Since its release over two decades ago, theNintendo-exclusive franchise has amassed quite a following. The series has captured the hearts of players of all ages with charming characters from several animal species, relaxing gameplay that includes fishing and bug-catching, and endless customization options.
Each installment brings new features and fresh experiences, typically within a few years. However, the release of broke this pattern. Despite the longer-than-usual wait between game releases, has thrived. Many fans wonder what the future release schedule will be.
Since its initial release in 2001 on the Nintendo 64 system, has released a steady stream of games with only a few years between new releases—except, of course, when was released eight years after its predecessor,. Luckily, though, Nintendo's schedule has mostly been just a few years between releases of the franchise.
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After the first in 2001, was released on the Nintendo DS in 2005. came out in 2008 on the Wii, and in 2012 and 2013 on the Nintendo 3DS. Between those games there were three to four years between each release. The only exception to the usual schedule was when released in 2020,a whopping eight years after .
Game
Release Year
2001
2005
2008
2012/2013
2020
The eight-year gap between and was the longest wait fans of the series had ever experienced, but the game's massive success and record-breaking sales proved it was well worth the wait. Still, fans were eager for new content during the gap and now wonder if future installments will follow the traditional release timeline or if longer gaps will become the norm for the franchise.
The franchise also includes spin-off games, including which is available on iOS and Android.
Fortunately, though unconfirmed by Nintendo, fans will likely get some announcement sooner rather than later.
With anticipated
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