. Dead Rising (Capcom, Xbox 360)
15. Kuuron Youma Gakuenki re:charge (Atlus, PS2)
19. Pop 'n Music 13 Carnival (Konami, PS2)
20. Eiyuu Densetsu Sora no Kiseki FC (Nihon Falcom, PSP)
24. Aria the Natural (Alchemist, PS2)
29. Project Sylpheed (Square Enix, Xbox 360)
32. Boxers Road 2 (Ertain, PSP)
38. God of War -- Capcom Collection (Capcom, PS2)
43. Shikakui Atama wo Marukusuru. DS Joushiki Nanmon no Sho (IE Institute, DS)
48. Chronicle of Dungeon Maker (Taito, PSP)
The top 100 games for this week sold a total of 2,494,847 units, 318.46% of last week's total and 219.29% the weekly average. Twenty-six new games made it into the list, accounting for 76.62% of sales.
# | SYS | GAME | PUB | RELEASE | SALES |
1 | NDS | Pocket Monsters Diamond | Pokemon | 09.28.06 | 820,047 |
2 | NDS | Pocket Monsters Pearl | Pokemon | 09.28.06 | 768,687 |
3 | PS2 | .hack//G.U. Vol.2 | Bandai Namco Games | 09.28.06 | 122,800 |
4 | PS2 | Minna no Tennis | Sony Computer Entertainment | 09.14.06 | 68,755 |
5 | NDS | New Super Mario Brothers | Nintendo | 05.25.06 | 57,508 |
6 | NDS | Zaidan Hounin Nihon Kanji Nouryoku Kentei Kyoukai Kounin Kanken DS | Rocket Company | 09.28.06 | 45,292 |
7 | NDS | Motto Nou wo Kitaeru Otona no DS Training | Nintendo | 12.29.05 | 39,897 |
8 | NDS | Final Fantasy III | Nintendo | 08.24.06 | 39,165 |
9 | PS2 | Sangokushi 11 | Koei | 09.28.06 | 29,304 |
10 | NDS | Oideyo Doubutsu no Mori | Nintendo | 11.23.05 | 26,287 |
PS2=PlayStation 2, GCN=GameCube, NDS=Nintendo DS
PSP=PlayStation Portable, GBA=Game Boy Advance
HARD-RANK-IN: 09.25.06 - 10.01.06 |
# | MAKER | SYSTEM | THIS WEEK |
1 | Nintendo | DS Lite | 274,389 |
2 | Sony Computer Entertainment | PlayStation 2 | 31,992 |
3 | Sony Computer Entertainment | PSP | 25,319 |
4 | Microsoft | Xbox 360 | 2,195 |
5 | Nintendo | Game Boy Advance SP | 1,811 |
6 | Nintendo | Game Boy Micro | 1,103 |
7 | Nintendo | GameCube | 523 |
8 | Nintendo | DS | 253 |
9 | Nintendo | Game Boy Advance | 10 |
10 | Microsoft | Xbox | 3 |
MOST WANTED |
# | SYS | GAME | MAKER |
1 | PS3 | Final Fantasy XIII | Square Enix |
2 | PS3 | Biohazard 5 | Capcom |
3 | PS3 | Metal Gear Solid 4 | Konami |
4 | PS2 | Summon Night 4 | Bandai Namco Games |
5 | X360 | Blue Dragon | Microsoft |
6 | PS2 | Seiken Densetsu 4 | Square Enix |
7 | Wii | The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess | Wii |
8 | DS | Dragon Quest Monsters Joker | Square Enix |
9 | PS2 | Tales of the Destiny | Bandai Namco Games |
10 | PS2 | Ryu ga Gotoku 2 | Sega |
11 | PS2 | Super Robot Taisen OG Original Generations | Banpresto |
12 | DS | Gyakuten Saiban 4 | Capcom |
13 | GBA | Final Fantasy V Advance | Square Enix |
14 | PSP | Monster Hunter Portable 2nd | Capcom |
15 | NDS | Fushigi no Dungeon Fuurai no Shiren DS | Sega |
16 | WII | Smash Brothers X | Nintendo |
17 | X360 | Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 | Tecmo |
18 | DS | The Legend of Zelda DS | Nintendo |
19 | PS3 | Monster Hunter 3 | Capcom |
20 | PS2 | Utawareru Mono | Aqua Plus |
21 | GBA | Final Fantasy VI Advance | Square Enix |
22 | GCN | The Legend of Zelda | Nintendo |
23 | PS3 | Final Fantasy Versus XIII | Square Enix |
24 | PS2 | Wild Arms the Fifth Vanguard | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan |
25 | PS2 | Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni Matsuri | Alchemist |
26 | PS2 | Shining Wind | Sega |
27 | DS | Tales of the Tempest | Bandai Namco |
28 | PSP | Metal Gear Solid Portable Ops | Konami |
29 | PS2 | Gundam Seed Destiny: Federation vs Z.A.F.T. II PLUS | Bandai Namco Games |
30 | PS3 | Devil May Cry 4 | Capcom |
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 from Japan.
RELEASE DATES
This section of Gaming Life in Japan provides you with an up-to-date release list of games coming out in Japan. We list pretty much everything that's been announced.
In order to make the list more readable, we've split things up into three sections: games that have a release date, games that are TBA and games that are budget re-releases of older titles. On this page, you'll find the new games that have some sort of date attached to them -- even if it's just something vague like TBA 2007.
Recent changes, including new dates and prices, are bolded. New entries are in red. If you encounter something you think may be an error, please e-mail us.
Nintendo DS |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
10.12.06 | Kuru Kuru Chamelion DS | Starfish SD | 4800 |
10.19.06 | Gekitou Custom Robo | Nintendo | 4800 |
10.19.06 | Kodomo no Tame no Yomi Kikase Ehon de Asobou 4 | Starfish SD | 2800 |
10.19.06 | Kodomo no Tame no Yomi Kikase Ehon de Asobou 5 | Starfish SD | 2800 |
10.19.06 | Kodomo no Tame no Yomi Kikase Ehon de Asobou 6 | Starfish SD | 2800 |
10.19.06 | Oto wo Tsunagou! Gunpei Reverse | Bandai Namco Games | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Gyakuten Saiban 2 (Best Price!) | Capcom | 3129 |
10.26.06 | Lode Runner | Hudson | 2800 |
10.26.06 | Negima!? | Marvelous Interactive | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Nihon Joushikiryoku Kettei Kyoukai Kanshuu Imawara Hito ni ha Kikenai Otona no Joushikiryoku Training DS | Nintendo | 3800 |
10.26.06 | Pinky Street Kira Kira Music Hour Limited Edition with Pinky Figure (6000 yen) | Dimple | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Puzzle Series Jigsaw Puzzle Odenkun | Hudson | 2800 |
10.26.06 | Tales of the Tempest | Bandai Namco Games | 4800 |
Oct 06 | Oshare ni Koishite! | Culture Brain | 4800 |
11.02.06 | Edamoto Nahomi no Shiawase Kitchen -- Kakushi Aji ha Anata Ga Kimetene | MTO | 4800 |
11.02.06 | Hoshi no Kirby Sanjou! Dorocche-dan | Nintendo | 4800 |
11.02.06 | Lego Star Wars II | Electronic Arts | 4800 |
11.02.06 | Love Love Hamster | Digital Kids | 4830 |
11.02.06 | World Soccer Winning Eleven DS DS Lite Bundle (20790 yen) | Konami | 4179 |
11.09.06 | Black Jack Hi no Shima-hen | Sega | 4800 |
11.09.06 | Chao Manga School | TDK Core | 4800 |
11.09.06 | Me de Unou wo Kitaeru DS Sokudoku Jutsu | Milestone | 2800 |
11.09.06 | Zaidan Houjin Nihon Kanji Nouryoku Kenntei Kyoukai Koushiki Soft 200-Man-Nin no Kanken Tokoton Kanji Nou | IE Institute | 2499 |
11.16.06 | Akumajo Dracula Gallery of Labyrinth | Konami | 5229 |
11.16.06 | Magic Taizen | Nintendo | 3800 |
11.16.06 | Puzzle Series Vol.5 Slitherlink | Hudson | 2800 |
11.16.06 | Puzzle Series Vol.6 Illust Logic | Hudson | 3800 |
11.16.06 | Puzzle Series Vol.7 Crossword 2 | Hudson | 3800 |
11.22.06 | Bokura no Taiyou DS Django&Sabata | Konami | 5229 |
11.22.06 | Gotouchi Kentei DS | Spike | 3800 |
11.22.06 | Oshare Majo Love and Berry -- DS Collection Special Pack (23790 yen) | Sega | 6090 |
11.23.06 | Jump Ultimate Stars | Nintendo | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Futari ha Pretty Cure Splash Star Panpaka Game de Zekkouchou! | Bandai Namco Games | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Kokoro ni Shimiru Mouhitsu Soudamitsu wo DS | Ertain | 3800 |
11.30.06 | Pocket Scenario Series Harukanaru Toki no Naka De Maiyo | Koei | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Tank Beat | Milestone | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Zoid Battle Coliseum | Takara Tomy | 4800 |
Nov 06 | Keiba Navi Uma no Suke | Starfish SD | 6800 |
Nov 06 | Nihon Curling Koukai Kounin Minna no DS Curling | Rocket Company | 1800 |
Nov 06 | Tokyo Friend Park II DS DS de Kitaeru Undou Nouryoku | Rocket Company | 4800 |
12.07.06 | Chao Dream Touch! Happy Aniversary | Marvelous Interactive | 4800 |
12.07.06 | DS Dengeki Bunko Arison | Media Works | 3360 |
12.07.06 | DS Dengeki Bunko Inukami! Feat.Animation First Run Limited Edition (5800 yen) | Media Works | 4725 |
12.07.06 | Mahjong Fight Club DS | Konami | 5229 |
12.07.06 | Otogi Juushi Akazukin | Konami | 5229 |
12.07.06 | Power Pro Kun Pocket 9 | Konami | 5229 |
12.07.06 | Simple DS Series Vol.11 Mou Ichido Kayoeru The Otona no Shougakkou | D3 Publisher | 2800 |
12.07.06 | Te no Hira no Rakushu Chikyuu no Narabekata | Success | 3800 |
12.14.06 | Chocobo to Mahou no Ehon | Square Enix | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Fushigi no Dungeon: Fuurai no Shiren DS | Sega | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Hamster to Kurasou | Interchannel | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Kabushiki Baibai Trainer Kabu-Tore! | Konami | 4179 |
12.14.06 | Puyo Puyo! | Sega | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Quiz! Nihongo Ou DS | Success | 3800 |
