What Else is Nintendo Releasing in 2018?

By: Max Cannon

Even with a powerhouse like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Nintendo's E3 lineup was definitely a bit on the lighter side. However, Nintendo went on to confirm that they've been holding back announcements for this Autumn. While no official names have been given, we have our own predictions on what Nintendo could release later this year.

3. Super Mario Maker for Nintendo Switch

Super Mario Maker was one of the must-have games on the Wii U (and an alright game on the Nintendo 3DS.) Nintendo fans have been clamoring for a port since the Switch hit store shelves but Nintendo has been quiet concerning a re-release. But, an Autumn release could be a perfect window to get the game out without a ton of unnecessary fanfare around the 3rd version of this game in 4 years. However, there are a few hurdles that Nintendo has to cross in order to get this game on the Switch.

First off, Super Mario Maker makes great use of both screens of the Wii U and 3DS but the Nintendo Switch will only support one screen at a time. A workaround by only allowing the game in handheld mode, or using the Joy-Con as pointers, could be an effective alternative but that alone is going to make the move a little tricky. Also, they'll need to get the online working in a manner closer to the Wii U than the disappointing 3DS version but with Nintendo's online launching in September, Super Mario Maker could be the perfect tool to get new subscribers.

2. Super Mario 3D World

This is another Wii U port that would be right at home on the Switch. Every Nintendo platform has their big Mario game, Nintendo 64 had Super Mario 64, the GameCube had Super Mario Sunshine, the Wii gave us Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2, and the Wii U's big Mario release was Super Mario 3D World. Different than the hub-based collect-a-thons of the previous 3D Mario games, Super Mario 3D World was an evolution of the 3DS's Super Mario 3D Land, one of the best games to make use of 3D gaming.

So, why do I think the Wii U's Mario game will come to the Switch? Aside from it being a perfect game to port on over, some of the work has already been done. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker was originally also released on the Wii U before getting a port that just released to the Nintendo Switch and 3DS but the game initially started out as a smaller level in Super Mario 3D World and the Switch title appears to run on the same engine, this means that Super Mario 3D World could likely use the same tech to get running on the Switch and it would also suggest that Nintendo could already be doing some work on the project.

Super Mario 3D World Gameplay Trailer - Wii U

1. Ocarina of Time

All of the above games I've mentioned are ports but this one isn't coming from the Wii U but rather the Nintendo 64. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is arguably the most important Zelda game ever made. We got an awesome remake over on the 3DS more than 7 years ago but why stop there? Fans would undoubtedly be thrilled to have the game on their Switch but why would Nintendo actually do it?

This November 21st will mark the 20th anniversary of the game and that certainly is a chance to celebrate. Though Nintendo could just pass the date on by with little acknowledgment, a port to the Nintendo Switch is bound to please fans and show respect to an obviously worthy title. Though it may take a little time and energy it would be awesome to see Nintendo throw some money behind a bigger, better visual overhaul to really make it look like a 2018 title but I think that may be getting a little optimistic. Still, it's a great opportunity to pay tribute to a masterpiece.

Have Your Say!

That's what we think will come to Switch this year, but what do you think? What else could Nintendo be hiding? What are you hoping to see? Comment below!