The introduction of planes and a ton of new locations instead of a small town is going to be what kills the AC experience for me and will pull me away from the series.
Wind Waker HD says hello.
http://www.zeldadungeon.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Zelda-Wind-Waker-HD-09.jpg
Link only because BIG PRETTY PICTURE. I think Animal Crosing would do absolutely fine in HD.
First time I've heard of it being on Wii U??
Don't think it be as good as the DS/3DS but you never know.
It's not confirmed, but it's bound to be on it.
Unless Nintendo realizes that the success of the handhelds have been better than the home console releases.
I mean.. look at the Wii U game list right now, and look at which of those games are currently released.
Going on that alone, I kind of doubt there will be a Wii U AC. If there is, it won't be until really late in the console's life.
I'm not sure about your theory, AC has been a bigger seller in Japan and could help move units.
My theory is stating that due to this, it might be best for them to completely skip out on a home console version and wait for the next handheld console, so they can release it as a launch title.
Cough.
I think you're misinterpreting my theory.
Even in Japan, the Wii U has poor sales. The 3DS has way more units sold over there AND globally.
Animal Crossing wouldn't have sold as much as it did on a home console in Japan as a handheld version would. My theory is stating that due to this, it might be best for them to completely skip out on a home console version and wait for the next handheld console, so they can release it as a launch title.
That would most likely ensure them not only a massive sale of the game, but for the console too.