12.14.06 | The Sims 2 Pet Wannyan Life | Electronic Arts | 4800 |
12.21.06 | Daredemo Kantan! Akira Watanabe no Tsume Shougi | Mainichi Communications | 4800 |
12.21.06 | Gaken Nihon no Rekishi DS | IE Institute | 3800 |
12.21.06 | Gakuken Kagaku DS | IE Institute | 3800 |
12.21.06 | Heisei Kyouiku Iinkai DS | Bandai Namco Games | 3800 |
12.21.06 | Mahjong Haou DS Special | Mainichi Communications | 4800 |
12.21.06 | Simple DS Series Vol.10 The Doko Demo Kanji Quiz | D3 Publisher | 2800 |
12.21.06 | Simple DS Series Vol.9 Atama ga Yokunaru The Me no Training | D3 Publisher | 2800 |
12.28.06 | Dragon Quest Monsters Joker | Square Enix | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Akko ni Omakase! Brain Shock | Taito | 2800 |
Dec 06 | Anpanman to Asobou A-i-u-e-o Kyoushitsu | Agashima Entertainment | 4410 |
Dec 06 | Bokujou Monogatari Kimi to Sodatsu Shima | Marvelous Interactive | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Bomberman Story DS | Hudson | TBA |
Dec 06 | Cinnamoroll Ohanashi Shiyo! Kira Kira De Kore Cafe | Bandai Namco Games | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Dekitayo! Mama. Onna no Ko | Starfish SD | 3800 |
Dec 06 | Dekitayo! Mama. Otoko no Ko | Starfish SD | 3800 |
Dec 06 | DS Puzzler | TDK Core | 2800 |
Dec 06 | Nazotte Oboeru Otona no Kanji Renshuu | Now Productions | 3800 |
Dec 06 | Puzzle Series Vol.8 Nankuro | Hudson | 3800 |
Dec 06 | Puzzle Series Vol.9 Sudoku 2 | Hudson | 3800 |
Dec 06 | Ryoukiki no Susume | Taito | 3800 |
Dec 06 | SNK vs CAPCOM Card Fighters DS | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Watashi no Relaxma | Rocket Company | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Bakegyamon Ayakashi Fighting | Takara Tomy | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | BLEACH DS 2nd Kuroi Hirameku Chinkonkyoku | Sega | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Daredemo Dekiru Rubics Cube & Nakamatachi | Digital Works Entertainment | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Hanadeka Club | Agashima Entertainment | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Kawa no Nushi Tsuri DS Komorebi no Tani Seseragi no Shi | Marvelous Interactive | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Luminous Ark | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Mahha Modified Air Combat Heroes | Vivendi Universal Games | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Reeze no Atelier Orudoru no Renkinjutsu-shi | Gust | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Sekaiju no Meikyuu | Atlus | 5229 |
Wnt 06 | Sponge Bob | THQ Japan | TBA |
TBA 06 | Front Mission the First | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA 06 | GT-D Racing | MTO | TBA |
TBA 06 | Kaitou Wario | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 06 | Momotetsu World | Hudson | TBA |
TBA 06 | Naruto -- Ninretsuden | Takara Tomy | TBA |
TBA 06 | Sentouin Yamada Hajime 2 | Kids Station | TBA |
TBA 06 | Super Robot Taisen DS | Banpresto | TBA |
TBA 06 | Toy Heads World | Interactive Brains | TBA |
TBA 06 | Wish Room | Nintendo | TBA |
01.11.07 | DS Dengeki Bunko Iris no Sora, UFO Natsu First Run Limited Edition (4725 yen) | Media Works | 3360 |
01.25.07 | Sangokushi Taisen DS | Sega | 5980 |
Feb 07 | Sim City DS | Electronic Arts | 4800 |
Mar 07 | Spectrobes | Buena Vista Games | TBA |
Spr 07 | Gyakuten Saiban 4 | Capcom | TBA |
Spr 07 | Survival Kids Lost in Blue 2 | Konami | TBA |
Spr 07 | Tokimeki Memorial Girl's Side | Konami | TBA |
Spr 07 | Winners' Circle | Genki | 4800 |
TBA 07 | A.S.H. Archaic Sealed Heat | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Denshi Maid Techou Koi no Iroha | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA 07 | Doki Doki Majo Saiban | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
TBA 07 | Kimi no Yuusha | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA 07 | Shin Ninja Jaja Maru-Kun: Pen ha Ken Yorimo Tsuyoshi De Gozaru | Jaleco | TBA |
TBA 07 | Shin Raki Suta | Kadokawa Shoten | TBA |
TBA 07 | Subarashiki Kono Sekai | Square Enix | TBA |
PlayStation 2 |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
10.12.06 | Bleach: Blade Battlers | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 6800 |
10.12.06 | Driver Parallel Lines | AQ Interactive | 6800 |
10.12.06 | Neverland Kenkyuushi | Idea Factory | 4800 |
10.12.06 | Simple 2000 Series Vol.109 The Taxi 2 -- Untenshu ha Yappri Kimi da! | D3 Publisher | 2000 |
10.12.06 | Simple 2000 Series Vol.110 The Toubou Prisoner -- Lost City Shinjitsu he no 10-ji-kan | D3 Publisher | 2000 |
10.19.06 | Captain Tsubasa | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
10.19.06 | Gift -prism- First Run Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Sweets | 6800 |
10.19.06 | Honou no Takuhaibin | Success | 5800 |
10.19.06 | Sokudoku Master | Magnolia | 5800 |
10.26.06 | Hisshou Pachinko Pachislot Kouryaku Series Vol.7 CR Fever Powerful Zero | D3 Publisher | 4800 |
10.26.06 | JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken Phantom Blood | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
10.26.06 | Korobot Adventure | Tecmo | 6090 |
10.26.06 | Mermaid Prism Limited Edition (8190 yen) | D3 Publisher | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Mizu no Senritsu 2: Hi no Kioku Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Kid | 6800 |
10.26.06 | PachiPara 13: Super Umi to Pachi-Pro Fuuunroku | Irem Software Engineering | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Princess Princess Himetachi no Abunai Houkago First Run Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Marvelous Interactive | 6800 |
10.26.06 | Shin Sangoku Musou Series Collection Gekan | Koei | 9240 |
10.26.06 | Shinseiki GPX Cyber Formula Road to the Infinity 3 | Sunrise Interactive | 6800 |
10.26.06 | Simple 2000 Series Vol.111 The Itadaki Rider -- Omae no Bike ha Ore no Mono/Jacked | D3 Publisher | 2000 |
10.26.06 | Tensei Gakuen Gekkouen | Asmik Ace Enterainment | 6800 |
10.26.06 | Utawareru Mono Chiriyuku Mono e no Komoriuta First Run Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Aqua Plus | 6800 |
10.26.06 | Youshinbou Yo-Jin-Bo -- Unmei no Furoide | Two Five | 6800 |
11.02.06 | Gallop Racer Inbreed | Tecmo | 4800 |
11.02.06 | Lego Star Wars II | Electronic Arts | 6800 |
11.02.06 | Tsukiyo ni Saraba (Taito Best) | Taito | 2800 |
11.09.06 | Area 51 | Success | 5800 |
11.09.06 | I's Pure | Takara Tomy | 6800 |
11.09.06 | Mai Otome Otome Butoushi Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Sunrise Interactive | 6800 |
11.16.06 | 3D Mahjong + Suzumepai Tori | Magnolia | 2000 |
11.16.06 | Naruto Kinoha Spirts! | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
11.16.06 | Negima!? San-Jikan-Me -- Koi to Mahou to Sekaiju Densetsu! Live Version Engeki Version (7329 yen) | Konami | 6279 |
11.16.06 | Sengoku Musou 2 Empires Treasure Box (7644 yen) Premium Box (8820 yen) | Koei | 4494 |
11.16.06 | White Princess the second Yappari Itto ni Iitte mo Soujanakute mo Gotsugou Shuugi Gakusen Renai Adventure (2800 Collection) | Kid | 2800 |
11.22.06 | Galaxy Angel Anime Converstion Commemoration Box | Broccoli | 15540 |
11.22.06 | Guitar Freaks V2 & Drum Mania V2 | Konami | 7329 |
11.22.06 | K-1 World GP 2006 | D3 Publisher | 6800 |
11.22.06 | Mei Tantei Evangelion Special Package (8190 yen) Premium Box (26040 yen) | Broccoli | 6800 |
11.22.06 | NBA Live 07 | Electronic Arts | 6800 |
11.22.06 | Tales of Destiny | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
11.22.06 | White Breath Kizuna Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Kid | 6800 |
11.24.06 | Kohitsuji Hokaku Keikaku! Sweet Boys Life Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Idea Factory | 6800 |
11.30.06 | Digimon Survivors Another Mission | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
11.30.06 | Hissatsu Pachink Pachislot Kouryaku Series Vol.8 | D3 Publisher | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Hokenshitsu e Youkoso First Run Limited Version (8190 yen) | Princess Soft | 6800 |
11.30.06 | Kamen Rider Kaputo | Bandai Namco Games | 6279 |
11.30.06 | Pachislot Kanzen Kouryaku Slot Genjin | Success | 5800 |
11.30.06 | Shimoon Ibara Sensou Fuutou no Lee Mahjon First Run Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Marvelous Interactive | 6800 |
11.30.06 | Simple 2000 Series Vol.112 The Tousou Highway 2 Road Warrior 2005 | D3 Publisher | 2000 |
11.30.06 | Summon Night 4 | Banpresto | 6800 |
Nov 06 | Ame Koushi no Kan | Nippon Ichi Software | 6800 |
