The Indicator from Planet Money The secret to Nintendo's success
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Jun 16, 2025 Explore the secret sauce behind Nintendo's enduring success, from its humble beginnings as a playing card company to a multimedia powerhouse. Discover how the launch of the NES changed the gaming landscape and why their focus on unique gameplay over raw power keeps them ahead. Dive into the cozy revolution with the Wii's innovative motion controls, making gaming accessible for all. Nintendo's family-friendly ethos stands out against the more intense competition, illustrating a unique cultural aesthetic that has captivated gamers for decades.
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Fan Dedication for Switch 2
- Gamers camped outside a Nintendo store for hours to buy the Switch 2.
- Fans planned for years to get the new console despite its lower tech specs.
Nintendo's Toy Company Roots
- Nintendo began as a playing card company and transitioned into toys.
- This history shaped its identity as a toy company more than just a video game maker.
1983 Video Game Market Crash
- The 1983 video game crash was caused by market saturation and poor quality games.
- Consumers lost interest, slashing industry revenue by 90% within a year.