Kotaku
By: Michael McWhertor
Capcom USA held its Spring Gamers Day in San Francisco yesterday, showing off a number of new titles and, in the Capcom tradition, copious amounts of familiar brands. Mega Man, Street Fighter, Resident Evil, and Phoenix Wright were all there and in mostly playable form. Capcom staffers and producers from Osaka were in attendance, including Devil May Cry producer Hiroyuki Kobayashi and Lost Planet director Keiji Inafune.
While there were virtually no "megaton" announcements to sate the unrealistic expectations of message baord posters in the form of Street Fighter 4, Dead Rising 2 or a new Bionic Commando, there were a few surprises.
Two of the previously unannounced games that were shown (one playable, one not) were... deep breath, Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD Remix and Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix.
Following the massive success of last year's Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting for Xbox Live Arcade, the suits at Capcom's eyes saw the potential for profit. This year, they'll rake in dollars, yen, euros and zenny, with the two HD remakes of their classic arcade fighters, plus two more titles, the board game Talisman and top-down action shooter Rocketmen: Axis of Evil.
Capcom's HD Remixes will both feature new artwork courtesy of Street Fighter comic book art collective Udon Entertainment, 1080p resolution and, of course, network play. New artwork? Yes. While Puzzle Fighter HD will feature only new backgrounds drawn by the artists at Udon and 3D gem effects, Street Fighter HD will ship with new sprites completely redrawn for HD resolutions. Only concepts were shown, but it seems like a massive undertaking and I look forward to first screens.
PLAYSTATION 3 and PC owners won't be shut out, however, as Capcom is going multi-platform with their "digital initiative", bringing most games out for all platforms.
Sadly, though, there was no mention of any of these titles coming to the Wii. The good news for the Nintendo faithful, however, is that a number of great looking games are coming, including the most interesting new title at the show Project Treasure Island Z. (It's a working title, so I'll just refer to it as Treasure Island Z.)
Capcom had a playable build of Treasure Island Z, as well as Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles, and Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition for Nintendo's white waggle box. On the Nintendo DS side, Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney: Trials and Tribulations was officially announced, as were Mega Man ZX Advent and Mega Man Star Force. Mega Man Star Force will take the Mega Man Battle Network series into 3D, as well as taking milking to the next dimension with three separate editions, Leo, Pegasus and Dragon.
On the new IP front, Capcom announced that they've acquired two new licenses, Harvey Birdman: Attorney At Law and MotoGP. The former is well known to Adult Swim viewers and is scheduled to appear on the PSP and PlayStation 2.
As for the MotoGP IP, previously published by THQ and Namco, it has been secured until 2012 and will first appear on the PlayStation 2 this fall. Apparently, MotoGP is one of the biggest sports in the world and might actually be preferred to stuff like the very popular "sliced bread" and "bees knees", but the announcement didn't seem to generate too much buzz with the jaded videogame press.
So what wasn't putting the crowd of pasty gamers into a PowerPoint coma at the event? Read on and you'll be treated to a smattering of half-drunk impressions.
Treasure Island Z (Wii)
Probably the most enjoyable game at the show... that I'm allowed to write about. Producer Hironobu Takeshita not only enthusiastically demonstrated the Wii-remote control scheme for his game, he nailed the group solve element he talked about during his presentation. Treasure Island Z lets players take control of the pirate Zack who, aided by his golden flying monkey Wiki, is tasked with solving puzzles to become the greatest pirate in the world. Forget raping, plundering and pillaging, point and click adventuring is where the pirate action is.
So, about that group solve element. Treasure Island Z is a Skittles-colored, cel-shaded level based game. To root out each level's treasure and progress, you'll need to figure out what tools you need to perform certain tasks. You'll also need to figure out how to use the Wii-remote to get that done. Figuring out how to get things done will lead to plenty of backseat gaming, with group think being a big contributor. It's like a single player party game.
For example, you'll find a crank in the game, with one end bearing a triangular head, the other with a Phillips head. When holding the crank, you'll need to "flip" the remote in your hand to switch ends. You'll also need to perform scooping gestures, turn it like a key, and play it like a flute.
In addition to all this puzzle solving, the game sports a neat mechanic. Swinging the remote back and forth turns your partner Wiki into a bell. What's great about that bell is that when it rings, the game's enemies will transform from living thing into a helpful tool. Centipedes become saws. Snakes become wrenches.
On the down side, there is a ton of trial and error gameplay which can lead to frustration when playing. Regardless of this small issue, it was one of the more refreshing titles of the show.
Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition (Wii)
If you've played Resident Evil 4 for the Gamecube or PlayStation 2, you won't notice much different here. The game plays just like its counterparts, but now uses nunchuk and Wii remote control. Leon's laser sight is gone, replaced with a constant Wii remote reticle. The game's producer Masachika Kawata spoke on Resident Evil 4 WE's "search knife system" indicating that using it may make the game "too easy" but when using the Wii-remote to flick my knife at the game's zombie-like villagers, I didn't agree.
While Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition will obviously get a chance to shine at retail again, players who have run through the game once or twice may have a hard time justifying a second (or third) purchase based solely on the game's new control scheme.