Nov 06 | REC Doki Doki Seiyuu Paradise Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Idea Factory | 6800 |
Nov 06 | World Soccer Winning Eleven 10 Europe League '06-07 | Konami | 7329 |
Fall 06 | Ou Okuki | Global A Entertainment | 6090 |
12.07.06 | Kidou Senshi Gundam Seed Destiny Rengou vs. Z.A.F.T. II PLUS | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
12.07.06 | Ryu ga Gotoku 2 | Sega | 6800 |
12.07.06 | Taiko no Tatsujin Doka! to Omori Nanadaime Tatakon Bundle Version (7329 yen) | Bandai Namco Games | 4725 |
12.07.06 | Yoakemae Yori Ruriiro Na -- Brighter than dawning blue First Run Limited Edition (9240 yen) | ARIA | 6800 |
12.14.06 | beatmania IIDX 12 Happy Sky | Konami | 7329 |
12.14.06 | Dai Senryaku VII: Exceed | SystemSoft Alpha | 6800 |
12.14.06 | School Love! Koi to Kibou no Metronome First Run Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Views | 6800 |
12.14.06 | TOCA Race Driver 2 Ultimate Racing Simulator | Interchannel | 6800 |
12.14.06 | Wild Arms the Fifth Vanguard | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 6800 |
12.14.06 | WWE 2007 SmackDown! vs Raw | THQ Japan | 6800 |
12.21.06 | Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni Matsuri Limited Edition (9975 yen) | Alchemist | 7329 |
12.21.06 | Need For Speed Carbon | Electronic Arts | TBA |
12.21.06 | Secret of Evangelion First Run Limited Edition (9240 yen) | GenX | 6800 |
12.21.06 | Seiken Densetsu 4 | Square Enix | 6800 |
12.28.06 | Tomoyo After -- It's a Wonderful Life -- CS edition | Prototype | 5800 |
12.28.06 | Yumemishi First Run Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Princess Soft | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Hime Hibi Princess Days | Takuyo | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Nobunaga no Yabou Online -- Haten no Shou | Koei | TBA |
Dec 06 | Reijyou Tantei Office Love Jiken | D3 Publisher | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Roots PE First Run Limited Edition (8190 yen) | Aqua Plus | 5800 |
Dec 06 | SNK Slot Panic Kyuunin | SNK Playmore | 3800 |
Dec 06 | Tomb Raider: Legend | Spike | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Ah! Megamisama | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Appleseed EX Limited Box (11550 yen) | Sega | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Castle Fantasia Arihato Senki | GN Software | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Colin McRae Rally | Interchannel | TBA |
Wnt 06 | FLATOUT2 GTR (Ganbare! Tobidase! Racing) | Konami | 5980 |
Wnt 06 | Happiness Deluxe First Run Limited Edition (9429 yen) | Marvelous Interactive | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Hoshigari Empusa | Takuyo | TBA |
Wnt 06 | J.LEAGUE Pro Soccer Club wo Tsukurou! 5 | Sega | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Kujibiki Unbalance Kaichou Negaimasu Shu Fight Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Marvelous Interactive | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | OutRun2 SP | Sega | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Sega Ages 2500 Series Monstr World Complete Collection | Sega | 2500 |
Wnt 06 | Sega Ages 2500 Series Phantasy Star I - II - III - IV | Sega | 2500 |
Wnt 06 | Seitoushi Seiya Meiou Hades Juu-ni-gu-hen | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Shining Force Exa | Sega | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Trouble Fortune -- Company Star Happy Cure (8190 yen) | Primavera | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Yato Hime Ginkikou -Tsurugi no Kan- | Nine's fox | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Zero no Tsukai Ma | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA 06 | Angel Profile | GenX | TBA |
TBA 06 | Binchoutan Shiawase Koyomi First Run Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Marvelous Interactive | 6800 |
TBA 06 | DSS | Flight Plan | TBA |
TBA 06 | Fate / stay night [Realta Nua] (9240 yen) | Kadokawa Shoten | 6800 |
TBA 06 | Godfather | Electronic Arts | 7140 |
TBA 06 | Momotarou Dentetsu 16 Hokkaidou Daikannami no Maki | Hudson | TBA |
01.18.07 | .hack//G.U. Vol.3 Arukuyouna Tousa De | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
01.25.07 | Super Robot Taisen OG Original Generations | Banpresto | 7329 |
Jan 07 | Dragon Shadow Spell | Flight Plan | 6800 |
Jan 07 | Elvandia Story | Spike | 6800 |
Jan 07 | Kenka Banchou 2 Full Throttle | Spike | 6800 |
Jan 07 | Mark Ecko Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure | Atari | 6800 |
Feb 07 | Lupin San-Sei Lupin ni ha Shi wo, Zenigata ha Koi wo | Banpresto | TBA |
Feb 07 | River Ride Adventure Future Ring Salomon | Red Entertainment | 4800 |
Feb 07 | WILD WATER ADRENALINE featuring salomono | Sega | TBA |
Mar 07 | Hokuto no Ken | Sega | TBA |
Mar 07 | Ojousama Kumikyoku -Sweet Conert- Limited Edition (9240 yen) | Pione Soft | 6800 |
Spr 07 | Akudaikan 3 | Global A Entertainment | TBA |
Spr 07 | Dance Dance Revolution SuperNova | Konami | TBA |
Spr 07 | Galaxy Angel II - 2 | Broccoli | TBA |
Spr 07 | Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix + | Square Enix | TBA |
Spr 07 | Puyo Puyo! | Sega | 4800 |
Spr 07 | Sega Ages 2500 Series Dennnou Senki Virtual On | Sega | 2500 |
Spr 07 | Shining Wind | Sega | TBA |
Spr 07 | Shounen Onmyouji Tsubasa Yoima, Ten e Kaere | Kadokawa Shoten | TBA |
TBA 07 | DESTROY ALL HUMANS | Sega | TBA |
TBA 07 | Neo Geo Online Collection Ga-Rou-Densetsu Battle Archives 2 | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
TBA 07 | Ponkotsu Roman Daikatsugeki Bumpy Trot 2 | Irem Software Engineering | TBA |
TBA 07 | Que -- Ancient Leaf no Yousei | Princess Soft | TBA |
TBA 07 | Samurai Spirits Rokuban Shoubu | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
TBA 07 | Shoukan Shojo: Elemental Girl Calling | Kadokawa Shoten | TBA |
TBA 07 | Soul Cradle Sekai wo Kurau Mono First Run Limited Edition (TBA) | Nippon Ichi Software | TBA |
TBA 07 | The King of Fighters '98 Ultimate Match | SNK Playmore | 3800 |
TBA 07 | The King of Fighters Nesutsu-hen | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
TBA 07 | World Heroes Gorgeous | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
PlayStation Portable |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
10.12.06 | Exciting Pro Wrestling PSP Smackdown! VS. Raw 2006 | Yukes | 4800 |
10.12.06 | Princess Maker 4 Portable | GenX | 4800 |
10.19.06 | Planetarium Creator Takayuki Ohira Kanshuu Homestar Portable | Sega | 3280 |
10.19.06 | Tenchi no Mon 2 Busouden | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Heaven's Will | Taito | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Shinobido Homura | Spike | 4800 |
10.26.06 | Simple 2500 Series Portable!! Vol.8 The Doko Demo Gal Mahjong | D3 Publisher | 2500 |
10.26.06 | Spiderman 2 | Konami | 5229 |
10.26.06 | Untold Legend Warriors Code | Ubisoft | 5229 |
Oct 06 | Spectral VS Generation | Idea Factory | 4800 |
11.16.06 | Akudaikan Manyuuki | Global A Entertainment | 4800 |
11.16.06 | Plus Plum 2again Portable | Takuyo | 4800 |
11.16.06 | Sudoku | Hudson | 2800 |
11.16.06 | Vulcanus | Compile Hearts | 4800 |
11.22.06 | Jeanne d' Arc | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 4800 |
11.22.06 | Riviera -- Yakusoku no Chi Riviera | Sting | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Intelligent License 2 | Now Productions | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Makai Senki Disgaea Portable First Run Limited Edition (6800 yen) | Nippon Ichi Software | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Onore no Dungeon | Sega | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Sony Computer Science Kenkyuushitsu Kenichiro Mogi Hakase Kanshuu Nou ni Kaiketsu Minna de Aha Taiken! | Sega | 2800 |
Fall 06 | Ace Combat X Skies of Deception | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Fall 06 | Power Stone Portable | Capcom | 4800 |
Fall 06 | Princess Princess | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
12.07.06 | Mahjong Kakutou Ku-Ra-Bu Zenkoku Taisen-Ban | Konami | 5229 |
12.07.06 | Sarugetchu Piposaru Racer | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Daisenryaku Portable 2 | Genki | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Kyoto Daigaku Tetsuji Atsuji Kyoujuu Kanshuu Zaidan Houjin Nihon Kanji Nouryoku Kentei Kyoukai Kyouryoku Kanji Trainer Portable | Sega | 2800 |
12.14.06 | TOCA Race Driver 2 Ultimate Racing Simulator | Interchannel | 4800 |
12.21.06 | Kanon | Prototype | 4800 |
12.21.06 | NBA Live 07 | Electronic Arts | 4800 |
