The fact is, none of these coins are the future. Why? Because they ruined themselves with a stupid name and they have no purpose. They have momentary popularity which makes the developer and a few miners/early investors some bank, and then it slowly dies. You need to stop saying "OMG SOUNDS INTERESTING WILL MINE" to every announcement thread. Do your research and think to yourself "what could this coin possibly do that couldn't be done by one of the other 500 coins coming out this week" - no answer? Then don't waste your time.
This is all just my opinion, would love some insight from people who have been around longer.
Disclaimer: Yes, I am currently working on developing my own coin - but not like any project you've ever seen, and not for any use you've ever seen. It's a new idea that will be transparent and it's goal will be obvious, and that's the kind of coin you should invest your mining or money in to.
charity