Summary

In this episode of the Brand Archive, hosts Ben and Ashton explore the rich history and evolution of Nintendo, a company that has significantly impacted the gaming industry since its inception in 1889. They discuss Nintendo’s journey from a playing card company to a global gaming giant, highlighting key innovations, iconic games, and branding strategies that have kept the brand relevant. The conversation also touches on Nintendo’s failures, lessons learned, and the importance of community engagement and partnerships in maintaining cultural relevance.

takeaways

• Nintendo started in 1889 as a playing card company.
• The company experienced global success with the release of Donkey Kong in 1981.
• Nintendo’s logo was updated in 1982, coinciding with their global expansion.
• The Wii and Switch are key products that revolutionized gaming experiences.
• Nintendo focuses on fun and accessible gameplay for all ages.
• They have a unique approach to branding and product naming.
• Failures like the Virtual Boy and Power Glove taught valuable lessons.
• Nintendo’s partnerships with other brands enhance their cultural presence.
• Innovation at Nintendo often involves iterating on existing technology.
• The Nintendo Switch is their top-selling product, with over 125 million units sold.