12.21.06 | Need For Speed Carbon | Electronic Arts | TBA |
12.21.06 | SNOW | Prototype | 4800 |
12.21.06 | Tales of the World: Radiant Mythology | Bandai Namco Games | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Maplus Portable Navi | Edea | TBA |
Dec 06 | Metal Gear Solid Portable Ops PSP Bundle Limited Version (TBA) Exclusively at Konami Style (TBA) | Konami | TBA |
Dec 06 | Metal Slug Complete | SNK Playmore | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Roots Portable | Aqua Plus | 4800 |
Dec 06 | Tomb Raider Legend | Spike | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Bomberman Land Portable | Hudson | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Colin McRae Rally | Interchannel | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Hoshigari Empusa | Takuyo | 5800 |
Wnt 06 | Lost Regunam -- Makutsu no Koutei | Ertain | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Mahha Modified Air Combat Heroes | Vivendi Universal Games | 4800 |
Wnt 06 | Mahjong Haou Portable Jansou Battle | Mainichi Communications | 3800 |
Wnt 06 | P-kara | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Parappa Rapper | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Talkman Style Shabe-lingual English Conversation | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA 06 | Nana Subete ha Daimaou no Omichibiki!? | Konami | TBA |
Jan 07 | Shichoukaku Rossword | Sega | 2800 |
Jan 07 | Wizardry Empire III King's Geneology | Starfish SD | TBA |
Feb 07 | Monster Hunter Portable 2nd | Capcom | TBA |
Spr 07 | Puyo Puyo! | Sega | 4800 |
Spr 07 | Wangan Midnight Portable | Genki | TBA |
TBA 07 | Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA 07 | Minna no Golf Ba | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA 07 | Ratchet & Clank Portable | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA 07 | Silent Hill Origin | Konami | TBA |
TBA 07 | Tales of Destiny 2 | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Game Boy Advance |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
10.12.06 | Final Fantasy V Advance | Square Enix | 4800 |
11.30.06 | Final Fantasy VI Advance | Square Enix | 4800 |
TBA 06 | Metal Slug | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA 06 | Metal Slug 2 | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA 06 | Metal Slug 3 | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA 06 | Metal Slug X | SNK Playmore | TBA |
Xbox 360 |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
10.12.06 | MotoGP 06 | THQ Japan | 6800 |
10.12.06 | Rockstar Games presents Table Tennis | Microsoft | 4800 |
10.26.06 | X-Men The Official Game | Spike | 6800 |
11.02.06 | The Outfit | THQ Japan | 6800 |
11.22.06 | Culdecept Saga | Bandai Namco Games | 7329 |
11.22.06 | Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 | Tecmo | 9240 |
11.22.06 | NBA Live 07 | Electronic Arts | 6800 |
11.30.06 | Super Robot Taisen XO | Banpresto | 7329 |
12.07.06 | Blue Dragon (29800 yen) | Microsoft | 6800 |
12.07.06 | Zegapain NOT | Bandai Namco Games | 6800 |
12.14.06 | WWE 2007 SmackDown! vs Raw | THQ Japan | 6800 |
12.21.06 | Lost Planet: Extreme Condition | Capcom | 8379 |
12.28.06 | PREY | Spike | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Chikyuu Boueigun 3 | D3 Publisher | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Fuzion Frenzy 2 | Hudson | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Gears of War | Microsoft | TBA |
Dec 06 | Oneechanbara vorteX Kiketsu wo Tsugu Monotachi | D3 Publisher | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Phantasy Star Universe | Sega | TBA |
Wnt 06 | A Ressha De Ikou HX | Art Dink | 8190 |
Wnt 06 | Diario Reverse Moon Legend | Idea Factory | 6800 |
Wnt 06 | Gundam Operation Troy | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Need For Speed Carbon | Electronic Arts | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Operation Darkness | Success | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Winning Eleven Series | Konami | TBA |
TBA 06 | 360 Mahjong | Success | TBA |
TBA 06 | Marine Action Game | Success | TBA |
TBA 06 | Sonic the Hedgehog | Sega | TBA |
TBA 06 | Zoo Keeper | Success | TBA |
01.25.07 | Idol Master Limited Edition (20790 yen) | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Jan 07 | Vampire Rain | AQ Interactive | TBA |
Spr 07 | Kingdom Under Fire: Circle of Doom | BLUESIDE | TBA |
Fall 07 | dark Sector | D3 Publisher | TBA |
TBA 07 | Burnout 5 | Electronic Arts | TBA |
TBA 07 | Forza Motorsport 2 | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA 07 | Lost Odyssey | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA 07 | Magnacarta 2 | Banpresto | TBA |
Nintendo GameCube |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA 06 | The Legend of Zelda | Nintendo | TBA |
Wii |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
12.02.06 | Ball Korogashi Meiro Game Kororinpa | Hudson | TBA |
12.02.06 | Caduceus Z 2-tsu No Chou Shittou | Atlus | 5800 |
12.02.06 | Crayon Shin-chan Saikyou Kazoku Kasuka Peking Wii | Banpresto | 5800 |
12.02.06 | Elebits | Konami | TBA |
12.02.06 | Ennichi no Tatsujin | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
12.02.06 | Hajimete no Wii | Nintendo | TBA |
12.02.06 | Necro-Nesia | Spike | TBA |
12.02.06 | Odoru Made in Wario | Nintendo | 5800 |
12.02.06 | Red Steel | Ubisoft | 6800 |
12.02.06 | SD Gundam Scud Hammers | Bandai Namco Games | 5800 |
12.02.06 | Super Monkey Ball Uki Uki Party Daishuugou | Sega | TBA |
12.02.06 | Swing Golf Pangya | Tecmo | TBA |
12.02.06 | Tamagotchi no Pika Pika Daitouryou! | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
12.02.06 | The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess | Nintendo | 6800 |
12.02.06 | Wii Sports | Nintendo | TBA |
12.02.06 | Wing Island | Hudson | TBA |
12.14.06 | Bleach Wii Shirahara Kirameku Rondo | Sega | 6800 |
12.21.06 | Mahjong Taikai Wii | Koei | 4800 |
12.28.06 | Sengoku Musou Wave | Koei | 5800 |
Dec 06 | Cooking Mama Minna to Isshoni O-ryouri Taikai | Taito | TBA |
Dec 06 | Furu Furu Paaku | Taito | TBA |
Dec 06 | Pocket Monsters Battle Revolution | Pokemon | TBA |
Dec 06 | Rayman Rabbits Party | Ubisoft | TBA |
Dec 06 | Sudoku | Hudson | TBA |
Dec 06 | Tsuri Master | Hudson | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Cars | THQ Japan | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Machi-Kuru Domino | Success | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Need For Speed Carbon | Electronic Arts | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Sponge Bob | THQ Japan | TBA |
Jan 07 | Dragon Ball Z Sparking! Neo | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Jan 07 | Excite Truck | Nintendo | TBA |
Feb 07 | Bachinda | Hudson | TBA |
Feb 07 | Fire Emblem Akatsuki no Megami | Nintendo | TBA |
Mar 07 | Bomberman Land | Hudson | TBA |
Mar 07 | Crossword | Hudson | TBA |
Mar 07 | Jigsaw Puzzle | Hudson | TBA |
Spr 07 | Disaster | Nintendo | TBA |
Spr 07 | Dragon Quest Sword Kamen no Majo to Kagami no Tou | Square Enix | TBA |
Spr 07 | Wii Yawaraka Atama Juku | Nintendo | TBA |
Smr 07 | Fishing Game | ASNetworks | TBA |
Smr 07 | Shooting Game | ASNetworks | TBA |
Smr 07 | Takoron | Compile Hearts | TBA |
TBA 07 | Action Game | Milestone | TBA |
TBA 07 | Action Game | ASNetworks | TBA |
TBA 07 | Dairantou Smash Brothers X | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Donkey Kong Taru Jet Race | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Forever Blue | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Harry Potter | Electronic Arts | TBA |
TBA 07 | Heroes | Spike | TBA |
TBA 07 | JAWA | Spike | TBA |
TBA 07 | Mario Party 8 | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Mario Strikers Charged | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Metroid Prime 3: Corruption | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Original Action Game | D3 Publisher | TBA |
TBA 07 | Project H.A.M.M.E.R. | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Shooting Game | Milestone | TBA |
TBA 07 | Simple Series | D3 Publisher | TBA |
TBA 07 | Sonic to Himitsu no Ring | Sega | TBA |
TBA 07 | SSX | Electronic Arts | TBA |
TBA 07 | Super Mario Galaxy | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | SUPER PAPER MARIO | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | The Dog Island | Yukes | TBA |
TBA 07 | Tiger Woods PGA Tour | Electronic Arts | TBA |
TBA 07 | Totsugeki Famicom Wars W | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA 07 | Wii Music | Nintendo | TBA |
