Nintendo held a somewhat secret press conference yesterday in Japan, where they managed to release some big news to those fortunate enough to be in attendance. The announcement that Sonic would be included in Super Smash Bros Brawl originated at this event, as did a tidbit of Mario Kart news that’s gotten me giddy with excitement; the game will include motorcyles!
Unfortunately, both of those games have been delayed until next year, to January 24 and spring, respectively – in Japan.
Other annoncements at the event included:
– Monster Hunter 3 will be released for the Wii. It was originally planned for the PS3, with the past two entries in the series having been on the PSP.
– Super Smash Bros Brawl will feature online cooperative play, as well as the previously announced offline option.
– Mario Kart Wii will come bundled with a steering wheel controller.
– Wii Fit has a Japanese release date of December 1st, and will cost 8800 yen (75 USD).
– "Nintendo will put more emphasis on the Wii Vote channel in the future. You’ll be able to put rankings for games that you’ve played and search for games that fit your liking."
– WiiWare will be more robust than previously expected. Full games from big-name publishers will also be released via the service. The first two titles to be announced are Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Young King and The Promised Land and Pokemon Farm.
– A DS download service similar to Japanese DS download stations will be coming to the Wii. Consumers will be able to download demos on the Wii, and then transfer via wi-fi to the DS.
