The name Nintendo (任天堂) means “Leave luck to heaven” in Japanese, reflecting its early roots in playing cards and its vision for entertainment. Founded in 1889 in Kyoto, Japan, Nintendo has grown into a global gaming leader, creating immersive and family-friendly experiences through innovative hardware and software.
Iconic franchises like Mario™, Donkey Kong™, The Legend of Zelda™, Metroid™, Pokémon™, Animal Crossing™, Pikmin™, and Splatoon™ have shaped gaming culture. From the NES™ and Game Boy™ to the Nintendo Switch™ family, its consoles have redefined interactive entertainment. With over 5.5 billion games sold and 800 million hardware units shipped, Nintendo continues to deliver unique gaming experiences through consoles, mobile applications, and collaborations in entertainment like theme parks and visual content. A publicly traded company (TYO: 7974), it remains primarily owned by Japanese stakeholders, with Nintendo of Europe headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany.
Nintendo’s Early Years (1889-1979)
1889: Founding of Nintendo
Fusajiro Yamauchi established Nintendo Koppai in Kyoto, producing handmade Hanafuda playing cards.
1902: Introduction of Western Playing Cards
Nintendo began manufacturing Western-style playing cards in Japan, initially for export before gaining local popularity.
1933: Business Restructuring
The company reorganized as Yamauchi Nintendo & Co. to expand operations.
1947: Improved Distribution Network
Nintendo founded Marufuku Co. Ltd. to streamline product distribution.
1950-1951: Leadership Changes and Rebranding
Hiroshi Yamauchi became president in 1950. In 1951, the company rebranded as Nintendo Playing Card Co. Ltd.
1953: Innovation in Playing Cards
Nintendo became the first Japanese company to mass-produce plastic playing cards.
1959: Disney Collaboration
Nintendo partnered with Walt Disney, introducing themed playing cards that attracted younger audiences.
1962-1963: Stock Market Listing and Diversification
Listed on the Osaka and Kyoto Stock Exchanges in 1962. Rebranded as Nintendo Co., Ltd. in 1963, expanding into toys and games.
1969-1970: Manufacturing Growth and Electronic Toys
Built a new factory in Uji City (1969). Introduced Beam Gun (1970), Japan’s first electronic toy series.
1973-1974: Expansion into Entertainment Systems
Developed laser clay shooting (1973) and image-projection arcade machines (1974) for global markets.
1975-1976: Entry into Video Games
Partnered with Mitsubishi Electric in 1975 to develop a video game system with an EVR player. Integrated microprocessors into video games in 1976.
1977-1978: Home Consoles and Arcade Games
Launched TV Game 15 & TV Game 6 (1977). Released Computer Othello (1978), an arcade version of the classic board game.
1979: Establishing Nintendo of America
Minoru Arakawa founded Nintendo of America in New York, setting the stage for Nintendo’s entry into the U.S. gaming industry.
History of Nintendo Worldwide (1980-1990)
1980: Expansion into America and Handheld Gaming
Nintendo established Nintendo of America Inc. in New York. The company launched the GAME & WATCH series in Japan, the first portable LCD video games with microprocessors.
1981: Birth of Donkey Kong and Mario
Nintendo released Donkey Kong, a best-selling arcade game. It introduced Jumpman, later renamed Mario, inspired by Nintendo of America’s landlord, Mario Segale.
1983: Famicom Launch and Stock Market Debut
Nintendo introduced the Family Computer (Famicom) in Japan, featuring a custom CPU and PPU. The company also listed stock on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
1984: Introduction of the NES and Iconic Franchises
The Famicom was launched globally as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid became global hits.
1986: European Expansion and Technological Innovations
The NES launched in Europe, becoming a household favorite. Nintendo introduced the Family Computer Disk Drive System in Japan for expanded functionality.
1987: Networking and Community Engagement
Nintendo organized a Famicom Golf Tournament in Japan, using public telephone networks and Disk Faxes to test online gaming potential.
1988: Inclusive Gaming and Expanding Library
Nintendo developed the Hands Free controller, making gaming accessible for more players. The NES game library grew to 65 titles, attracting a wider audience.
1989: Game Boy Revolution
Nintendo introduced the Game Boy in Japan, featuring interchangeable cartridges. The system launched with Tetris, setting a new standard for handheld gaming.
1990: Super Famicom and European Game Boy Launch
Japan entered the 16-bit era with the release of the Super Famicom. The Game Boy launched in Europe, further solidifying Nintendo’s global presence. Nintendo of Europe was established in Grossostheim, Germany.
History of Nintendo Worldwide (1991 – present)
1992: The Super Nintendo Arrives in Europe
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (Super Famicom) launched in Europe in June, selling over 46 million units worldwide. Japan introduced the Super NES Super Scope and Mario Paint. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past was also released.
1993: Super FX Chip and European Expansion
Nintendo introduced the Super FX Chip, debuting in Star Wing in April. Nintendo of the Netherlands was established. New subsidiaries launched in France, the UK, Spain, Belgium, and Australia.
