Covarr said:
Even if the save file is created on normal, running it through a USB loader using alt dol method will cause the game to play in veteran difficulty.
I guess I'm the only one who retains the Normal difficulty. Using USB with alt .dol loading will only allow you to create one valid save, which occurrs when you launch the menu. Obviously you can select Normal, but when you start MP1, the Wii resets. The difficulty has not been saved.
However, if you use a dvd-r backup to select Normal, and continue playing to the first save room, you can create a valid save, retaining the options you set in the menu. Then using USB loaders, the alt .dol for MP1 will auto-load that valid save, and retain your previous settings. I can confirm that the Normal difficulty is intact with USB loading, since the difference between the two difficulties is pretty obvious, even when taking out a normal space pirate with your plasma cannon.