Is Smash Ultimate the last Smash ever?

Is Smash Ultimate the Last Smash Ever?

The news that shook the gaming community: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate might be the final installment in the beloved franchise. Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of the series, has dropped hints that he’s "not thinking about a sequel" and that this could be the last Smash Bros. game. But what does this mean for the future of the franchise?

What Does the Future Hold?

In a recent interview with Famitsu, Sakurai-san hinted that he’s not actively working on a new Smash Bros. game. He stated, "I’m not thinking about a sequel. But I can’t say that this is definitely the last Smash Bros." This ambiguity has left fans wondering if there will be a new installment or if Ultimate will be the swan song for the franchise.

Why the Confusion?

So, why the confusion? According to Sakurai, it’s because the development process for Smash Bros. games is incredibly long and arduous. He mentioned that the team has been working on Ultimate for over four years, and it’s taken a toll on everyone involved. It’s possible that Sakurai is burned out and needs a break from the series.

What’s Next for the Franchise?

Even if Smash Ultimate is the last game in the series, there are still plenty of options on the table for the franchise. Here are a few possibilities:

• Spin-offs: Nintendo could release spin-off games or spin-offs focused on specific characters or gameplay mechanics.
• Remasters and Remakes: The company could re-release classic Smash Bros. games with updated graphics and gameplay.
• Merchandise and Other Media: Nintendo could focus on creating merchandise and other media, such as animated series or movies, based on the franchise.
• Crossover Games: Nintendo could collaborate with other game developers to create crossover games featuring Smash Bros. characters.

Which Characters Would Be the Most Interesting in a Spin-off?

If Nintendo does decide to release spin-off games or spin-offs focused on specific characters, here are some characters that would be interesting to see in a solo game:

• Wario: The lovable, greedy version of Mario would make a great protagonist in a platformer.
• Pokémon: The iconic characters would be a natural fit for a Pokémon-focused game.
• Kirby: The cute, copy-cat protagonist would shine in a Kirby-themed platformer.
• Yoshi: The beloved dinosaur would be adorable in a Yoshi-themed game.

The Pros and Cons of a Spin-off

Pros:

• Fresh Start: A spin-off would give Nintendo the opportunity to try new things and experiment with different gameplay mechanics.
• Niche Audience: A spin-off focused on a specific character or series would attract a dedicated niche audience.
• Variety: Spin-offs would allow Nintendo to explore different genres and gameplay styles, which could be exciting for fans.

Cons:

• Confusion: Releasing spin-offs without a mainline game might confuse fans and make them wonder what’s next for the franchise.
• Divided Attention: Focus on spin-offs might divide attention away from the mainline series, potentially alienating fans.

Table: Smash Bros. Ultimate Characters and Their Potential Spin-off Games

Conclusion

Is Smash Ultimate the last Smash ever? It’s impossible to say for certain. While Sakurai-san’s comments are concerning, it’s possible that Nintendo has a plan in place to continue the franchise in some form. Whether it’s spin-offs, remasters, or something entirely new, the future of Smash Bros. is uncertain but full of possibilities. For now, fans can enjoy Ultimate and speculate about what’s next for the franchise.