Newsbriefs: Katamari Online, N Goes XBLA, Wii Gets MK64

Author: by Staff

[UPDATED: 3:52pm PST] Today's regularly updated newsbriefs include news of a new online multiplayer version of cult hit Katamari Damacy, Metanet Software's flagship ninja platformer N coming to Xbox Live Arcade, and Nintendo 64 classic Mario Kart 64 coming to the Virtual Console. - Japanese news site 4gamer.net has updated with confirmation that Korean developer WindySoft will be involved with developing an online multiplayer version of Namco Bandai's cult classic Katamari Damacy. Though details are still light, Katamari Damacy Online is expected to take the form of the multiplayer functionality of the PS2 and PSP originals, ported to the PC with the obvious internet-play enhancement. The 4gamer report also notes that all of the rare-item collection and costume selection will also return for the online sequel, along with yet un-explained 'house' and 'pet' additions. No plans have been announced for the official development studio for the game as yet, nor word of a wider launch outside the casual Korean market, expected sometime in 2007. - Independent developer Metanet Software has confirmed that it will bring a version of its flagship title N to Xbox Live Arcade. Dubbed N+, the game is currently expected to be available in fall 2007, and is in development in collaboration with Vancouver's Klei Entertainment (Eets). According to Metanet officials, development is scheduled to begin on February 1 and wrap up this summer. While a statement released by Metanet notes that the game will remain true to the original, it will also include a number of enhancements as well, including a level editor that will allow players to make and exchange their own levels. In addition, the team notes that other new features, such as multiplayer modes, are also being tested. Finally, Metanet has also confirmed that the company is still underway developing its second title, Robotology, starring a wire-swinging robot using 'parkour-inspired acrobatics,' and hope to have it finished “sometime before the end of time.” - Nintendo has released four “new” games for download over the U.S. Wii's Virtual Console. Purchasable from the Wii's online Wii Shop Channel, the games released today include Nintendo's classic Mario Kart 64 for 1000 Wii Points ($10), as well as side scrolling Sega Genesis action games Comix Zone, and Bonanza Bros., and the Super Nintendo version of Contra III: The Alien Wars, all for 800 Wii Points ($8) each. These games join previously released console classics such as Super Castlevania IV, Columns, and Mario 64, among others. - The latest updates on Gamasutra sister alt.gaming weblog GameSetWatch include a look at recent video game website purchases by Fox; a collection of links covering such topics as a NES controller-shaped chocolate bar, the full version of Overray released for download, and Phoenix Wright: Justice For All's numerous translation errors; and a look at Neversoft's 2K Games' published Ghost Rider for the original PlayStation. - The latest updates from Gamasutra sister website Game Career Guide include a feature covering the appeal of MMORPGs and why they are leading the future of video games. - Also updated today: the latest Gamasutra job postings, including openings from Flagship Studios, Legacy Interactive, MTV Networks, Stormfront Studios, THQ Corporate, and Vivendi Games Mobile.