Kotaku: the idolm@ster

THE iDOLM@STER... Credit Card?

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:00:00 MDT

For those of you who might've wondered just how popular Namco Bandai's idol simulation title THE iDOLM@STER, there's this: THE iDOLM@STER Visa card. Originally an arcade game, iDOLM@STER follows a music producer who oversees up-and-coming popstars. The franchise has since spread to the Xbox 360 and the PSP. There are an anime series and toys, too. What better way to buy an iM@S Haruka Amami than with this Visa card. Buying other stuff, maybe not so great. Slightly embarrassing, even.

ついに、アイドルマスターのVISAカードが今冬登場！ [はちま起稿]

iDOLM@STER Gets Long Overdue Adult Version

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 05:00:00 MDT

We're not surprised that there's a dirty movie version of Namco Bandai's pop idol sim THE iDOLM@STER, we're just surprised it's taken so damn long. Originally based on an arcade game, the Xbox 360 exclusive title lets players manage candy coated pop princess. It's been a hit with otaku. This naughty "parody" film stars Mika Nurie, Nonoka and Rui Saotome, who blogs:

Today, we filmed the adult version of an idol training game.
For an entire week, we did dance training.
I was worried that I wouldn't remember all the dance moves, but I was able to get through the routine...
I can't say the name of the game, but maybe there are lots of people who know what it is.

Glad to know she was able to remember the dance moves. That's important.

TMAがアイ○ス？ [BSOのほめぺげな Blog]

New iDOLM@STER DLC Makes Us Uncomfortable

Brian Ashcraft — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 04:00:00 MDT

If it wasn't enough that the ages of virtual idols for Namco Bandai popstar title THE iDOLM@STER: Live 4 U already were in the low teens, the new DLC for the Xbox 360 offers a pre-school type "Child Smock" and matching "Child Hat", sandbox pale and shovel, and a band-aid to boot. Available in separate packs, all the kiddy contents totals 1800 Microsoft Points. That's right, DLC to make the teenage singers look younger.

バンダイナムコ、可愛い園児に変身!? [Game Watch Impress]

iDOLM@STER For PSP Announced

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 03:00:00 MDT

Until now, nerds who wanted to play Namco's pop idol sim THE iDOLM@STER had two choices: Play the arcade versions or play the Xbox 360 versions. But not every owns an Xbox 360 in Japan. (Shocking, we know.) Good news! There's a new option as Namco Bandai is releasing the game on the PSP. Dubbed THE iDOLM@STER SP, this one player game almost looks like a port of the arcade version with PSP-tweaked graphics. There is a new "mail check" system where players have to check the idol's email from magazine writers, stylists and fans. Since Namco Bandai won't be able to make a killing on DLC like it has with the Xbox 360, the company is releasing three versions of the game with three characters spliced into each one. Maximum profits! The three versions (with characters) are:

THE iDOLM@STER Perfect Sun
• Haruka Amami
• Yayoi Takatsuki
• Makoto Kikuchi

THE iDOLM@STER Wondering Star
• Yukiho Hagiwara
• Iori Minase
• Ami and Mami Futami

THE iDOLM@STER Missing Moon
• Chihaya Kisaragi
• Azusa Miura
• Ritsuko Akizuki

Though, people who buy at launch this winter are mostly likely going to buy all three. But, if you are going to buy only one version, buy the Wondering Star one, 'cause you'll get four characters. That's added value, people.

Thanks for the tip, Muu!

Pop Idols Sim Mated With The Matrix

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 04:00:00 MDT

Total. Nerd. Meltdown. Here's Bandai Namco's idol singer sim THE iDOLM@STER mixed with The Matrix Reloaded for this viral-type iDOLM@STER promo. What's this imagery mash-up called? Yep, THE iM@TRIX.

THE iDOLM@STER Singing Its Way onto Windows Live

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 22:00:30 MDT

Microsoft isn't sorta behind Xbox 360 exclusive THE iDOLM@STER: Live For You! Microsoft is totally behind it. So much so that the company is using the virtual pop star sim idols for MS messenger. Windows Live now has an official iDOLM@STER theme pack, complete with cutesy icons. A second theme pack has been announced! Word has it that apparently Microsoft will even be releasing "voice packs" for Windows Live using the game's voice talent. Not sure if this will help, but okay!
THE iDOLM@STER [Windows Live Thanks, Muu!]

