Details from Nintendo's DS-centric press conference in Japan. USB dongle, Brain Training 2, more cool WiFi Connection graphics... its all here.

In Tokyo this morning, Nintendo held a press conference expressly for the purpose of fleshing out details on their upcoming plans for the DS. At the forefront of the conference was talk of the Nintendo Wi-fi Connection, to debut in conjunction with online-enabled DS games this fall. In a switch with the West, the first Wi-fi Connection game in Japan will be Animal Crossing on November 23rd followed by Mario Kart DS on December 8th (note: November 11th in Europe). Actually connecting to the service has been setup to be as flexible and simple as possible.

This Wi-fi connection graphic outlines the three tenets of Nintendo's online strategy: "Easy, Safe, Free".
The conference outlined four particular methods:

• Using a Wi-fi router, of which Buffalo's AOSS and NEC's Raku Raku Musen Start were given particular mention
• Using a special USB dongle that simply plugs in to the USB port of a online-enabled computer
• Using a Nintendo wireless access point, with up to 1000 planned for installation in japanese game stores
• Using a FreeSpot access point of which 3000 currently are setup throughout Japan

Nintendo also reiterated that all of their games will be free to play, though third parties may independently opt to set up their own fee structures.

Another important focus of the press conference was to announce the next stage of "Touch! Generations" software that have proven wildly popular in Japan. With Brain Training for Adults single-handedly selling over 500,000 copies in Japan, Nintendo is betting these new titles will continue to satisfy their new userbase. They include:

• Eigo Zuke - Based on a popular computer application, this title helps the user learn English. Fully incorporates the DS functionality including the touch screen and microphone. It is due in January next year.
• Daredemo Asobi Taikai - This title boasts a collection of (at least) 42 instantly accessible popular boardgames. With wireless support for up to 8 players and DS download play integration, the game should prove very popular for groups to enjoy. It is due early November.
• Motto Nou wo Kitaeru Otona no DS Training - And of course, we have a new Brain Training game waiting in the wings and just in time for Christmas. Nintendo, how thoughtful of you. This game will provide even more of the daily puzzles and teasers that have hooked so many thousands of Japanese DS owners. Additionally, this version will boast improved handwriting recognition with kanji drawing tests.

Stay tuned to R-E for any updates regarding the DS Wi-fi Connection service.