Liceul Kőrösi Csoma Sándor

LUCRARE DE ATESTAT

NINTENDO

Prof. coordinator: Nume elev:

Nagy Csilla Kakas Koppány

Covasna, 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS:

I. INTRODUCTION

II. THE FOUNDING OF NINTENDO

III. KEY MILESTONES IN NINTENDO’S DEVELOPMENT

III.1. NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM /NES

III.2. SUPER NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM/ SNES
III.3. NINTENDO 64
III.4. GAME CUBE
III.5 NINTENDO WII
III. 6. NINTENDO WIIU
III.7. NINTENDO SWITCH

IV. NINTENDO’S INFLUENCE ON GAMING CULTURE

V. APPROACH TO INNOVATION

VI. CHALLENGES AND CONTROVERSIES

VII. CONCLUSION

VIII. BIBLIOGRAPHY
 I. INTRODUCTION

We can all recall from our childhood memories a red-blueish italian plumber with his
signature moustache: Mario. A character who took part of many persons life, in various
forms: magazines, gameplays, toys, commercial ads. I can admit that I am one of those once
little kids who played and loved these games with him.
My story dates back to 2013, when I was 7 and got my first Nintendo Wii console. It was a
whole new world, full of excitement, challenges and fun. These games: Wii Sport, Mario and
Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games, were all made to entertain and teach, but the old
school platformer Super Mario stood out of them. I can also mention at this point, that I met
for the first time with “virtual boardgames” thanks to Wii, in the Mario Party 9, which is
basically a simple board game, spiced with minigames from Mario Universe. Even to this
day, when my friends come over, it is my first and best choice among all couch games.
My next console was the Nintendo 2DS, my first handheld console, which brought new
games and mobility into my life. It was my buddy along the neverending roadtrips and
boring hours. Sometimes, when the feeling of nostalgia overcomes me, I swipe the dust from
it and play a bit on it, even if nowadays it is considered outdated.

Of course, I couldn’t stop: for my 10th birthday,

my dad surprised my with the Nintendo Wii U. It
was a new approach to the old games with higher
graphics, something that I had seen only on
YouTube. The Wii U was a next level, a console
hard to approach, so it was a big favourite without
a doubt.
In the same year, Nintendo released the Switch, I
didn’t hesitate too much, bought it as soon as it
was available in our country. This hybrid console
was a groundbreaking innovation, the one that
gained the highest sellings and best user reviews
thanks to its multilateral functionality. Ever since,
it remained my most used console, with a big set of
old and new gameplays, refreshing yearly.
As I highlighted before, the Nintendo Universe
played a key role in my childhood, influencing my
personality, taste and hobbys. That is why I chose
this specific topic.
 II. THE FOUNDING OF NINTENDO

Nintendo’s history dates back to September 23, 1889, when Fusajiro Yamauchi founded the
company in Kyoto, Japan. At its inception, Nintendo was not involved in video games but
produced handmade, traditional Japanese playing cards known as “hanafuda” cards. The
company’s name reflects this focus, as "Nintendo" roughly translates to "Leave luck to heaven."
This name was in harmony with the world of card games, where luck plays a significant role.

Nintendo quickly found success in the hanafuda card market, especially among gamblers in
Japan. The cards, decorated with unique designs, became highly popular, and the company
expanded its offerings. However, in its early decades, Nintendo remained a relatively small, local
card manufacturing business with a market limited primarily to Japan.

Change began in the 1950s when Hiroshi Yamauchi, Fusajiro’s grandson, took over the company.
Hiroshi modernized and expanded the business, including entering the U.S. market. During this
period, Nintendo also experimented with other products to diversify its operations. For a short
time, the company ran taxi and hotel services and produced toys and instant rice. However, these
ventures did not achieve the desired success.

The real breakthrough came in the late 1960s and 1970s when Nintendo shifted its focus to the
entertainment industry, particularly games and, later, video games. Hiroshi Yamauchi recognized
the potential in technological advancements and began developing electronic games. This new
direction laid the foundation for modern Nintendo. Early successes included simple electronic
games and the Game & Watch series, which secured the company’s place in the world of video
games.

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III. KEY MILESTONES IN NINTENDO’S DEVELOPMENT

III.1. NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM /NES

The device that saved the videogame industry was originally known as the Famicom
(Family Computer) in Japan. The Nintendo Entertainment System confounded analysts
and sold millions of copies after a significant decline in western video game sales. Classics
like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Excitebike were so far ahead of the
games on other home systems that players rushed to see and play them.

