Nintendo developing new 3D Mario, adding Netflix to 3DS

During Satoru Iwata’s Game Developer Conferenct keynote today, titled “Video Games Turn 25: A Historical Perspective and Vision for the Future,” Nintendo’s president managed to sprinkle in a few new announcements. Chief among them is that Nintendo is working with AT&T on Wi-Fi spots, Netflix will soon be available on the Nintendo 3DS, Game Gear games will be coming to the 3DS virtual console, and a new 3D Mario game is in the works.

“There is great potential to increase the number of people who enjoy video games by opening up new game-play opportunities that are only available through the use of 3D.” said Iwata. “Nintendo 3DS will be the most connected Nintendo device ever, with its ability to link people via local wireless connections, while at the same time connecting them to people and content worldwide via hotspot connectivity.”

New Nintendo announcements

3D Super Mario: Iwata revealed that a new Super Mario game was in development. The new game will feature traditional Mario gameplay, but will “fulfill the dream” of Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto to “add depth and distance to the game’s mechanics.” It is being developed by Nintendo’s Tokyo team, which developed the two Super Mario Galaxy games.

Netflix on 3DS: When you’re tired of playing Mario, you may want to watch the Super Mario Super Show on Netflix. At the end of May, a Netflix app will launch for Nintendo’s 3DS system. The system will let you resume movies you started on your big screen on the small. Anyone with a $7.99+ Netflix subscription can access Instant streaming videos on Nintendo’s handheld.

Game Gear comes to Virtual Console: Will feature games from the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, TurboGrafx-16, and Game Gear as well as 3D remasterings of classic video games. DSiWare original 3D and 2D games will also be available.

3D movie trailers: In addition to Netflix, Nintendo will work with Hollywood studios to push out new movie trailers in 3D.

AT&T Wi-Fi Spot Pass: Similarly to its Nintendo DS Wi-Fi connection service that partnered with McDonalds some years back, Nintendo is partnering with AT&T to enable gamers to access Wi-Fi from 10,000 AT&T Hot Spot locations. In addition, a new service called “Spot Pass” will actually notify Nintendo 3DS systems in range that a Wi-Fi connection is available. This feature will be installed in many airports, restaurants, book shops, and coffee shops across the country.

First Nintendo 3DS update: In late May, the Nintendo 3DS will get its first software update, which will add a Web browser and eShop as well as the ability for players to transfer DSiWare games to their 3DS.

New Zelda footage: Finally, Nintendo showed off new video of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.