Bloc magazine winter 24-25

43 Located in the heart of Kyoto, the birthplace of Nin- tendo, this state-of-the-art museum offers visitors a chance to dive deep into the company’s rich 135- year history. From its humble beginnings as a playing card man- ufacturer in 1889 to its rise as a global video game powerhouse, the Nintendo Museum chronicles the evolution of not just a company, but an entire indus- try that has shaped entertainment for generations. The museum is divided into several themed zones, each offering a unique perspective on Nintendo’s impact on popular culture. Visitors can get hands-on with Nintendo consoles from every era. From the original Nintendo Entertain- ment System (NES) to the latest Nintendo Switch, gamers can relive their favourite childhood memo- ries or experience classic games for the first time. Experience shooting using the Zapper and Super Scope in the world of Mario that spreads out on the giant screen in front of you. For those seeking a more immersive experience, try the updated Game &Watch on a massive screen and use your own shadow to play. Or play co-op in the Big Controller area and test your communication skills on interactive mini games using super-sized controllers like the Wii remote. Moving beyond just games, the museum dedicates a significant portion of its space to exploring Ninten- do’s influence on global pop culture. Explore how Nintendo characters have permeated various aspects of society, from theme parks and movies to fashion and music. Visitors can view rare merchandise, international marketing campaigns, and even a library of art books and players guides taken directly from the official Nintendo archives. A particular highlight is the huge second floor exhib- it that chronicles the history of Nintendo. Discover every special edition game console ever released by Nintendo, their best-selling games, original box arts and including facts about their development. For those looking to take a piece of the experience home, the museum shop “Bonus Stage” offers exclu- sive merchandise unavailable anywhere else in the world, from limited edition consoles to clothing de- signed by up-and-coming Japanese artists inspired by classic Nintendo characters. As the gaming industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the Nintendo Museum stands as a cel- ebration of how far we’ve come and a glimpse into where we might be going. Whether you’re a die-hard gamer or simply curious about this influential slice of Japanese culture, the Nintendo Museum promises an engaging, interac- tive experience that bridges the gap between nos- talgia and innovation. For more information visit: museum.nintendo.com