PlayStation 3 |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
11.11.06 | Genji | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
11.11.06 | Kidou Senshi Gundam Target in Sight | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
11.11.06 | Mahjong Kakutou Ku-Ra-Bu Zenkoku Taisen-Ban | Konami | 5229 |
11.11.06 | Miyazato San Kyoudai Naizou Sega Golf Club | Sega | 6800 |
11.11.06 | Resistance -Fall of Man- | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
11.11.06 | Ridge Racer 7 | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
11.22.06 | Mahjong Taikai IV | Koei | 4800 |
12.14.06 | Armored Core 4 | From Software | 8190 |
12.21.06 | Sonic the Hedgehog | Sega | 6800 |
Dec 06 | Formula One Championship | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Dec 06 | Gran Turismo HD | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Dec 06 | MotorStorm | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Enchant Arm | From Software | TBA |
Wnt 06 | NBA Live 07 | Electronic Arts | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Need For Speed Carbon | Electronic Arts | TBA |
Wnt 06 | Railfan | Ongakukan | TBA |
TBA 06 | Fatal Inertia | Koei | TBA |
Spr 07 | Heavenly Sword | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Spr 07 | Lair | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Spr 07 | Monster Kingdom Unknown Realms | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Spr 07 | Power Smash 3 | Sega | TBA |
Spr 07 | The Eye of Judgment | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Spr 07 | Virtua Fighter 5 | Sega | TBA |
Spr 07 | Wangan Midnight | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Smr 07 | Minna no Golf 5 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Smr 07 | WARHAWK | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Fall 07 | darkSector | D3 Publisher | TBA |
TBA 07 | AFRIKA | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA 07 | Coded Arms Assault | Konami | TBA |
TBA 07 | Way of the Samurai | Spike | TBA |
TBA 07 | Metal Gear Solid 4 Guns of the Patriots | Konami | TBA |
Turn the page for budget titles and games that are with a TBA date.
RELEASE DATES (TBA)
This section of Gaming Life in Japan provides you with an up-to-date release list of games coming out in Japan. We list pretty much everything that's been announced.
In order to make the list more readable, we've split things up into three sections: games that have a release date, games that are TBA, and games that a budget re-releases of previous titles. On this page, you'll find the games that are TBA and the budget re-releases. For games that have a specific date, turn one page back.
Recent changes, including new dates and prices, are bolded. New entries are in red If you encounter something that looks like an error, please e-mail us.
Nintendo DS |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | Action Game | Alpha Unit | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | Epoch-sha | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | Now Productions | TBA |
TBA | Action RPG | Hudson | TBA |
TBA | Adventure | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Akagi DS | Culture Brain | TBA |
TBA | Bura Bura Donkey | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Card Battle Game | Kids Station | TBA |
TBA | Chibi Robo! DS | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Choro Q | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | Diddy Kong Racing DS | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Dora Base DS | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Doubutsu Shima no Chobi Gurumi 3 | Rocket Company | TBA |
TBA | Dragon Sakura DS | Electronic Arts | TBA |
TBA | DS AIR | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | DS Bimoji Training | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Edutainment | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA | Final Fantasy XII Revanant Wing | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA | Itadaki Street DS | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA | Mame Goma Hono Bono Nikki | TDK Core | 4800 |
TBA | Mario vs. Donkey Kong DS | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Monster Farm Jamboree | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Monster Summoner | Ertain | TBA |
TBA | Multi Competitive Sports Action | Sega | TBA |
TBA | One Piece | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Professional Wrestling | Spike | TBA |
TBA | Rally DS | Spike | TBA |
TBA | Seiken Densetsu Heroes of Mana | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA | Shin Megami Tensei DS | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | Shin Sangokushi Musou DS | Koei | TBA |
TBA | Simulation | Tasuke | TBA |
TBA | Spectral Force | Idea Factory | TBA |
TBA | Sports Action | Tasuke | TBA |
TBA | Storm Breaker | THQ Japan | TBA |
TBA | Tantei Adventure Game | Kids Station | TBA |
TBA | Te no Hira no Rakushu Zettai Onkan Training DS | Success | 4800 |
TBA | Team Ninja Kaihatsu Soft | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Yoshi's Island 2 | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Yugioh Series | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Zelda no Densetsu DS | Nintendo | TBA |
PlayStation 2 |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | Aoishiro | Success | TBA |
TBA | Formula One 2006 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Georama Sensen Ijou Nashi -- Berlin e no Michi | Marionette | TBA |
TBA | Jinrui Sousa-Kan-poni Alien VS Alien | Global A Entertainment | 6279 |
TBA | Kouma | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Major League Baseball 2K6 | Spike | 6800 |
TBA | Muragiri | Interchannel | TBA |
TBA | Phantasy Star Universe Illuminous no Yabou | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Saishu Shiken Kujira | Sweets | TBA |
TBA | Saishuu Shiken Kujira | Broccoli | TBA |
TBA | Sakura Himenishiki Emaki | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Sakura Taisen Monogatari Teitohen | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Seaman 2 Peking Man Growth Kit Bundle with Sea Mic Controller (8190 yen) | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Sega Ages 2500 Series Fantasy Zone II DX | Sega | 2500 |
TBA | Sega Ages 2500 Series Galaxy Force II | Sega | 2625 |
TBA | Seireiki Live Red 2 | Interchannel | TBA |
TBA | Sengoku Basara Series New Title | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | Shijuu Hachi | Banpresto | TBA |
TBA | Soshite Kono Sora ni Kirameku Kimi no Uta 2 | Datum Polystar | TBA |
TBA | State of Emergency Revenge | Spike | 6800 |
TBA | Sukina Mono ha Sukidakara Shouganai!! + White Flower + Sukisyo! Episode #04 | Interchannel | TBA |
TBA | Tetsuman Menkyo-Kaiden | Naxat | TBA |
TBA | Touge no Battle | Ecseco | TBA |
TBA | World's End | Princess Soft | TBA |
TBA | Yamasa Digi World Series Matsuri no Tatsujin Win-chan no Natsumatsuri | Yamasa Entertainment | TBA |
PlayStation Portable |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | Action Adventure | Atari | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | Takara Tomy | TBA |
TBA | AIR | Prototype | TBA |
TBA | Angel Collection | MTO | TBA |
TBA | Devil May Cry Series | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | Digital Pet | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Dokodemo Rasshou! Pachislo Sengen | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Driving Action | Atari | TBA |
TBA | Educational Game | Imagineer | TBA |
TBA | EX Jinsei Game | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | Formula One 2006 Portable | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Gran Turismo 4 Mobile | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Gunpei Reverse | Bandai Namco Games | 4800 |
TBA | Kawa no Nushi Tsuri Series | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Kizoato Portable | Aqua Plus | TBA |
TBA | KOF | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA | Landstalker | Climax | TBA |
TBA | Major League Baseball 2K6 | Spike | 4800 |
TBA | Makai Wars | Nippon Ichi Software | TBA |
TBA | Mushi | Global A Entertainment | TBA |
TBA | One Piece | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Original RPG | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Persona | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | Project S | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Puzzle Game | MTO | TBA |
