History of Nintendo in Timeline
Nintendo is a Japanese multinational company headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. They are known for developing, publishing, and releasing video games and video game consoles.
1902: Nintendo's Foray into Western Playing Cards
Nintendo's first foray into Western-style playing cards is believed to have been in 1902, aiming to capture the export market.
1907: Family Business and Leadership Transition
To ensure the continuity of the family business, Sekiryo Kaneda adopted the Yamauchi surname in 1907 and took the helm of the company in 1929.
1915: Branding Evolution
A promotional calendar from 1915 reveals that while the business was known as Yamauchi Nintendo, it continued to use the Marufuku Nintendo Co. brand for its playing cards.
1927: Hiroshi Yamauchi: The Future of Nintendo
Hiroshi Yamauchi, born in 1927, was designated as Sekiryo Kaneda's successor, marking a significant moment in Nintendo's history.
1929: Nintendo's Rise to the Top
By 1929, under Sekiryo Kaneda's leadership, Nintendo became the largest playing card business in Japan.
1933: Formalization and Expansion
Sekiryo Kaneda established the company as a general partnership in 1933, named Yamauchi Nintendo & Co., Ltd., and invested in building a new corporate headquarters.
1947: Navigating Post-War Challenges and Establishing Distribution
In the wake of World War II's impact, Sekiryo founded the distribution company Marufuku Co., Ltd. in 1947, laying the groundwork for the future Nintendo Co., Ltd.
1950: A New Era: Hiroshi Yamauchi Takes Charge
With Sekiryo's health declining, Hiroshi Yamauchi assumed the presidency in 1950, ushering in a new era of leadership and innovation.
1951: Rebranding and Centralization
Hiroshi Yamauchi initiated changes, renaming the company to Nintendo Playing Card Co., Ltd. in 1951 and centralizing manufacturing facilities the following year.
1953: Pioneering Plastic Playing Cards
In 1953, Nintendo achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first company in Japan to successfully mass-produce plastic playing cards.
1959: Relocation and Disney Partnership
Nintendo moved its headquarters to a new location in Kyoto in 1959 and entered into a pivotal partnership with The Walt Disney Company, incorporating Disney characters into their playing cards.
1961: Expansion and Market Dominance
By 1961, Nintendo established a Tokyo branch, sold over 1.5 million card packs, and held a commanding market share, bolstered by strategic televised advertising campaigns.
1962: Going Public and Venturing into Games
Nintendo went public in 1962, listing on the Osaka and Kyoto Stock Exchanges, and took a significant step by starting to manufacture games alongside playing cards.
1962: Nintendo Goes Public
Nintendo went public in 1962, marking a significant milestone in the company's history.
1964: Financial Success and Emerging Challenges
Despite earning ¥150 million in 1964, Nintendo faced challenges as its reliance on the children's market became apparent with declining Disney card sales.
1965: Gunpei Yokoi Joins Nintendo
The hiring of Gunpei Yokoi in 1965 to maintain assembly-line machines for playing cards would prove to be a pivotal moment, as Yokoi's innovative thinking would later contribute significantly to Nintendo's success in the electronic gaming market.
1969: Investing in Research and Development
Learning from past experiences, Yamauchi prioritized innovation by significantly investing in a research and development department in 1969, led by Hiroshi Imanishi, with Gunpei Yokoi playing a key role.
1971: Partnering with Magnavox
Nintendo partnered with Magnavox in 1971 to provide a light gun controller based on the Beam Gun design for the Magnavox Odyssey home video game console.
1973: Nintendo Expands and Innovates, But Oil Crisis Hits
In 1973, Nintendo saw increased demand leading to office expansion and new product development, including the popular Laser Clay Shooting System. However, the oil crisis caused economic hardship, impacting the cost of plastics and consumer spending, leading to significant financial losses for the company.
1974: Nintendo Ventures into Home Consoles
Inspired by Atari and Magnavox, Nintendo secured distribution rights for the Magnavox Odyssey in Japan in 1974. They partnered with Mitsubishi Electric to develop their own consoles and microprocessors, laying the groundwork for their future in the home console market.
1974: Arcade Success and Economic Challenges
Nintendo found success with arcade games like Wild Gunman in 1974, exporting them to Western markets. However, production costs and competition led to the discontinuation of some products and the closure of their subsidiary, Nintendo Leisure System Co., Ltd., due to the ongoing oil crisis.
1975: Development of Video Game Technology
Between 1975 and 1978, Nintendo collaborated with Mitsubishi Electric to develop various products, including the first microprocessor for video game systems. This period marked significant advancements in their technological capabilities.
1975: Release of EVR Race
Nintendo released its first electromechanical arcade game, EVR Race, in 1975.
1977: Nintendo Enters the Console Market
In 1977, Nintendo dipped its toes into the console market with the release of its first console, the Color TV-Game.
1977: Launch of the Color TV-Game
Nintendo launched its first home console, the Color TV-Game, in 1977, marking their entry into the home console market.
