In strikers, two teams—including a team captain and three sidekicks—face off on the soccer field. Captains include some of the most notably members of the Nintendo family, including Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Wario, etc, etc, while sidekicks like Toad, Birdo, Boo, Monte Mole, Dry Bones, Shyguy, and others make appearances—just to name a few.

Designed for the Wii, the game utilizes both the Wii controller and nunchaku, controlling moving, passing, defense, and—with a flick of the controller—shooting. Each captain and sidekick also have special tricks they can pull off, like Peach’s ability to trap opponents in photographs, Wario’s flatulence, or Boo’s ability to carry the ball inside himself. Captains can also pull off a charged up shot, firing off up to six balls the goalie. Player’s can also take control of the goalie, moving their hands with the Wiimote to fend off incoming shots.

Aside from special abilities, the designers said much more time was spent in this incarnation differentiating the team captains, allowing you choices of team makeup to have a much more significant effect on the game. Where the game takes place also can influence a lot, as seventeen different stadiums each have different tricks and traps, like enemies on the field or perils like quicksand.

Both in and outside of game play there were a ton of animations, from cute little between goal events (like Shy Guy’s mask falling off), team captain intro scenes, and the surprisingly hardcore introduction movie.

Being my first time, I was surprised how easily the game controlled. Sometimes it feels like games are stifled by the Wii controllers, or try too hard to be innovative with them. In Strikers, the joystick and motion sensor controls feels surprisingly natural, while still feeling like there was a versatility and depth of control.

Speaking of versatility, Strikers is also going to be the second game for the Wii—after Pokemon Battle Revolution—to allow online play. Upon connecting with friends or other players, you can set the rules of your match, or even employ special features unlocked in the single player game.

Mario Strikers Charged hits this July.