Nintendo 3DS Gets 3D Video Recording and Two Mario Games For the Holidays

This November, a new system update for the 3DS will enable owners to capture 3D video footage. People will be able to record and view moments from birthday parties, soccer games and holiday events, or create their own original 3D productions and show them to others in 3D. The system update will also provide new experiences for people who have conquered all the StreetPass challenges in StreetPass Mii Plaza.

The update is just one of the many elements of Nintendo's strong holiday season lineup that features two Mario games – one platformer and one racer – for Nintendo 3DS. The season also sees the arrival of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword for the Wii.

The first appearance by Mario on a new Nintendo system is always cause for celebration. This fall, Nintendo is giving fans two big reasons to celebrate. On Nov. 13, Nintendo will release the Super Mario 3D Land game for Nintendo 3DS. In this first-ever true 3D Mario platforming adventure, players can scout levels and find secrets before they play using the built-in gyro sensor feature of the 3DS. The game will feature propeller blocks and will have StreetPass functionality. Mario Kart 7 will be available Dec. 4 and will include a new optional first-person driving mode that is controlled using the gyro sensor. The game also introduces new playable characters like Lakitu and Metal Mario, and a tricks system like the one in Mario Kart Wii.

Nintendo is pulling out all the stops in honor of the 25th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword launches Nov. 20 and represents one of the deepest and richest experiences ever produced by Nintendo. More than 100 staff members have been working for five years to produce the epic story, which includes a new approach to game play and more than 100 minutes of cinematic cut scenes. The game also will feature a boss challenge mode and, for players who need assistance, optional hint movies to help them along.

In honor of the 25th anniversary, Nintendo is offering a free classic game for a limited time. The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary Edition will be available to download between Sept. 28, 2011, and Feb. 20, 2012. Fans can download the Nintendo DSiWare version of the game using their Nintendo DSi or Nintendo DSi XL systems, or by accessing the Nintendo eShop with a Nintendo 3DS system (wireless broadband Internet access is required for download). The game allows up to four players who have downloaded the game to play cooperatively and has also been enhanced with a new single-player mode. Unlike the original, all multiplayer game play is handled wirelessly. Once players finish the main quest, they will unlock new stages and abilities to expand the game's replay value.

Beyond the holiday season, Nintendo is already making plans for 2012. Nintendo has revealed a 3D Mario tennis game for the 3DS. Mario Tennis (name not final) will launch in 2012 and more details will be announced later.

Also in 2012, Nintendo 3DS owners will be able to enjoy a new 3D installment in the Animal Crossing franchise. This version will include a number of options not available in previous versions. These include the ability to become the head of the village and boost its development, a way to install certain items in the village to make its characteristics more personalized for each player, and the ability to view homes of other players who are tagged through StreetPass connections.

In 2012, Nintendo 3DS fans will also see the arrival of new games in the Luigi's Mansion and Paper Mario franchises.

In one final bit of news, the development team for Kid Icarus: Uprising for Nintendo 3DS has determined that more time is needed to complete the game. As a result, the game will now launch in 2012. Nintendo is also in the process of developing 3D Kid Icarus animations with critically acclaimed Japanese anime production houses. These animations will be made available free of charge via the Nintendo Video service to Nintendo 3DS owners worldwide.