Animal Crossinggames are known for being social simulators filled with adorable anthropomorphic creatures and chore-like tasks that somehow help players feel comfy and relaxed. The franchise has become so popular that it spawned a few spin-off games that, for better or worse, take its twists on the core concept. With recent entries likeNew Horizonsaffecting the future ofAnimal Crossingdevelopment, possibly including spin-offs, this may be an opportunity for Nintendo to take on an approach thatMariogames are known for.
Longtime fans of theAnimal Crossingfranchise will likely have played through its distinct spin-offs such asPocket CampandHappy Home Designer.Though such games still consist of the anthropomorphic creatures that players will be familiar with, they have enough gameplay deviations that make them unique and stand out. Future spin-off titles could take the franchise’s concept into newer and further directions, but they have to be interesting enough to get fans excited about where they’re going. One way that could help ensure that is if such titles take a page from theMariovideo game franchise and take on different art styles.
Mario Games Can Help Animal Crossing Spin-Offs Develop a New Look
While there is still no ideawhat’s next forAnimal CrossingafterNew Horizons, a spin-off could help fill the gap until the next mainline entry. Borrowing some of theMariogames' distinctive approach to certain art styles can help a new game generate fan interest and other benefits.Mariohas many potential references:
Ifthe next game tries to go in the opposite direction ofNew Horizonsand the other mainline entries, then a new art style approach may just be what it needs. Although there are many otherMariospin-offs, the art of the ones mentioned above has the potential to provide futureAnimal Crossingoffshoots with more entertaining and interesting ideas.
How Unique Art Styles Can Help Animal Crossing Spin-Offs
Spin-off games for established titles are an opportunity to show what developers are capable of aside from the genre or genres they’re known for. While there is still no ideawhere the nextAnimal Crossingshould take the series, a game that deviates from the mainline entry with a different art style could help set the course. Such a move allows Nintendo to consider what type of gameplayAnimal Crossingwould be a good fit for other than social simulation. Although there is no clear answer, plenty of plans can be derived by taking note of the art from the more popularMariospin-offs.
For example, a newAnimal Crossingcould benefit from taking a step backfrom its 3D approach by using an art style similar to the originalSuper Mario RPG.This could lead to the creation of a lightheartedAnimal Crossingrole-playing game, something that has yet to be done. An idea like this would be feasible because the franchise has many characters and its setting allows for many environments that can easily develop a world with fantasy mechanics, quests, and stories. Using theMariospin-off approach to art styles lets the franchise potentially tackle genres it was never able to, giving more content for Nintendo to develop in the future.
Adopting different art designs isa golden opportunity forAnimal Crossingspin-offs that should not be overlooked. Such changes could lead to new forms of gameplay that attract those without any prior interest in the franchise, making it more popular and accessible. If it requires taking a few notes from previous non-mainlineMariogames, then all Nintendo has to do is look at what can work and try implementing it.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
WHERE TO PLAY
Escape to a deserted island and create your own paradise as you explore, create, and customize in the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game. Your island getaway has a wealth of natural resources that can be used to craft everything from tools to creature comforts. you’re able to hunt down insects at the crack of dawn, decorate your paradise throughout the day, or enjoy sunset on the beach while fishing in the ocean. The time of day and season match real life, so each day on your island is a chance to check in and find new surprises all year round.Show off your island utopia to family and friends—or pack your bags and visit theirs. Whether playing online** or with others beside you***, island living is even better when you can share it. Even without hopping on a flight, you’ll meet a cast of charming animal residents bursting with personality. Friendly faces like Tom Nook and Isabelle will lend their services and happily help you grow your budding community. Escape to your island getaway—however, whenever, and wherever you want.
