Nintendo's Uncertain Future | 10 Years of Speculation

The first-party software for Nintendo systems is typically excellent, and the consoles are often cheaper than their competitors. However, the company's online services have been criticized for being poorly designed. In 2014, Nintendo was struggling, and many people were trying to guess what the company's next move would be. The CEO, Satoru Iwata, announced that Nintendo was considering a new business structure and was studying how to use smart devices to grow the gaming business. This led to speculation about the company's future, with some suggesting that Nintendo should start making games for other consoles or focus on mobile gaming. One analyst, Michael Pachter, suggested that Nintendo should release its games on the PS4 and Xbox One, while another, Asif Khan, recommended that the company invest in virtual reality technology and acquire other game developers. However, none of these predictions came true, and Nintendo ultimately released the Switch, a hybrid console that combined the best of both worlds. Looking back, it's clear that many people were wrong about Nintendo's future, but one prediction that did come true was the company's increased focus on licensing its IP for film and TV. The Switch has been a huge success, and Nintendo has become more active in licensing its brands, including the recent release of the Super Mario Bros. Movie.