Games in theAnimal Crossingfranchise are known for their cozy social simulation gameplay, offering a variety of activities to do, items to collect, and characters to collect. The formula for each mainline entry is one that many fans are familiar with, and the next game will likely have it as well. But if Nintendo decides to stray away from it via a spin-off, thenone classicAnimal CrossingNPC could serve an important purposein ensuring a fun and interesting new way to play.
While theAnimal Crossingfranchise is no stranger to trying something different regarding gameplay, they’re always from the perspective of either the player or a controllable human character. If Nintendo ever decides to do a spin-off, then Tom Nook may be the key to an investing and town management-like style of play. Straying away from the usual formula and trying something different is something that could help the franchise expand to other avenues of genres, and it’s possible that the iconic tanuki could lead the charge.
Those who have played even one entry should quickly realize the business-minded Tom Nook and see how his entrepreneurial characteristics could lead to a new type of gameplay. Though the character has always played a supporting role that helps the player, he has the skills and background that allow him to be an interesting protagonist for a spin-off. Ifthe nextAnimal Crossingallows players to take a walk in Tom Nook’s shoes, then there are a few ways it can go about doing so:
If it’s a spin-off,the nextAnimal Crossinggame shouldn’t let Tom Nook be the villainous landlordsome consider him to be, but should instead embrace what makes the character special. The highly recognizable tanuki has a lot to offer, and it’s up to Nintendo to shove him into the spotlight and bring about a new game that could change some people’s perception of the franchise.
Why a Tom Nook Spin-off Game Could Benefit the Animal Crossing Franchise
If a Tom Nook spin-off game manages to achieve success, then it opens up avenues for sequels. Tom Nook’s business-oriented mindset means there are many things he’s capable of doing, which also means that he has the potential to be responsible for even more games outside the mainline entries. It can even lead to games involving Timmy and Tommy Nook, the adorable employees who work forAnimal Crossing’s iconic tanuki. While there are a lot ofunanswered questions about the Nooks, it’s clear that all of them have the same business-like mindset that warrants them having spin-offs together or separately.
The nextAnimal Crossinggame shouldn’t pass up on the golden opportunityof using a well-established character like Tom Nook to introduce a new side of the series. A spin-off involving the character can grab the attention of current and potential fans, letting people know that the franchise has the potential to go beyond the social simulation genre.