This E3, amid all the hype and hullabaloo created by the new Zelda game and the DS, Nintendo quietly let slip the news that we've been waiting years for: Animal Crossing would finally be coming to Europe this Autumn. It has taken countless prayers, huge, well-organized internet and postal petitions and some very vocal campaigns, but finally, finally, Animal Crossing is coming to Europe. This week. Yep, this Friday sees the release of Nintendo's most belated European release ever- and the sole reason why Nintendo have given in to the pressure is you. This is the game that you demanded receive a European release, which is why it is vitally important that not only it is well-promoted, but that people actually go out and buy it on Friday and in the coming weeks. If we don't, then Nintendo have no reason ever to give into public pressure again. So, we've organized Animal Crossing week to celebrate one of Nintendo's most original, irreverent, fascinating, and amusing games in a very long time.

We've got a packed week for you- Iun's Animal Crossing Diary exploits will keep you entertained throughout the week. We've got an expansive, in-depth review planned for Wednesday, a web-chat to discuss the ins and outs of AC, the opening of an Animal Crossing board on our forums, and a wish list for the forthcoming sequel, as suggested by you on the forums. To top it off, today sees the launch of a competition to win three copies of the game, with the winners to be announced on Friday. Our sincere thanks, once again, go to Nintendo for supplying the prizes.

We hope you enjoy the week, and more importantly, the game itself.

Mark Cullinane
[email protected]