Could the King of Pop make his Wii debut soon?
The PEGI has been a bit quiet for a while, as they tend not to add ratings to their site until the games in question have actually been released. Today, however, one game slipped through the cracks, and it's not an insignificant one either.
A Virtual Console listing for Michael Jackson's Moonwalker has appeared, making it seem like one of the games nobody ever thought we would see could actually be making its way to a Wii near you sometime soon.
If it happens it would be a very special occasion indeed, because as of yet the service has still not seen any movie-based titles other than the Super Star Wars games. As you probably know, however, LucasArts owns the Star Wars license, so these aren't exactly "licensed" titles.
Diehard Sega fans are probably aware that Michael always had close ties with the company: other than Moonwalker, he appeared in their Space Channel 5 games and Ready 2 Rumble Boxing Round 2, and of course there's the ever-persistent rumours that he composed some of Sonic the Hedgehog 3's music. Therefore, it's highly likely that they're putting the game on Virtual Console as a tribute. He deserves it!
As of yet, we don't know if it's the arcade, Mega Drive/Genesis, or even Master System version of the game, but as the Mega Drive one was the most well-known, we're assuming it'll be that one. Ok, yes, it's not a very good game, but you've got to admit saving children from a bunch of gangsters as Michael Jackson by dancing and throwing around fairy dust is a fantastic (not to mention hilarious) concept.










1. cheetahman91
08 Nov 2009, 21:19 GMT
Knew it was coming. Also, Dreams Come True composed Sonic 2's music. You're thinking of Sonic 3.
2. megaboomface2
08 Nov 2009, 21:23 GMT
dose this have thriller in it if it dose its a buy for sure
3. cheetahman91
08 Nov 2009, 21:24 GMT
@megaboomface: I think only certain carts featured "Thriller". This might be the one though.
4. Joe Diddley
08 Nov 2009, 21:24 GMT
I played this as a kid. It was funny. I liked throwing his hat as a weapon!
If it does see a release out I will probably download it.
5. KanrakusPizza
08 Nov 2009, 21:29 GMT
Can someone explain to me what you have to do in the game? MJs music was cool, so i just might get it.
6. Super Smash Bros. Fan1999
08 Nov 2009, 21:31 GMT
I told you guys that the game would possibly see an Virtual Console release! Now I'm so excited.
While most licensed games will still have a difficult time seeing an Virtual Console release, this game made it all more likely.
Here's to hoping to more licensing issues solved! And I thank Nintendo, Sega, and most importantly, the Jackson Family for making this possible. I'll download it regardless of quality.
This also helps Earthbound's chance of being released. If Micheal Jackson can have a game on the Virtual Console, then Nintendo has no more reason to not put the game on the Virtual Console.
7. megaboomface2
08 Nov 2009, 21:37 GMT
@cheetahman91 lets hope with our heart :}
8. Mickeymac
08 Nov 2009, 21:37 GMT
If it does pop up, that would be awesome. Considering how much I love the music in the Sonic games, especially Sonic 3, I'd be sure to pick it up, day 1!
9. MrPinguy
08 Nov 2009, 21:41 GMT
No need to censure and eleminate my post for thanking me for correcting you.
In fact isn't the first time that a post of mine is censured without any good reason. A shame in such awesome site.
On side note, This is actually good news, this is a signal of more games with licences... Lucas Arts and now this.
Bring me Disney/Capcom games people!
10. cheetahman91
08 Nov 2009, 21:44 GMT
I hope Disney releases their games for hyping up the Epic Mickey game.
11. MasterGraveheart
08 Nov 2009, 21:46 GMT
You can call him a smooth criminal, or you can think of him as a stranger in Moscow. This news? It's a thriller! Who'se bad?
12. Tony
08 Nov 2009, 21:48 GMT
The box art is epic
13. accc
08 Nov 2009, 21:49 GMT
Not a very good game? Blasphemy!
14. Chibi Link
08 Nov 2009, 21:52 GMT
I do hope this comes to the Virtual Console. Even if the game isn't that great, it would still be fun to experience, and to hear the music.
15. Lionsgate
08 Nov 2009, 21:54 GMT
OMG awesome! Idk how good the game is but I love all things MJ lately so I will def cop this off the VC
16. V8 Ninja
08 Nov 2009, 21:58 GMT
Hope it's the arcade game. I heard that the game was pretty good.
