Konami brings Tomena Sanner to the U.S. with WiiWare
If you haven't heard of Tomena Sanner before then don't worry, it just means you aren't a frequent importer of Japanese platformer dancing games. I'm surprised the game is getting an American releae through WiiWare, considering its decidedly Japanese premise: a businessman named Hitoshi must dance his way through obstacles to reach a dance party. The concept might sound like a joke somebody pulled on Ken Kutaragi but the execution is a rather eclectic platformer that uses rhythm to govern jump timing. There's even 4-person multiplayer and an "endless level" challenge mode.
Sounds like quite the offbeat, yet substantial WiiWare title. This is the kind of game I was hoping WiiWare would promote--too quirky for retail but deserving of attention nonetheless. Look for Tomena Sanner in, what else, Q1 2010.
KONAMI ANNOUNCES TOMENA SANNER FOR
NINTENDO WiiWare™
Players Must Race to the Ultimate 2D Dance Party In Wacky
Downloadable Side-Scroller
El Segundo, Calif. - Oct. 29, 2009 - Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today announced Tomena Sanner, an upcoming downloadable game for Nintendo WiiWare™. Based on the popular title released in Japan, Tomena Sanner challenges players to run through wacky obstacles in order to reach the finish line and take part in the ultimate dance party.
"Tomena Sanner stands apart from other downloadable titles because of its zany nature and very humorous take on casual gaming," said David Daniels, Director of Marketing at Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "In bringing Tomena Sanner to a North American audience, we wanted to ensure that the game stayed true to its origins while also providing the essential 'party game' experience to consumers."
In Tomena Sanner, players take on the role of businessman Hitoshi Susumu who is behind schedule and won't stop running until he gets to his ultimate dance party. Dashing past samurais, T-Rexes, cowboys, and all manner of esoteric obstacles using just one button, gamers of all ages and skill level will be able to play the game in order to help Mr. Susumu get to his goal. A high speed side-scrolling action title, Tomena Sanner also features a unique timing based control system that players can utilize as they jump, dance and fly over hurdles that come their way. As players glide across the screen they can read the comical notes that flash along the in-game ticker, adding a new level of fun and humor to their experience.
Players will be able to lead Hitoshi in his quest across nine different levels including the Moon, jungle, a city and more. As an added bonus, multiplayer madness with up to four players can ensure that Hitoshi does not miss the party, and online rankings can be updated with high scores. With an Endless Level Mode that keeps players going for the ultimate high score, and a Turbo Mode that tests skill level, players will have many opportunities to explore the bizarre and comical world of Tomena Sanner.
Tomena Sanner will be available for Nintendo WiiWare™ in Q1 2010. For more information and to download assets, please visit www.konami.com/tomenasanner.
