Portable consoles have steadily lost market share due to more powerful smartphones. Mobile games have taken hold due to the accessibility of getting an affordable handset. Nintendo on the other hand have always been confident of their portable consoles. However, after the critical success of "Pokemon Go," it seems the Japanese company is keen to invest in mobile gaming. They are set to release a mobile game that stars their recognizable mascot called "Super Mario Run"
According to AndroidHeadlines, President of Nintendo America Reggie Fils-Aime claims that the mobile games market has established a large hold over portable games. It's apparent not all territories have access to portable consoles like their popular Nintendo 3DS. He claims the company has made a decision to adapt with the current landscape and grab the opportunity. Reggie also mentioned that some countries have high import taxes, which obviously makes it impractical to purchase a console. "Super Mario Run" is just a prelude to more Nintendo titles scheduled to debut next year.
"Pokemon," "Fire Emblem" and "Animal Crossing" are just some of the franchises that are expected to make their way to mobile phones. Nintendo has also embraced the idea of playing on the go. Their upcoming Nintendo Switch emphasizes on this idea. Being able to grab your console and continue your progress has gotten fans excited about the Switch. Their "Pokemon Sun and Moon" have broken sales records and still establishes their hold over the portable console market. Sony's PSVita on the other hand has seen a decline in interest. In another report by Gamenguide, Sony has already expressed its commitment to bring beloved Playstation games to smartphones by next year. Nintendo currently has "Pokemon Go" and "Super Mario Run."
"Super Mario Run" will be initially released for Apple devices on Dec. 15 and Android devices next year. Nintendo's NES classic edition also continues to be popular with nostalgic holiday shoppers as inventories continue to get sold out. It seems that Nintendo might end the year right and start the next year strong.
