I don't think this is a waste of Monster Games. They're an independent studio (according to Wikipedia) and this is an relatively easy paycheck for them. The game will perform well which in turn, reflects well on them. Sure, Nintendo could have commissioned an original game, but Monster Games is probably happy to be working on
a project. They have a pretty good working relationship with Nintendo which beats, you know, closing up shop...
I remember back when Silicon Knights did the MSG remake and I was shocked that Nintendo felt that was a worthwhile use of their time.
Really? A remake was exactly the kind of project Silicon Knights was suited for. Their original projects take forever and a remake means much of the work is already done for them yet they STILL needed to delay The Twin Snakes. Has Silicon Knights ever met a deadline? I'm a fan of their work on Eternal Darkness, but good God Lemon, Silicon Knights couldn't even do a remake without their hands held.