The game catalog of the system that went viral shows that, even after more than two
decades, the Nintendo distinction is still evident. Classics like the original The Legend of
Zelda and the heavenly Super Mario Bros., the side-scrolling platformer that Shigeru
Miyamoto created and is perhaps the origin of it all, can be seen as you look up at the
Nintendo Entertainment System's soaring stack of more than 500 games.

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A fiew words about the controller: a flat piece of plastic that sits in your hands. a
directional control pad with a cross shape. You have two thumb-sized spherical buttons.
'Start' and 'Select' buttons are twins. An industry standard that is still relevant today was
established using the fundamentals of the NES controller.
III.2. SUPER NINTENDO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM/ SNES

The Super Nintendo Entertainment System, which was first introduced to Europe in
1992, stunned players with its graphics and gameplay, ushering in a magnificent new era of
video games. Giant-sized Game Paks enable the Super Nintendo to recreate expansive worlds
that take weeks to explore. The system boasts real stereo sound, numerous scrolling
backgrounds, and twice the built-in memory of the previous NES.
In the blink of an eye, the Super Nintendo's integrated DSP (Digital Signal Processor) can
quickly execute complex calculations on in-game graphics. This is the reason behind "Mode 7,"
which enables games like Super Mario Kart to produce pseudo-3D tracks by twisting and
spinning large 2D forms through three dimensions. This is accomplished at speeds that would
have made even the most courageous gamer shudder in the face-flappingly fast F-Zero. On the
Super Nintendo, several of Nintendo's most well-known NES and arcade characters make a
fierce comeback. Super Mario World, Super Metroid, Super Mario Kart, Donkey Kong
Country, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and others are still considered to be among
the best games in their respective genres. The Super Nintendo now has over 500 titles in its
collection thanks to contributions from third parties.
With the flawless Super Nintendo Controller, Nintendo raised the bar for future videogame
controllers, building on the groundbreaking design of the NES controller. The cozy directional
pad is back, but the gamer's control is essentially doubled thanks to two more buttons and the
arrival of twin shoulder buttons, which is a first for video games.
Proper polygons were introduced to TV screens in stunning fashion by game packs with the
Super FX chip, such as the stunning premiere title Star Wing. The next-generation Super FX 2
chip was used in later games, such as Yoshi's Island, to bend and distort forms in the most
aesthetically beautiful ways.

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 III.3. NINTENDO 64
As the time passed by, players had the opportunity to explore stunning 3D
environments that burst with color, dance with real-time lighting effects, and light up
your ears with CD-quality sound thanks to the Nintendo 64's 64-bit capabilities.
The Nintendo 64's four controller ports beg to be filled because it was intended to be a
party machine. Bring three friends together and see how amazing games like Mario
Kart 64, Mario Party, and Donkey Kong 64 can develop into hilarious multiplayer
gaming sessions.
A lineup of seven gorgeous, semi-transparent colors -Blue, Green, Orange, Purple,
Red, Black, and Clear Blue, as well as a black Nintendo 64 and a special edition
Pokémon that is blue and yellow with a giant Pikachu on top, as well as a gorgeous
turquoise-and-eggshell Nintendo 64 that was only available as part of the Super Mario
64 pack. Choose. The Transfer Pak, which is available for separate purchase, enables
the Nintendo 64 to interface with Game Boy Color titles such as Mario Golf and
Pokémon Gold/Silver. You may play your Pokémon games on a large screen, uncover
minigames and mysteries, and exchange data, depending on the game!
Nintendo created the first analog Control Stick for the Nintendo 64 Controller,
revolutionizing input device design and giving players full 360-degree control over
every game. Thirteen additional buttons, including a convenient Z button below-
center, complete this innovative package. The controller, with its distinctive three-
pronged form fits in any hand ideally.

