One of the most anticipated upcoming games of the year at this point is Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the crossover fighter in Nintendo’s popular fighting game series that brings together over 70 characters in the biggest roster in the franchise’s history.
But it’s not the only big upcoming Nintendo Switch exclusive this year. Pokemon Let’s Go launches this Friday, bringing a simplified, friendlier Pokemon adventure to millions of fans worldwide, marking a radical departure from the series’ traditional formula, while also being the series’ official home console debut.
These two titles are ultimately what Nintendo is banking on to meet their target of 20 million Nintendo Switch units sold by the end of March next year. And according to Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime, the games seem to be primed to do well.
Speaking to The Verge, Fils-Aime said, “The pre-sale trends for both of these titles are tracking to the best we’ve ever seen on Nintendo Switch. The consumer engagement through all of our digital activity has been exceptionally strong.” Given the stronger than expected reviews for Pokemon Let’s Go, we can presumably expect the game to have a long tail; Smash, of course, will be a blockbuster.
Whether or not Nintnedo’s gambit pays off this year remains to be seen, but the company has at least, at last, finally put out some worthwhile games this year to drive those desired hardware sales. Pokemon Let’s Go launches on Nintendo Switch on November 16, while Super Smash Bros. Ultimate comes on December 7.