Game On: Nintendo's New Kyoto Museum
Nintendo's highly anticipated museum in Kyoto, Japan, is set to open this October 2024, and I can't wait to visit! I was thrilled to see more details released recently, including this sneak peek with Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary video game designer and Nintendo Executive Fellow. As the creator of iconic characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Link, and Princess Zelda, Miyamoto's involvement is a testament to the museum's significance.
Housed in the historic Ogura Plant factory, where the company once manufactured trading cards, this museum is a testament to Nintendo's rich history and commitment to innovation. The building facade even features a subtle nod to gaming’s pixelated past.
A Journey Through Nintendo's History
On the second floor, you'll find a treasure trove of historical artifacts that showcase Nintendo's evolution from playing card manufacturer to gaming giant. Explore vintage consoles, iconic games, and prototypes that have shaped the industry. The exhibits are intentionally curated with minimal explanation, encouraging visitors to connect with the games on a personal level and share their own memories and experiences.
Interactive Playgrounds for All Ages
The museum's crown jewel lies in its interactive exhibits, where you can step back in time and experience classic Nintendo games in a whole new way. From nostalgic gameplay to collaborative challenges, these exhibits offer something for everyone.
A Digital Coin System
To access the interactive exhibits, you'll need to use digital coins, which are included with your admission. With 10 coins at your disposal, you can choose which experiences you want to explore. The museum notes:
Because coins are limited, visitors will not be able to experience all of the museum's interactive exhibits in a single visit.
Please note that you cannot purchase additional coins.
This coin system encourages visitors to make thoughtful choices about how they experience the museum, similar to how players strategically allocate resources in a game. It also highlights the importance of exploring the museum's 'free play' history area.
It will be interesting to see if they change this in the future to add purchasable coins, extra coins for members, or even change the “pricing” of activities.
A Treasure Trove of Merchandise
The museum store will be a must-visit for Nintendo enthusiasts, offering a wide range of exclusive merchandise that you won't find anywhere else.
Curious what’s in store? Check out these sneak peek images from Kotaku.
I love the controller pillows and can’t wait to see what else they have in store.
Beyond the Exhibits
In addition to the interactive exhibits and merchandise, the museum plans to offer educational programs and events. These opportunities will allow you to delve deeper into Nintendo's history and even paint your own Hanafuda cards.