1978: Expansion of Research and Development
In 1978, Nintendo expanded its research and development efforts by splitting the department into two facilities, led by Gunpei Yokoi and Masayuki Uemura. This strategic move allowed for greater focus and innovation within the company.
1979: Expansion to America and Arcade Development
1979 marked Nintendo's expansion into the US market with the establishment of their American subsidiary in New York City. They also created a new department dedicated to arcade game development, further diversifying their operations.
1979: Nintendo Enters Arcade Market with Sheriff
In 1979, Nintendo made its mark on the arcade gaming scene with Sheriff, their first original video game. Developed by Genyo Takeda and Shigeru Miyamoto, this release marked a significant milestone in Nintendo's history.
1980: Establishment of Nintendo of America (NoA)
Nintendo of America (NoA), Nintendo's North American subsidiary, was established in 1980, with Minoru Arakawa, Hiroshi Yamauchi's son-in-law, as president.
1980: Game & Watch Revolutionizes Handheld Gaming
Nintendo revolutionized handheld gaming in 1980 with the release of the Game & Watch, a pioneering handheld console designed by Gunpei Yokoi. Its success, selling over 43.4 million units, solidified Nintendo's presence in the portable gaming market.
1980: Radar Scope: Success and Challenges
While Radar Scope found success in Japanese arcades in 1980, it struggled to gain traction overseas. This setback created financial challenges for Nintendo but also paved the way for innovation and the creation of their next big hit.
1981: Bergsala Begins Distributing Game & Watch in Scandinavia
Bergsala, a third-party company based in Sweden, started its relationship with Nintendo in 1981 by distributing Game & Watch units in Sweden.
1981: Donkey Kong Kicks Off a Legacy
Nintendo gained international recognition in 1981 with the release of Donkey Kong, a landmark title that introduced the world to Mario (then known as Jumpman).
1981: Release of Donkey Kong
Nintendo released the arcade game Donkey Kong in 1981, which introduced the iconic character and became a landmark title in gaming history.
1981: Donkey Kong Released
Nintendo released the arcade game Donkey Kong, which became a massive success and helped revitalize the struggling video game industry in 1981.
1981: Donkey Kong: A Platform Game Legend is Born
Nintendo struck gold in 1981 with Donkey Kong, one of the first platform video games that captivated audiences worldwide. This game not only brought financial success but also introduced the iconic character Jumpman, who would later become Mario.
July 1982: Nintendo Purchases Land in Redmond
Using profits from the success of Donkey Kong, Nintendo of America purchased 27 acres of land in Redmond in July 1982.
July 1983: Famicom Launches in Japan
July 1983 marked the debut of the Family Computer, or Famicom, in Japan. This innovative console, incorporating ROM cartridges and advanced hardware, quickly rose to popularity, surpassing Sega's market share by 1984.
1983: Nintendo Implements Measures to Combat Video Game Piracy
Learning from the 1983 video game crash, Nintendo took steps to prevent a similar situation with the Famicom/NES. They implemented measures such as controlling cartridge production to combat unauthorized game clones, particularly in Asian markets. Despite these efforts, piracy remained an issue, leading to further legal battles.
1983: Donkey Kong Success Continues
Nintendo continued to see massive success with Donkey Kong through 1983, with the game selling 4,000 arcade units each month in America.
1983: Nintendo Defends "Donkey Kong" Copyright
Nintendo took legal action in 1983 to protect its intellectual property when Universal Pictures claimed that "Donkey Kong" infringed on its "King Kong" copyright. Nintendo successfully defended its creation, a pivotal moment in establishing the company's commitment to protecting its characters and games.
1983: Video Game Crash Impacts Industry
The video game crash of 1983, triggered by market saturation and low-quality games, resulted in a recession within the American video game industry. Revenues plummeted from $3 billion to $100 million between 1983 and 1985, posing challenges for Nintendo's expansion plans.
1984: Famicom Outperforms Sega, Dominates Japanese Market
The Famicom's popularity soared in 1984, exceeding Sega's SG-1000's market share and solidifying Nintendo's dominance in the Japanese console market. This success marked a turning point for the company.
1985: The NES and Super Mario Bros. Revolutionize Gaming
1985 marked a pivotal year for Nintendo and the gaming industry as a whole, with the release of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the iconic Super Mario Bros.
1985: Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Launches in North America
In 1985, Nintendo introduced the Famicom to the North American market as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), strategically differentiating it from competitors. This launch marked the beginning of a new era for the company and the home console market.
1985: Nintendo Introduces Its Recognizable Racetrack Logo
In 1985, Nintendo started using its iconic red racetrack logo with a white background in Western markets. This logo became synonymous with the brand during the NES era.
1985: Nintendo Entertainment System Launch
Nintendo launched the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1985, using the profits from Donkey Kong. The console was a huge success and helped to revitalize the video game industry.
1985: Nintendo Exits Arcade Market, Focuses on Home Consoles
Riding high on the Famicom's success, Nintendo made the strategic decision to shift focus from the arcade market in 1985, concentrating resources on their thriving home console business.