17. StarBoy91
08 Nov 2009, 22:01 GMT
:3
I'm sorry, but that boxart looks cheesy to me. Otherwise, yay, a chance to play as Michael Jackson! 
18. Pj
08 Nov 2009, 22:03 GMT
Yeah guys this game was pretty good! for me it's a major down load, if this is true it's exciting news!!
19. Smashbro99
08 Nov 2009, 22:13 GMT
I'd rather have the arcade game. It was better than the Genesis version.
20. slapshot82
08 Nov 2009, 22:13 GMT
This game is loads of fun for anyone who hasn't played it. Awesome it is finally getting release!
21. nitro_rev
08 Nov 2009, 22:16 GMT
Micheal Jackson was the inspiration for Sonic's shoes. (I think)
22. Terranigma
08 Nov 2009, 22:46 GMT
I'm not interested in the game itself, although it is nice to see it get released. I'm interested to see how well this will sell
23. Luigi-La-Bouncy
08 Nov 2009, 22:52 GMT
I saw 'This Is It' last night, was really interesting, it's such a shame he died. Anyway, I don't really have fond memories of the game, it's another typical AVGN kind of 'classic'.
24. Link79
08 Nov 2009, 22:56 GMT
I still have the VHS tape of the movie. It's kinda cheesy as well but cool at the same time. Michael turns into a futuristic car and a giant robot that Transforms into a space ship! I must have watched it 20 times as a kid. I still can't believe the man is dead. Still seems odd being able to say it.
25. Hoffkage
08 Nov 2009, 22:56 GMT
Damn, I thought it was the Arcade game.
I never played the Mega Drive one.
26. warioswoods
08 Nov 2009, 22:57 GMT
All you need for moonwalkin' is a short area to slide under in Super Mario Bros. This game is superfluous.
27. Link79
08 Nov 2009, 23:02 GMT
I'll probably get it just for the novelty. Even if it's not a great game it has Michael Jackson in it. That alone makes it worth having. Not many games out there starring MJ. I'd almost rather have the arcade version. The music sounds a hell of alot better.
28. Sylverstone
08 Nov 2009, 23:04 GMT
Weird how MJ fans (who are also gamers) wanted this on the VC.
Seems fine, but why the Genesis version. Isn't the arcade like ten times better?
Oh well, as long as I can jam to Smooth Criminal, I'm fine with it.
29. KnucklesSonic8
08 Nov 2009, 23:04 GMT
I never thought this day would come!
30. deggs
08 Nov 2009, 23:12 GMT
despite the bad reviews it sometimes gets, it's actually pretty good. i used to play it all the time as a kid. the control kinda sucks but it's fun as heck...
31. Sean Aaron
08 Nov 2009, 23:29 GMT
Okay, firstly the version of the game isn't confirmed, so let's stop jumping to the conclusion it's the Genesis/Mega Drive version.
That out of the way, if it the arcade version I'll definitely buy it!
32. bboy2970
08 Nov 2009, 23:39 GMT
Oh well this is just peachy! now this is gonna end up as America's 350th VC title and we will NEVER see Super Smash Bros.!!!!! Why is NOA so against just giving us good games outside of milestones?????
33. Angelic Lapras King
09 Nov 2009, 00:09 GMT
WOW, hell froze over! D=
34. Angelic Lapras King
09 Nov 2009, 00:16 GMT
Oh, and its not the first movie game on VC, Super Star Wars was!
35. JJ
09 Nov 2009, 00:18 GMT
Instant Download
36. Stuffgamer1
09 Nov 2009, 00:39 GMT
Eew...seriously? Well, it seems people (inexplicitly) want it, so...okay. I just hope it's not the ONLY VC release the week it comes.
37. luigiman2
09 Nov 2009, 01:05 GMT
I'm confused. Is that game for wii or virtual console?
38. Super Smash Bros. Fan1999
09 Nov 2009, 01:06 GMT
@Angelic Lapras King: Not really, but this is indeed awesome news.
Negative nancy of the thread: bboy2970
39. buffalobob
09 Nov 2009, 01:17 GMT
Yikes that was unexpected!
Both versions (arcade and Genesis) were prettty cheesy but the arcade version is better. Still, the Genesis version was somehow curious XD
40. WolfRamHeart
09 Nov 2009, 01:20 GMT
I never played the Genesis version of this game but the arcade version was pretty cool. Well, I suppose any version we get will be a welcome addition to the Virtual Console library.
