Nintendo Creators Program Ends: Nintendo Shifts Policy on Fan Content Creation
Entry information
Published on: November 29, 2018
Description
Nintendo has officially confirmed that the Nintendo Creators Program (NCP), once a contentious initiative, is set to conclude in December 2018.
This landmark decision marks a significant shift in Nintendo’s approach to fan-produced content, impacting creators who have long navigated restrictions surrounding the sharing and monetization of Nintendo-related videos and media on platforms such as YouTube.
The move comes as the company continues to thrive with the Nintendo Switch, which has enjoyed record-breaking sales and positive reception from both gamers and industry analysts since its launch in 2017.
Initially introduced as an attempt to manage the monetization of Nintendo intellectual property in user-generated content, the NCP quickly faced criticism from creators and the broader video game community.
Many saw the program as Nintendo’s effort to exert control over creative expression by requiring fans to submit their content for revenue-sharing approval via the NCP website.
This process often resulted in reduced earnings for creators and led to frustration over what was perceived as an overly restrictive policy.
In an official statement, Nintendo clarified its intention to move away from the NCP structure.
The company stated that creators will no longer need to submit their videos to the Nintendo Creators Program website for approval.
Instead, Nintendo asks that all content creators adhere to refreshed content guidelines published on its official website.
The company emphasized its respect for the passion and creativity shown by Nintendo fans and signaled a more open relationship with the content creation community.
Furthermore, the official Nintendo Creators Program website is scheduled to close on March 20, 2019, effectively ending all remaining program operations.
Nintendo’s communication echoes a broader industry trend, as major publishers increasingly recognize the value of fan-led promotion and organic community engagement on modern platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
This policy update arrives during a period of ongoing success for Nintendo, led by the Nintendo Switch, which has surpassed 20 million units sold worldwide and reinvigorated the company’s brand.
With the end of the Nintendo Creators Program, Nintendo appears committed to fostering a more collaborative relationship with its community, aligning with contemporary content sharing practices and supporting the vibrant ecosystem of streamers, video creators, and influencers.
For video game industry observers and content creators alike, Nintendo’s decision represents a pivotal moment—demonstrating the company’s willingness to embrace the evolving dynamics of digital media while continuing to protect its intellectual property through updated content guidelines.
As fan-made Nintendo content becomes more accessible, creators have reason to celebrate this new era of engagement, fueled by the enduring popularity of the Nintendo Switch and the company’s legendary franchises.
