6 Nintendo Game Franchises Perfect for Roguelike Spinoffs

Overview

• With its rich cast and strategic mechanics, Fire Emblem is well-positioned to flourish as a roguelike.
• Kirby’s unique Copy abilities could provide limitless gameplay diversity in a roguelike framework.
• A roguelike iteration of Super Smash Bros would allow fans to engage in thrilling battles featuring characters from multiple universes.

Nintendo boasts a diverse range of franchises, two of which—Pokémon and The Legend of Zelda—have successfully ventured into roguelike territory. The Pokémon franchise was first brought into this genre with Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team and Blue Rescue Team, followed by numerous sequels. More recently, The Legend of Zelda made its mark with Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda.

As the roguelike genre continues to captivate audiences, the question emerges: which Nintendo franchise should be next? Exploring the potential for revisiting both nostalgic classics and popular titles in roguelike formats presents exciting possibilities for innovation. Could Nintendo redefine this genre? Let’s explore this notion further.

Fire Emblem

More Swords Than Lords

Transforming Fire Emblem into a roguelike format seems like a straightforward adaptation. Since its debut on the NES in 1990, this franchise has generated over a dozen main entries and numerous spin-offs, each packed with an extensive roster of heroes and villains.

While the protagonists primarily wield swords, a varied cast utilizing bows, lances, axes, and magic can easily fill out the gaming roster. By leveraging concepts from titles like Warriors: Abyss, Nintendo could create an engaging roguelike experience. Collaborating with Koei Tecmo/Omega Force, in a manner similar to Fire Emblem Warriors and Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes, could bring this vision to life.

Kirby

Putting The Copy Abilities To Good Use

As a versatile character, Kirby has explored numerous genres under the Nintendo banner. While he has participated in racing, golf, and even pinball games, there remains an intriguing opportunity for him to enter the roguelike realm, particularly owing to his Copy abilities.

Initially lacking this power in the original Kirby’s Dream Land, the mechanic was successfully introduced in Kirby’s Adventure. A prospective roguelike iteration could let players start with a Copy ability—like Sword or Bomb—and make choices upon each restart, akin to Rogue Legacy.

NES Remix

The Return Of Captain N

Initially launched on the Wii U, NES Remix allowed players to engage with segments of classic NES titles through a series of mini-games. These included iconic games like Donkey Kong, Excitebike, and The Legend of Zelda, presenting diverse challenges with each change. Since then, it has seen limited follow-ups, making it ripe for revival.

Imagining NES Remix as a roguelike offers numerous exploratory possibilities. Each room could introduce players to different NES classics, with randomized characters and gameplay variations enhancing replayability. Including Captain N from the 80s cartoon as he navigates through his beloved NES games could provide a captivating narrative twist.

Pikmin

Can’t Cut These Plants Down

The Pikmin series revolves around explorers who gather resources using plant-like creatures known as Pikmin. With various Pikmin types emerging over time, the gameplay often resembles real-time strategy (RTS) mechanics.

Envisioning a roguelike adaptation could involve dungeon exploration where players collect Pikmin while delving into the depths of an alien planet. They could return materials to enhance their suit and gadgets for future attempts. While Pikmin are lost upon the player’s demise, they can be rediscovered on subsequent runs, maintaining the core essence while introducing new challenges.

Super Smash Bros.

Could There Be A Better Move?

A roguelike adaptation of Super Smash Bros. would likely resonate strongly with fans. Utilizing characters from multiple franchises, players could engage in fast-paced and diverse battles. This adaptation would be a thrilling mode separate from the traditional gameplay styles.

By potentially collaborating with third-party developers, Nintendo could incorporate iconic characters like Sora from Kingdom Hearts or Solid Snake from Metal Gear Solid. This concept might seamlessly blend into an upcoming story mode for the anticipated Super Smash Bros.on the next-gen Switch 2.

Wario Land

Is It Time For Waluigi To Rise?

Incorporating Mario as a central character in a roguelike setting may not translate well; his typical revival mechanics do not align with roguelike norms. However, Wario naturally fits the roguelike framework.

Wario’s adventures, typically centered on treasure-hunting and cave exploration, would align perfectly with roguelike mechanics, reminiscent of games like Spelunky. The game could feature additional playable villains, including Waluigi and Captain Syrup, creating a multidimensional roguelike experience filled with diverse gameplay styles.

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