Pre-E3 2011: Nintendo E3 Expectations

Nintendo's 2010 E3 outing was arguably one of the stronger presentations of the show, with the reveal of their 3DS, as well as many game announcements for both the aforementioned 3DS and the Wii. At this year's E3, Nintendo could potential steal the show depending on how they play their cards, with a rumored next gen console making an appearance on top of a console Legend of Zeldatitle that still lacks a solid release date. Here are a few of the highlights I think are going to make their way into Nintendo's 2011 E3 conference:

• Nintendo's Next Gen Console - It has been confirmed by Nintendo to exist, meaning there's a 99% chance it's going to be shown to the world at E3 this year. The only drawback here really is how much is Nintendo willing to show us? It seems a little early to let the entire cat out of the bag, but I'd say it's fair to expect Nintendo will show off the actual console, a preview of what it can produce hardware wise and a release window; at the very least. A full line-up of games, the controller, and the console's inner workings may not be seen at this year's E3. Of course, if the light isn't shed on those aforementioned key pieces, I doubt we will have very long to wait before those details are revealed too.

• Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Bonanza - I'm calling it now: gameplay footage, Miyamoto doing something silly related to Zelda and a release date. Will that release date still be in 2011? If Twilight Princess is any previous indication, this game may need to be delayed a few more times though one can hope.

• Mario 3DS Detailed - We haven't heard much about this one yet aside from a few screenshots. I think it is a safe bet this E3 is going to bring whatever the game's actual title is, as well as a wave of hype to go with it.

And well, that's about it. What's above is all that I felt were bullet point worthy. I'm sure Nintendo is going to announce a boatload of games to expect in the future, but I don't think many of them are going to make as much of a splash as the aforementioned two will. Have no doubt though, this show is going to have a huge emphasis on Nintendo's new console, and I'm curious to see what they have in store for us. Think there's something big that I missed? Feel free to leave a comment below!