41. ryanknight717
09 Nov 2009, 01:29 GMT
not a big MJ fan, may pick it up due to the Sonic 3 reference
42. Token Girl
09 Nov 2009, 01:34 GMT
Not too surprised seeing how the Jackson estate is trying to cash in on his death. Always up for new VC games though.
43. SmaMan
09 Nov 2009, 01:36 GMT
Heck, why don't they release both the Arcade and Genesis versions? Judging from the comments here, both have a considerable amount of demand. But if I had to pick one, I'd pick the arcade, since I've recently played through the Genesis one again when he died.
"Now MJ can rest in peace knowing that Mr.X is defeated!"
44. StarBoy91
09 Nov 2009, 01:37 GMT
The caption says "The Virtual Console's first movie game?".
???????????
Don't the Super Star Wars trilogy for the SNES count? Maybe I'm just confused.
45. morphballer
09 Nov 2009, 01:41 GMT
"Hee-Hee!"
ALK and Starboy91: Read the article again.
46. StarBoy91
09 Nov 2009, 01:53 GMT
Oh.
I'm sorry, I was just confused, that's all.
47. Angelic Lapras King
09 Nov 2009, 02:17 GMT
and another thing, this could actually be the C64 version! LOL. XD
48. Nintendo-Naut
09 Nov 2009, 02:17 GMT
Funny, but I'll never buy it.
49. XD375
09 Nov 2009, 02:21 GMT
Haha, this isn't his Wii debut. His Wii debut was Guitar Hero: World Tour.
When I read this I got really excited, and the idea that it may be the arcade version makes it so much better...
50. jpfan1989
09 Nov 2009, 02:29 GMT
.... I'd rather not!
51. StarBoy91
09 Nov 2009, 02:33 GMT
@ALK - There's a C64 version??? The Master System version looks similar to the MegaDrive version, from what I saw.
52. Mode7
09 Nov 2009, 02:44 GMT
That box art is now my distorted and pixelated desktop background.
53. Viper6391
09 Nov 2009, 02:56 GMT
Saw the "This is It" movie yesterday and it was AWESOME! It's just a real shame he passed away, because his concert would've been amazing especially having Thriller in 3D. I would definitely buy Moonwalker whether it was the Genesis or Arcade Version(preferably the arcade version) just to hear Smooth Criminal and Beat It.
54. Sabrewing
09 Nov 2009, 03:01 GMT
Yeah, it should be the arcade version. Much more satisfying than the Genesis hide & seek game.
55. XD375
09 Nov 2009, 03:34 GMT
The arcade version not only had better gameplay, but it also had better music, which was honestly the reason most people would want to play this game.
56. MarkyVigoroth
09 Nov 2009, 03:37 GMT
My mother would like this (even though I do not know if she had ever played this.).
57. wmdwfprez
09 Nov 2009, 03:54 GMT
Uh...yeah. If I remember correctly when this game came out years ago the game reviewers said this was a pretty horrid game. So why this could possibly be coming to North America isn't a good thing.
58. MJsbff
09 Nov 2009, 03:55 GMT
To hell with people that hate mj he is and will always be king of pop so i do not like people saying that mj molested kids
59. Super Smash Bros. Fan1999
09 Nov 2009, 03:56 GMT
@wmdwfprez: Actually it is a good thing. It open up possibility of more licensed games on the Virtual Console.
60. timp29
09 Nov 2009, 04:22 GMT
Does this mean someone at disney or rare has to die and then we will see those games?
I hope this game got through the release channels legitimately and is not a cash grab by licence holders seeking to exploit michael's death.
61. timp29
09 Nov 2009, 04:25 GMT
@MJsbff: I despise people who molest kids. I suspect Michael did not molest children... but after the first accusations, he must have been a royal idiot or a total innocent to have let himself get into the situation a second time. Unless the people who accused him come out and withdraw the allegations, that cloud will always hang over MJ, so its quite legitimate for people to make these claims (although most of them are just trying to pull a successful person down)
62. Super Smash Bros. Fan1999
09 Nov 2009, 04:27 GMT
@timp29: Let's hope you're right about the 2nd paragraph.
