New Gunvolt 2 Details and Trailer From Today's Nintendo Direct *UPDATED*

Well, I don't think anyone saw this coming, especially so soon after Magfest! Today's Nintendo Direct just released some new information about Gunvolt 2, in addition to some exclusive gameplay footage from the title. Among the most important details that were announced, Copen was confirmed as a new playable character, and we received a new release window for Gunvolt 2.

Copen, in his playable form, will be capable of copying other boss's abilities and using them himself. The trailer shows that Copen is not only able to use these abilities to attack, but also to traverse stages. In addition, he can dash into enemies to "tag" them, and then use homing missiles to destroy his targets.

The game is currently slated for release this Summer. You can check out the new trailer for the game here:

The Direct also announced that the 3DS version of the first game will be on sale 33% off until 6/1, for those who have not had the opportunity yet to play it.

UPDATE: Seems that the Japanese version of this trailer features a sneak-peek at Lumen's new design in the dialogue with Ouka. Take a look below (thanks to Jordan and Kiwi for pointing this out!). You can definitely see some "Joule" influences in Lumen's new design, especially around her eyes and hair.

UPDATE #2: Official cover art revealed! (Thanks again, Kiwi!) Hi-res version here.

UPDATE #3: Official character artwork released via Gamer.ne (and other Japanese gaming sites) for GV, Ouka and Copen, in addition to other screens:

UPDATE #4: Character profiles added. These are from the Inti Creates official website:

Gunvolt (VA: Kaito Ishikawa)

Gunvolt is an incredibly powerful adept with the ability to control lightning. He fights using a gun that fires special darts that, when locked onto an enemy, allow him to strike with pinpoint accurate electrical attacks.

The soul of a departed adept named Joule now resides within him, and with them perfectly synchronized as one, his power has been increased to its absolute utmost limits.

Still reeling from the profound loss and pain he experienced from his past battles, his chance meeting with a girl named Ouka helped him get back on his feet.

Ouka (VA: Reina Kondo)

Ouka is an ordinary girl with no septimal powers. Recently, she was on the wrong end of a nasty encounter with a murderous adept, and only made it out alive thanks to Gunvolt. Since that day, she has been taking shelter at Gunvolt's home. 

Ouka was born into a family that runs a massive financial conglomerate, and lived by herself, hidden away from society in a large estate until the day that she crossed paths with Gunvolt.

She can be a bit of an airhead sometimes, but she has a kind and gentle demeanor, and is a tremendous moral support for Gunvolt.

Copen (VA: Kosuke Masuo)

Copen is the son a famous scientist whose research detailed the dangerous threat that adepts pose to society. To honor the dying wish of his late father, Copen fights to eradicate all adepts from the world.

While he may be a normal human without any septimal powers, his technological prowess and combat abilities exceed that of many adepts.

Since the events of the last game, Copen has completely revamped his gear. His new gear is designed for maximum mobility, which allows him to dash through the air and perform mid-air attacks like never before. He is also now accompanied by LoLo, a combat bot that aids his offense, defense, and mobility.