I predict that de Blob will become everybody's darling at E3. I fell in love with THQ's original platformer at the Nintendo Media Summit because of its great art style, fluid controls, and remarkably accessible and enjoyable multiplayer. The game has started to get some love from other media outlets recently all indicating that it has gotten better. I expect this game to lead THQ to a surprisingly strong, innovative, and aggressively Nintendo-centric E3.

I also hope to see Kirby Wii materialize as a new 2.5D platformer. The game, originally a GameCube title, keeps getting mentioned, so maybe Nintendo's positioning it as the perfect title to bridge new Wii gamers with the wonderful world of traditional gaming. After all, the "one tough creampuff" was an original "bridge" title when it released on the NES. The game was intended as a beginner's platform game and has always been accessible and rather easy-going. He's a great mascot for Nintendo, and a great opportunity for new gamers to graduate to something a little more old-school.

Oh, but watch out for Microsoft. There's a lot of talk going on about them stealing Nintendo's thunder. I totally anticipate Microsoft talking about Mii-like avatars and Wii-like motion controllers on the Xbox 360.