Nintendo might be skipping its annual E3 presentation this year, but that doesn't mean they aren't stepping it up to compete with Sony and Microsoft's next-gen console reveals. This year, they decided to bring their latest games directly to the fans, showcasing the upcoming lineup in a Nintendo Direct meeting. Here are the biggest highlights of the morning.
Pokemon!
Pokemon is about as timeless a game as there is, but the upcoming X and Y installments seem like they're adding enough new features to make it all worth it again. A brand new type, Fairy, was revealed at the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, alongside some adorable new ways to interact with your Pokemon.
The game also got a solid release date, with the Kalos region officially opening on October 12th, 2013.
Super Mario 3D World
The newest 3D Mario finally has an official name. Super Mario 3D World will be hitting the Wii U in December of this year, and will allow up to four players to simultaneously jump in as Toad, Luigi, Peach, and Mario.
Just like in Super Mario Bros. 2, all of these characters will each play a little differently, adding a lot of variety to the game. Toad is faster, Luigi has a higher jump, and Peach can float for a little while before landing.
Mario Kart 8 Announced
Another beloved Mario franchise, Mario Kart, is also getting a Wii U update. Mario Kart 8 will arrive in Spring 2014, and will see the return of the bikes from Mario Kart Wii, a hover kart mode, and the return of characters such as Mario, Peach, Luigi, Waluigi, Wario, Toadette, Daisy, Koopa Troopa, Bowser, and Donkey Kong.
Nintendo has also primised that Mario Kart 8 will have the "best collection of modes yet." Fingers crossed on that one.
Super Smash Is Back!
We knew some sort of Super Smash Bros. preview would take place during the Nintendo Direct presentation, but I don't think anyone had any idea that Mega Man would be showing up! Appearing with his classic "Blue Bomber" style with Rush at his side, Mega Man looked like he's going to fit right in with the Super Smash Bros roster.
A second new character, "The Villager" from Animal Crossing, was also revealed. The two will be joining returning characters including Samus, Mario, Fox, DK, Pikachu, Bowser, Pit, and Princess Peach. No official title or release date has been set, but it's still good to know that the project is on track.
Bayonetta 2
A new trailer for the Bayonetta sequel debuted during the event, showcasing a new look for the iconic character as well as her new gear. We don't know much else about the title, but a 2014 release window has been confirmed.
Wii U eShop Updates
Lastly, Nintendo certainly wasn't shy with its additions to the Wii U's eShop. New games being added include Ballpoint Universe, DuckTales Remastered, Shovel Knight, Ballpoint Universe, Cloudberry Kingdom, Dungeons & Dragons: Chronicles of Mystara, Oddworld: New & Tasty, Scram Kitty & His Buddy on Rails, Spin the Bottle: Bumpie's Party, World of Keflings, and Mutant Mudds Deluxe.
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