1986: Bergsala Expands Distribution to Include NES
Bergsala's distribution agreement with Nintendo expanded to include the NES console by 1986.
1988: Game Boy: The Birth of a Handheld Icon
Gunpei Yokoi and his team at Nintendo R&D1 conceived the Game Boy in 1988, revolutionizing portable gaming once again. This handheld console would go on to become a cultural phenomenon.
1988: Nintendo Power Magazine Launches
In 1988, Nintendo launched Nintendo Power magazine, providing gamers with news, tips, and insights into their favorite games. With a circulation of 1.5 million copies annually, the magazine became a go-to source for Nintendo fans.
1988: Nintendo Modifies Wording on Official Seal
In 1988, Nintendo made a change to the wording on their official seal for NTSC regions. The phrase "approved and guaranteed" was revised to "evaluated and approved."
July 1989: Nintendo Space World Debuts
July 1989 marked the beginning of Nintendo Space World, a trade show showcasing upcoming Nintendo products. This event, initially named Shoshinkai, became a significant event for Nintendo and the gaming industry.
1989: Nintendo Updates Seal Design and Phrase
Nintendo implemented a redesign of their official seal in 1989. The seal adopted its current gold and white color scheme, and the phrase was shortened to "Official Nintendo Seal of Quality."
1989: Game Boy Takes the World by Storm
Nintendo launched the Game Boy in 1989, and it was an instant success. The console, bundled with Tetris in North America, quickly sold out its initial inventory, solidifying Nintendo's dominance in both the home console and handheld markets.
March 1990: First Nintendo World Championship
The inaugural Nintendo World Championship, featuring participants from 29 U.S. cities vying for the "best Nintendo player in the world" title, took place in March 1990.
June 1990: Nintendo Expands to Europe
Nintendo expanded its presence to Europe by establishing Nintendo of Europe in Großostheim, Germany, in June 1990.
June 1990: Nintendo Establishes European Subsidiary
Nintendo's European subsidiary, headquartered in Großostheim, Germany, was established in June 1990 to manage operations across Europe (except for Scandinavia).
1990: Super Famicom Launch
In 1990, Nintendo launched the Super Famicom in Japan to compete with the 16-bit consoles that were gaining popularity. The initial 300,000 units sold out very quickly.
1991: Nintendo's Impact on the Gaming Industry
By 1991, Nintendo was recognized as a leading figure in the gaming industry, credited with reviving the market after its decline in the early 1980s. Their success in Japan, driven by Hiroshi Yamauchi's strategic decisions and a business model focused on game titles over consoles, helped restore public confidence in electronic games.
July 31, 1992: Nintendo Exits Arcade Market
On July 31, 1992, Nintendo of America announced its decision to halt the manufacturing of arcade games and systems.
1992: Super NES Sales Milestone
By mid-1992, the Super Famicom and its Western counterpart, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), had achieved combined sales exceeding 46 million units.
1992: Nintendo Partners with Starlight Children's Foundation
In 1992, Nintendo began a partnership with the Starlight Children's Foundation to create mobile entertainment centers called Starlight Fun Centers in hospitals.
1993: Nintendo 64 Development Announced
In 1993, Nintendo announced a strategic partnership with Silicon Graphics, along with contributions from NEC, Toshiba, and Sharp, to develop the Nintendo 64.
1993: Class Action Lawsuit Regarding the 10NES Lockout Chip
In 1993, Nintendo faced a class action lawsuit alleging unfair business practices related to its 10NES lockout chip. The case was settled, with Nintendo providing discount coupons to California consumers.
1993: Nintendo Discontinues Content Guidelines and 10NES Chip
Prior to 1993, Nintendo enforced content guidelines for NES games through its 10NES lockout chip. However, the company discontinued these guidelines in 1993, signaling a shift in its approach to third-party developers.
1993: Star Fox and Super FX Chip
The release of Star Fox in 1993 marked a significant milestone in the gaming industry. It was the first video game to utilize the Super FX chip, showcasing Nintendo's commitment to innovation.
1994: "Play It Loud!" Campaign Launches
Nintendo launched its "Play It Loud!" marketing campaign in 1994, targeting a teenage demographic and cultivating an edgy brand image.
1994: Industry Response to Violent Games
The increasing prevalence of violent video games like Mortal Kombat in 1994 sparked controversy and prompted the establishment of the Interactive Digital Software Association (IDSA) and the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). Nintendo played a role in the development of these organizations.
1994: Introduction of the ESRB Rating System
The video game industry saw a significant change in 1994 with the introduction of the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). This system allowed Nintendo to move away from strict censorship, empowering consumers to make informed choices about game content.
1995: End of an Era: NES Production Ends
After a decade of success, Nintendo discontinued production of the NES in 1995. However, its legacy as a groundbreaking console that revived the gaming industry remained.
1995: Starlight Nintendo Fun Centers Reach Milestone
By 1995, Nintendo and the Starlight Children's Foundation had installed 1,000 Starlight Nintendo Fun Center units in hospitals, offering gaming and multimedia entertainment to children during their stays.
