After dropping that bombshell about LucasArts last week, the Nintendo Shop Update stumbles and loses momentum today. The Revenge of Shinobi on the Virtual Console is okay, but it’s certainly not one of the gems Nintendo could have chosen from the LucasArts library. WiiWare gets a couple of ho-hum titles, and the powers of Brain Age and Sudoku combine to form… another Brain Age DSi game that involves Sudoku. That’s really original, guys. At least Gameloft is trying something different on the DSi with a rhythm game that lets players emulate playing a guitar or drums. Who knows, it might even be worth five bucks. Then again, I certainly wouldn’t pay any amount of money to have to listen to “Girlfriend”, one of the promised tracks. I have to say that I probably won’t be making a Nintendo Shop purchase this week, how about you?



The Revenge of Shinobi

Original platform: SEGA Genesis

Players: 1
 

Price: 800 Wii Points

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.



PictureBook Games: Pop-Up Pursuit

Players: 1-4
Price: 800 Wii Points

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

Players: 1-2

Price: 500 Wii Points

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?



Brain Age Express: Sudoku

Players: 1

Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points

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

Players: 1-4
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points


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!