However, no. Even if the creator of those older Disney or Rare games die, that won't mean a flip. We'll still have a problem getting these games on the Virtual Console. We should be lucky here. Also, I remember making a thread saying that the man has died so that means the game could come to the Virtual Console. Many people disagree, However, that probably didn't prevent it's Virtual Console release. Remember, this is an exception here, so we need to take advantage of the game sales by trying to convince as much people to buy the game so we can see more licensed games on the Virtual Console.
63. chunky_droid
09 Nov 2009, 05:09 GMT
I've always been told it was a good game, it seems incredibly well animated based on footage I've seen of it. Can't wait to give it a burl! SEGA certainly had an obsession with people saving children back in the 80s to early 90s
64. lockd
09 Nov 2009, 05:47 GMT
KWA-CHAM! Insta buy! HEE-HEE!
65. BlueFlameBat
09 Nov 2009, 06:00 GMT
I hope it's the arcade version. That one was boss!
66. Ren
09 Nov 2009, 06:52 GMT
Arcade version was cool and really fun I hope it's that one. Genesis version is really bad. And I don't mean "Bad!", I just mean bad.
His recent, sad passing will not mysteriously make the other versions of this a good game and arbitrarily dropping Nintendo points on it doesn't help anyone.
67. Starwolf_UK
09 Nov 2009, 08:46 GMT
I'm still waiting for the PEGI rated Sonic & Knuckles.
68. Sneaker13
09 Nov 2009, 12:23 GMT
lol, I don't know the game, but ever since I say AVGN play it, I wanted to play it too. So I might get it.
69. Tony
09 Nov 2009, 13:50 GMT
If Micheal Jackson did compose part or all of Sonic 3 's soundtrack he did a good job because the music is really good in that game. Take a listen to Hydrocity Act 2, it's amazing
70. Mike
09 Nov 2009, 13:54 GMT
@58. MJsbff
MJ was a good singer (although I don't care for his music, I can admit he was good). Still, I find it funny now that he has died that people have forgotten about all of the pedofile issues with MJ and treat him like a God. The guy was a complete freak.
71. Machu
09 Nov 2009, 14:50 GMT
SHAMONE MOTHA F***A!
72. Rapadash6
09 Nov 2009, 14:52 GMT
No offense to MJ fans but he was always a much better singer than a video game hero.
Who am I kidding? I'll probably download this just for the camp value.
73. KillerinstinctFan
09 Nov 2009, 16:14 GMT
Are you serious?my little bro likes micheal jackson but i dont know if i get the game for him.ill think about it.im not a Micheal jackson fan but i might wait for the arcade version to come out.if it does.
74. Caliko
09 Nov 2009, 17:42 GMT
**dreams come true!!!****
I've been waiting too long for this game!! Amazing news!!
75. Orgone
09 Nov 2009, 22:23 GMT
arcade version better, when can we expect a decent arcade game nintendo
76. Super Smash Bros. Fan1999
10 Nov 2009, 02:09 GMT
Many people are looking forward to this. Not surprising. Also, we need to support this game if we want to see more licensed games.
77. ATRUEZELDAFAN
10 Nov 2009, 04:18 GMT
I dont like Micheal Jackson. Let the flame wars begin.
78. DarkEdi
10 Nov 2009, 04:58 GMT
I want the Arcade version, its for 3 player!
79. Badknux
10 Nov 2009, 05:28 GMT
I liked the Sega version of this game.
80. Kevin
10 Nov 2009, 13:57 GMT
Are you kidding me? Of all the potentially great games to add on to the VC they add this? I'll pass.
81. Klaarover
11 Nov 2009, 11:49 GMT
Haha, great
82. StarDust
12 Nov 2009, 01:09 GMT
THe King of Rock N' Roll (Elvis) died. It took some time, but people got over it. The King of Pop (MJ) died. It will take some time, but people will eventually get over him as well. I, for one, am getting tired of all the Michael Jackson propaganda. However, if they release this game on Virtual Console, it will be a big hit regardless, even if for all the wrong reasons...
83. Super Smash Bros. Fan1999
15 Nov 2009, 04:49 GMT
@StarDust: Even if the game sucks, if the game is a big success, maybe this will encourage more licensed properties on the Virtual Console.
84. Devastator
15 Nov 2009, 23:19 GMT
I thought the Micheal Jackson Moonwalker arcade game was cool, but this one sucks.
85. davegorack
17 Nov 2009, 17:58 GMT
Why are ppl looking foward to this?
The Game sucked. the Controls were bad
and it had boring gameplay.Soundtrak was awsome though.
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