Legendary and perennial game designer Shigeru Miyamoto says Nintendo is now ready to pay attention to online play, since enough people have Internet access now that working on online features won’t marginalize as many players. Or something. Mario’s creator habitually offers insights into Nintendo’s plans, but they’re usually rather more quirky than outright eyebrow-raising.
“For a long time at Nintendo we didn’t focus as much on online play because for many years doing so would have limited the size of the audience that could enjoy those features. But certainly now we see that so many people are connected to the Internet. It opens up a tremendous amount of possibilities,” Miyamoto said to the New York Times.
The Evolution of Online Play in Nintendo Games
Nintendo has historically been cautious about diving into the online gaming space. While competitors like Sony and Microsoft have long embraced online multiplayer experiences, Nintendo has often prioritized local multiplayer and family-friendly gaming. This approach has been evident in consoles like the Wii and the Wii U, which focused more on innovative gameplay mechanics and less on robust online features. However, with the advent of the Nintendo Switch, the company has started to shift its stance. The Switch Online service, for instance, offers a range of online multiplayer options, cloud saves, and even a library of classic NES and SNES games that can be played online.
“I think that the Wii U still has a long future,” he said. “We really view it as being the ideal device that families are going to want to have connected to that screen in the living room that everyone is going to gather around and watch. Certainly in the short term I would want to see it performing with probably a little more momentum. I think in the long term I’m not at a point where I’m concerned yet.”
Challenges and Opportunities
One of the challenges Nintendo has faced in the online gaming arena is the perception that its online services lag behind those of its competitors. Issues such as friend codes, lack of voice chat, and limited online infrastructure have been points of criticism. However, Miyamoto’s comments suggest that Nintendo is aware of these shortcomings and is actively working to address them. The company has already made strides with the Nintendo Switch Online service, which has seen a steady increase in subscribers and positive reception for its growing library of classic games.
Moreover, the potential for online play extends beyond just multiplayer gaming. Features like downloadable content (DLC), seasonal events, and online leaderboards can significantly enhance the gaming experience. Games like “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” have demonstrated how online features can create a vibrant, engaged community of players who interact in various ways, from visiting each other’s islands to participating in in-game events.
Another exciting avenue is the integration of online play with mobile gaming. Nintendo has already ventured into mobile games with titles like “Super Mario Run” and “Mario Kart Tour,” both of which feature online components. The synergy between console and mobile gaming could open up new possibilities for cross-platform play and a more unified gaming ecosystem.
Source New York Times
In conclusion, Shigeru Miyamoto’s insights reveal a promising future for Nintendo’s online gaming endeavors. As more players gain access to reliable internet connections, the opportunities for innovative online features and community-driven experiences will only grow. While Nintendo has been cautious in the past, the company appears ready to embrace the digital age fully, ensuring that its beloved franchises continue to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
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