San Diego Comic Con 2011 Game Coverage: Part 3

Whether you were a gamer in the early 80’s, or are just breaking into the scene now, you probably know one brand above all others. Arguably the most innovative video game hardware developer out there, with some of the most successful game franchises of all time, this company has earned its rank. Whether you consider their latest console, or their much anticipated follow-up, a work of genius or an inevitably passing trend, one thing is certain: you can never count them out, because they will never cease to astound. By now you must know that I am referring to the one, the only, Nintendo. Since they already revealed their next console to the world during E3, Nintendo’s San Diego Comic Con display had its focus elsewhere, in an area possibly in need of more immediate attention.

Nintendo came armed to the teeth with A-list games for the final part of 2011, ready to blow the doors off of any expectations attendees may have set in place for this year. Not only did Nintendo have a booth on the main exhibit floor, but right next door to the convention was an over 10,000 square foot gaming lounge. Even with its over 80 game stations, the game lounge was always packed; lines were excruciating but, at long last, the demonstrations were well worth it. Being the Nintendo fanboy that I am, I was second in line on the first day the lounge was open. I immediately ran to the Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword demo (of which you can read my more in depth preview here), and began my lengthy day of taking in what should only be known as the Nintendo experience. 

The best demo on hand, without a doubt, was Super Mario 3D Land for the Nintendo 3DS. The game blends elements of Super Mario 64 and Mario Galaxy perfectly, and it even brings back nostalgic boss fights aboard Bowser’s Airships, against various members of his evil offspring… the Koopalings! Yes, you heard right, the Koopalings have returned yet again! As if that were not enough to tickle your Italian plumber-esque fancy, there’s more: the fabled Tanooki suit is back! The Tanooki suit was last seen in Super Mario Bros 3 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, and was similar to the Raccoon leaf except it was a full body suit. The suit is dissimilar from past incarnations as it does not allow the player to fly so much as provide a brief hovering ability, which mostly aids in bounding across chasms due to the ability to more or less spot out a landing. It does still allow for a spin attack, but you won’t be the only one with this incredible power! Goombas throughout the level will also be wearing the stylish striped tail, and now have the same abilities as Mario when seen with the power up! This game far exceeded any expectations I had for it, and the 3D effect looks amazing to say the least. Super Mario 3D Land will be flying onto shelves in North America in early November, exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS.

Speaking of long awaited, Kid Icarus: Uprising was in full effect at this year’s convention. Although it is supposed to have a late 2011 release, rumor has it that Nintendo will have to push back the game’s release to early 2012 due to certain issues with the multiplayer. Coincidentally, this was the only mode not available in the demo I had the chance to play, but was made up for by the great story and stunning visuals. This game is fast paced, action packed and tons of fun! This game continues the epic story of Pit, the hero from past Kid Icarus games, in his battle against the evil Medusa. The game utilizes the touch screen as a primary form of camera control for air battles, and the analog slide pad for land battles. The game controls are smooth and easy to grasp, but this game will definitely offer up a challenge to even the most experienced gamer! Kid Icarus: Uprising will be a must have for any 3DS owner, and I suggest you keep your ear to the ground, because this is one you won’t want to miss. 

Mario Kart 7, which is actually the ninth game in the series, is a fun twist on a classic title. Offering numerous multiplayer options, massive amounts of replay value, and a great game that you can play for hours or jump on for a quick race around the track, this game is another home run for Nintendo’s line-up this year. The game will be familiar to enthusiasts from past Mario Kart games, but will offer a few fun additions to change up gameplay, and keep this game feeling fresh. The addition of both hang glider and propeller gadgets, for both air and under water racing respectively, will give players new challenges. Additional changes include Kart customization, which will undoubtedly switch up gameplay even more. Seemingly less item heavy than its Wii brother, Mario Kart 7 is more balanced and more dependent upon racing skill than sheer luck. This game will make the ability to race online with friends and competitors from around the world both portable and eye catching. Mario Kart 7 will release in early November, racing to stores just in time for the holiday season.

This concludes our coverage of Comic Con, part 3, with the highlights from Nintendo’s gaming lounge. Next time: Sony’s Uncharted 3 demo and other details from the convention! Thanks for reading!

Submitted by: Corey Hall (Employee)