Summer Game Fest was a blast this year, with a variety of games and a laid-back vibe that many preferred over the crowded chaos of E3. However, one thing was noticeably missing – Nintendo. For the second year in a row, Nintendo chose not to make an appearance at the event, leaving many attendees wondering what the week would have been like with some joyous new trailers for Mario, Pokémon, or Smash Bros.
While there were plenty of fantastic Switch-bound games showcased at Summer Game Fest, the absence of that child-like glee that a Nintendo game brings was palpable. The event had its moments of joy, from Devolver’s birthday celebration for mascot Volvy to the showcase of various games from different developers. However, the magic of a Nintendo announcement was definitely missed.
As a press and influencer-exclusive event, Summer Game Fest offered a unique opportunity to interact with creators, developers, and industry professionals. From spotting Shigenori Soejima and Takashi Iizuka to mingling with Shuhei Yoshida and Swen Vincke, the event was a hub of talent and creativity. However, for those viewing from the outside, the event may have seemed like just a collection of livestreams and announcements.
Despite the absence of Nintendo and Sony at Summer Game Fest, the event is carving out its own identity as a different kind of gaming showcase. While some may see it as a wannabe E3 replacement, there is potential for growth and improvement in the coming years. And who knows, maybe Nintendo will make its debut at the event in the future, especially with the rumored announcement of a Switch successor on the horizon.
In the meantime, Summer Game Fest continues to offer a platform for indie developers and unique game announcements, even if it may not satisfy every Nintendo fan’s cravings. The event may not be a replacement for E3, but it has its own charm and potential to evolve into something even greater. So, while we may miss Nintendo’s presence at the Big Summer Show™, there’s still plenty to enjoy and look forward to at Summer Game Fest.
