Nintendo is once again taking an unorthodox route in its plans for E3 2014 games conference, which include a Super Smash Bros. tournament for Wii U and playable demos of its new titles in conjunction with Best Buy stores in the US.
A Nintendo representative also confirmed that, just like it did last year, the company won’t hold a press conference at E3 2014.
Elaborating on its Super Smash Bros. tournament plans, Nintendo stated that it will invite 16 “highly skilled¦players” to a Super Smash Bros. for Wii U tournament to be held at the Nokia Theatre LA, live during E3.
Nintendo is also continuing last year’s partnership with Best Buy – through which the public got to play unreleased Wii U titles at the electronics retailer during E3 week – to allow people to play Super Smash Bros. for Wii U at participating Best Buy locations in an event called Super Smash Bros. Smash Fest.
To the chagrin of gaming journalists everywhere, Nintendo is once again ditching a press conference at the event. In its place will be a Digital Event, described as a “video programme” that will offer information about the company’s gaming plans for the future.
The Nintendo Digital Event will begin at noon ET on Tuesday 10 June 10. It’s unclear at this point if the Nintendo Digital Event will resemble a Nintendo Direct presentation.
Additionally, Nintendo will give its fans an inside look at E3 with Nintendo Treehouse: Live @ E3; a series of daily live-streams from the company’s E3 show floor booth.
The videos will be hosted by developers from the Treehouse, Nintendo of America’s Product Development department. According to Nintendo, the live-streams will include live game demos.
“We demonstrated last year that we are never afraid to reinvent a proven tactic or to break completely new ground if we believe it will provide the best experience for our fans, followers and partners,” said Reggie Fils-Aime, President and Chief Operating Officer of Nintendo America.
“So, whether you’re attending E3 in person or joining online, there’s an amazing lineup of games, experiences and events coming your way.”
You can watch the full video that announced Nintendo’s plans for E3 2014 below.