Resident Evil Umbrella Chronicles (Wii)
When Kawata showed the first person shooter Resident Evil Umbrella Chronicles on Broadway Studios' massive screen, the feeling of panic from Sega's The House of the Dead was fondly remembered. This mostly on-rails shooter with story elements doesn't quite play as well as Sega's arcade lightgun game at this point, however, and will probably leave a bitter Resident Evil Gun Survivor taste in many gamers mouths.
The game is still very early—only at about 30% according to Kawata—but the energy just wasn't there. The producer's attempts to focus on the "point, shoot, aim" gameplay, resulting in what he described as a "more direct style of horror than you can get in third person" haven't quite gelled yet. I found the shooting overly repetitive and dull, but found a few interesting moments of gameplay. For instance, taking on the giant snake from Resident Evil 1, players have an opportunity to get to higher ground during limited time windows, adding quick shooting and strategy to the constant gunfire.
Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD Remix (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)
I played a couple rounds with one of the Capcom staffers on hand who had worked with Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo on the Capcom Puzzle World collection. He went easy on me for the first game, letting me win, but showed his true skills (hampered with a malfunctioning Xbox 360 d-pad) for the next match and kicked my ass. Brandon "The Enemy" Sheffield from Insert Credit then mopped up the floor with me one round later.
The Xbox 360 version showed off the new backgrounds and graphical effects, but as I mentioned earlier, the upscaled sprites were from the original arcade release, making for a slightly blurry presentation. The game plays just like the arcade version, but features some balancing tweaks for a more level playing field.
Unfortunately, I had limited time with the games on the floor, meaning Rocketmen: Axis of Evil (a 3D shooter with inevitable comparisons to Robotron in its future), Lost Planet (like the Xbox 360 version but slightly prettier) and Monster Hunter 2 Freedom (it's like work!) would have to wait. I did, however, spend time with another Capcom title, one that you'll have to wait until May 1 to read about. Don't get too excited, though, as this PS3, Xbox 360 and PC game has already been announced.
We'll have tons of new screens and videos for you in just a flash.
Comments
puzzle fighter in HD and on live is always welcome news :D
"for Nintendo's white waggle box."
..I'm sensing... you're not quite a fan of the Wii.
Call it a hunch. ;)
So you liked DMC4 then?
@Mansteak: Sense again!
@Kuraudo: Devil May Whatzat?
BIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIRD-MAN!
I just watched the RE4: Wii Edition trailer and I wonder if the girl in the trailer is Brooke Elizabeth Mathieson, the face model for Ashley in the game.
Remake of Super Street Fighter II Turbo with redrawn sprites done by Udon?
Hells yes.
Dude, this sucks, Harvey Birdman is perfect for the DS. Harvey Birdman vs. Phoenix Wright. But why stop there, why not bring all the famous video game lawyers there are and make a fighting game. I know I'd buy it.
OBJECTION!!!
BIIIIIIIIRRRRRDDDDDDD-MAAAAAAAANNNN!!!!
I saw a trailer for umbrella chronicles and I kinda liked it.
I thought I just read that ign liked it more then you did also .
Anyway I like it and Will buy it even if its to show that games like that with great graphics and good gameplay do sell on the wii.
For the MotoGP IP, will that effect THQ's releases? I always wondered how the licensing worked with THQ and Namco's games being completely seperate games just under the MotoGP license.
I hope the THQ games aren't affected by this as their MotoGP games are my all time fave racing games, hell I bought my 360 purely for MotoGP 2006...
Ugh.. Capcom's going all out with it's Street Fighter HD game and that makes me queasy about how much they think the fans will pay for such a gem.
I'm expecting this to cost between 10 and 20 dollars easily, maybe even more.
DMC4 or Resident Evil 5. McWhertor should e-mail someone and start a rumour!
"Harvey Birdman: Attorney At Law"
Niiiiiice.
I'm sad there isn't more mention/details on Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law.
I'm sad it won't be on the DS, but being on a disc format, that means more chance for audio/animated clips.
@Scuba Steve: If the gfx are completely redone by Udon I don't mind paying a premium price, it's the online lagfest included in the SF II port that worries me.
Harvey Birdman? Oh, they just gotta sneak in a Phoenix cameo for that.
@StupidDufus: Its a cartoon, doofus, they can easily make animation clips on the DS as they did with Phoenix Wright. There is no reason that the PSP and PS2 should get this title and the DS should not. Plus the market the PSP enjoys isnt really one that will pick up this title. The DS fanbase already has shown it enjoys well made unique games with cartoon lawyers at the helm.
Myron's shrink ray is begging for some Wii-mote action.
@majortom1981: My impressions are just mine. There were many people in attendance who liked it, so I think I was in the minority.
So I'm the only one that thinks those pictures of Super Puzzle Fighter II HD look bad? I mean, they look like something out of MAME, with 2XSAI filtering. :(
I hope the final product is not that bad looking.
Mmm...more Phoenix Wright. My pointer finger is itching to point out whenever I hear a contradiction!
WAIT!! HOLD THE PHONE!!
