I believe the last time Nintendo attempted to purchase a big publisher is when they supposedly tried to buy Namco in the mid-2000s. It didn't happen and I think the consolation was Monolith Studios. It seems Nintendo has never fully wanted to get away from Namco as they own nearly 4 million shares in the company. It's unlikely they will attempt again as Namco is larger now than 15 years ago. So they last bought a studio in 2007. Nintendo likes to publish exclusive deals with 3rd parties. Work closely with them and let them make a spinoff, remake, or new entry in a long-running IP. Metroid. Zelda and more. Why buy SEGA when they can partner with them on Bayonetta? If SEGA one day cannot partner with them or just says no on Bayonetta..fine they create new IPs with PG like Astral Chain or Wonderful 101. Just as an example,
Bite my shiny metal cockpit!