1995: Virtual Boy Release and Failure
Nintendo released the Virtual Boy, a console designed by Gunpei Yokoi featuring stereoscopic 3D graphics, in 1995. However, the system was met with criticism for its game quality, red-only graphics, and reports of headaches. It sold poorly, leading to a quiet discontinuation.
1995: Nintendo 64 Release Delayed
The Nintendo 64's intended 1995 release was postponed due to the production timelines of third-party developers.
February 1996: Pokémon Red and Green (Japan)
Pokémon Red and Green, known as Pokémon Red and Blue internationally, were released for the Game Boy in Japan in February 1996. Developed by Game Freak, these titles marked the beginning of the immensely popular Pokémon franchise.
June 1996: Nintendo 64 Launch in Japan
The Nintendo 64, marketed as one of the pioneering consoles with 64-bit architecture, debuted in Japan in June 1996.
September 1996: Nintendo 64 Launch in the US
Following its Japanese release, the Nintendo 64 was launched in the United States in September 1996.
March 1997: Nintendo 64 Launch in Europe
Nintendo completed the global rollout of the Nintendo 64 with its European launch in March 1997.
1997: Rumble Pak Released
The Rumble Pak, an accessory that provided force feedback for the Nintendo 64 controller, was released by Nintendo in 1997.
1998: Game Boy Color Release
Nintendo released the Game Boy Color in 1998, offering backward compatibility with Game Boy games. Its capabilities, comparable to the NES, led to adaptations of NES titles for the handheld console.
May 1999: Partnership for Next-Gen Console
In May 1999, as the PlayStation 2 emerged, Nintendo partnered with IBM and Panasonic to develop the 128-bit Gekko processor and the DVD drive for their upcoming home console.
2000: Nintendo Co., Ltd. Relocates Head Office
In 2000, Nintendo Co., Ltd. moved its head office to a new location in Minami-ku, Kyoto, while the former headquarters became a research and development building.
2000: Censorship in "Metal Gear Solid" on Game Boy Color
In 2000, Nintendo required Konami to remove references to cigarettes in the Game Boy Color version of "Metal Gear Solid." This highlights Nintendo's continued influence over game content, even with the introduction of rating systems.
2000: Nintendo's Administrative Changes
Nintendo undertook administrative changes in 2000, including relocating its corporate headquarters to Kyoto's Minami-ku district and establishing Nintendo Benelux to manage operations in the Netherlands and Belgium.
June 2001: Game Boy Advance Launch
The Game Boy Advance, designed by Gwénaël Nicolas, deviated from its predecessors with its design and was released in June 2001. Its North American launch was met with immense success, selling over 500,000 units in the first week, making it the fastest-selling console in the U.S. at that time.
2001: Conception of the Wii
The concept for Nintendo's next home console, which would later become the Wii, was born in 2001.
May 2002: GameCube European Launch and Yamauchi's Resignation
Following the GameCube's European launch in May 2002, Hiroshi Yamauchi, Nintendo's president, announced his resignation. Satoru Iwata was chosen as his successor.
2002: Nintendo Acquires Retro Studios
Nintendo acquired Retro Studios, a video game developer based in the United States, in 2002.
2002: End of Nintendo 64 Production
Production of the Nintendo 64 ended in 2002, with approximately 33 million units sold globally. The console remains one of the most recognizable gaming systems.
2003: Wii Development Begins
Development for the Wii, drawing inspiration from the Nintendo DS, officially began in 2003.
2003: Nintendo Shortens Seal Phrase Again
In 2003, Nintendo further simplified the phrase on their official seal, changing it from "Official Nintendo Seal of Quality" to "Official Nintendo Seal."
2003: Famicom's Historic Run Comes to an End
In 2003, Nintendo officially ended production of the Famicom, marking the end of an era for the iconic console. Its impact on the gaming industry and its place in history as one of the best-selling consoles of all time remained undisputed.
2003: Pan European Game Information (PEGI) is Established
In 2003, the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system emerged, further influencing how video game content was categorized and presented to consumers.
2003: Game Boy Advance SP and Game Boy Player Release
Nintendo launched the Game Boy Advance SP in 2003, featuring a clamshell design, a frontlit display, and a rechargeable battery. They also released the Game Boy Player, an accessory that enabled playing Game Boy and Game Boy Advance games on the GameCube.
2003: Nintendo Reports Fiscal Loss
The GameCube's initial poor sales performance contributed to Nintendo reporting a fiscal loss for the first half of 2003, marking the company's first such loss since going public in 1962.
2004: Nintendo DS Release
In 2004, Nintendo launched the innovative dual-screen handheld console, the Nintendo DS, featuring a touch screen and wireless multiplayer capabilities.
2005: Yamauchi's Retirement from Nintendo
Hiroshi Yamauchi, after stepping down from the presidency, remained an advisor and director at Nintendo until 2005.
