Nintendo posted its latest financial results last week, and the company announced poor sales of its Wii U console, and now the company may be changing its strategy.
Smartphone and tablet gaming has become popular over the last few years, although Nintendo has yet to embrace the technology, this may be about to change.
Nintendo are considering their own smart device, according to a recent report by the Financial Post, exactly what they will release remains to be seen, it could be a smartphone, or tablet or both.
“We are thinking about a new business structure,” Iwata said at a press conference today in Osaka, Japan. “Given the expansion of smart devices, we are naturally studying how smart devices can be used to grow the game-player business. It’s not as simple as enabling Mario to move on a smartphone.”
So it doesn’t look like Nintendo will be releasing their games on existing platforms like Android and Apple’s OS, instead the company may be looking to release its own smartphone or tablet.
The Rise of Mobile Gaming
The gaming landscape has dramatically shifted over the past decade. Mobile gaming has surged in popularity, with millions of users worldwide engaging in games on their smartphones and tablets. Titles like “Candy Crush Saga,” “Clash of Clans,” and “Pokémon GO” have demonstrated the massive potential and profitability of mobile gaming. This trend has not gone unnoticed by traditional gaming companies, many of which have started to explore mobile platforms to reach a broader audience.
Nintendo, known for its iconic franchises such as Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, has historically focused on dedicated gaming consoles. However, the underwhelming performance of the Wii U has prompted the company to reconsider its approach. The potential entry of Nintendo into the mobile gaming market could be a game-changer, leveraging its beloved characters and franchises to capture a new segment of gamers.
Potential Impact on Nintendo’s Future
If Nintendo decides to develop its own smart device, it could significantly impact the company’s future. A Nintendo-branded smartphone or tablet would allow the company to create a seamless ecosystem for its games, similar to how Apple and Google have integrated their hardware and software. This could lead to a more cohesive and enjoyable gaming experience for users.
Moreover, a dedicated Nintendo smart device could offer unique features tailored specifically for gaming. For instance, it could include specialized controllers, enhanced graphics capabilities, and exclusive content that sets it apart from other mobile devices. This would not only attract existing Nintendo fans but also entice new users looking for a superior mobile gaming experience.
However, entering the highly competitive mobile device market is not without its challenges. Companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google dominate the space, and Nintendo would need to offer something truly innovative to stand out. Additionally, the development and marketing costs associated with launching a new device could be substantial, and there is no guarantee of success.
Despite these challenges, Nintendo’s potential move into the mobile gaming market is a logical step. The company has a rich history of innovation and has successfully adapted to changing market conditions in the past. For example, the Nintendo Switch, a hybrid console that can be used both at home and on the go, has been a massive success, demonstrating the company’s ability to innovate and capture the imagination of gamers.
It will be interesting to see what Nintendo comes up with, and whether they can release a smart device that will end up becoming popular. The gaming community and industry analysts will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how this potential new direction unfolds.
Source Slashgear
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.