Capcom is making an presumably online version of Talisman?
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG.
Oh. My. Gosh. How cute is Treasure Island Z!
Yup, I'll be keeping an eye on that one. Mhmm.
@McWhertor:
So by knowing you are under embargo for something, Can you give us an idea if it's something big? (Street Fighter 4 level big?) Or something in HD big? (which might be big to some people but not that big).
I'm really hoping you got some crazy-ass play through of something! (Even DMC4 would suffice).
What number is the new Phoenix Wright in terms of Gyakuten Saiban?
@djricekcn: 3
@djricekcn:
This one is Gyakuten Saiban 3.
What fun. Really looking forward to most of these.
Sooo... what platform is this "prettier" version of Lost Planet for? PC or PS3?
@Karmakin:
Would this be the Games Workshop Talisman?
Please please please.
"I want to be the Prophetess, screw the rest of you."
Fond memories fromn youth.
(Incidentally a quick www search reveals that Talisman the boardgame is due to be reissued in October 2007)
so, americans get 3 on ds first than jp version >.<; i wanted jp one with english =-P oh well, just play with 4 while I wait.
and thanks for the quick responce guys =D
It is!
I think I may have just wet myself a little.
From IGN
"This winter, Capcom will bring the Games Workshop board game Talisman to the PlayStation Network, Xbox Live and PC platforms. Originally created in 1983 by the highly-successful table game company, Talisman (which is currently out of print) was a combination card and board game that had loose ties to the company's Warhammer Fantasy universe.
The videogame version of Talisman sounds like it will be a close digital representation of the classic game, utilizing a virtual board with 3D characters and environments. Up to four players can play online and off and take advantage of the game's 25 characters from the franchise. Voice chat options will allow players to talk while the game progresses, and downloadable game expansions, including character updates, adventure card updates, alternate endings and more, are expected to give legs to the title over time.
WHAT!? No Monster Hunter 3 information? :( What a waste of a Capcom day.
I have to say.. I squealed like a little girl when I saw the third Ace Attorney game was confirmed. :D now, Capcom, bring the fourth over and I'll give you my first born child when I have it.
I don't think my fiance will mind. :D
"Remake of Super Street Fighter II Turbo with redrawn sprites done by Udon?"
Hells yes.
doubt it would happen but would be nice to hope? and if so, would be some nice eye candy however, it doesn't equate to sf IV if it were EVER to be out rather than re-hashed, re-vamped street fighter "ultimate pretty version"
That puzzle fighter pic looks like it is the wrong aspect ratio. They always do this. Sigh.
Damn, Capcom is only showing fine stuff. They certainly are still one of the best developers out there. :)
Gyakuten Saiban 3!
This was THE announcement I was waiting for, and it was expected there, and you wait till now to tell me? Both you and Court Records have failed me X.x
Really? No one else excited about Treasure Island Z? I went to IGN and watched a video of it. I'm guessing it's the game's opening. It looks like it could be really fun and funny.
Ah yes, that looks great too. I'll have to go see that video.
But still. I've been waiting for the announcement for GS3 for months now..
Remake of Super Street Fighter 2 turbo is freakin awesome sounding. Can't wait for that.
@MacHarper: Yeah, Talisman was possibly the best board game ever, but when I say that I'm referring to 2nd edition (with all the expansions). I also played 3rd edition and 2nd was HUGELY better... of course maybe by now they are on a later version anyway...
I dunno, I guess it could be fun but I'm not quite convinced at the 'board game on computer' idea, we'll see though.
Harvey bridman PSP isnt up there.
@quen:
Re: 2nd edition.
I think that was the version we played. 1st edition had black and white cards if I'm not mistaken. 2nd edition and expansions introduced the multiple endings and extra characters.
Such fond memories.
They'll never be recaptured, but perhaps the online game may at least try :)
@cherrybomb:
I'm guessing that explains why UDON hasn't been working on artwork for Sabertooth Games' UFS, or why they haven't released the second arc of the Street Fighter 2 comic anyways.
i hope ssft HD background effects would have the same with guilty gear or samurai showdown (aka ZOOMING Stages or stretching bg) or much better for bigger fighting area for player in stages to avoid projectile problems, more realistic arena, cannot be easily cornered area, more evasion plus convinience. if not it will be just like other sf remakes same old game but different graphics Thanks to UDON. please capcom just remake stages effect and animation. but still please keep the mechanics and combo patterns ala ssf2 turbo. thank you for the new graphic finally. that you udon for helping capcom to make new and better graphics unlike other past releases except sf revival.
more power to you udon artist and staff and to capcom
T a l i s m a n -- yes!
SSFTHDR -- mouthful, but yes! As for the lag, it all depends on the connection, as I've had wonderfully smooth and horribly slow games lately.
Hot_Black says:
I just watched the RE4: Wii Edition trailer and I wonder if the girl in the trailer is Brooke Elizabeth Mathieson, the face model for Ashley in the game.
I say : Really? i never watch that trailer. which trailer & where to download?
I only watch re 4 wii gameplay trailer from gamespot and it seem no difference than Gamecube version
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