Famitsu leaks point to second 3DS circle pad - details

Famitsu leaks have detailed an alleged 3DS add on with a second circle pad, lending credence to earlier rumours of the twin-control peripheral.

According to Andriasang's usually reliable sources, Famitsu is carrying a preview of Monster Hunter 3G, the first entry in the series to grace a Nintendo portable and a revamped version of Monster Hunter Tri for Wii.

Monster Hunter is a raging success on the PSP, where the lack of a second analog control is bemoaned as one of its severest detracting features. The 3DS version will one-up its PSP rival by catering to a first-party peripheral which sits over the console's face buttons, with an extra circle pad set to the right of the usual ABXY configuration.

If true, it's expected that Nintendo will announce the new accessory tomorrow. The New Monster Hunter is apparently due in Japan before the end of the year, suggesting the peripheral will also be available shortly. Engadget has a shot of the scanned image here.

The add-on was rumoured last month alongside a hardware revision with twin controls built in, as well as a de-emphasising of 3D features. Keep your eyes glued to the TGS; Nintendo's presser may be a bonanza.

Thanks, 1UP.