Worldwide sales expectations were exceeded with the first Mario and Sonic outing, making it obvious that a sequel was in the works. Sure enough, SEGA today opened the lid on Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games. Due out late 2009 on Wii and Nintendo DS, the game takes players to Vancouver, Canada, the soon-to-be home of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Development duties are being handled by Sega of Japan, under the guidance of famed game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. Players will be able to partake in a wide variety of competitive events, from Alpine Skiing to Speed Skating.

“We are extremely happy to again team up with Nintendo and ISM on what promises to be another global success.” says Naoya Tsurumi, CEO, SEGA of America and SEGA Europe. “Sonic will partner with Mario once more beneath the spotlight of the legendary Olympic Games. Together they will face new athletic challenges that will provide gamers with more of the exciting experiences unique to this series.”

”SEGA has been a valued publishing partner of Nintendo for many years and Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is the ultimate representation of that relationship,” said Reggie Fils-Aime, president and COO, Nintendo of America. “We look for this game to continue the tradition its predecessor started by bringing new events, new characters, and new gameplay experiences to fans worldwide.”

In addition to a cast of familiar characters, SEGA proclaims that the title will bring “new faces to the series.” Furthermore, the console version will feature Wii Balance Board support for select events.

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