While mobile gaming is surging its way forward and has already claimed its spot as the most popular choice as compared to other modes like console and PC, it was the big titles of the gaming industry that the audience of mobile games missed out on.
Now it seems one of the most iconic character from the console genre is hopping its way into the mobile space. Yesterday’s iPhone event not only showcased the new iPhone 7 but it was also announced that one of Nintendo’s most beloved characters, Mario is coming over to iOS this December.
During iPhone’s event yesterday, creator of the Mario character, Shigeru Miyamoto, took the stage with Apple, CEO, Tim Cook and demonstrated the game titled Super Mario Run. The game showcases everyone’s favourite plumber running his way through a series of obstacles while collecting coins, to reach a flag point (Of course). At higher levels, players will be able to play against each other’s scores and apparently create their own ‘kingdom’.
Speaking about the game, Miyamoto said, “For the first time ever, players will be able to enjoy a full-fledged Super Mario game with just one hand, giving them the freedom to play while riding the subway or my favourite, eating a hamburger.”
With the news
being out, a lot of people believe that this would be an instant hit like Pokemon Go, the game which Nintendo has shares in, jointly with The Pokemon Company. But unlike Pokemon Go, Super Mario Run would solely be Nintendo’s property and that is good news for the company in regards to revenue. Nintendo’s shares already spiked up by 18 per cent today, while taking a minor setback later.
Nintendo has been long focusing only on console gaming, but given the growth and opportunities that mobile gaming has brought with itself, the company tied up with mobile specialist DeNA. For Super Mario Run, Nintendo is heading the content part, while DeNA would be taking care of back-end operations. The initial phase of the game seems to be free for the users and they have to pay for additional content. It was also revealed that the game will have a set price and not solely rely on in-app purchases for revenues.
With this already on the line, can we expect other big titles from Nintendo into the mobile genre? (Zelda please!) Super Mario Run will be the second title from Nintendo after Miitomo and these are just two of the five mobile titles which Nintendo plans to launch by March 2017. Two other games, Animal Crossing and Fire Emblem are also reportedly in development.