The don't need to replicate the success of Wii/DS, that's a very high barrier of what is considered a success/failure.
From FY 1990-2005, Nintendo averaged about 20-25 million units of hardware sold while making an annual profit of $1 billion +/- a few hundred million. In the Wii/DS Era they averaged about 40-50 million units sold and $3 billion in annual profits. They can be very successful with pre-Wii/DS figures.
Also since Nintendo is branching out with the continued push of Amiibo figurines/cards, starting to make mobile apps, opening theme park attractions, getting involved with films, Quality of Life products focused on health & education, plus the increase of merchandising that accompanies these things, there is less of a focus on all their profits coming from gaming meaning they can take more risks with their core business.
When the herd loses its way, the shepard must kill the bull that leads them astray.