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 III.4. NINTENDO GameCube
That's the Nintendo GameCube: little, adorable, and appealing. The distinctive design and small size
(11.4cm x 15cm x 16cm) of the Nintendo GameCube, which was released in purple, black, and
special edition colors, represent Nintendo's dedication to preserving creativity and innovation in
video games.
The Nintendo GameCube is packed full of gaming power thanks to a primary CPU that was co-
developed by IBM and a graphics chip that was created in collaboration with ATI. This gives
Nintendo GameCube titles stunning images that will brighten your entire living area. The Nintendo
GameCube has the audio-visual capacity to chill you to the bone when you add CD-caliber music
and sounds.
By connecting the Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance with the Game Boy Advance
Cable, you may access an amazing array of new videogame experiences. These systems are already
world-class in their own right. Depending on the game, you can utilize the Game Boy Advance as an
input device, swap data, or unlock new game levels.
The Nintendo GameCube was created specifically for gaming. Mario, Zelda, Donkey Kong, and
Metroid are just a few of the game series that Nintendo exclusively produces for its consoles. The
Nintendo GameCube is the preferred system for gamers seeking the most fun for their money, and a
vast array of third-party developers have contributed to a long number of top-rated games.
With the new controller, users could control any game with extreme precision thanks to its user-
friendly button arrangement, which includes a gratifyingly large primary button. The perfectly
ergonomic package is completed with two analog Control Sticks, twin analog shoulder buttons, and
an integrated rumble feature.

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 III.5. NINTENDO WII

The Nintendo Wii, launched in 2006, brought a fresh and exciting approach to gaming by
focusing on motion controls and accessibility. Its innovative Wii Remote Plus allowed players to
interact with games through physical movements, creating a more immersive experience.
Accessories like the Nunchuk added extra control options, while the Wii Balance Board
introduced a new way to engage with fitness and sports games. The Wii Wheel turned racing
games into a fun, family-friendly activity.

One of the Wii's biggest strengths was its ability to appeal to both casual and hardcore gamers.
Titles like “Wii Sports” became instant hits, encouraging social and active play, while games like
“The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” and “Super Mario Galaxy” showcased the system's
ability to deliver rich, immersive adventures. The Wii also emphasized family-friendly gaming,
making it a popular choice for households around the world.

The Wii's Virtual Console brought nostalgia into the mix, allowing players to download and
enjoy classic games from Nintendo's past consoles. This feature, combined with the innovative
gameplay, solidified the Wii's reputation as a console that celebrated both the future and history
of gaming. Selling over 100 million units worldwide, the Wii became one of Nintendo's most
successful consoles, leaving a lasting legacy in the gaming industry.

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 III. 6. NINTENDO WII U

Nintendo's next home videogame console, the Wii U, completely altered how the user
interacts with the TV and maintain relationships with their loved ones. The Wii U
GamePad was a remarkable new controller that transformed the experience of playing
games with others. It was a powerful, high definition system.
It worked as a second window into the game world with the Wii U GamePad, which
offered whole new viewpoints on both solo and multiplayer gaming. It let to enjoy new
multiplayer experiences by observing what other players are unable to do, or access rich
information without interrupting the action.
The Wii U GamePad and console together opened up completely new gaming
possibilities.
The Nintendo Wii U introduced Miiverse, a social network for gamers to connect and
share experiences. Launched in 2012, it let players post messages, share screenshots, and
even draw artwork using the GamePad. Each game had its own community, where users
could discuss strategies or celebrate achievements.

Miiverse was also integrated into games like “Super Mario 3D World”, where player
messages appeared during gameplay, adding a sense of community. It blended gaming
and social media in a unique way, fostering creativity and connection. Though
discontinued in 2017, Miiverse remains a beloved feature of the Wii U era.

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 III. 7. NINTENDO SWITCH

The Nintendo Switch, released on March 3, 2017, is a hybrid gaming console that revolutionized
the industry by blending home and portable gaming. It offers three modes of play: TV mode,
where the console docks to connect to a TV; Tabletop mode, which uses a built-in kickstand for
multiplayer or solo gaming on a flat surface; and Handheld mode, allowing for on-the-go gaming
with the Joy-Con controllers attached.
The Switch features a 6.2-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1280x720, delivering
vibrant visuals in handheld mode. Its detachable Joy-Con controllers add versatility, offering
motion controls, HD Rumble feedback, and the ability to function as two mini-controllers for
multiplayer. These innovative features enable various play styles, making the console adaptable
for any gaming situation.
A key strength of the Nintendo Switch is its vast game library, which includes critically acclaimed
titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing:
New Horizons. Additionally, it supports third-party and indie games, alongside access to classic
titles through Nintendo Online, catering to players of all ages and preferences.
The console comes in three models: the original Nintendo Switch, the handheld-only Nintendo
Switch Lite, and the premium Nintendo Switch OLED, featuring a larger 7-inch OLED screen
and improved audio. Depending on the model, battery life ranges from 4.5 to 9 hours, ensuring
long play sessions on the go.While some have criticized the Switch for hardware limitations
compared to competitors and issues like Joy-Con drift, its innovative design and focus on social
gaming have made it a massive success. By bridging home and portable gaming, the Nintendo
Switch has redefined how and where people play, appealing to casual and hardcore gamers alike.

