After nearly a decade of development limbo, the Nintendo 3DS version of Mighty No. 9 has officially been cancelled. Nintendo’s focus shifted to the Switch following its 2017 release, leading to the eventual discontinuation of the 3DS family of systems. This left the fate of Mighty No. 9’s 3DS port uncertain until recently, when pre-orders were finally cancelled.
Originally launched in 2016, Mighty No. 9 aimed to capture the spirit of classic Mega Man titles. Unfortunately, the game received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics and fans alike, prompting developer Comcept to move on to other projects. The 3DS version, specifically, was a Kickstarter stretch goal that was successfully funded. While the port was initially slated for a 2017 release alongside the PlayStation Vita version, it faced indefinite delays and ultimately vanished from the radar.
Curiously, physical copies of the 3DS version remained available for pre-order on Amazon for years, fueling a glimmer of hope among some fans. However, with Amazon now cancelling these pre-orders, it’s clear the game will never see a 3DS release. This cancellation marks the end of a long and troubled development cycle for the handheld port.
The Kickstarter Promise and Eventual Cancellation
Mighty No. 9’s initial crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter included stretch goals for Nintendo 3DS and PlayStation Vita ports. The campaign achieved its funding goals, including the handheld versions. However, these versions never materialized, despite promises of a 2017 release. Years of silence followed, leading to speculation about the project’s future.
Comcept’s Future Projects
While the cancellation of the 3DS port might disappoint some backers, it’s unlikely to cause widespread outcry given the game’s initial reception. Comcept has since moved on to Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time, scheduled for release on the Nintendo Switch in 2025. This new project suggests the studio is focusing its efforts on the current generation of gaming hardware.
Conclusion: The End of a Long Wait
The cancellation of Mighty No. 9 on Nintendo 3DS brings closure to a long-awaited port. While the game’s troubled development and eventual demise on the handheld platform is unfortunate, it highlights the challenges of game development and the changing landscape of the gaming industry.