2005: Game Boy Micro and Nintendo World Store
In 2005, Nintendo released the Game Boy Micro, the final iteration of the Game Boy series. The same year, the company celebrated the grand opening of the Nintendo World Store in New York City.
July 2006: Nintendo Establishes South Korean Subsidiary
Nintendo's South Korean subsidiary, based in Seoul, was established on July 7, 2006.
November 2006: Wii Release and Strategy
In November 2006, Nintendo released the Wii, aiming to attract a broader demographic beyond hardcore gamers by focusing on innovative motion controls and accessibility.
2006: Nintendo Updates Its Logo for the Wii Era
With the launch of the Wii in 2006, Nintendo shifted to a gray logo variant, moving away from the red and white design.
2007: Nintendo North Bend Processes 20,000 Orders Daily
As of 2007, Nintendo's distribution center in North Bend, Washington was processing over 20,000 orders per day.
2007: Wii Accessories Launch
Between 2007 and 2010, Nintendo released a series of accessories for the Wii, including the Wii Balance Board and the Wii Wheel, expanding the console's gaming possibilities.
2007: Game Boy Micro Sales Figures
By 2007, the Game Boy Micro had sold 2.5 million units, falling short of Nintendo's sales expectations.
2008: Sid Meier Praises Nintendo's Seal of Quality
In 2008, prominent game designer Sid Meier recognized Nintendo's Seal of Quality as a groundbreaking innovation in the video game industry. He highlighted its role in establishing a quality standard that safeguarded consumers from low-quality games, often referred to as shovelware.
2009: Nintendo Expands to Portugal and Market Dominance
In 2009, Nintendo expanded its presence in Europe by opening a new office in Lisbon, Portugal. That same year, Nintendo commanded a dominant 68.3% share of the global handheld gaming market.
March 2010: Nintendo 3DS Announcement
In March 2010, Nintendo announced the development of the Nintendo 3DS, a portable console capable of displaying stereoscopic 3D effects without requiring special glasses.
2010: End of Game Boy Advance Production
By the end of its production run in 2010, the Game Boy Advance had sold over 81.5 million units globally.
2010: Mario's 25th Anniversary Celebration
Nintendo celebrated the 25th anniversary of Mario in 2010 with special edition products, including Super Mario All-Stars 25th Anniversary Edition and themed Nintendo DSi XL and Wii consoles.
March 2011: Dynamo Pictures Founded
Dynamo Pictures, a Japanese CG company later acquired by Nintendo, was founded on March 18, 2011.
2011: Nintendo of America's Recycling Program
In 2011, Nintendo of America reported that their recycling program, which allows customers to send in old products, had successfully reused or recycled 98% of the 548 tons of returned items.
2011: Nintendo 3DS Release and Zelda's 25th Anniversary
Nintendo launched the 3DS in 2011, introducing glasses-free 3D gaming to the handheld market. The same year, the company celebrated the 25th anniversary of "The Legend of Zelda" with a special orchestra concert tour and the release of "The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword."
2012: Wii U Release
In 2012, Nintendo launched the Wii U, the successor to the Wii, featuring high-definition graphics and a unique GamePad controller with NFC technology.
September 2013: Nintendo Invests in Facial Recognition Technology
On September 25, 2013, Nintendo acquired a 28% stake in PUX Corporation, a subsidiary of Panasonic, to advance facial, voice, and text recognition technologies for its video games.
December 2013: Nintendo's Income Decreases, Salary Cuts Announced
Nintendo experienced a 30% decline in income between April and December 2013. As a result, CEO Satoru Iwata announced a temporary 50% cut to his salary, with other executives taking pay reductions of 20%-30%.
2013: Nintendo Recognized as a Top Employer
Beginning in 2013, Forbes magazine included Nintendo in their annual "World's Best Employers" list, acknowledging the company's positive work environment and commitment to staff diversity.
2013: Yamauchi's Passing
Hiroshi Yamauchi, a prominent figure in Nintendo's history, passed away in 2013.
2013: Nintendo 2DS Release
In 2013, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo 2DS, a more affordable version of the 3DS without the clamshell design and 3D capabilities.
2013: Nintendo Shuts Down "Full Screen Mario"
Nintendo issued a cease and desist letter in 2013, leading to the shutdown of "Full Screen Mario," a web browser-based rendition of Super Mario Bros.
2013: Team Xecuter Begins Making Modchips
Team Xecuter, a group known for creating modchips for gaming consoles, emerged in 2013. This marked the beginning of a long-running battle between Nintendo and those seeking to circumvent its hardware protections.
June 2014: Nintendo of Europe Consolidates Operations
Nintendo of Europe initiated a downsizing and consolidation effort in June 2014, resulting in 130 layoffs, the closure of its Großostheim office and warehouse, and the consolidation of all operations into its Frankfurt location.
2014: Amiibo Launch
Nintendo introduced amiibo in 2014, a product line of interactive figurines featuring popular Nintendo characters, allowing for new gameplay experiences.
