Its an endless cycle. Unfortunately, if enough 3rd parties drop Nintendo, regardless of quality, that's it for them in America. It'd be interesting though, if the said companies eventually go bankrupt, leaving Nintendo standing (Thanks to its loyal fanbase).
Ian, the last MK brings the franchise to a level of decency. But compared to say, Soul Calibur II, it feels slow.
As far as the online thing, some see it as the next progession. Sega's the only one sticking their necks out[for the 'Cube]; it sucks that Sony adopts the same policy of just letting the publishers handle it, and sure enough they flock to it.
To paraphrase Darth Vader: "I find this lack of faith....disturbing"