Topic: Nintendo needs to change how they approach casual games for Switch

Throughout the Wii and DS era, Nintendo began releasing many "lifestyle" games. These games include Brain Age, Nintendogs, Wii Sports, Wii Fit, Personal Trainer, and some basic puzzle games like Picross, and Crosswords. These weren't so much traditional games, as they were extensions of everyday life for people who never really played games. These were great games, and helped lay the blueprints for the modern mobile market. But that's the problem, these kinds of software now thrive on mobile devices, where the new generation of non-gamers are. So much so that when Nintendo made sequels for the Wii U and 3DS in hopes that lightning would strike twice, they failed miserably.

This is why going forward, Nintendo can still make casual games, I'd argue that's one of their greatest strengths. But focus less on making lifestyle experiences, and instead create unique entertainment with universal appeal. Rhythm Heaven is a good example of where Nintendo should go with casual games. It feels like fun entertainment rather than some extension of life. Hell, I'd argue that they need to take inspiration from some of the business models of mobile in the future as well. Casual gamers don't want to pay $40-60 for games anymore. They rather have something they could get for either a couple dollars, or in other cases, free.

I always said Nintendo should just make games, for people who like games, and I stick by it. But casual games can be enjoyed by "core" gamers as well. I would argue Nintendo is better at making fun, and simple casual or bridge games than they are at trying to cultivate "hardcore" games, and that's a strength they need to hone for then next generation. Not that the occasional "hardcore" game isn't welcome.

I think this can go in the Nintendo Switch thread. Not every opinion needs its own thread.