While most fans likely picked up a Nintendo Switch to play new entries in Nintendo's classic franchises, the console isn't devoid of brand new IP. One of the more interesting new IP on the horizon for the Switch is the unique fighting game ARMS, and if game producer Kosuke Yobuki has his way, it could one day be just as recognizable as Super Mario or Zelda.

Speaking with EDGE magazine, Yobuki said that he could see ARMS becoming a franchise that spans decades, not unlike some of Nintendo's other popular series.

"It would be like a dream for this to become a franchise spanning decades, but right now, only a small number of people around the world know about ARMS: those who closely follow new games and technology. First, I’d like those people to play ARMS and have fun with it. This game offers a brand new playstyle, brand new characters, and brand new strategic gameplay."

nintendo switch arms

Yobuki has high expectations for ARMS, but it looks like one of the stranger games in the Switch's lineup, and may fail to find a large audience as a result. Furthermore, ARMS has to compete with a couple of major fighting game releases in the form of Injustice 2 and Tekken 7, which are based on established franchises that are already popular with fans of the genre.

However, ARMS will have the advantage of being one of the first major fighting game available on the Nintendo Switch when it launches in June. Plus, its status as a first-party Nintendo game should also go a long way in helping ARMS sell enough copies to become a franchise, especially if the strong sales numbers for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Mario Kart 8 are any indication.

ARMS may seem a little odd and could very well end up being a niche title, but Nintendo has a proven track record of taking strange concepts and turning them into multi-million selling gaming franchises. If ARMS and its cast of characters resonate with gamers, then it's safe to say that producer Kosuke Yobuki will be quick about getting to work on the sequel.

ARMS will launch on June 16th, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.

Source: EDGE (via WCCFTech)