Coliseum

In addition to single-console multiplayer that takes advantage of the Wii U gamepad’s built-in screen, Pokkén also features a LAN mode for use with paired systems that maintains a crucial 60 frames per second. As such, this will likely serve as the tournament standard, and the developers have provided some useful information on how to activate this mode.

LAN play can be achieved three separate ways: a standard home network using a wired connection, a similar setup using wireless, and a direct connection between the Wii U systems. While the first two are relatively easy, the third takes a bit of extra legwork, as detailed by Serebii below.

Interestingly enough, the Lan Battle option is not available on the main menu. Instead, the mode is hidden behind a simple input (L+R+DOWN+START) on the title screen.

That being said, all of the game’s content is unlocked in LAN mode, including Shadow Mewtwo and the entire cast of support Pokémon. As these characters normally need to be obtained by playing through Pokkén Tournament’s various single-player modes, this is a huge boon for tournament organizers who often find themselves strapped for time as it is.

Pokkén Tournament launches for Wii U worldwide on March 18.

Source: Pokémon via Serebii, NeoGAF

Today marks one month since we all got our hands on the release version of Street Fighter V. Since that day, we’ve poured hours into training mode, netplay, locals with friends, small tournaments at the corner comic shop, and yes, even survival mode (gotta look good). We’ve been practicing, to say the least, and now it’s time to pile into a car with our buddies–or, I guess hop on a plane, but everyone loves a good road trip–and make our way out to some major events to feed the pot, gain some experience, shake off our stage fright, and finally see what all the hype is about.

But how, exactly, do we prepare for such an excursion? What steps are necessary to ensure that our tournament trip is a successful one, even if we don’t make it out of pools? BROKENTIER’s Jay “Viscant” Snyder touches on this topic in the latest entry of his “Hit the Ground Running” series. When it comes to tournaments, Snyder’s no slouch; on top of years of experience traveling to, participating in, and placing well in major events, this veteran took home first place in Marvel vs. Capcom 3 back at Evolution 2011, so he knows his stuff when it comes to the tournament world.

Whether you’ve been attending tournaments for years yourself, or if your first planned major is just around the corner, Snyder’s advice is certain to offer some necessary insights. His tips range from checking the names of the other players in your pool and doing your best to study up on their style when possible and deciding which bits of tech you may not want to try and use in a high-pressure environment to things as simple as not staying up all night drinking and remembering to eat.

As obvious as some of this may sound, it’s easy to forget when everyone in the room starts yelling in unison with Akuma or when you see a favorite player of yours take a seat on the main stage. Hype is everywhere, and you should take part in it when you can, but remember that you’re also there to compete.

Be sure to check out the original post in full over at BROKENTIER.

Source: BROKENTIER