@Legend: there are no motion controls in this game. When you use the Wii-Mote, you hold it sideways and use only the 1 and 2 buttons and the D-Pad. You can use the Wiimote+2 button for a smash attack, but it's better to just hold the 2 button.

I can definietely see points taken off for these things:

1. Depth in the fighting system
2. Online play could suck (Nintendo isn't very experienced in this aspect)
3. Single Player could be lacking

I expect the reviews to be slightly better than MP3. Around a 91-93%.

my guess is around a 9.2 but it could easily be higher
they have the tried and true smash gameplay that is so easy to love
but they also have pulled a Halo 3 with some of the most extensive customization options i've ever seen:
build your own levels, user made levels sent to you, coin launcher, spectator and gambling, different character variations, customizable music, etc.
This game will last years

 The game doesn't use motion controls. 

This may just be your way of "getting back," but the changes and additions to Melee in Brawl seem to be significant, not just "bells and whistles."  There were also many changes in Halo 3 as well, and it won "Most Innovative" from several publications. I was not one of the people who bashed Halo 3 (I own it) and I expect Brawl to be as good. 

I do think online play will increase the score even if it is 2008. This will be the first competitive, good Wii game to have online play. Online play will definitely make the game more enjoyable.