Unveiling the Hidden Gems of The Nintendo Museum: A Surprising Revelation

Back in 2021, the announcement of the Nintendo Museum brought with it a different name than what it ultimately launched as. Originally known as the ‘Nintendo Gallery,’ this name evokes a more fitting image compared to the title ‘Nintendo Museum.’

The Nintendo Museum may not be a must-visit destination for everyone. Those who make the journey to Kyoto solely for the museum may find themselves slightly disappointed. While it is charming, well-designed, and cute, it lacks the groundbreaking elements that would redefine one’s perception of Nintendo as a company. In a sense, it feels somewhat sanitized.

Delving into the history of the Nintendo Museum sheds light on its origins. It is said that the museum is essentially curated by a fan who had organized unofficial Nintendo exhibitions in the past using his own extensive collection of rarities and collectibles. While Nintendo added its official touch, much of the museum still retains a fan-curated feel.

The main floor of the museum resembles a gallery, with beautiful glass cases adorning the walls, each displaying a giant version of a console controller above. These cases contain a variety of delights related to each console, from key titles to accessories, creating a nostalgic time capsule.

Unlike traditional museums, the Nintendo Museum lacks a structured narrative guiding visitors through exhibits. Upon ascending the escalator into the exhibit floor, guests are set free to explore at their own pace. This approach encourages visitors to gravitate towards the consoles that hold personal significance to them, reflecting Nintendo’s ethos of freedom and individual choice.

While the display cases may not offer much novelty for hardcore fans, observing other guests’ reactions reveals the museum’s potential to surprise and delight. From discovering rare Japanese versions of games to learning about Nintendo’s century-old history, there are hidden gems that may not align with typical museum expectations.

While the museum offers a glimpse into Nintendo’s history, it lacks in-depth insights into game development or the creators behind iconic titles. The emphasis is on showcasing finished games, nostalgic footage, and key milestones in Nintendo’s gaming legacy. The absence of behind-the-scenes details or tributes to legendary figures like Hiroshi Yamaguchi and Satoru Iwata reflects Nintendo’s focus on the games themselves.

One unique aspect of the museum is a separate cabinet featuring prototypes and experimental designs, providing a glimpse into Nintendo’s creative process. This showcase, while tucked away, offers a peek into the innovative ideas that have shaped Nintendo’s hardware and software over the years.

Reflecting on the museum’s essence, it embodies a “Nintendo-like solution” to the concept of a gaming attraction. While it excels in presentation and offers delightful surprises, it also maintains a certain sterility that aligns with Nintendo’s unconventional approach. The interactive exhibits downstairs showcase Nintendo’s history in a nostalgic yet modern way, bridging past and present seamlessly.

The interactive activities allow visitors to engage with Nintendo’s legacy in a hands-on manner, blending traditional gameplay elements with modern technology. From creating Hanafuda cards to playing interactive games, the museum offers a unique and immersive experience that appeals to both nostalgia and innovation.

Overall, while the Nintendo Museum may not align with conventional museum expectations, it presents a refreshing and engaging approach to celebrating Nintendo’s legacy. By managing expectations and embracing its quirky charm, visitors can appreciate the museum for what it is—a captivating blend of history, innovation, and fun.

Despite its quirks and limitations, the Nintendo Museum offers a unique and memorable experience for fans and visitors. With ongoing evolution and potential for expansion, it promises to become even more captivating in the future, reflecting Nintendo’s commitment to innovation and creativity.