30 Nintendo Facts: Learn More About The Japanese Video Game Company
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Nintendo!
You cannot be a video game enthusiast and not know about this legendary company. This Japanese company is full of creative surprises, from playing cards to video game consoles!
Did you have a Game Boy or Nintendo Switch when growing up? These iconic gaming consoles belong to one house: the Nintendo Co. Ltd. Then, of course, there is Super Mario Bros, Pokemon, and The Legend of Zelda, the video games that put Nintendo on the world map.
This gaming company and its creators continue to gift the world with entertaining characters, storylines, and other gaming products. The company may have started with cards then developed electronic games to play on the family computer to develop consoles with motion controls finally.
Today, their products are available all over the globe. There are a lot of facts about Nintendo that reveal much about its history, marketing style, and competitive edge.
Learn about the first game from Nintendo and more!
History Of The Company
Fusajiro Yamauchi from Japan is the visionary behind the strong legacy of Nintendo. Since its inception in 1889, the company has evolved to be a globally loved powerhouse in the gaming industry. Mario Bros, Donkey Kong, Nintendo Switch, Pokemon are just some of the revolutionary inventions of this Japanese enterprise.
In 1889, Fusajiro Yamauchi, a young Japanese entrepreneur, started a small playing card shop. The focus was the sale of the Hanafuda cards. These were handmade and crafted by special artisans.
The beautiful decks were adorned with natural symbols and came in 12 suits.
Apart from the Japanese decks, they also created Western decks (those had pictures instead of numbers). These cards became quite popular among locals over 70 years.
Unfortunately, these cards got connected with the Yakuza (gangsters in Japan). People started steering clear of these cards due to their association with this criminal gang.
It was at this time the company's reins were handed over to Hiroshi Yamauchi.
Hiroshi Yamauchi was a fearsome leader who helped advance the vision and mission of Nintendo. It was under his leadership Nintendo started developing electronic games. They did so by investing in technology and partnering with popular technology companies.
Those games progressed from arcade game development to bringing a family computer or TV game and handheld gaming consoles. Their popularity flourished with the introduction of 'Donkey Kong' and the 'Jumpman' (now known as Mario).
As Super Mario Bros became a worldwide hit, the company moved on to invent the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).
Then came the launch of the handheld console Game Boy in 1989. The unique design and long battery life quickly made this one of the most popular gaming consoles. Following this, new consoles with additional features were launched, like the Nintendo DS and Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo Vs. Other Gaming Companies
The gaming industry is constantly evolving and highly competitive. How does Nintendo compare to other gaming companies? What works and what has not worked? Here is some information that looks at Nintendo's history vis-à-vis other gaming companies.
Nintendo is constantly investing in new technologies and hardware to stay ahead of the competition. Having a long history in the business has been of advantage.
They have launched several video games and consoles; some worked like the Nintendo Switch or Nintendo DS, while others like the Nintendo Wii U were not so successful.
Nintendo has not stopped creating new virtual worlds that have captured the imaginations of young and old. For example, Mario started as a 'Jumpman' in the 'Donkey Kong' arcade game. Mario is one of the most popular video game characters to be ever created.
Nintendo is also identified with quality. No matter what they invent, no one will be able to pick any faults in the quality of the games. This is what has given the company its loyal fanbase.
The games are family-friendly, which allows them not to be just restricted to young people.
While the company does stick to its existing franchises, there is always an improvement. For example, the Super Mario 64 became an ideal type of 3D platformer. They understand what works like Mario and Pokemon are ageless games, so they try to make the best of the same.
Nintendo Switch is a device that changed the gaming scene. Gamers could play their favorite games either as a console or a standalone device.
Reasonably priced, the Nintendo Switch allowed Duck Hunt, Pokemon, and Zelda fans to play these games anywhere. The best part is that all ages and genders seek this device.
Marketing Strategy Of Nintendo
With a vision statement that focuses on surprising people and a mission of providing quality, Nintendo's marketing strategy is desirable. It has allowed the video game manufacturer to stay ahead in the industry. Here is a look at three strategies employed by Nintendo to successfully promote their products.
Even though it started with cards, Nintendo has continued to evolve with the changing aspirations of its consumers. This is reflected in their product portfolio.
Nintendo began its journey by developing cards that continue to be a favorite among gamers. They also partnered with big animation houses like Disney to create cards for popular comic characters.
Then the company developed arcade games and partnered with tech companies like Sony to develop electronic games.
These consoles contained pre-programmed games, including the popular arcade game 'Donkey Kong.'
The next big product line was the development of a handheld system like the Nintendo Switch that allowed people to enjoy Nintendo games like Super Mario.
Today there are numerous NES games like Pokemon, Wii U sports, and so on.
Characters in the Nintendo Entertainment System were developed to be personable and likable like Mario.
The company has been able to build brand loyalty by following an advertising strategy that positions its characters. They also don't stop creating, so the brand is constantly evolving.
Nintendo's vision is to bring smiles to its consumers, and this is done through surprises. The surprises are not just in the form of new games or technologies but surprises in existing storylines. The objective is to promote each product to become a tradition because traditions are associated with habits.
Consumers will always remember Mario no matter what is trending in the gaming industry. The constant evolution allows people never to be bored in their habits.
The company's promotion and distribution strategies are also unique. The brand's mission is to pay attention to the consumer.
The goal is to maintain their quality and creativity, the things that attract and secure their loyal consumer base.
They use their expertise to keep an eye on changing trends and devising their promotion strategies to follow suit. This is shown in the advertisements and launch program strategy.
Popular actors like Tom Hanks were cast to play characters in the live-action stories of the games.
They distribute their products online and through physical stores such as Walmart, and so on.
Super Nintendo World is another great way by which they promote their brand and characters. Fans are able to engage with the Nintendo world through these theme parks directly.
If you are a video game person, then Nintendo is a name you are sure to resonate with. This 132-year old brand has and is continuing to serve as a game-changer in the world of playing cards, electronic games, and handheld consoles.
FAQs
What is Nintendo mostly known for?
Nintendo is known for its video games and consoles.
What does Nintendo stand for?
The kanji characters within the company are normally translated to 'leave luck to heaven' or to 'leave one's fortune in the hands of fate.'
What was the first Nintendo game?
In 1977, the company partnered with Mitsubishi Electric to develop home videogames called 'TV games 6' and 'TV games 15.'
Which country did Nintendo start in?
Nintendo started in Japan.
Is Nintendo copyrighted?
Yes, the company owns different copyrights for its countless products.
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Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature
Akinwalere OlaleyeBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature
As a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and energetic individual, Olaleye's expertise lies in administrative and management operations. With extensive knowledge as an Editor and Communications Analyst, Olaleye excels in editing, writing, and media relations. Her commitment to upholding professional ethics and driving organizational growth sets her apart. She has a bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Benin, Edo State.
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