TBA | Race Game | Atari | TBA |
TBA | RS Revolution | Spike | TBA |
TBA | Shinkankaku Communication Game | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Tantei Saburo Shinguji | Work Jam | TBA |
TBA | Technic Cute | Arika | TBA |
TBA | Tecmo My Generation | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | TGM-K | Arika | TBA |
TBA | Touge MAX | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | WILD ARMS Cross Fire | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
Xbox 360 |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | Armored Core 4 | From Software | TBA |
TBA | Atsumare! Pinata | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Biohazard 5 | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | CodeType-D | Mega Cyber | TBA |
TBA | Cry-On | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Dead or Alive Code: Cronus | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Halo 3 | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Infinite Undiscovery | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Kaidou Online | Spike | TBA |
TBA | King of Fighters Maximum Impact 360 | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA | Mass Effect | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Neo Geo Battle Coliseum | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA | Original Shooting Game | Treasure | TBA |
TBA | Phantasy Star Universe Illuminous no Yabou | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Project Progressive | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Riot Act | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Sangoku Fuushin | Idea Factory | TBA |
TBA | Shadowrun | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Shooting Game | Moss | TBA |
TBA | Battle-Style Melee Action | Arc System Works | TBA |
TBA | Test Drive: Unlimited | Atari | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Warashi | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Jaleco | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Vivendi Universal Games | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Ertain | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Alfa System | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Cave Online | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Digital Zero | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Kawamoto Sangyou | TBA |
TBA | Too Human | Microsoft | TBA |
TBA | Trusty Bell: Chopin no Yume | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
Nintendo GameCube |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | Geist | Nintendo | TBA |
Wii |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | 3D Action Game | Takara Tomy | TBA |
TBA | 3D Boxing Action | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Action | Takara Tomy | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | Epoch-sha | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | From Software | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | Banpresto | TBA |
TBA | Action RPG | From Software | TBA |
TBA | Barnyard | THQ Japan | TBA |
TBA | Biohazard Umbrella Chronicles | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | Bokujou Monogatari Wii | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Call of Duty 3 | Activision | TBA |
TBA | Character Action Game | MTO | TBA |
TBA | Densha De Go! | Taito | TBA |
TBA | Animal Crossing | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Downhill Jam | Activision | TBA |
TBA | Eye Shield 21 | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicle Crystal Bearers | Square Enix | TBA |
TBA | GT pro series | MTO | TBA |
TBA | Gun Shooting | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Hoshi no Kirby | Nintendo | TBA |
TBA | Kawa no Nushi Tsuri Series | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Derby Action | Koei | TBA |
TBA | Sword Action | Interchannel-Holon | TBA |
TBA | Mobile Suits Gundam | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Marvel Ultimate Alliance | Interchannel-Holon | TBA |
TBA | Naruto Gekitou Ninja Taisen! EX | Takara Tomy | TBA |
TBA | New Action Adventure Game 2 | Konami | TBA |
TBA | One Piece Unlimited Adventure | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Music Simulation Game | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Original Simulation | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA | PacMan Carnival | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Princess Company | Starfish SD | TBA |
TBA | Role Playing Game | Konami | TBA |
TBA | San-X All Star for Wii | MTO | TBA |
TBA | Sengoku Basara Series New Title | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | New Action Adventure Game 1 | Konami | TBA |
TBA | New RPG | Koei | TBA |
TBA | Sports Game -- Soccer | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Sports Game -- Baseball | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Sword of Legendia | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
PlayStation 3 |
RELEASE | GAME | PUB | YEN |
TBA | Action | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Action Adventure | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Action Adventure | Irem Software Engineering | TBA |
TBA | Action Game | Now Productions | TBA |
TBA | Action RPG | Hudson | TBA |
TBA | ActiveDogs | MTO | TBA |
TBA | Akari Project | Takuyo | TBA |
TBA | Alone in the Dark Series Sequel | Atari | TBA |
TBA | Angel Rings | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Anime Related Project (Tentative) | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Aquanaut's Holiday | Art Dink | TBA |
TBA | Assasin | Ubisoft | TBA |
TBA | BB | Arc System Works | TBA |
TBA | Residen Evil 5 | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | Bipedal Movement Simulation | Art Dink | TBA |
TBA | Blade Storm Hyakunen Sensou | Koei | TBA |
TBA | Boku no Natsuyasumi 3 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Bomberman | Hudson | TBA |
TBA | Comical Historical Action | Global A Entertainment | TBA |
TBA | Comical Historical Simulation | Global A Entertainment | TBA |
TBA | Big 3D Game | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Derby Stallion | Enterbrain | TBA |
TBA | Devil May Cry 4 | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | Driver Series Sequel | Atari | TBA |
TBA | Extreme | Taito | TBA |
TBA | Fifth Phantom Saga | Sega | TBA |
TBA | Fight Night | Electronic Arts | TBA |
TBA | flOw | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Gradius Series | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Gran Turismo Series | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Japanese Kenjutsu Series | Genki | TBA |
TBA | Jikkyou Powerful Pro Baseball | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Fighting Action Game (Tentative) | D3 Publisher | TBA |
TBA | Management Simulation | Hamster | TBA |
TBA | KOF Maximum Impact 3 | SNK Playmore | TBA |
TBA | Mahjong-Ou | Warashi | TBA |
TBA | Makai Wars | Nippon Ichi Software | TBA |
TBA | Master Project | Takuyo | TBA |
TBA | Monster Hunter 3 | Capcom | TBA |
TBA | Mystery Adventure | GN Software | TBA |
TBA | Naguzatto Plan | Digital Gain | TBA |
TBA | New Action | Marvelous Interactive | TBA |
TBA | New Action Game | ESP | TBA |
TBA | New Action Game | Konami | TBA |
TBA | New Role Playing Game | Konami | TBA |
TBA | New RPG | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | New Shooting Game | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | New Simulation | Sunsoft | TBA |
TBA | New Sports Game | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Ni-Oh | Koei | TBA |
TBA | Ninja Gaiden Sigma | Tecmo | TBA |
TBA | Original Love Simulation | Interchannel | TBA |
TBA | Pachinko Jikki Simulation Series | Huckberry | TBA |
TBA | Pro Mahjong Final | Atena | TBA |
TBA | Pro Wrestling | Yukes | TBA |
TBA | Pro Baseball Spirits Series | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Project Dee | Michael Soft | TBA |
TBA | Project Psychic | Taito | TBA |
TBA | Puzzle Game | Cyber Front | TBA |
TBA | Race Game Series | Genki | TBA |
TBA | Rengoku: The End of the Century | Hudson | TBA |
TBA | Robot Action | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Saikyou Ginsei Shougi 7 | Magnolia | TBA |
TBA | Seikan | Astrol | TBA |
TBA | Sekai Saikyou Ginsei Igo 7 | Magnolia | TBA |
TBA | War Simulation (Tentative) | Marionette | TBA |
TBA | New Historical Action | Acquire | TBA |
TBA | Shin Megamitensei Series | Atlus | TBA |
TBA | New Role Playing Game | Gust | TBA |
