A recent episode of Nintendo Direct has narrowed down the European release dates of titles for both the 3DS and the Wii U. North American releases weren't mentioned, but they can't be too far behind their Euro counter parts.
Dates mentioned weren't exact, but it does give a better idea when the games can be expected. Titles and dates mentioned during the show include the following:
Pikmin 3 - Second quarter of 2013
Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon - March, 2013
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate - March, 2013
Dr. Kawashima's Devilish Training - March 8th, 2013
Rhythm Hunter Harmo Knight - March, 2013
Fire Emblem: Awakening - April, 2013
Castlevania is the title that most seem to have their eyes on, as it will serve as a precursor to the highly anticipated Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2. Set 25 years after the events of the first game, players take on the role of Gabriel's descendants, including Trevor, Simon, and Alucard. Each character features in their own era, and are equipped with unique abilities and skills: Trevor can double-jump, use Light and Shadow magic, and can use unique sub-weapons like the Glaive and Electric Bomb. Simon has different sub-weapons and can summon guardians to fight for him or protect him from harm. And Alucard will be able to turn himself into mist like he could in Symphony of the Night.
It will be the first Castlevania game to utilize stereographic 3D. The perspective is in 3D, but movement will be confined to 2D in most areas.
"Following the enormous success of Castlevania: Lords of Shadow, we wanted to provide fans with the next installment in the Lords of Shadow universe, showcasing all the capabilities that the new Nintendo 3DS platform has to offer," said Dave Cox, Producer on the title and Head of Product Planning and Development for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. "Two years later, we are proud to announce the highly anticipated Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate, a stunning 3D action adventure title that will give players an unrivaled, intense handheld gaming experience, while shedding light on the lineage and true destiny of the Belmont family."
