Nintendo Pictures Expands Animated Portfolio with 'Close to You' Short Film

Nintendo Pictures, the animation arm of the renowned Kyoto-based video game company, has officially released its highly anticipated animated short film titled 'Close to You.' Marking a significant step in Nintendo's pursuit of creative video content, the short premiered alongside its sequel videos on October 7 and 8.

'Close to You' has quickly captured the attention of both Nintendo fans and animation enthusiasts worldwide. Launched under the recently established Nintendo Pictures Co., Ltd., these short films represent Nintendo's commitment to exploring new storytelling mediums beyond its traditional game development.

The company, celebrated for its legacy on the Nintendo Switch and previous hardware platforms, is broadening its reach through animation and original video production. One particularly notable detail, revealed after the film’s release, is the presence of Pikmin—iconic, tiny creatures from the beloved Nintendo franchise—hidden throughout the animation, remaining invisible to the naked eye.

This clever touch delighted fans as it showcased Nintendo’s playful approach to blending game lore with animated content. In a formal statement, Nintendo expressed gratitude to its audience for engaging with the two-part 'Close to You' release.

"We appreciate your enjoyment of the 'Close to You' videos released on October 7 and 8," a Nintendo representative stated.

The second installment in the series is readily available via Nintendo Today!, a free application for smart devices, further demonstrating Nintendo's initiative to expand its digital content across various platforms. Nintendo Pictures emphasized that these films mark their debut in original animation, with ambitions to produce more such content in the future.

"These are the first short films created by Nintendo Pictures Co., Ltd.

Nintendo Pictures will continue to explore new creative possibilities through video content," the company remarked.

This direction aligns with Nintendo's ongoing strategy to diversify its brand presence and to engage audiences through multiple entertainment formats—including mobile apps and the Nintendo Switch eShop. As Nintendo Pictures continues its animation journey, the company signals readiness to leverage its storied intellectual properties for new forms of creative expression.

For fans and industry observers alike, these developments suggest a bright future for Nintendo's original video initiatives, blending the storytelling power of its game worlds with the artistry of animated film.

Nintendo Nintendo Pictures Close to You Pikmin Nintendo Switch Nintendo Today app