Gaming's most recognizable personalities return to internationally celebrated athletic competition in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games. Following their 2008-based summer games outing in Beijing, the two mascots and their corporately aligned teams head to Vancouver for the 2010 games, to do their best in cold-weather sports such as alpine skiing, speed skating, snowboarding, and bobsled. The game features all the playable characters that competed in Mario & Sonic's original summer games, as well as new personas, such as Metal Sonic and Donkey Kong. Each character is rated in three basic areas -- speed, power, and skill -- so different characters excel in different events. Players can also choose to play as a Mii character, and new options allow customization with winter clothing and accessories. A "Festival Mode" allows characters to take part in opening and closing ceremonies. The game features adjustable difficulty settings, and other options designed to make play accessible for competitors of all ages and skill levels, while still providing a challenge for console gaming experts. Olympic events in the Wii version of the game feature motion controls, with same-screen competitive and cooperative multiplayer modes. The Wii version of the game also allows players an option to use the Balance Board accessory in some events (although it is not required). Published by Nintendo in Japan and by Sega elsewhere around the world, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is officially licensed by the International Olympic Committee.
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