Nintendo has been using their Directs to bring either some robust bundles of news or some tidbits of information, and they can lead to backlash from the community if it's not exactly what they wanted to hear (see responses to their third party partners video, for an example). In what's been a tough year for showcasing gaming, Nintendo had something very special lined up for Mario's 35th anniversary, and it's quite a package that honestly reminds me of how Nintendo merchandise used to dominate the late 80's.
Super Mario Bros. Game & Watch
Play the original Super Mario Bros. and The Lost Levels on this Game & Watch themed handheld device. A directional pad was added for easier playability. Also features a Mario themed version of the original Game & Watch. It will be available in limited production this November 13.
Super Mario 3D Worlds + Bowser's Fury
Starting with the entertainment software, Super Mario 3D Worlds is seeing an enhanced expansion to it in the form of Bowser's Fury. This is coming February 12, 2021 to the Nintendo Switch.
Super Mario Bros. 35
Seemingly a combination of Fall Guys and Tetris 99, Super Mario Bros. 35 pits 35 Mario players together in a combative race to reach the end of the stage. enemies you defeat to will be sent to other players and vice versa. Use item roulette wheels to gain advantages and hinders opponents' progress.
This will be available exclusively to the Nintendo Switch Online Service October 1st 2020 and playable until March 31, 2021. Last year, an independent developer made a free-to-play web browser based game called Mario Royale, which Nintendo DMCA'd almost immediately. Suffice to say, they saw some inspiration there.
Mario Kart Live Home Circuit
This one really looks ahead of its time. Looking to take advantage of Nintendo's STEM Labo project, Mario Kart Live Home Circuit aims to bring the action right into your living room...or dining room...or seemingly wherever. Labo has always fascinated me, I've been very interested in knowing how the tech is read. Courses appear to be custom made and probably require sensors. I know this looks like a product aimed for the kids, and they might get a kick out of it. But the real audience for this one is definately people who have grew up with Nintendo for 30+ years. This will be available October 10, 2020.
Super Mario 3D All-Stars Collection
Nintendo is bundling three 3D Mario adventures in one collection with Super Mario 3D All-Stars. Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy. Physical copies will see a limited release, and the digital copy will be available until March 31st. At the very least, if you purchase the digital edition, it can still be redownloaded if you delete it. I do take umbrage with this Disney Vault style method of redistribution that Nintendo is implementing. If they were remasters, I could probably justify the $60 retail price tag, but once again Nintendo is creating their own demand. I'm all for redistribution of these older games as a means to preserve them for future generations, but I see this as a callous method strong-arming consumers. Savvy business move, using nostalgia against dedicated customers.
More Mario Themed Products!!
And to top matters off, Nintendo is rolling out some Mario themed apparel. Need some new kicks? Puma has you covered with these Nintendo RS-Dreamers trainer shoes that can be purchased through Foot Locker.
This isn't Puma's first foray into video game based designer shoes. they've previously done Metal Gear Solid and Sonic the Hedgehog fashioned footwear, so they're no stranger. Retail price seems to be $45 (US) and will be available September 4th. 2020.
Australian-based online retailer Black Milk Clothing is adding some Mario themed threads this October. You can sign up in their look book for an early peek at what's upcoming.
All in all, I can have some fun at Nintendo's expense, and done it over the years. They have, however, taken a year that has been ravaged by circumstances beyond anyone's control and look to end 2020 on as high a note as possible by making life at home as interesting and enjoyable as possible. While Sony and Microsoft are slap-fighting each other for everyone's attention by doggedly pushing new hardware on the very near horizon with no revealed price points, Nintendo continues to keep things very interesting and entertaining.
© 2024 Created by Verlane. Powered by
You need to be a member of Game Fix to add comments!
Join Game Fix