Mario returns, Sonic is saved, games are announced, and some classic "please understand" moments.
I hope you Nintendo fans are ready for an unforgettable year. Well, it will be if I'm correct. You may think some of my 2015 predictions are crazy, but I swear I'm not.
Shin Megami Tensai X Fire Emblem is Cancelled
It has been about a year and a half since we last heard Nintendo Mention this title. If we do not hear anything more about this game in an early 2015 Direct, the jig is up. I expect SMTxFE to not be mentioned most of the year until Nintendo finally makes a statement about it being cancelled.
Mushroom Kingdom Warriors
As far as attach rate goes, Hyrule Warriors should be considered a success. To fill the gaps between releases, Nintendo will once again entrust Koei Tecmo with a beloved Nintendo franchise to create a button mashing spin-off. The Mario universe is a perfect fit for a wacky warriors game. Imagine Peach crushing a mob of Goomba’s with her frying pan, or Mario barbecuing Koopa Troopas. Let’s just hope Team Ninja doesn’t go overboard with the Peach and Rosalina character models.
Super Mario Universe Announced
The Wii U will finally receive a proper sequel to Mario Galaxy 2. We know that the Mario team has been working on the latest Mario game since 3D World Launched in late 2013. Fans of Mario 64 will be pleased with this game’s return to exploration style 3D Mario. This game will also build on 3D world by offering co-op multiplayer as well as multiple playable characters. Look for an announcement this year with a Summer 2016 release date.
Animal Crossing U
Animal Crossing U will get a late fall release along with a new wave of Amiibo figures and Amiibo cards. Included in this new wave will be a repose of the Villager figure which will allow players to save their character and house and scan it in on a friend’s console to move to their town. It will feature StreetPass if players connect their 3DS to the Wii U. This Animal Crossing will take full advantage of the Super Smash Bros. Amiibo line. By scanning in your Amiibo, that character will move into your town. Animal Crossing U will be the Wii U’s big holiday game along with Zelda.
Nintendo purchases the rights to Sonic the Hedgehog
After their deal with Sega produced one mediocre Sonic game, and three other garbage games, Nintendo decides that the Sonic franchise is able to be revived, but only if they can get a quality team behind the production of the games. Look for Retro Studios or Next Level Games to make the first Nintendo first party Sonic the Hedgehog game to be released in 2016.