January 2015: Nintendo Exits the Brazilian Market
In January 2015, Nintendo made the difficult decision to cease operations in Brazil, citing high import duties as a significant factor.
July 2015: Satoru Iwata's Passing
On July 11, 2015, Nintendo's CEO, Satoru Iwata, sadly passed away due to bile duct cancer, leaving a significant void in the company and the gaming industry.
September 2015: Tatsumi Kimishima Appointed as Nintendo's President
Following Satoru Iwata's passing, Tatsumi Kimishima was appointed as Nintendo's new president on September 16, 2015. Shigeru Miyamoto and Genyo Takeda assumed advisory roles.
2015: Nintendo's Strategic Shift and Expansion
Facing financial challenges from the Wii U and competition from Sony, Nintendo shifted strategies in 2015, partnering with DeNA for mobile gaming and Universal Parks & Resorts for theme park experiences.
2015: Formation of Nintendo EPD
Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD), Nintendo's primary software development division, was formed in 2015 through a merger of two previous divisions.
March 2016: Nintendo Downsizes South Korean Subsidiary
Nintendo significantly downsized its South Korean subsidiary in March 2016, laying off 80% of its workforce as part of a corporate restructuring in response to market changes.
March 2016: Nintendo's Mobile Gaming Debut and My Nintendo Launch
Nintendo took a significant step into mobile gaming in March 2016 with the release of Miitomo, its first mobile app for iOS and Android. The company also launched its new loyalty program, My Nintendo, replacing Club Nintendo.
November 2016: NES Classic Edition Release
In November 2016, Nintendo released the NES Classic Edition, a compact, emulator-based version of the original NES console with built-in games, HDMI output, and a Wii remote for a nostalgic gaming experience.
2016: Wii Sales Milestone
By 2016, the Wii had sold over 101 million units worldwide, solidifying its position as the most successful console of its generation and a major triumph for Nintendo.
2016: Nintendo Introduces a New Logo Variation
In 2016, Nintendo introduced a white logo on a red background for consumer products, marking a return to the color scheme from the NES and SNES era.
2016: Nintendo Targets Fangames on Game Jolt
Nintendo took down over 500 fangames hosted on Game Jolt in 2016, including notable projects like "AM2R" (a "Metroid II" remake) and "Pokémon Uranium," citing intellectual property protection.
March 2017: Nintendo Switch Release
Nintendo released the innovative Nintendo Switch in March 2017, introducing a hybrid console that could seamlessly transition between home console and handheld gaming experiences. The Switch featured detachable Joy-Con controllers and the ability to connect wirelessly with up to eight consoles.
September 2017: Super NES Classic Edition Release
Nintendo continued its retro console revival with the release of the Super NES Classic Edition in September 2017, offering a similar experience to the NES Classic but with classic Super Nintendo games.
2017: Nintendo Fully Transitions to the New Logo with the Switch Launch
By 2017, coinciding with the Nintendo Switch launch, the white logo on a red background became the standard for the company's branding and marketing.
2017: Nintendo Shuts Down "Super Mario 64 Online"
In 2017, Nintendo took down "Super Mario 64 Online," a fan-made online multiplayer version of "Super Mario 64."
2017: Nintendo Returns to Brazil Through NC Games
Nintendo partnered with NC Games to resume distribution of its products in Brazil, marking the company's return to the market after a period of absence.
April 2018: Nintendo Labo Launch
Nintendo launched Nintendo Labo in April 2018, a unique product line featuring cardboard construction kits that, when combined with the Nintendo Switch and Joy-Con controllers, created interactive experiences.
May 2018: Zammis Clark Pleads Guilty to Hacking Microsoft and Nintendo Servers
Zammis Clark, a Malwarebytes employee and hacker, admitted guilt in May 2018 to charges related to infiltrating servers belonging to both Microsoft and Nintendo between March and May 2018.
July 2018: Nintendo of Europe Employs 850 People
As of July 2018, Nintendo of Europe had 850 employees.
July 2018: Nintendo Sues LoveROMs and LoveRetro
Nintendo filed a lawsuit against Jacob Mathias, the owner of ROM distribution websites LoveROMs and LoveRetro, on July 19, 2018, accusing them of "brazen and mass-scale infringement" of Nintendo's intellectual property.
October 2018: NES and SNES Classic Edition Sales
By October 2018, the combined global sales of the NES Classic Edition and Super NES Classic Edition had reached approximately 10 million units, showcasing the enduring appeal of retro gaming.
November 2018: Nintendo Settles with LoveROMs and LoveRetro Owner
Nintendo reached a settlement with Jacob Mathias, owner of LoveROMs and LoveRetro, in November 2018 for over US$12 million and the surrender of all ROM images in their possession.
2018: Nintendo 3DS Sales Figures
By 2018, the Nintendo 3DS had achieved sales of over 69 million units worldwide, demonstrating its popularity among gamers.
2018: Nintendo's Continued Success and Recognition
In 2018, Nintendo achieved significant milestones, surpassing ten billion yen in capital and generating over nine billion dollars in net sales, primarily from the North American market. Time magazine recognized Nintendo as one of the "50 Genius Companies" of the year, highlighting their successful launch of the Nintendo Switch.
