Wow, this is amazing. So much buzz from this leak, it's getting me hype. I'm pretty neutral, leaning to "I think it's real", but I'm really trying to be realistic and unbiased about all this. I say I'm leaning to "real," but I just wanted to list some of my reasons, and even play devil's advocate. So take a look, and consider both sides.
I think it's real because:
- I see no remnants of photoshopping (blurs, awkward pixelation, errors in details)
- Model looks unique, in that it is inspired by Brawl and KI:U, but isn't either
- Background looks unique, in that its relative location is evident, but it's still an angle we haven't seen
I'm reiterating too many before me when I say that for a fake, this would be PRETTY impressive. Putting so much effort into a fake (polish, detail, even creative freedom) is unlikely, but that "hunch" is all subjective and not actual evidence,
now...
I think it's fake because:
- It's strange to see no light source on the 3DS; color/contrast balancing is too good
- The leaker (supposedly) had time for a nice camera angle, presumably in debug mode, and sans HUD (and still no bottom screen pics?)
Of course, one could theorize that the pictures were viewed on the 3DS' image gallery, and that there would be no reason to capture the bottom screen.
As to whether or not Palutena is an Assist Trophy: I think she's certainly not.
- Outlines are usually for playable characters
- Model is very detailed for such a minor role
Both of the images have her in poses that seem more idle/taunt-esque than anything an Assist Trophy would do, so...
I hope I get to play as a hot leggy green haired Greek goddess with an intimidating staff in this upcoming Smash title, mkay?