New Mario & Sonic at the Olympics DS content revealed
Exclusive handheld-only events, no less
Sega today confirmed what we already knew, namely that the DS version of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games is due in early 2008. But, thankfully, it also bothered to release some new shots and, more importantly, finally revealed some DS-specific details (previously everything related to the Wii version, set for release next week).
So, we now know 16 official Olympic challenges feature, including two that are exclusive to the handheld game: cycling and 10m platform diving. In addition, eight Dream events – five of which are only found on DS – are also included. The exclusive events are Dream Canoe, Dream Boxing, Dream Basketball, Dream Long Jump and Dream Shooting (Skeet).
What's a Dream event? Well, it's an Olympic sport with a video game-inspired twist, and so is filled with obstacles, power-ups and familiar opponents from the virtual worlds of Sonic and Mario games.
Kind of makes sense when you think about it. Just as the fact that you get to use the touchscreen to interact with the game and get your character to jump, swim, run, shoot, pedal and flip their way to the top step of the podium seems logical. Equally obvious are the 16 characters – split evenly between those found in both Mario and Sonic universes – and the range of talent and athletic ability they offer.
You get three modes in which to showcase those talents. Bypass the Gallery, where mini-games and Olympic trivia come together, and Single Event does what it says on the tin, Circuit includes your selection of events, while Mission offers a series of solo challenges that test your timing and reflexes.
Of course, you don't have to play on your own. Both Single-Card and Multi-Card multiplayer events for up to four virtual athletes are offered, encompassing the Single Event (which includes the Dream alternatives) and Circuit modes. And an online leaderboard keeps track of the real international stars.
With the Wii version soon out of the way, as it were, we suspect Sega's marketing department will turn its attention to its DS cousin. As such, we should have more for you on this promising title between now and its release – click 'Track It!' to ensure you don't miss it.