2018: Nintendo Cracks Down on "Pokémon Sword and Shield" Leaks
In 2018, Nintendo, alongside The Pokémon Company, conducted a thorough investigation to identify the source of leaks regarding "Pokémon Sword and Shield." They traced the leaks back to a game journalist from Portugal who had shared confidential information from pre-release review copies.
2018: Shuntaro Furukawa Takes Helm as Nintendo President
Shuntaro Furukawa became Nintendo's president in 2018, succeeding Tatsumi Kimishima.
January 2019: Nintendo in Talks for Official Distribution in Israel
Reports emerged in January 2019 indicating ongoing negotiations for the official distribution of Nintendo products in Israel.
February 2019: Nintendo Switch Game Library Expands
By February 2019, the Nintendo Switch boasted a library of over 1,800 games thanks to partnerships with various third-party and independent developers.
April 2019: Nintendo Partners with Tencent for Chinese Distribution
In April 2019, Nintendo partnered with Chinese tech giant Tencent to distribute the Nintendo Switch in China, a significant move to tap into the world's largest gaming market.
June 2019: Tor Gaming Opens Official Nintendo Store in Tel Aviv
Tor Gaming launched an official Nintendo Store in Tel Aviv in June 2019, marking the second official Nintendo Store globally.
July 2019: Nintendo and FBI Apprehend Hacker Targeting Internal Database
In July 2019, the FBI arrested an individual who had been hacking into Nintendo's internal database for several years. The perpetrator had obtained confidential information about upcoming games and hardware and leaked it online.
September 2019: Nintendo Wins UK Lawsuit to Block Piracy Websites
In September 2019, Nintendo won a lawsuit in the United Kingdom that compelled major Internet service providers to block access to websites offering illegal copies of Switch software and hacks.
2019: Tor Gaming Becomes Second Non-Nintendo Distributor
Bergsala was the sole non-Nintendo owned distributor until 2019 when Tor Gaming obtained distribution rights for Israel.
2019: Nintendo 3DS Sales Milestone
By the beginning of 2019, global sales of the Nintendo 3DS had surpassed 75 million units.
2019: Nintendo Partners with Tor Gaming for Israeli Distribution
In 2019, Nintendo of Europe partnered with Tor Gaming Ltd. to handle official distribution of Nintendo products in Israel.
January 2020: Hacker Who Targeted Nintendo Receives Prison Sentence
The individual who hacked into Nintendo's internal database and leaked confidential information pleaded guilty to all charges in January 2020 and was sentenced to three years in prison.
March 2020: Nintendo Switch Sales Milestone
By March 2020, global sales of the Nintendo Switch had exceeded 55 million units, highlighting its immense popularity and success for Nintendo.
April 2020: ValueAct Capital Acquires Stake in Nintendo
In April 2020, ValueAct Capital acquired over 2.6 million shares in Nintendo, giving them a 2% stake in the company.
May 2020: Nintendo Reports 75% Income Increase
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Nintendo reported a 75% increase in income in May 2020, largely attributed to the success of the Nintendo Switch Online service.
May 2020: Major Leak Exposes Nintendo's Confidential Documents
In May 2020, a significant leak exposed a trove of Nintendo's confidential documents. The leaked material included source code, designs, hardware schematics, and other internal information, primarily related to the Nintendo 64, GameCube, and Wii.
May 2020: Connection Between July 2020 Leak and Previous Leak Suspected
The "Gigaleak" of July 2020, exposing a massive amount of Nintendo's data, is believed to be related to the leak that happened earlier in May 2020.
July 2020: "Gigaleak" Exposes Massive Amounts of Nintendo Data
A second, even larger leak, dubbed the "Gigaleak," occurred in July 2020, containing gigabytes of Nintendo's data. This leak is believed to be connected to the May 2020 leak.
September 2020: Nintendo Switch Launch in Brazil
Nintendo returned to the Brazilian market in September 2020 with the official release of the Nintendo Switch.
2020: Nintendo Takes Action Against Team Xecuter and "The Big House" Tournament
Nintendo's fight against unlicensed emulation intensified in 2020. The company took legal action against Team Xecuter for their modchip operations and issued a cease and desist letter to "The Big House" Super Smash Bros. tournament for using emulated versions of the game.
May 2021: Nintendo Wins Lawsuit Against RomUniverse
Nintendo emerged victorious in a lawsuit against RomUniverse in May 2021. The site owner was ordered to pay $2.1 million in damages and received a permanent injunction, prohibiting future site operation and mandating the destruction of all ROM copies.
June 2021: Nintendo Announces Plans for Museum
In June 2021, Nintendo revealed plans to transform its former Uji Ogura plant into a museum called "Nintendo Gallery", set to open by March 2024.
October 2021: Nintendo Consolidates Offices
In October 2021, Nintendo of America revealed its plan to shut down offices in Redwood City, California, and Toronto, integrating their operations into the Redmond and Vancouver locations.