TBA | New Action RPG | Cavia | TBA |
TBA | Shinseiki GPX Cyber Formula Series | Sunrise Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Shinten Makai VI | Idea Factory | TBA |
TBA | Shirokishi Monogatari | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | TBA |
TBA | Shougi World Champion Gekishi | Mainichi Communications | TBA |
TBA | Simulation Game A | Cyber Front | TBA |
TBA | Simulation Game B | Cyber Front | TBA |
TBA | Slotter Maina Series | Dorasu | TBA |
TBA | Stuntman Sequel | Atari | TBA |
TBA | Sunrise Eiyuu Series | Sunrise Interactive | TBA |
TBA | Super Robot Series | Banpresto | TBA |
TBA | Tekken 6 | Bandai Namco Games | TBA |
TBA | Title TBA | Eighting | TBA |
TBA | Untold Legends Dark Kingdom | Sony Online Entertainment (SOE) | TBA |
TBA | Value 2000 Igo | Magnolia | TBA |
TBA | Value 2000 Shougi | Magnolia | TBA |
TBA | Vampire Rain | AQ Interactive | TBA |
TBA | World Soccer Winning Eleven Series | Konami | TBA |
TBA | Yamasa Digi World DX | Yamasa Entertainment | TBA |
BUDGET RE-RELEASES |
RELEASE | SYS | GAME | PUB | YEN |
10.12.06 | PS2 | NBA Live 06 (EA BEST HITS) original release: 11.10.05 | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
10.12.06 | PSP | NBA Live 06 (EA BEST HITS) original release: 12.15.05 | Electronic Arts | 2800 |
10.12.06 | PS2 | Sengoku Musou (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 02.11.05 | Koei | 2079 |
10.12.06 | PS2 | Shin Sangoku Musou 4 (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 02.24.05 | Koei | 4179 |
10.12.06 | PS2 | Tekkou no Houkou 2 Warship Gunner (Koei Teiban Series) original release: 02.23.06 | Koei | 1500 |
10.19.06 | PS2 | Aoi no Umi Tristia -- Nanoka Franka Hatsumei Koubouki (The Best Price) original release: 08.11.05 | Kogado Studio | 2940 |
10.19.06 | PS2 | Gladiator Road to Freedom Remix (Ertain Best) original release: 09.01.05 | Ertain | 2800 |
10.19.06 | PSP | Piposaru Academia 2 Ai Ai Sarugee Janken Battle (PSP the Best) original release: 12.15.05 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 2800 |
10.19.06 | PS2 | Shin Onimusha Dawn of Dreams (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 01.26.06 | Capcom | 2800 |
10.19.06 | PS2 | Wild Arms Advanced Third (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 03.14.02 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 1800 |
10.19.06 | PS2 | Wild Arms Alter Code F (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 11.27.03 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 1800 |
10.19.06 | PS2 | Wild Arms the Fourth Detonator (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 03.24.05 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 1800 |
10.26.06 | PS2 | Brother in Arms: Road to Hill 30 (Ubisoft Best) original release: 09.15.05 | Ubisoft | 2940 |
10.26.06 | PS2 | Mizu no Senritsu Hi no Kioku (2800 Collection) original release: 09.29.05 | Kid | 2800 |
10.26.06 | PS2 | Need for Speed Most Wanted (EA Best Hits) original release: 12.22.05 | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
10.26.06 | PSP | Need For Speed Most Wanted 5-1-0 (EA BEST HITS) original release: 12.22.05 | Electronic Arts | 2800 |
10.26.06 | PS2 | Ryu ga Gotoku (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 12.08.05 | Sega | 1890 |
10.26.06 | PS2 | SuperLite 2000 Renai Adventure Memories Off #5 Togireta Film original release: 10.27.05 | Success | 2000 |
11.02.06 | X360 | Every Party (Xbox 360 Platinum Collection) original release: 12.10.05 | Microsoft | 2800 |
11.02.06 | X360 | Need For Speed Most Wanted (Xbox 360 Platinum Collection) original release: 12.10.05 | Electronic Arts | 2800 |
11.02.06 | X360 | Ninety-Nine Nights (Xbox 360 Platinum Collection) original release: 04.20.06 | Microsoft | 2800 |
11.02.06 | X360 | PGR3 - Project Gotham Racing 3 (Xbox 360 Platinum Collection) original release: 01.12.06 | Microsoft | 2800 |
11.02.06 | X360 | Rumble Roses Double X (Xbox 360 Platinum Collection) original release: 03.30.06 | Konami | 2800 |
11.09.06 | PS2 | New Jinsei Game PlayStation 2 the Best original release: 12.02.04 | Atlus | 3990 |
11.09.06 | PS2 | Simple 2000 Series Ultimate Vol.33 Ururun Quest Koiyuuki original release: 07.28.05 | D3 Publisher | 2000 |
11.09.06 | PS2 | Simple 2000 Series Ultimate Vol.34 Sakigake!! Otokojuku original release: 11.10.05 | D3 Publisher | 2000 |
11.09.06 | PS2 | SSX On Tour (EA BEST HITS) original release: 11.24.05 | Electronic Arts | 3129 |
11.16.06 | PS2 | Karutagura -- Tamashii no Kunou (2800 Collection) original release: 12.15.05 | Kid | 2800 |
11.16.06 | PSP | Metal Gear Acid 2 (PSP the Best) original release: 12.08.05 | Konami | 2800 |
11.16.06 | PS2 | Rhapsodia (Konami the Best) original release: 09.22.05 | Konami | 2800 |
11.16.06 | PS2 | Suigetsu Mayoi-Gokoro (2800 Collection) original release: 10.28.04 | Kid | 2800 |
11.16.06 | PS2 | Tennis no Oujisama Gakusen Matsuri no Oujisama (Konami the Best) original release: 12.22.05 | Konami | 2800 |
11.22.06 | PS2 | Galaxy Angel Moonlit Lovers (Broccoli Best Quality) original release: 02.26.04 | Broccoli | 2800 |
11.30.06 | PS2 | Armored Core Last Raven PlayStation 2 the Best original release: 08.04.05 | From Software | 2800 |
11.30.06 | PSP | Bleach Heat the Soul 2 PSP the Best original release: 09.01.05 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 2800 |
11.30.06 | PSP | Bokujou Monogatari Harvest Moon Boy & Girl PSP the Best original release: 11.23.05 | Marvelous Interactive | 2800 |
11.30.06 | PSP | Geki Sengoku Musou PSP the Best original release: 12.08.05 | Koei | 2940 |
11.30.06 | PS2 | Kagero II: Dark Illusion PlayStation 2 the Best original release: 06.30.05 | Tecmo | 2800 |
11.30.06 | PS2 | Tourist Trophy PlayStation 2 the Best original release: 02.02.06 | Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ) | 2800 |
12.07.06 | PS2 | Gensou Suikoden V (PlayStation 2 the Best) original release: 02.23.06 | Konami | 2800 |
12.07.06 | PS2 | Tsuyokisu Mighty Heart (Princess Soft Collection) original release: 05.25.06 | Princess Soft | 3129 |
12.14.06 | PS2 | Demento (Capu-Kore) original release: 04.21.05 | Capcom | 2079 |
12.14.06 | PS2 | Gokujo Seitokai (Konami the Best) original release: 09.15.05 | Konami | 2800 |
12.14.06 | PS2 | Mar Heaven: Arm Fight Dream (Konami the Best) original release: 11.03.05 | Konami | 2800 |
12.14.06 | NDS | Mar Heaven: Carudia no Akuma (Konami the Best) original release: 03.30.06 | Konami | 2800 |
12.14.06 | PS2 | Street Fighter III 3rd Strike -Fight for the Future- (Capu-Kore) original release: 07.22.04 | Capcom | 2079 |
12.14.06 | PS2 | Vampire Dark Stalkers Collection (Capu-Kore) original release: 05.19.05 | Capcom | 2079 |
12.21.06 | PS2 | Full House Kiss?@(Capu-Kore) original release: 07.22.04 | Capcom | 2079 |
Wnt 06 | PSP | World Soccer Winning Eleven 10 Ubiquitous Evolution original release: 09.15.05 | Konami | TBA |
TBA | PS2 | Natsuiro no Sunatokei (Princess Soft Collection) original release: 05.30.02 | Princess Soft | TBA |
Turn the page for the Gaming Life in Japan archive.
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! Just click on the appropriate link below to jump back to a previous date, all thanks to the power of mass storage.
09.30.06 #179: The Tokyo Game Show in review.
09.19.06 #178: A pre Tokyo Game Show report and an AM Show photo collection.
09.06.06 #177: Fear over Sony's shipment of 100,000 PS3s at launch. Plus, pics from retail and commercials for Atama Scan, LocoRoco and Xbox 360.
08.18.06: The slow summer season continues as we deliver scans from the DS summer catalogue, details on the CESA white paper and commercials for Cooking Navi and Xbox 360.
08.09.06: A slow summer season means a slow Gaming Life in Japan. Featuring Dirty Old and Bubble Man!
07.24.06: The first half of the year in review, Hyper PlayStation compares PS3 to the Holy Grail, plus the return of print ads.
07.18.06: Sony's LocoRoco promotional campaign, the six months of Xbox 360, and commercials for Bullet Witch and Cooking Navi.
07.10.06: Commentary on the past 20 years of gaming from Japan's biggest developers. Plus, commercials for Chrome Hounds, Battle Stadium D.O.N. and Tekken.
06.23.06: Sonic and the N64 celebrate anniversaries as we take a trip to the World Hobby Fair.
06.16.06: A sneak peak at the games of Summer. Plus, Famitsu's continuing 20th anniversary.
06.09.06: World Cup fever and continuing 20th anniversary Famitsu coverage.
06.02.06: Japan's new rating system, Mario's millions, Famitsu's 20th anniversary, and GE-MAGA's debut.
