Hollywood packs its share of excitement, but video games can deliver just as many mind-blowing thrills as the biggest summer blockbuster. For proof, look no further than this week s powerhouse additions to the Wii console Shop Channel. With a mesmerizing new WiiWare title and two action-packed classics for the Virtual Console, you ll find captivating visuals, memorable characters and richly interactive tales that impress on screens of all sizes. With or without popcorn, the fun is yours to savour.
Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii console Shop Channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week s new games are:
Helix
Helix is one of the most innovative music-rhythm games ever designed for the Wii console. Use the Wii Remote controller to do dozens of exciting moves, including punches, circles, back fists, hooks and more. Be mesmerized by the eye-popping background visuals, which pulse to the beat of the music. Enjoy incredible replay value with 26 songs to play and three difficulty levels. Try to unlock all of the songs. This game is great for getting exercise plus having fun. No buttons are required, so it s easy for anyone to pick up but difficult for even the best players to master.
Ys Book I & II
Ys Book I & II chronicles the first adventures of Adol Christin, a young, red-haired swordsman on a quest to unlock the secrets of an ancient kingdom. As Adol, you search the island of Esteria, gathering clues to unravel the mystery of Ys. Fight monsters that lurk in caves and towers with physical or magical attacks, and use your brain to make your way through dangerous areas filled with traps. In Ys Book I & II, the first titles in the Ys series were put together as a single TurboGrafx CD-ROM. They awed players with their gripping story lines accompanied by fully orchestrated soundtracks, wonderful voice acting and amazing special effects. Don t miss out on your chance to experience this wonderful piece of gaming history.
Samurai Showdown 2
First released in 1994, this fighting game follows 15 samurai in their individual quests. The rage system, which was popular in the first game, has been further enhanced. Not only does attack power rise when the gauge is full, but the player can also use a special technique that can break the opponent s weapon and force the opponent to fight unarmed. The game also allows for more movement techniques such as back-stepping, rushing forward and ducking, allowing for even more strategies.