3 Reasons How Wii Can Revive 2D Gaming

Killman · 3 Reasons How Wii Can Revive 2D Gaming

In 1996, the gaming industry was entirely changed with the release of Super Mario 64 for the Nintendo 64. It ushered in an era of gaming which continues to be the dominant design of choice for most developers. By successfully moving the Mario Franchise into 3D, Nintendo had presented the blue print for all publishers to follow to remove their reliance on 2D. Many of the gamers that remember when 2D gaming was at its peak refer to this era as the The Golden Years. Now that high definition has become a staple in the development of video games, we examine 3 ways the Wii and Nintendo have an opportunity to re-establish the 2D genre in today’s gaming landscape.

Reason 3: Virtual Console

While many pundits believe that Xbox Live is the definitive online experience, the Wii currently boasts the largest collection of downloadable titles despite its storage capabilities. The Virtual Console features over 200 titles, many of which are considered some of the greatest video game titles to ever be released. The Virtual Console provides the opportunity for gamers to experience these titles possibly for the first time and showcases how earlier 2D titles can capture their imagination and provide a rewarding gaming experience.

Many of the today’s top franchises have their legacy titles featured in the Virtual Console and many of these 2D titles provide a deeper more enjoyable play through than their 3D successors. (cough, Sonic, cough) Games such as Super Metroid, Castlevania, Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past need to be experienced by new generations of gamers to showcase the very best of what the Golden Years of 2D gaming offered. The variety of 2D games available on the Virtual Console is unparalleled and Nintendo can leverage the vast library to re-establish 2D gaming in the eyes of a new generation of gamers.

Reason #2: Retro Revivals

Today Wii owners will be treated to the first true sequel to a Mega Man game in over 10 years. Mega Man 9 arrives on WiiWare complete with 1985 pixel graphics, electro-trance soundtrack, and a maddening difficulty level. The success of Mega Man 9 is unquestionable, this will be the most successful download only title released to date. While appearing on all major consoles, Mega Man 9 will sell best on the Wii because of its original NES presentation and the core gamers ability to relive their experiences of Mega Man on the NES by turning the Wii-Remote on its side. This complete retro experience will help push it ahead of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions.

While the excitement of a retro Mega Man release is palpable amongst the gaming crowd, the importance of this release should not be overshadowed. Because of its ability to provide a truly unique experience, the Wii could provide the definitive landscape for publishers to revive their 2D franchises. Nintendo itself has the most compelling collection of gaming franchises that can receive a retro revival. Imagine the next Castlevania in the style of its original game, or a Legend of Zelda title built on the Link to the Past graphic engine and programming. It allows for a cheaper game development cost and the ability to receive notable press by daring to be different. If it works for Capcom with Mega Man 9, the future could look a little like the past.

Reason #1: New Exclusive 2D Titles

The NES ushered in the era of modern video gaming while more than 20 years later the Wii continues its role in expanding the gaming populous and has elevated the industry to a pop culture status. Throughout this period, 2D gaming has always played a significant role. The Wii continues to expand its collection of breathtaking video games based in 2D with titles such as Super Paper Mario and the upcoming title, Wario Land: Shake It. Last week the announcement of Tatsunoko vs Capcom being developed for the Wii, sent internet boards ablaze with the astonished statements of gamers remarking on the beautiful 2D visuals of this anticipated title. Even the excellent WiiWare title, Lost Winds, showcases the majesty of intuitive gameplay presented in 2D.

While PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 titles continue to produce high definition, high cost 3D titles, Nintendo can once again establish a strong selection of exclusive 2D titles that showcase the Wii’s ability to produce vibrant visuals and compelling gameplay. The release of exclusive Wii 2D titles by Nintendo and 3rd Parties could establish a strong strategy of establishing internal teams dedicated to the creation of these titles to supplement the bigger budget releases.

If Nintendo continues to embrace developers that seek to develop titles presented in 2D and they dedicate internal resources towards new 2D signature franchise titles, the return to the Glory Years is imminent and only available on Wii.

firered96

Certanly this is true

EpE

I like old game remakes and the retro game Idea is new/original.

I wish we could have more of these games in the years to pass.

encetoy

i find 2d games harder but fun!

EpE

Toasted Donut

I like some 2D, some are classicaly while others just suck.

EpE

Toasted Donut

The old Zedla games were terrible in my opinion. (Before Orcernia of Time).

Killman

The original Zelda was a classic.

I would not mind them remaking it into a current generation game.

Toasted Donut

The ones I am thinking about were very primitive, there were worst then game boy color games.

fantanoice

Crazy. It's like we're going backwards in time and yet, it seems like the right idea to do.

<3 Super Mario Bros series.

Toasted Donut

2D games will never return to their former glory but thereis definetly room for some good ones in these modern 3D days.

Killman

Toasted Donut

Has anyone played paper mario before?

EpE

I did!!!
That game rocked!!

I wish it was longer but still a great game...

Toasted Donut

They should make games like that.