Mario Tennis Open’s Motion Controls Demoed At GDC

Nintendo brought Mario Tennis Open to Game Developer’s Conference and I got to play a couple matches with Mario. Camelot Software turned the bottom screen into a grid of triangles and diamonds representing different types of swings. Selecting lob or slice is as easy as touching a certain part of the screen. Touch screen controls are optional, you can press buttons (sometimes two together) to do the same shots.

Mario Tennis Open also utilizes the Nintendo 3DS’ gyro sensor. Hold the handheld upright and the game shifts into over the shoulder camera mode. This also turns off the 3D effect and activates motion control. You can swing the system side by side to aim shots. Move the system down and Mario Tennis Open reverts to an overhead camera.

Camelot Software added online play to Mario Tennis Open. You will be able to challenge other players around the world or buddies from your friends list in singles or doubles matches.

Mario Tennis Open comes out in North America on May 20.