New Zelda Game, Smash Bros. Reveal And More in New Direct Video!

Nintendo aired another Direct video today. This one had some interesting surprises for fans, including a new Legend of Zelda reveal, that most didn’t see coming!

Let’s get the big stuff out of the way first. One shocker was the reveal of a new Dynasty Warrior styled Zelda game called Hyrule Warriors (working title). Developed by Tecmo-Koei, this new title will feature Link battling legion of monsters throughout the land of Hyrule.

Nintendo made it clear that this wasn’t the new Legend of Zelda game that’s currently in development by Eiji Aonuma (longtime series producer). No, this is a new mash up. Fans of the classic series shouldn’t panic. That said, even if you aren’t a fan of Dynasty Warriors, you have to admit this looks rather cool – it reminds me of their collaboration with Square Enix years ago, except less RPG and more action.

Another announcement had to do with Rosalina from Super Mario Galaxy coming to both Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart 8. In SSB she’ll be accompanied by her starry friend, Luma. Judging from the trailer, they’re able to tag team opponents; Rosalina is seen launching a foe into the air before Luma follows with a flying uppercut to the face.

Beyond Rosalina being included in Mario Kart 8 are new “Baby” Nintendo characters. They were shown on a new airport stage that changes after a plan lands on the runway. Though it’s certainly more of the same (it is number 8 after all) it still looked fresh. New vehicles include a UFO, four-wheel ATV buggies, and more!

Nintendo went on to reveal two new-ish titles in Dr. Luigi and NES Remix. Much like the classic puzzle game Dr. Mario, Dr. Luigi is a Tetris like game where you have to match of similar colored pills. To add a twist to the formula, a new mode features L-shaped pills, making it a little easier for new comers. The difficulty can be adjusted of course. Other changes come when playing against others – it’s possible to change your opponent’s pill colors at the last second by clearing pills in quick succession (read combos). Those looking to try out this “new” classic can purchase it on the Nintendo eShop on Dec. 31st for $14.99.

NES Remix takes parts from 16 classic NES games and remixes them with new challenges. Excite Bike levels played in the dark, completing Mario levels running to the left, and Link going up against Donkey Kong are some of the new wrinkles featured in this title. It’s an interesting way to introducing old games to new players. I’m not sure it’s worth the price; NES Remix is available now via the eShop for $14.99. Then again, I haven’t played it yet.

There were a lot of other announces – Bravely Default, Kirby: Triple Deluxe, and Yoshi’s New Island all looked awesome on the 3DS. The new Chibi-Robo! Photo Finder was interesting as well. All together they help in making Nintendo’s handheld a must have system. Then again, the 3DS has been doing fine for some time now. We don’t “need” to be sold on it’s worth anymore.

The Wii U on the other hand can use some more help. Outside of the titles mentioned above, Nintendo only briefly talked about their other games dropping in 2014. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is certainly a game to look out for next year. Wii Sports Club added Golf to its list of sports today, bringing the total up to three. A new Yoshi themed level is coming to Sonic Lost World (free of charge!) with the hint of a Zelda themed stage coming thereafter. These are all great in their own right, but will they help push the system beyond loyal Nintendo fans like myself? Who knows? Hopefully, Nintendo will continue to work with other developers to create new experiences. Or at least announce that new Zelda game they’ve been toting since E3. Anything to get people excited about the Wii U and it’s games in 2014!