Sing Along to New iDOLM@STER: L4U Trailer

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 22:00:00 MST

Excited about THE iDOLM@STER: Live for You's impending release later this month? We certainly are! Here's the latest trailer and color pallet. The newest song even features man-chanting. Yes, MAN-CHANTING. There are two words for this, and they are "bone chilling."

[Thanks, Muu!]

Red Ring of Death, Naughty Faceplate

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 23:00:58 MST

Red Ring of Death sucks. Those who've seen the mark know the feeling of having to send their console back in hopes of getting it fixed — or better yet, a new one. But some people don't want a new one. Perhaps they are attached to their console and have fond memories of it. They want their machine fixed. One Japanese Xbox 360 owner (and iDOLM@STER fan) sent his off to repairs and made this short clip when it got back. He writes:

My bride came back.！ My Xbox 360 is back from Repairs and I couldn't be any happier. I was so happy... I decided to make a very simple very short video showing my wonderful Xbox and how it is after getting back from the repair

And how does he know its his? The serial number and, well, his topless teen faceplate. Yep.

Oh, sorry about the clip size. You're going to have to squint. But, really, perhaps that's for the best. Thanks, Muu for the tip!
sm2127319 [NicoNico]

Japan Downloads iDOLM@STER Content Big Time

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 23:00:59 MST

Wallets open! At a recent Namco press conference, it was announced that music idol managing sim THE iDOLM@STER has sold over 100,000 copies since going on sale last January in Japan. That's not so impressive (it is an Xbox 360 game, though). Here is what's impressive: It's number 3 in the world for downloadable content, selling US $3 million worth. That means the DLC per copy rate is VERY HIGH. What's more, this is only Japan. Free downloadable demos also clock in at 1.2 downloads. The entire iDOLM@STER market size for arcades, merchandise (CDs, etc) and whatnot is supposedly around US $56 million dollars. What's THE iDOLM@STER? It's nerd heroin.
Press Conference [IT Media Thanks, muu!]

IDOLM@STER To Emasculate Ace Combat 6 Jets

Michael McWhertor — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:20:16 MST

If you feel like your Ace Combat 6 fighter jet is giving off a bit too much of a testosterone vibe, why not take the masculinity down a few notches by adding a 16 year old anime girl to it? These soon to be released The IDOLM@STER decals for the F-117A Night Hawk feature all-singing, all-dancing fake idol Yukiho Hagiwara. Apparently, she's afraid of chihuahuas. If that doesn't lop the balls off your stealth fighter, I don't know what will. Maybe a heatseeking Louis Vuitton purse.

The IDOLM@STER skin is just one of six that will be available to Japanese gamers as downloadable content on December 20th.

THE iDOLM@STER Ace Combat 6 Plane

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 03:00:12 MST

November 22nd brings a new bundle of downloadable Ace Combat 6 hits Xbox LIVE. So? Well, that bundle includes a Su-33 Flanker THE iDOLM@STER Miki. Yes, that means you can dogfight in an iDOLM@STER plane. Right there, that's Bandai Namco making nerd dreams come true!
Ace Combat 6 Planes [JAMZY, Thanks setuzoku!]

Japan To Get The IDOLM@STER: Legendary Edition

Michael McWhertor — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 16:40:57 MST

Cat helmets? Who needs 'em? Not the Japanese. They're fare more interested in "playing" a largely hands-free sequel to The IDOLM@STER on the Xbox 360. They're also sure to line up for the ultra limited edition release of the Xbox 360 exclusive, known as The IDOLM@STER: Live For You! which will come with a special doll of virtual pop star Miki Hoshii. Only 3,000 units of the game's high-end edition will be shipped and at a premium price of 26,040 yen. That's about $230 US. Yes, that's expensive. No, that doesn't include a console.

The premium package does come with an anime-stuffed DVD and a pre-paid exclusive card. Fortunately, the doll also comes with detachable cat ears, which seem perfect for placing on the head of one of your tinier, less fortunate pets. Full-sized pics of the Miki doll, ideally suited for men who like dolls, at Game Watch.

