Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 3D moves from 3DS launch window to 3DS launch title @ Gaming Target

Written by Matt Swider on February 13, 2011

News: Konami says the release date for PES 2011 3D is March 25.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 for Nintendo 3DS

You're going to be able to play Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 on your brand new $250 Nintendo 3DS on day one, says the game's publisher, Konami.

PES 2011 was one of the many games that was slated for the handheld system's "launch window," which, according to Nintendo of America President and CEO Reggie Fils-Aime, meant anywhere from 3DS' North American launch on March 25 to the end of June. Thankfully, for international football fans, their FIFA-alternative favorite won't be one of those post-E3 titles to release right before the "launch window" shuts.

In addition to taking advantage of the glasses-free third dimension of the Nintendo 3DS screen, this game will utilize the handheld's camera. Doing this will allow the game to shadow a user's every movement and, in turn, allow players to see their teammates making runs in the channels and moving into space.

PES 2011 will also be a Street Pass-capable game. Besides playing an opponent in wireless play, Street Pass mode adds a competitive element to the Master League mode in that it senses when another Master League team is in the vicinity and compares the strength of each side, their respective strategies and stats. A winner is awarded based on who's side is stronger and gamers with a strong win rate on Street Pass will be promoted to an upper Street Pass Ranking until they reach the ultimate ranking - the UEFA Champions League.

All this and more on the release date of PES 2011, now March 25, a little over a month away.