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 IV. NINTENDO’S INFLUENCE ON GAMING CULTURE

Nintendo is one of the most influential players in video game culture, shaping the experiences and
communities of gamers across generations worldwide. While the company has Japanese roots, the
characters and worlds it has created have become integral parts of global pop culture.

Nintendo's games and philosophy have had a significant impact on the communal gaming experience.
The company has always aimed to make gaming more than just an individual pastime, transforming it
into an activity that brings people together, whether it’s families, friends, or international gaming
communities. This is particularly evident in community events, competitions, and fan gatherings, where
players share their experiences with one another.

Nintendo’s iconic characters, like Mario and Pikachu, have also left their mark on pop culture. These
figures became widely recognized not only through games but also via cartoons, merchandise, and
shared community experiences, especially among younger audiences. The accessibility and depth of
Nintendo’s games have made them appealing to a broad audience, including those who previously had
little interest in video games.
Beyond entertainment, Nintendo has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in gaming. The
company’s focus on creativity and unique gameplay experiences has set it apart, encouraging a playful
spirit while fostering inclusivity. Through innovations like motion controls, portable gaming systems,
and hybrid consoles, Nintendo has revolutionized how people interact with games, making them
accessible to all ages and skill levels.

Moreover, the company’s emphasis on storytelling and character development has cultivated emotional
connections between players and its games. Nintendo’s ability to blend nostalgia with fresh ideas ensures
its relevance across generations, solidifying its position as a cultural and gaming icon.

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 V. APPROACH TO INNOVATION
Nintendo has built its legacy on innovation, consistently redefining how people experience video
games. From its beginnings as a playing card company to becoming a global entertainment
powerhouse, its success stems from a commitment to creativity, risk-taking, and unique approaches
to gaming.
Unlike competitors who often focus on hardware power, Nintendo prioritizes user experience and
gameplay. This philosophy has led to groundbreaking advancements that prioritize accessibility and
fun over technical specs. Early examples include the Game & Watch series and the Game Boy,
which popularized portable gaming. The Nintendo DS, with its touch-screen functionality, and the
Wii, which introduced motion controls, exemplify the company’s ability to create entirely new ways
to interact with games, making gaming accessible to broader audiences.
The Nintendo Switch, combining home and portable gaming, reinforced the company’s reputation
as an innovator, redefining the console market. Similarly, ventures like Amiibo figurines, blending
physical collectibles with digital gaming, show Nintendo’s creativity in expanding player
engagement.
Beyond hardware, Nintendo’s game design emphasizes creativity and timeless experiences. Titles
like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Animal Crossing: New Horizons focus on
exploration, connection, and fun, embodying the company’s philosophy of delivering fresh,
immersive gameplay.
Nintendo also excels at balancing nostalgia with innovation, reinventing beloved franchises while
introducing new ones. This approach ensures its relevance across generations, captivating both
long-time fans and newcomers.
By taking bold risks and defying industry norms, Nintendo has cemented its place as a pioneer in
gaming, proving that creativity and the joy of play are the true heart of the industry.
Nintendo’s influence extends beyond gaming, shaping how players connect and interact with
entertainment. Its focus on creating inclusive, social experiences has brought people together,
whether through family-friendly multiplayer games or global gaming communities. Nintendo’s
ability to innovate while maintaining its core philosophy of fun and accessibility has made it a
cornerstone of gaming culture, inspiring countless developers and proving that bold, creative ideas
can redefine an industry.

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 VI. CHALLENGES AND CONTROVERSIES

While Nintendo has been a pioneering force in the gaming industry, it has not been without its share
of challenges and controversies. Over the years, the company has faced obstacles ranging from fierce
competition and technological missteps to criticisms regarding business practices and content
policies. Despite its successes, these moments highlight the difficulties Nintendo has encountered
while maintaining its reputation as an industry leader.