1994: Super Game Boy and Donkey Kong Country
The Super Game Boy allowed Game Boy titles to be played on the Super NES. Donkey Kong Country introduced Advanced Computer Modeling (ACM) graphics.
1995: Expanding Game Boy and Virtual Boy
The Play It Loud! series introduced colored Game Boys. The Virtual Boy, a 32-bit Virtual Immersion system, debuted. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest was released.
1996: Nintendo 64 and Pokémon’s Arrival
The Nintendo 64 launched in Japan on June 23, selling 500,000 units on day one. The Game Boy Pocket debuted. The Pokémon series launched in Japan on February 26.
1997: European Launch of Nintendo 64
The Nintendo 64 launched in Europe in March, selling 2.3 million units in its first year.
1998: Game Boy Color and Ocarina of Time
The Game Boy Color launched. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time set new industry standards.
1999: Pokémon Takes Over
Pokémon launched in Europe on October 8. Other major releases included Mario Golf, Donkey Kong 64, and Perfect Dark.
2000: Game Boy Surpasses 100 Million Sales
The Game Boy became the best-selling console, surpassing 100 million sales. Major releases included The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask and Mario Tennis.
2001: GameCube and Game Boy Advance
The Game Boy Advance launched in March. The Nintendo GameCube debuted in Japan on September 14 and America on November 18. Key titles included Luigi’s Mansion and Super Smash Bros. Melee.
2002: GameCube in Europe and Leadership Change
The GameCube launched in Europe on May 3. Hiroshi Yamauchi retired, naming Satoru Iwata as his successor.
2003-2010: Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo DS, Wii Revolution
Nintendo launched the Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo Wii, introducing motion controls. Key releases included The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Super Mario Galaxy, and Mario Kart Wii.
2011: Nintendo 3DS and Zelda’s 25th Anniversary
The Nintendo 3DS launched with glasses-free 3D technology.
2012: Wii U Introduced
Nintendo released the Wii U, featuring a touchscreen GamePad controller.
2013: Pokémon X & Y and Wind Waker HD
The Nintendo 2DS was launched, and Pokémon X & Y introduced full 3D gameplay.
2014: Super Smash Bros. and Amiibo
Nintendo launched Super Smash Bros. for Wii U & 3DS and introduced Amiibo figures.
2015: Passing of Satoru Iwata
Nintendo President Satoru Iwata passed away, and Tatsumi Kimishima took over.
2016: Pokémon GO and NES Classic
Nintendo released Pokémon GO. The NES Classic Edition launched.
2017: Nintendo Switch Revolution
Nintendo launched the Nintendo Switch, selling over 100 million units. Key games included The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey.
2018-2019: Smash Ultimate and Mario Maker 2
Nintendo released Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Pokémon Sword & Shield, and Super Mario Maker 2.
2020-2021: Animal Crossing and OLED Switch
Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a pandemic-era success. The Nintendo Switch OLED model launched.
2022-2023: Tears of the Kingdom and Metroid Prime Remastered
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was released, alongside Metroid Prime Remastered and Super Mario Bros. Wonder.
2024: Nintendo Switch 2 Teased
Nintendo teased the Nintendo Switch 2, expected to launch later in 2024.
Conclusion
As of 2025, Nintendo, led by President Shuntaro Furukawa, continues its legacy of innovation in the gaming industry. The Nintendo Switch has achieved remarkable success, with hardware sales reaching 150.86 million units and software sales totaling 1,359.80 million units as of December 31, 2024. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, Nintendo reported global revenues of $12.13 billion, with the Americas contributing $5.52 billion. Anticipation builds for the Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled for release in June 2025, featuring advancements such as a larger screen, backward compatibility, and innovative Joy-Con controllers with potential mouse-like functionality. Nintendo’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology ensures an enhanced gaming experience, solidifying its position as a leader in the industryNintendo remains committed to delivering innovative gaming experiences, securing its position as a global leader.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading Nintendo in 2025, and what’s their vision?
Shuntaro Furukawa remains Nintendo’s CEO in 2025, driving innovation with a focus on AI-powered gaming, cloud streaming, and immersive experiences. His leadership continues to push Nintendo’s dominance in the gaming industry.
How many Nintendo Switch consoles have been sold worldwide?
As of 2024, the Nintendo Switch has sold over 150.86 million units, making it one of the highest-selling gaming consoles ever. Its hybrid gaming experience and exclusive titles keep it in high demand.
What is Nintendo’s revenue and market reach in 2024?
In 2024, Nintendo generated $12.13 billion in revenue, with the U.S. contributing $5.52 billion. The company continues to expand in Asia, Europe, and North America, strengthening its global gaming presence.
When is the Nintendo Switch 2 releasing, and what new features will it have?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to launch in mid-2025, featuring 4K graphics, an upgraded NVIDIA chip, AI-powered gaming, and improved battery life. It aims to set a new standard for portable gaming.
What’s next for Nintendo? Future technologies and gaming trends?
Nintendo is investing in AI-driven gameplay, cloud gaming, VR compatibility, and haptic feedback technology to deliver the most immersive gaming experiences ever. Expect groundbreaking innovations in upcoming years.
