tech
March 1, 2026
The business behind Nintendo: How the gaming giant makes billions
From humble beginnings making playing cards in 19th-century Japan, Nintendo has evolved into one of the world's most influential gaming companies. Powered by a catalogue of iconic characters and franchises — including Mario, The Legend of Zelda and Pokémon — the company has turned nostalgia and broad family appeal into a durable business advantage.
TL;DR
- Nintendo started by making playing cards in 19th-century Japan.
- Iconic characters like Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon contribute to its success.
- The company's 'fun over fidelity' approach allows it to compete with larger rivals.
- Nintendo maintains tight control over its hardware, software, and intellectual property.
- The company has a market capitalization of over $80 billion.
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