Nintendownloads - 8/17/09

It looks like the Star War celebration that began last week is being stretched out for the long haul. Instead of the expected Hoth stomping goodness, we're getting the copyright infringing classic The Revenge of Shinobi for the virtual console. With bosses like Batman, Spider-man, the Hulk, Terminator, and Godzilla at your side-scrolling ninja mercy, I'm surprised that it was able to release. But it's a nice surprise.

On WiiWare things go family friendly with the virtual board game PictureBook Games: Pop-Up Pursuit and the racing game Family Slot Car Racing. Then on DSiWare two new downloads are available in the form of Brain Age Express: Sudoku and Gameloft's Guitar Rock Tour.

WiiWare

PictureBook Games™: Pop-Up Pursuit
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points™
Description: Enter the world of PictureBook Games: Pop-Up Pursuit and enjoy a family board game set in a pop-up picture book. Instead of simply rolling dice to move along the map, you'll use cards (which can help or hinder progress) and coins (useful for buying more cards, but don't forget about your Coin Bonus at the end of the game). Spaces on the map play an important role in the game's outcome, and your computer-controlled opponents exhibit different personalities and behavior. Occasionally, the mysterious Book of Magick will be opened, causing an event that may change according to how you play. This mixture of exciting game play and charming, artistic atmosphere give Pop-Up Pursuit high replay value and unique depth--even if its characters are flat.

Family Slot Car Racing
Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Daddy, Mommy, Sarah and Billy are putting the pedal to the metal in Family Slot Car Racing. Race through three racing circuits, each composed of multiple racetracks and even bonus tracks. You can race against a friend for some friendly one-on-one racing action. Choose among multiple slot cars with varying designs to see which car has the best grip and speed. As you progress, you'll unlock new courses and even new slot cars to help you reach the top of the racing circuit. Do you have it in you to be the fastest racer on four wheels?

Virtual Console™

The Revenge of Shinobi™
Original platform: SEGA Genesis
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Fantasy Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: This classic SEGA Genesis platformer features Musashi, a ninja out to defeat the evil Neo Zeed and his criminal empire. In this sequel to the arcade favorite Shinobi, traverse through various districts - from the bamboo forests of Japan to the streets of New York City - and fight incoming enemies by throwing Shurikens, performing special ninjutsu moves and slashing a katana sword. Battle against unique bosses at the last stage of each district and make your way to the final match with your nemesis, Neo Zeed.

Nintendo DSiWare

Brain Age Express: Sudoku
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Sudoku takes center stage in this edition of the popular Brain Age series. Solve a variety of puzzles at three different skill levels using the touch screen and an intuitive interface. Track your progress by completing three tests and finding out your Brain Age. The unique charm of the Brain Age series and the challenge of sudoku make for an enjoyable combination. Prepare for another round of training your brain in minutes a day.

Guitar Rock Tour®
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: If you like rock music and have a sense of rhythm, your road to stardom starts here. Guitarist or drummer - choose your path and fire up the most famous concert stages with your band. For beginners or music experts, the engaging game play provides hours of fun. Tap the touch screen or press buttons to the beat of your favorite songs. Keep your cool in front of a hyped-up crowd and don't miss a note. Warm up your fingers and prepare your ears for the explosive track list of Guitar Rock Tour, mixing recent hits like "Girlfriend," "In the Shadow" and "Banquet" with rock classics like "Beat It," "Rock You Like a Hurricane" and more. Use the Nintendo DSi Camera™ to take a photo of yourself or your friends, then display it onstage and receive goodies at your effigy. A new rock idol is born!