The IDOLM@STER: Live For You! [Impress Game Watch]

Does Microsoft's One, Two, Three Punch Matter?

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:00:24 MDT

The last two days in Japan: a cheaper Xbox 360 goes on sale, a discounted THE iDOLM@STER goes on sale, and today, Ace Combat 6 goes on sale. For a console that didn't appeal to Japanese gamers, there seems to be a lot appealing about it of late: THE iDOLM@STER has a rabid hardcore fan base, while AC6 has an across-the-board built-in audience. Releasing them bang bang, right after each other, is aggressive on Microsoft's part. Do we think that these titles will hurt the PlayStation 3 in Japan? No. The PlayStation brand is way too strong. But do we think these titles will help sales? Definitely. Who knows—maybe this week, Microsoft might move five thousand Xbox 360s—six thousand maybe! The sky's the limit. Well, not really, but still.

Ace Combat 6 [AkibaOS]

THE iDOLM@STER Clumps to Beautiful Katamari

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 22:00:27 MDT

I went through a phrase, a phase in which I was doing posts on popstar sim THE iDOLM@STER — sometimes every day. I've slowed down and only to only once or twice a month. And with that, I bring you this month's iDOLM@STER post...

Katamari is known for its catchy tunes. Beautiful Katamari should be no exception! The Bandai Namco's current Xbox 360 exclusive features a sugary sweet song from another Bandai Namco Xbox 360 exclusive, THE iDOLM@STER. Above, that's it in-game in the Japanese version. No reason to doubt its in the English-language one. Can anyone confirm this?

Hit the jump for the song and idols clumping together.

Thanks, Miki!

The Flying Xbox 360 Japanese Anime

Brian Ashcraft — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 02:00:11 MDT

Flying Xbox 360 and Namco's THE iDOLM@STER! The above clip is a fan reworking of anime Kiteretsu Encyclopedia's opening. The anime was based on a Fujiko F. Fujio manga. (Fujio also created Doraemon, hence the similarities in character appearance.) Kiteretsu Encyclopedia followed a young science whiz named Kiteretsu, who built a robot buddy and travels in time. Hit the jump for the show's original opening, which is also pretty awesome — even without the flying Xbox 360.

The iDOLM@STER Gets Cheap in Japan

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 06:40:36 MDT

For those living in Japan and for those who own an Xbox 360, good news! Microsoft sent word that Bandai Namco's popstar sim THE iDOLM@STER is now available as part of the 360's budget "Platinum Collection" for a mere ¥2,940 (US $25) starting November 1st. That's nothing! The game is certified nerd heroin, boasting a million iDOLM@STER items downloaded via Xbox LIVE marketplace. That's a not a lot, it's a shit ton. Surely, enough for an English localization?

Is This Nerdom's iDOLM@STER Killer?

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 04:00:54 MDT

Pure nerd heroin. Don't think of PC game TimeLeap as a rip-off of Namco's pop idol sim THE iDOLM@STER. No, think of the erotic PC game as an expansion. For those who missed it, Namco's THE iDOLM@STER was by no means an erotic game (though, it did have some saucy dialogue and spicy costumes). A Japanese cult hit of sorts, the game did a decent showing on the Xbox 360 in Japan. TimeLeap hopes to capitalize on that. Besides the standard adult scenes of you-know-what, TimeLeap also features characters rendered in 3D much like THE iDOLM@STER. The pop music is pure saccharine, too. Hit the jump for look at TimeLeap.

She kicks you IN THE FACE. Not just maids, but dancing and singing maids. In case you don't have this iDOLM@STER song burned into your brain. Yes, you're welcome. :)

TimeLeap [Danny Choo]

THE iDOLM@STER Makes Haruhi Dance All Creepy

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 04:00:56 MDT

In what can only be described as total nerd meltdown, here's a fan-made THE iDOLM@STER-meets-The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya clip. Remember when I could never be sick of this dance? I lied. This freakazoid clip has decimated any desire to see that dance ever again.

