Published on: August 20, 2024
Nintendo Museum Opens in 2024: A Comprehensive Showcase of Nintendo's Legacy and Innovation
Nintendo is set to celebrate its storied history with the grand opening of the Nintendo Museum in 2024, a milestone that was highlighted in the company's most recent Nintendo Direct presentation.
The museum, built on the historic grounds of the original Nintendo Uji Ogura Plant in Kyoto, Japan, pays homage to the site where Nintendo first began manufacturing Hanafuda and traditional playing cards.
Over the decades, this legendary location witnessed the company's evolution from a card maker to one of the world's leading video game innovators.
A Journey from Playing Cards to Gaming Icons
During Nintendo's Direct showcase, fans were treated to a preview of the museum’s immersive experience.
Visitors entering on the second floor will encounter a stunning display of Nintendo’s hardware legacy, spanning classic to modern devices.
Among the standout features are oversized controllers and iconic game systems suspended from the ceiling, transporting guests through decades of Nintendo innovation.
Notably, the Famicom era—a cornerstone of gaming history—is honored with dedicated exhibits.
Screens display actual gameplay footage and directional speakers provide distinct audio for each title, creating an authentic atmosphere for fans of retro games.
Comprehensive Historical Exhibits
The Nintendo Museum is more than just a celebration of digital games.
One unique section showcases Nintendo’s pre-gaming years, presenting artifacts such as the Copilas diazo copy machine, the Mamaberica baby stroller, and a variety of board games and family-friendly toys.
These exhibits illustrate the company’s diverse roots and creative adaptability before its emergence as a household gaming brand.
Rare items like the Color TV-Game 6 and Color TV-Game 15—the first home video game devices released by Nintendo in 1977—provide visitors with a tactile sense of the industry's origins.
Interactive Experiences Bridging Past and Present
On the museum’s first floor, Nintendo has developed eight interactive zones centered around the concept of bringing historical Nintendo products to life.
Visitors can engage in activities such as playing traditional Japanese card games like Hyakunin Isshu via smartphone devices provided by the museum, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
Access to these interactive features is managed through a digital entry pass loaded with coins to participate in various activities throughout the facility.
Among the hands-on experiences are the Ultra Machine, where visitors channel their inner athlete in a batting challenge; the Zapper & Scope SP area, letting groups of up to 13 shoot virtual targets with replica Zapper and Super Scope light guns; and a team game zone featuring oversized controllers for systems like the Famicom, Super Famicom, Nintendo 64, and even the Wii.
Adding to the fun, the museum hints at the inclusion of a Balance Board activity as well.
Cultural Workshops and Unique Offerings
Beyond interactive gaming, the museum extends its reach into traditional culture by offering Hanafuda gameplay and card-making workshops.
Guests can relax at the in-house cafe and browse a shop offering exclusive Nintendo Museum merchandise.
For a whimsical finale, visitors are invited to make music by gently patting a Toad character, each touch producing a playful sound—a lighthearted nod demonstrated by Shigeru Miyamoto in the Nintendo Direct.
With its blend of history, innovation, and interactive entertainment, the Nintendo Museum stands as a testament to Nintendo’s enduring cultural impact.
The museum’s 2024 opening marks a major milestone, providing fans and historians alike with an unparalleled glimpse into the creative journey that shaped the world of gaming.
Nintendo Nintendo Direct Nintendo Museum Nintendo Switch Famicom Uji Ogura Plant Hyakunin Isshu Super Mario Ultra Machine Zapper Super Scope