2021: Gary Bowser Sentenced in Nintendo Hacking Case
In 2021, Gary Bowser was sentenced to 40 months in prison and ordered to pay $14.5 million in restitution for his role in a Nintendo hacking scheme. This case highlighted Nintendo's firm stance against piracy and intellectual property infringement.
2021: Nintendo Plans Expansion into Animation
In 2021, Nintendo announced its intention to create more animated projects based on their games, beyond the Super Mario Bros. film.
2021: Super Nintendo World Opens at Universal Studios Japan
In 2021, the highly anticipated Super Nintendo World, a themed area based on the popular video game franchise, opened its doors at Universal Studios Japan, bringing the world of Nintendo to life.
2021: Nintendo Acquires Next Level Games
Nintendo acquired Next Level Games, a Canadian video game developer, in 2021.
2021: Nintendo Takes Down "Metroid Prime 2D"
Nintendo took down "Metroid Prime 2D," a fan-made demake of "Metroid Prime," in 2021 as part of their efforts to protect their intellectual property.
2021: Nintendo Continues Legal Action Against Team Xecuter
Nintendo's legal battle with Team Xecuter continued into 2021, demonstrating the company's commitment to protecting its intellectual property and combating piracy. The case had significant implications for the modding community and highlighted the legal complexities surrounding video game emulation.
February 2022: Nintendo Acquires SRD Co., Ltd.
In February 2022, Nintendo acquired SRD Co., Ltd., a long-time contributor to Nintendo's first-party games, after 40 years of collaboration.
April 2022: Union-Busting Allegations Surface
An anonymous QA tester accused Nintendo of America and Aston Carter, a contracting firm, of union-busting tactics and surveillance in April 2022, filing a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board.
April 2022: Former Nintendo HQ Opens as Hotel
In April 2022, the former Nintendo headquarters from the 1930s, owned by Nintendo's founding family, opened as a hotel named Marufukuro, a homage to Nintendo's previous name - Marufuku.
May 2022: Saudi Arabia's PIF Acquires Stake in Nintendo
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund purchased a 5% stake in Nintendo in May 2022, marking their entry into the company.
July 2022: Nintendo Acquires Dynamo Pictures
In July 2022, Nintendo acquired Dynamo Pictures, a Japanese CG company, as part of their expansion into animation production.
October 2022: Dynamo Pictures Renamed Nintendo Pictures
Following its acquisition, Dynamo Pictures was renamed Nintendo Pictures in October 2022, signifying Nintendo's commitment to animation production.
October 2022: Settlement Reached in Union-Busting Case
Nintendo reached a settlement with the employee who accused the company of union-busting in October 2022.
January 2023: Saudi Arabia's PIF Increases Stake in Nintendo
By January 2023, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund had increased its stake in Nintendo to 6.07%.
February 2023: Saudi Arabia's PIF Becomes Nintendo's Largest External Investor
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund continued to increase its stake in Nintendo, reaching 8.26% in February 2023, making them the biggest external investor in the company.
March 2023: Nintendo's Global Sales Figures as of March 2023
As of March 2023, Nintendo reported selling over 5.592 billion video games and over 836 million hardware units worldwide.
March 2023: Nintendo's Staggering Sales Figures
By March 2023, Nintendo solidified its place as a gaming giant, having sold over 5.592 billion video games and more than 836 million hardware units worldwide.
April 2023: Super Mario Bros. Movie Released
"The Super Mario Bros. Movie", co-produced by Nintendo, was released on April 5, 2023, and achieved significant box-office success, setting multiple records.
May 2023: Nintendo Issues DMCA Request to Valve Over Dolphin Emulator
In May 2023, Nintendo issued a DMCA request to Valve, asserting that the inclusion of the Wii Common Key in the Dolphin emulator, intended for the Steam storefront, violated their copyright.
May 2023: Nintendo Issues DMCA Takedowns Over "Tears of the Kingdom" Leaks
When leaks about "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" surfaced online a week before its release in May 2023, Nintendo responded by issuing DMCA takedown requests to several tools associated with Switch emulation in an attempt to curb the leaks.
March 2024: Target Opening Date for Nintendo Gallery
March 2024 was set as the target opening date for the "Nintendo Gallery", a museum planned to showcase Nintendo's history.
March 2024: Product Testing Teams Restructured
Nintendo of America underwent a restructuring of its product testing teams in March 2024, resulting in the elimination of more than 100 contractor positions, with some contractors offered full-time roles.
May 2024: Nintendo to Acquire Shiver Entertainment
Nintendo announced an agreement to acquire Shiver Entertainment, a company specializing in porting games to the Nintendo Switch, in May 2024.
2024: Nintendo Takes Legal Action Against Yuzu Emulator Developers
In 2024, Nintendo initiated legal action against the developers of the Yuzu emulator, claiming DMCA violations for enabling decryption of Switch games and facilitating copyright infringement through leaked copies of "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom."
