It really seems that the Nintendo of America is trying to push the fact that Smash Bros. is a tournament level game and can be played seriously.  This goes against actions and statements that Nintendo has made in the past with regards to it being a party game that everybody is supposed to enjoy.

While there is no question pertaining to the validity of it’s status as one of the most popular party games in history, there is a growing subset of Smash players that take this game dead seriously and play the game just as you expect to see Street Fighter or Tekken played at major tournaments.  Popular streaming site Twitch even went to far as to host a Smash week to put the spotlight on tournament level Smash players.

You will also recall the Smash Invitational tournament at E3 and a Smash Bros. 3DS tournament at San Diego Comic Com.  Reggie Fils-Aime himself even showed up, via recording, to thank players of competitive smash as well as tell them about the new game at EVO 2014, the biggest fighting game tournament in the world.

Well they aren’t stopping there as on October 4th Nintendo will host nation wide tournaments for Smash Bros. 3DS at 15 select Gamestop stores as well as the Nintendo World Store in Times Square in New York City.

Prizes include at 3DS XL system, game, and travel accommodations to the finals for the local winners and a custom champion’s robe and trophy for the grand prize winner.  Rules and details can be seen here.

Let us know what you think of Nintendo’s sudden acceptance of the competitive scene with these new games and if you will be competing in these tournaments.