05.23.06: We take a trip to Akihabara where first PS3 signage goes on display. Plus, CMs for Loco Roco, Super Mario Bros. and Talkman.
05.02.06: E3 predictions, three magazines, and commercials for Cooking Mama and Xbox Cup.
04.21.06: Nintendo's DS brain craze continues as even more games are announced.
04.07.06: The Xbox 360 briefing and commercials for Starfee, Guilty Gear and Magna Carta Portable.
03.31.06: We bid farewell to the Xbox with a two page look at its troubled Japanese life.
03.24.06: PS3 delay, new DS magazines, and lots of commercials.
03.10.06: The second DS Lite pre-launch report, plus a look at Final Fantasy XII-related goods, including the FFXII Potion.
03.01.06: The DS Lite pre-launch report, Famitsu trivia and thirty game releases.
02.10.06: A Zombie lands in Shibuya as we take a look back at the first couple of years of the PSP in Japan.
02.03.06: A look back at how the first year and a half of DS games were reviewed in the Japanese press. Plus, lots and lots of girly game commercials.
01.27.06: Nintendo announces DS Lite as Dirge of Cerberus takes over Shibuya. And a 500 year old he-man/she-ra vampire on the cover of Famitsu?
01.17.06: A look at the year end sales rush, 70 commercials and a weekly Japanese recap, featuring CES, the World Hobby Fair and an Every Party demo event.
12.16.05: Ryu Ga Gotoku versus the real Kabukicho, a few year-end sales trends, a look at the ugliest Japanese magazine around, the aftermath of the Xbox 360 launch, and commercials for Mario Kart and Rogue Galaxy.
12.09.05: A bonus Gaming Life in Japan, open to all readers and focusing on the Xbox 360 launch, with magazine information, retail displays, commercials, pamphlets, print ads and an address by Peter Moore.
11.24.05: This special pre-Thanksgiving GLIJ features three magazines, a brand new Now Playing section, the latest from the Xbox 360 pre-launch and commercials for Ratchet & Clank and Hamutarou.
11.14.05: Sega's Private Show, five game magazines, our Xbox 360 Lounge video, and forty new commercials.
10.28.05: A flood of new games arrive on the same day. Plus, IGN looks at the Akihabara Entertainment Festival, the WPC expo and the latest from the Xbox 360 launch. Brought to you buy the lonely PSP mini bus.
10.21.05: Things that make us go boing, the Freshness Burger Spam Sandwich, week one of Xbox Launch Watch, Famitsu rumors and lots of print ads.
10.14.05: Ginza walking (and a look at Sony's new PlayStation spot download terminals) and CMs for Super Princess Peach, Shadow of the Colossus and more.
10.07.05: Nasty Shibuya girls and calorie-loving Jack Bauer deliver the latest Gaming Life in Japan along with a look at the Nintendo Dream Mario music CD and commercials for Code Age, Mario Tennis and Slime Mori Mori Dragon Quest.
09.13.05: A preview of the Tokyo Game Show (completely with predictions that, for the most part, missed the mark), a trip to Shibuya and commercials for Ryu Ga Gotoku, Advent Children, Game Boy Micro and the white PSP.
08.26.05: Ads for Advent Children, Bleach Advance, Game Boy Micro and more. Plus, Bumpy Trot rules!
08.19.05: Week three of Friday Gaming Life in Japan (TGIGLIJF!) features a look at Jump World and the new Square Enix character goods shop.
08.12.05: For week two of Friday Gaming Life in Japan (TGIGLIJF!), we take a trip to Akihabara, find out what's on the Tsutaya 80% off wall of shame and deliver commercials for Grandia, Jump Superstars and Winning Eleven.
08.05.05: The first ever Friday Gaming Life in Japan (TGIGLIJF!) features comments on Microsoft, Sony and Square Enix's events, retail pics and 60 commercials. Plus, Jack Bauer sells Calorie Mate to little school girls! What a scoop!
07.14.05: Mushi King, four magazines (including Toyo Keizai's look at the next generation), 30 commercials for the likes of Dance Dance Mario, Tamagotchi and Boktai, and a double idol feature with Jin Akanishi and Kazuya Kamenashi.
06.30.05: A look at the World Hobby Fair, over 35 commercials (including Bumpy Trot, Winning Eleven 9 and Star Wars) and a look at Nikkei Electronics, featuring PS2 versus Xbox 360.
06.15.05: Former Sega president Irimajiri spotted on television! Plus, commercials for Grandia II, Drag on Dragoon 2, school girl soccer and more!
06.08.05: Pics from Shibuya, print ads for TearRing Saga, Atelier Iris 2 and Twinkle Star Sprites and Chinatsu Wakatsuki as young idol. Plus, we make fun of the PSP!
06.01.05: Twenty-five commercials including Berwick Saga, Racing Battle and Forza. All brought to you by Nice Stick!
05.15.05: Ikebukuro walking (complete with Foma Man!), a look at Machikaido Wrestling (the official best thing ever!), CMs for Heavy Metal and Hanjuku Heroes, and Yoko Kumada as young idol.
05.05.05: The start of Golden Week features a special message from Bill Gatest, four magazines and commercials/ads for Derby Time and Sengoku Basara.
04.27.05: Nintendogs, four magazines, ads for Bumpy Trot and Rockman as Fire Emblem hits the Cube and NDS takes over.
04.20.05: Square Enix's Heavy Metal rock show, Sayaka Isoyama as young idol, swag for Wild Arms, Tales and Nintendo and commercials for Fire Emblem, Ape Escape P and Romancing Saga. Plus, Jack Bauer uses Calorie Mate!
04.13.05: The ElectroPlankton event, swag for Kirby and Phantom Kingdom and forty pamphlets.
04.06.05: Girls love DS, PSP is available, letters and ads for Grandia III and ElectroPlankton.
03.30.05: Sega's GameJam, Shinjuku Walking, three new magazines and commercials for Bleach, Nintendogs and Tekken.
03.15.05: Ramblings about Homeland, pics from Tsutaya, three new magazines and commercials for Enthusia, Bo-bobo, and Harvest Moon.
03.10.05: As PSP loses its load times and Nintendo customer service rocks, we bring you a look at Miki Ando, plus commercials for Pac Pix, Egg Monster Hero and Enthusia.
02.21.05: AOU in recap, a survey about March, commercials for Another Code, GT4 and more.
02.09.05: Club Nintendo bonus items including two special GameCube controllers. Plus, commercials for Popolocrois, Meteos and Bleach.
01.26.05: A video tour of the World Hobby Fair, all the latest print ads and commercials, plus Japanese gaming swag with the Zelda screen cleaner, the Kirby NDS cleaner, the Super Mario 64 DS cards and a Dead or Alive calendar.
01.19.05: Commercials for ACE, Bakumatsuden, Band Brothers, Egg Monster Hero and Radiata Stories, plus an end of 2004 report from Famitsu.
01.12.05: IGN Japan returns for 2005 with 70 commercials.
12.01.04: The day before the launch of the Nintendo DS, plus commercials and ads for NDS, PSP, Yoshi and more.
11.24.04: Dragon Quest VIII pre-launch, Famitsu PSP VS NDS survey and commercials for Nintendo DS games, PSP, Magnacarta and Gundam.
11.10.04: A video tour of the Touch DS! event, more coverage from the PSP and NDS launches, the Japanese launch of Halo 2, the latest Sega Press and lots of commercials.
11.02.04: Week three of our look at the PSP and NDS launches is a little light as Nintendo gears up for the Nintendo World show. Featuring commercials for the slim PS2 and Pochi to Nya.
10.27.04: Sony blows the lid off the PSP launch as IGN Japan plays F-Zero and Ace Combat, beats of Pikachu and takes a look at the Entama show of suck. Plus, commercials for Naruto 3, Super Robot Wars GC and DS.
10.19.04: IGN begins a weekly look at the PSP and NDS launches, plays Mawaru Made in Wario, Kururin Squash and Virtua Fighter II, and delivers commercials for Sega Superstars, Ace Combat V and Tales of Rebirth. Plus, Classic Young Idol with Megumi Yasu.
10.12.04: The week that Nintendo blows the lid off the NDS, Gaming Life in Japan offers a look at the Viewtiful Joe cartoon, scans from the Square Enix TGS booklet and Makiko Kawajima as new young idol.
10.07.04: Following the Tokyo Game Show, Gaming Life in Japan returns with the Panzer Dragoon news station and 33 commercials for games like Romancing SaGa, Arc the Lad Generations, Before Crisis: FFVII, Shining Tears, F-Zero Climax and Dragon Quest VIII.
09.07.04: Japan continues its news overload, with first details on Shining Force and Radiata Stories and updates on a few DS and PSP games. Plus, a look inside JAMMA and playtests of the latest arcade games. The ads and CM section features Biohazard Outbreak 2, Dororo, Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo Bo, Kenran Butousai, Radiata Stories, Prince of Persia and more.
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!