I also know that Nintendo is actively meeting with independent developers to find new partners. Some of that is around publishing indie games, which Nintendo does from time-to-time, but it’s also seeking studios that could work on some of its IP. Nintendo regularly works with third-party teams, including Bandai Namco, Team Ninja, Platinum Games, MercurySteam, WayForward and Grezzo. But the company is looking to add to that roster, and I know of three studios that are deep in conversation around making games based on Nintendo brands.
Actual Source: Christopher Dring at Gameindustry.biz: https://www.gamesindustry.biz/how-can-nintendo-switch-2-surpass-its-predecessor-opinion
Pokemon has been close to shovelware for a few generations now, though legends Arceus is a shining counterexample that I hope we get more of. It seems like gamefreak had time to make it after handing off the normal remakes of the Sinnoh region to another developer, so if that’s the direction they’re looking in I’m optimistic.
Legends arceus is a shining counterexample? We must’ve been playing a different game
Arceus explores beyond the sad, rigid format of the main franchise. It forced them to re-evaluate choices made in Scarlet and Violet.
Really that’s what Nintendo proper (not the Pokemon Company) understands. Goods work needs time in the oven.
Its why even their other studios do well.