THE iDOLM@STER-Inspired Sex Toys

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 04:00:03 MDT

Preface: Not sure if these are real, but apparently these sex toys feature images inspired by characters in Xbox 360 game THE iDOLM@STER. The one on the left features a Yayoi Takatsuki knock-off, while the right one is either Ami or Mami Futami. Dunno, cause they're twins! If you are interested in what the box says, hit the jump. The ick factor is SUPER high, so no asking what kind of sex toys these are. And apologies, mom! Brian Ashcraft

The Takatsuki box says "The soft hole of a young, pulsating girl." There's a heart after that. The other box says "Freshly-picked. Beautiful, young idol." Feel that ick? Must go wash.

Takatsuki
Futami [Ore Teki Game]

Teen Idols, Plus Mechas

Brian Ashcraft — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 07:00:54 MDT

TV anime Idolm@ster: XENOGLOSSIA is not just a retread of THE IDOLM@STER. Oh, no, no. It's THE IDOLM@STER with giant robots. These young idols are actually pilots that control large mechas called "iDOLS" — Making them "Idolmasters." (Clever, eh?) Based on Bandai Namco's Xbox 360 game, the anime kicked off in Japan earlier this month! Robots plus teenage idols? Talk about knowing your audience. Bandai Namco so needs to make a game of *this*.

Anyhoo, hit the jump for a look at the cartoon. Brian Ashcraft

Idolm@ster Anime With Robots [Akiba Blog]

Clip: See, Hear, Shudder! THE IDOLM@STER Live

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 05:00:39 MDT

Curiosity killed the cat. Earlier we did a post on THE IDOLM@STER live concert. And I wondered: What would THE IDOLM@STER be like live? This is what would be like. Minus the heavy stench of oily sweat. Brian Ashcraft

THE IDOLM@STER LIVE!

Brian Ashcraft — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 05:00:42 MDT

An otaku horde descended on concert hall ZEPP TOKYO to hear live versions of the THE IDOLM@STER tunes. There was a stage show with game clips and fancy costumes, while nerd tunes like "Go My Way" got the requisite airing. Two words come to mind when taking a look at the above pic: Sausage party. Brian Ashcraft

Idol Concert [Famitsu]

THE IDOLM@STER Hand Drill, Fake Pantsu Hit XBL

Brian Ashcraft — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 04:00:52 MDT

Not underwear, but close! New THE IDOLM@STER items have hit Xbox Live. Exciting items like a hand drill (above) and skimpy "Exercise Wear" (after the jump). Info about the hand drill: It's part of the "excavation series" (m'kay) and will "visual image UP" your idol (riiight). There are also a driller helmet, driller boots and driller shoes. Gotta coordinate! Hit the jump for the pantsu-like exercise outfit. Brian Ashcraft

New Marketplace Items [THE IDOLM@STER]

Hear Ashcraft's Mindless Chatter At Kojima Productions

Brian Ashcraft — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 03:00:46 MDT

The Kojima Productions podcast I appeared on with Ryan Payton has gone live. It's part one of two, so you can hear me drone on and on and on this week and next week! We talk about Osaka, blogging and, of course, THE IDOLM@STER. Brian Ashcraft

Listen Here [Ryan's i-Revo Blog]

Rumor: Japan's XBL Sign-Up Rate? Highest In The World

Brian Ashcraft — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 00:00:28 MST

Japan-based Kotakuite pokemogu sent along along article from Yukan Fuji about how Xbox Live's doing in The Land of the Rising Sun. And how is it doing? Much, much better. Japan's Xbox Live sign-up rate is now highest in the world, thanks to THE IDOLM@STER. Hit the jump to read the article, kindly translated by pokemogu. Brian Ashcraft

THE IDOLM@STER saves the Xbox 360 in Japan? According to several sources, Japan now has the best ratio of Xbox Live sign-ups to the number of units sold.
A person connected to Microsoft explains the reason. "For now, the sales of Xbox Live in Japan are dominated by Bandai Namco's THE IDOLM@STER. It's amazing."

According to that individual, the sales of Microsoft Points in Japan have increased by 230% from last year-end sales. Especially on 25th January, when THE IDOLM@STER was released, Microsoft sold 4 times as many Microsoft Points as they sold on 24th January.

