Nintendo Has Neglected Its Best RPG for Over a Decade

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As a huge Nintendo fan, everyone knows their big franchises – Mario, Zelda, Metroid… they’re iconic! But I’ve always been really into their RPGs, especially one series in particular. It started with a fantastic game and had a few amazing sequels, but Nintendo hasn’t given it a proper new installment in fifteen years! It’s so frustrating because the original is still beloved, and I truly believe it could be a massive hit if they just revisited it. They’ve only thrown in a few references in *Super Smash Bros.*, which isn’t nearly enough for a series with so much potential.

Camelot, the studio that created the *Golden Sun* series, now mainly develops Mario sports games like the new *Mario Tennis Fever*. However, they were once celebrated for creating one of the greatest RPG trilogies of its time. These games were both grand in scope and deeply personal, combining emotional stories with fun and engaging gameplay, and were considered alongside Nintendo’s most popular franchises. What led to the decline of *Golden Sun*?

Golden Sun Deserves More Than Nostalgia

When *Golden Sun* came out on the Game Boy Advance in 2001, it felt brand new. It was a complete and impressive RPG that really showcased what the handheld system could do, proving it was capable of much more than just Pokémon games. I was captivated by its beautiful 2D graphics, lively battle camera, and wonderful music – all very ambitious for the GBA at the time. While I still have fond memories of it, it feels like nostalgia is now the main thing people remember about the game.

What really set this game apart was its Psynery system, which combined classic magic with the environment around you. You could use magical powers both in fights and while exploring, letting you do things like move rocks, freeze water, or grow vines to help you climb. This made battles and dungeons feel dynamic and connected, turning them into rewarding puzzles to solve.

The game was followed by *Golden Sun: The Lost Age*, which successfully expanded on the original’s gameplay. It offered a larger world and a new angle, and even allowed players to continue their progress from the first game. Later, *Golden Sun: Dark Dawn* was released on the Nintendo DS. While it didn’t receive the same praise as its predecessors, fans still enjoyed it. The game ended on a cliffhanger, hinting at future installments, but the developers, Camelot, then shifted their focus to sports games and haven’t returned to the RPG series since.

Fans Haven’t Stopped Asking, Nintendo Just Stopped Listening

For fifteen years, fans have consistently requested a new installment in the *Golden Sun* series. Even the third game, considered the weakest by some, still performed well, demonstrating the franchise’s enduring popularity. Online, discussions about a potential *Golden Sun 4* or a remake of the original game are common. Every Nintendo Direct presentation generates excitement among fans who hope to see the series return, receiving the attention it deserves after years of waiting.

The dedication of this fan base is clear in their ongoing requests to include the character Isaac in *Super Smash Bros.* Ever since *Brawl*, they’ve wanted him as a playable fighter, not just a collectible trophy. With each new game announcement, like *Super Smash Bros. Ultimate*, fans hope their wish will be granted. Perhaps the next *Smash Bros.* game on the Nintendo Switch 2 will finally give Isaac the recognition he deserves and let him battle alongside characters like Mario and Link.

While not obscure, *Golden Sun* remains a cherished Nintendo franchise with a dedicated fanbase. The ball is now in Nintendo’s court to revive it. Although Camelot currently focuses on Mario sports games, Nintendo could easily partner with another developer. Despite years of support, fans haven’t seen a new *Golden Sun* game beyond potential Nintendo Switch Online access, but enthusiasm for the series hasn’t faded.

The Switch 2 Is the Perfect Time for Isaac’s Comeback

Now is the perfect time for a new *Golden Sun* game, especially with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The original Switch showed that fans love immersive, story-focused RPGs like *Octopath Traveler* and *Fire Emblem: Three Houses*. *Golden Sun* could offer a similar experience with compelling characters and engaging turn-based battles. A remake or sequel could capitalize on the recent success of turn-based RPGs like *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*.

Remaking the original *Golden Sun* games would be simpler, as much of the core content already exists. Using today’s technology, Nintendo could significantly improve the graphics, make the gameplay smoother, add helpful new features, and fix any problems from the original games. They could even update the Psynergy system with a physics engine similar to *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild*, making the game world more interactive. This approach would allow Nintendo to easily remake the first two *Golden Sun* games and bring the series back to fans.

Honestly, what I *really* want is a new *Golden Sun* game – a *Golden Sun 4*! The third one didn’t quite hit the mark for everyone, but it still proved there’s a fanbase hungry for more. If Nintendo decides to make it, I just hope they really respect what made the first two games so special while also bringing something new to the table. It would be amazing to finally get a sequel after waiting for so long, and a fantastic way to thank the fans!

No matter what Nintendo decides, it’s been too long since we’ve seen a new *Golden Sun* game. With the company now willing to try new things, bringing back this classic JRPG would be a great addition to their lineup and could even make it one of their most important RPG series. It’s clear fans still love *Golden Sun*, and I’m confident a new game would be successful.

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2025-10-18 20:10