Nintendo Cuts Annual Outlook On Weak Sales, NX Console Launch Remains On Track
Nintendo has lowered its full-year profit forecast due to a stronger yen and weaker-than-expected sales of its 3DS handheld gaming consoles and software. Nintendo said it now expects 33 billion yen ($293 million) in operating profit for its fiscal year through March instead of a previously expected 50 billion yen. It also cut its net profit forecast to 17 billion yen from an earlier 35 billion yen.
Nintendo plans to release its Miitomo game for mobile devices next month, setting the stage for a big shakeup, as it tries to capture players who have shifted to mobile gaming.
The company has already started registration for Miitomo, a free-to-play messaging-based application. President Tatsumi Kimishima has said the next smartphone game will feature one of Nintendo’s beloved characters.
Kimishima has also said the company’s work on a successor to the Wii U, code-named NX, remains on track. He said the company is even exploring possibilities in virtual reality, though no concrete plans exist as yet.