If it was called Super Mario Combat Devolved, I think it would have a chance at having a MK effect. But without the name recognition it might struggle for attention. Also it ain't likely to be a system seller no matter how good it is. And because one thing MK had in its favour when it came on the scene was total market dominance by the Nintendo console of that generation. Splatoon is really up against it as potential to popularise a new shooter sub-genre. Had this game been on Wii, when it was at its peak, then it probably would have done extremely well and spawned a bunch of me-too games on both Wii and at least one of the HD consoles.
Also, while having somewhat different game modes and some notable differences in gameplay, you have to admit that PvZ Garden Warfare kind of already occupies a similar niche, at least insofar as being light-hearted and more focussed on fun goes. Also the split screen co-op hoarde mode is great for the somewhat less skilled player, so the game caters to that crowd who don;t really want competitive multiplayer. So Splatoon won't really be an originator in the same way MK was.
“The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.” - Bertrand Russell
"When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace."
Jimi Hendrix
