This news is almost as awesome as this Cave Story fan art (by Risachantag)

Indie legend Cave Story is coming to the 3DS eShop, along with a special 3D mode and additional content. It's out 4th October in North America, with a retail price of $9.99.

Not to be confused with Cave Story 3D - the 2011 release which effectively rebuilt the game in 3D from the ground up - this digital download is an update of the original 2D version. As such, it will contain the 'classic' visuals but will add in a 3D effect which takes advantage of the 3DS' unique auto-stereoscopic display.

Here's what Nicalis have to say about it:

The original 2D pixel-based Cave Story is officially releasing on the eShop as a native 3D game on October 4th, 2012 for $9.99! Additionally, Cave Story for eShop supports widescreen and original 4:3 modes, two button configurations and MORE Challenges!

Cave Story for eShop Features:

  • 4:3 and REAL widescreen support. YES!
  • Multi-layered 3D depth (and lots of it!)
  • Additional Challenge modes (including Nemesis Challenge, Boss Rush, Curly Story, Hell Time Attack and Wind Fortress!)
  • And all the other stuff you love: over 20 epic boss battles, 15 levels to explore in the vast world, 10 unique weapons to find and upgrade, four unique endings

Note: Nintendo DSi owners can purchase the 2D version of Cave Story via DSiWare.

[source twitter.com]