For Nintendo, E3 2018 was all about Smash Bros. Ultimate, Pokémon Let’s Go, and Fire Emblem: Three Houses. While fans of these titles were excited to see these games get the spotlight this year at the event, many others were wondering what happened to the rumored “Star Fox Grand Prix” and the next core Pokémon game. Seeking answers to these questions, IGN reached out to Nintendo for commentary. Here’s what they had to say about some of the biggest E3 no shows.
Mother 3
The Mother series developed a cult following years after the release of Mother 2 or “Earthbound” as it became known in the US. Since Ness appeared in the original Super Smash Bros., the series became more and more popular in the west. After a lot of pushing by fans, Nintendo eventually rereleased Mother 2 for the 3DS and Wii U Virtual Console in 2013. Despite the surging popularity of the game, and the fact that it’s been more than 12 years since Mother 3 came out on Game Boy Advance,
“I know there’s a fan base for that title. All I could say is we’re aware. It’s something that we always think about in terms of where there are opportunities to reintroduce IP to fans, to do it in a way that builds new fans, we’re certainly aware. No promises, no commitments one way or the other, but we’re aware.”
The way I see it, the lack of a proper release of Mother 3 outside of Japan is just another one of Nintendo’s many bizarre business decisions.Judging by the amazing numbers the fan released production put out, I’m sure they’ll make more than enough money to justify the costs of a putting together a rerelease.
Animal Crossing
With the success of Animal Crossing Pocket Camp, Fils-Aime mentioned that it is likely that the series will continue.
“We see tremendous opportunity in using the mobile platform to introduce IP to consumers who may not be as familiar. Animal Crossing is a great example. Tremendous interaction with Pocket Camp.” Fans are really enjoying that experience. We’re introducing it to new consumers. That bodes well for whenever the next Animal Crossing might come.”
Yoshi
Back at E3 2017, Nintendo showcased a demo for “Yoshi” a game featuring one of the companies most iconic characters. Originally scheduled for a 2018 release, it has since been pushed back to 2019. Nintendo’s senior product marketing manager, Bill Trinen, had this to say about the delayed release of the game.
“It’s actually been making really good progress. They decided they wanted to make some improvements, so they’re going to take just a little bit more time on it and that’s why we’re not showing it this year at the show. But I think you can look forward to some updates on it later in 2018.”
Aside from these titles and Metroid Prime 4, Nintendo hasn’t made any official statements regarding any of the other E3 2018 no shows. Hopefully we don’t have to wait too long for some news on the supposed Star Fox racing game we’re supposed to get as well as the upcoming core Pokémon game.
Featured Image Credits: Nintendo UK
