Missing that New Super Mario Brothers for Wii online multiplayer? You’re not alone. Kotaku recently sat down with NOA president Reggie Fils-Aime to discuss what many assumed would be a front and center feature of the new game:

“This was a decision made purely by the developers. They believe this experience, in the same room, to be elbowing your friends and family members as you’re playing the game [is ideal]. It was really their decision. I personally would have loved for it to be online capable as well, but having played the game, I really can’t fault it for not being online multiplayer.”

That answer doesn’t surprise me. His admission would not be the first time its been noted that Nintendo seems more focused on bringing human beings into the same room for their gaming experience, rather than relying on online play. What IS surprising is the technique itself. For all the gaming industry’s attempts at forcing everyone to buy a copy of a game if they want to go multiplayer (therefore making more $$$), Nintendo has defiantly decided to keep their systems a more social experience. (Not that playing online with a faceless cipher isn’t a group activity per se, but there’s something to be said for the excitement of playing with your friends all together in your living room.) I find it both strange and a relief that a worldwide leader in the electronics arena would recognize the value of making the experience a social one, when many are instead capitalizing on the loner aspect of video games. Its no wonder then that its the console preferred for a family experience. Call it sissy, call it casual, call it whatever you want but THIS hardcore gamer will be playing New Super Mario Brothers for Wii with Mom and Pops come Thanksgiving Day.

Kotaku
via GoNintendo