Nintendo is a company that has been around for over 130 years, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that it really made a name for itself in the video game industry. In the years since then, they have become one of the most iconic and beloved video game companies in the world. In this article, we will explore how Nintendo changed the video game market and the impact it had on the industry.
The Introduction of the Nintendo Entertainment System
One of the biggest ways that Nintendo changed the video game market was with the introduction of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Released in 1985, the NES was a home console that allowed gamers to play high-quality video games in their own homes. This was a huge departure from the arcade-style games that dominated the industry at the time, and it allowed Nintendo to tap into a whole new market of gamers.
The success of the NES helped Nintendo establish itself as a major player in the video game industry. The company continued to innovate and develop new consoles over the years, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Nintendo 64, and Nintendo Switch.
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The Creation of Iconic Franchises
Another way that Nintendo changed the video game market was through the creation of iconic franchises. Games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Pokemon have become cultural touchstones and are instantly recognizable to gamers all over the world.
These franchises not only helped Nintendo establish itself as a major player in the industry, but they also helped to shape the direction of the video game market. Nintendo’s focus on quality game development and engaging gameplay helped to set the standard for the industry, and many other companies followed in their footsteps.
The Emphasis on Family-Friendly Games
Another way that Nintendo changed the video game market was through its emphasis on family-friendly games. Unlike other companies that focused on violent and mature games, Nintendo’s games were designed to be enjoyed by players of all ages.
This focus on family-friendly games not only helped Nintendo appeal to a wider audience but also helped to change the perception of video games in general. As more and more people began to see video games as a legitimate form of entertainment, the industry began to grow and evolve in new ways.
The Development of Portable Consoles
In addition to home consoles, Nintendo also played a major role in the development of portable consoles. The Game Boy, released in 1989, was a handheld console that allowed gamers to play their favorite games on the go. This was a game-changer for the industry and opened up a whole new market of gamers who were looking for ways to play games outside of the home.
Nintendo continued to innovate in this area over the years, releasing popular handheld consoles like the Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo Switch Lite. These portable consoles helped to change the way people thought about video games and made them more accessible to a wider audience.
The Embrace of New Technology
Finally, Nintendo has always been willing to embrace new technology and push the boundaries of the industry. The company was one of the first to experiment with motion controls, releasing the Wii console in 2006. The Wii was a massive success and helped to change the way people thought about video game consoles.
More recently, Nintendo has embraced virtual reality technology with the release of the Nintendo Labo VR Kit. This innovative product allows gamers to build their own VR headset and experience immersive gameplay in a whole new way.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, Nintendo’s impact on the video game market cannot be overstated. The company’s focus on quality game development, family-friendly games, and innovative technology has helped to shape our love for video games.