Also, one month after the release, the popularity of THE IDOLM@STER in Japan has yet to decline. Likewise, items which cost 1000 Microsoft Points are selling well. (1,000 Microsoft Points cost ¥ 1,500 or US $13.)

The insider says "Our fans know that playing card games online like UNO is a lot of fun, but we think those people haven't experienced enough. Using THE IDOLM@STER, we would like to start showing how Xbox Live is fun."

Xbox Live In Japan [Yukan-Fuji, Thanks pokemogu!]

THE IDOLM@STER Vs. Gundam Musou

Brian Ashcraft — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 21:00:13 MST

It's a total otaku meltdown! Looped clips of THE IDOLM@STER and Gundam Musou duke it out at the Yurakucho Bic Camera in Tokyo. And ironically, both on Sony TVs! Brian Ashcraft

IDOLM@STER Micro-Transactions For Every Fetish

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 04:00:54 MST

How do you squeeze yen from otaku pockets? Ask Namco! The game maker has laced cult, build-your-own-popstars hit THE IDOLM@STER with a string of odd micro-transactions on Xbox Live Marketplace. Like what?

Kimono (Fairly normal): 500 Microsoft Points
Horse Head Cover (Uh...): 200 MS Points
Horse Tail (A wha?): 200 MS Points
Horse Shoes (Ah, riight, to match the tail ): 200 MS Points
"Chocolate Head" (V-Day chocolate hat): 250 MS Points
Idol's Email Address (For in-game communication): 100 MS Points

Eds Note: Xbox Live 1000 Microsoft Point card = 1480 yen (US $12.20)

Other games, have been worse, but all these Marketplace items total 4, 850 points. And I'm sure people who are in the market for Horse Tails are also gonna pick up Chocolate Head. So, what do you think is the highest priced item in THE IDOLM@STER Marketplace? And no, we haven't mentioned it yet. Hint: Answer's fairly obvious. Brian Ashcraft

The Answer Is The Item At The Top [IDOLM@STER]

Clip: Learn THE IDOLM@STER Dance

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 07 Feb 2007 06:00:07 MST

Previously, we've featured a wrestling version of the game's song "GO MY WAY" as well as an acoustic one. And for the hat trick, here's a video of Yumeria characters teaching the THE IDOLM@STER dance moves. As you watch this, just know: There are grown men practicing as we speak. Don't believe me? Hit the jump. Brian Ashcraft

And in a Gundam helmet no less!

THE IDOLM@STER FOR THE PS3?

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 06:40:10 MST

Nope! And so THE IDOLM@STER officially captures the hearts of otaku-dom. Found in Osaka's Den-Den Town, here's a PLAYSTATION 3 console running a demo for THE IDOLM@STER. Fear not Sony, this isn't a battle of the capitalized letters. Upcoming PS3 title Gundam Musou should win back any recent Xbox 360 converts. Hopefully... Brian Ashcraft

PS3 IDOLM@STER [Ota Road]

Clip: The OS M@STER

Brian Ashcraft — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 03:00:36 MST

Yup, it's THE IDOLM@STER mashed with Windows. From an English description on the clip's YouTube page:

TOSIAKI(Hero) He is their master. me(green) Personification of Windowsme.She is blundering and freezing at once. 2k(blue and glasses) Personification of Windows2000.She is a honor student.She have no affability,but she loves TOSIAKI. XP(black and long hair) Personification of WindowsXP.She is excellent and a little meddlesome. She loves TOSIAKI. 95(Kimono and Japanese sword) Personification of Windows95. Eldest daughter of OS family. A violent fight with the Apple was unfolded. Because she has already retired from the active service, it is ignorant of recent information.

And there you have it: A singing OS-tan blowout! Brian Ashcraft

Clips: The Idolm@ster Reimagined As Wrestlers

Brian Ashcraft — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 08:22:19 MST

Since The Idolm@ster and WWE 2007 SmackDown vs. Raw both share release dates and both appear on the Xbox 360, the internet brings us this. It was whipped up using the "creation mode" in Exciting Pro Wrestling. The song they are singing is of course "GO MY WAY." Of course. After the j-u-m-p, check the The Idolm@ster (or "Imas" as the kiddies here call it) version for comparison and the Mario Paint one for shits and giggles. Brian Ashcraft