It seems that the popular Japanese Nintendo game, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, may be coming online. More interestingly, the new version may include some non-Nintendo characters, as well as simplified combat.

Although game director Masahiro Sakurai has not determined the official character lineup as of yet, he has added one named "Solid Snake," indicating that non-Nintendo characters are being contemplated. Nonetheless, they must have appeared on a Nintendo platform at some time in order to be considered, and in any event, there will not be more than one or two additions.

Since Super Smash Bros. Brawl is popular throughout the world, they initially did not want to include Japanese-specific characters. However, some feedback on Fire Emblem additions have caused Sakurai to re-think his position.  Right now,it's too early to tell what the finalized lineup will look like, but will include characters besides the already beloved Mario and Link.

Online networking for SSBB has already been confirmed, but Sakurai isn't in a hurry.  His team is looking into the feature and hopes to include online play before the game ships next year, there won't be a complex interface; for example, there are no plans for leader boards.

Sakurai says a Nintendo DS version of the fighting series isn't in development at the moment, but doesn't rule out one for the future.