As a long-time fan of the Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games series, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness upon hearing that there will be no new installment for the foreseeable future. These games have been a delightful and unexpected treat during every Olympics for the past two decades. Each title offered a fun-filled experience with a variety of Olympic-themed minigames featuring my beloved characters from Nintendo and Sega.
For approximately two decades, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games served as a consistent companion during the Olympics. However, it appears that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics edition may be the final one for some time. According to sources close to the development process, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided not to renew the partnership with Nintendo and Sega for another game. Instead, they are focusing on ventures related to NFTs and esports, which they believe will bring in more revenue for the event.
Lee Cocker, who is both a developer and producer, shared this information with Eurogamer. In an interview, Cocker revealed that he had handled licensing for the Olympic side of Mario & Sonic Olympic games and other related titles. However, instead of creating another Mario & Sonic Olympic game, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) identified alternative opportunities and pursued them instead.
It’s unfortunate to admit, but the Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games series took us by surprise with their enjoyable Olympic-themed minigames featuring beloved characters from Nintendo and Sega. The 2020 edition, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, was more than just good; it earned our Shacknews Best Sports Game of 2019 award for its fun factor. The Olympics have had video game adaptations before, but as Cocker mentioned, the International Olympic Committee has considered incorporating esports into the Olympics for several years.
Sadly, it appears that the Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games series has been put on hold indefinitely. Whether it will return someday is uncertain.
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2024-07-30 20:57