Some Much Needed Support

For those of you bitching and moaning about the lack of third-party support on the Wii (myself included), I'd like to showcase two upcoming titles that actually look like someone, somewhere spent time on them. And they're both ports! Crazy, no?

First up, Okami. Originally released on the PS2 late 2006, this Capcom title garnered much acclaim but was kind of a cult hit. It sold moderately well, but was completely overshadowed by that other game with a wolf that came out at the same time. You might have heard of it. That million-seller, Twilight Princess. Superficially, the games do look pretty similar. But, apparently that's just looks being deceptive. I've never played the game for PS2, but game reviewers practically wet themselves over it and it would seem that Nintendo fanboys have been clamoring for a Wii release for nearly two years now, claiming the gameplay mechanics naturally lend themselves to the Wiimote's innovative controls. Lucky for them, and Wii owners in general, Capcom listened, and have ported the game, reportedly without taking any shortcuts. The game's cel-shaded art style is absolutely beautiful and looks great on the Wii version set to hit shelves in the US next month. Reviewers seem poised to wet themselves all over again, noting that Okami is a rare example of a port done right, and are appreciative of a solid third-party effort on a system dominated by first-party affairs. Capcom has already proven that a third party can find success on the Wii with their Resident Evil series and the critically acclaimed Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure and hopefully other publishers and developers will start to take notice. Take a look at some footage from the game below, courtesy of IGN.



Next up is this game called Death Jr.: Root of Evil. Originally a game for PSP (I know, right?), Grim Reaper's son is bringing his scythe to the Wii. DJ caught my eye because I feel like it's a cute concept, and I don't think there are enough games that make you laugh. The game is part platformer, part melee combat, and part shooter. And though it's not as visually stunning as Okami, it's clear that Eidos is taking the project seriously. I'm really intrigued with both; at least one of these two games may be my (admittedly) first third-party purchase for my Wii. Check out some Death Jr. gameplay below, again courtesy of our friends at IGN.