One of Nintendo’s ongoing challenges has been adapting to the ever-evolving technological
landscape. While its focus on innovation has often set it apart, the company’s reluctance to embrace
certain trends has occasionally hindered its growth. For instance, during the rise of online gaming in
the early 2000s, Nintendo lagged behind competitors like Sony and Microsoft, which prioritized
robust online multiplayer infrastructures. The lack of a seamless online experience for systems like
the Wii and Wii U drew criticism, even as the company excelled in local multiplayer. While the
Nintendo Switch has improved online capabilities, its service still falls short compared to its rivals,
frustrating modern gamers who expect a polished, competitive online ecosystem.

Another major challenge has been the commercial failure of certain products. The Wii U, for
example, was widely considered a misstep, with confusing marketing and limited third-party support.
Its poor sales forced Nintendo to reevaluate its approach, leading to the creation of the highly
successful Nintendo Switch. Similarly, the Virtual Boy, an early attempt at virtual reality gaming in
the 1990s, was a commercial disaster due to its lack of compelling games and uncomfortable design.
These missteps highlight the risk inherent in Nintendo’s innovative philosophy.

Controversies around content and censorship have also plagued the company. Nintendo has long
been known for its family-friendly image, but this approach has sometimes led to criticism for over-
censorship or a lack of inclusivity. Games localized for Western audiences, for example, have often
been altered to remove content deemed inappropriate or culturally sensitive, frustrating fans who
desire authentic versions of the original releases. Additionally, some critics have pointed to the
company’s slow pace in embracing broader representation, such as diversity in character design and
inclusive themes in their games.

In recent years, Nintendo has faced growing scrutiny over its labor practices. Reports have emerged
of poor working conditions at partner companies and temporary staff being denied full-time benefits.
These issues have raised questions about Nintendo’s commitment to treating its workforce fairly, an
area that has become increasingly important to consumers and stakeholders.

Despite these challenges and controversies, Nintendo has consistently demonstrated an ability to
learn from its mistakes and adapt. The company’s willingness to take risks, even at the cost of
occasional failures, remains a defining characteristic. By addressing criticisms and evolving with the
industry, Nintendo continues to thrive, balancing its dedication to innovation with the demands of a
global gaming audience.
 VII. CONCLUSION
Even though the company exists more than 135 years ago, Nintendo is still active, innovative and
famous. In 2025, they are launching another big hit, namely the Nintendo Switch 2 console. Rumors
say that it won’t disappoint the public, coming up with a brand new technology, new games and
improved hardware, which I will buy in the second of the release.
Nowadays, it seems like Nintendo have lost a bit from their worldwide fame, in comparison to
XBOX or PlayStation. In my opinion, the reason why this could happen is that Nintendo have
always tried to remain true for its original image, belief and goal. They dared to take risks, try out
new ideas, they did not follow a pattern, while the central plan always remained to form an opened-
view community, not including only hardcore gamers. Their games were easily understandable and
enjoyable for everyone, anyone, from kids to parents, grandparents and guys from the next door.
From my personal point of view, spending my time with Nintendo will remain an important part
of my activities. My goal is to buy all of their consoles, wether handheld or stand alone hardwares,
including the oldest ones up til the newest. Even if most of them are already retired from the market,
I will try to get them with any consequence.
Another huge dream of mine is to visit the Nintendo Store, located in New York, USA. Even
though the Store doesn’t looks like a big deal from the outside, its moral value is what catched me:
being the first physical magazine where the fans could buy the merch and freshly launched games, it
became the nest of Nintendo, that connects people from all over the world.
As other upcoming destinations I would mention the Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios,
Hollywood, and the Nintendo Museum from Kyoto, Japan. I guess, visiting these places would let
me to dive deeper into this phenomena, bringing it even closer to my heart, if that is possible.
When I will grow up, and have a family, I am sure that I will share this passion of mine with my kids
too. I can imagine us sitting in the living room, with my little boy on my lap, surrounded with a
mountain of consoles. I will tell him old stories about Nintendo, how it formed my personality, how
many hours I have spent with it, and how happy I will be for being able to share all of it with him.

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 VIII. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Gina Shaw: What is Nintendo?
Future Publishing LTD: The big book of Nintendo
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nintendo
https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Games/Games-347085.html