Preview: Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games (Wii)

Not only was Mario and Sonic's first Olympic outing a landmark in gaming, with two of the most famous characters (and rivals) featuring in a game for the first time, but it was great fun to play. Yes, it was a collection of mini-games (and not the first to appear on Nintendo's consoles), but the Olympic theme and high production value gave it an edge over its competition. For Gamestyle, it ranks up with Wii Sports and Boom Blox in terms of party fun.

Making the Winter Olympics the setting means that there's a whole new variety of disciplines to cover.  Already confirmed is Alpine Skiing, Speed and Figure Skating, Bobsleigh, Snowboarding, and Ice Hockey, and if the first game is anything to go by, there should be a few more to come. Gamestyle are already wondering how each will utilise the touchscreen and motion controls, and are preparing their arm in readiness for the aches and pains that will no doubt follow.

The Wii version will be compatible with the Balance Board accessory, so anticipate a lower-body work-out on the ski slopes, but a close examination of the recently released pack shot indicates that it doesn't take advantage of the new MotionPlus add-on. It would be a shame if this were the case, as having 1-1 responsiveness would add another level of realism to the sports on offer.

That's not really what Mario and Sonic is all about, however, and the first game chose fun over realism. It mixed mini-games that gave you an aerobic workout, with those that tested your reflexes and the steadiness of your control. This approach has been adopted for the Olympic Winter Games, and with a new setting and some additional characters, SEGA could have another success on their hands. Whilst the actual Olympic Winter Games don't start until February 2010, Mario and Sonic's take will be hitting the shelves on October 16th 2009.

Words by Chris Thornton