When the Nintendo Museum was first announced in 2021, it had a different name – the ‘Nintendo Gallery’. This name evokes a more fitting image of the final product compared to ‘Nintendo Museum’.
The museum may not be a must-see attraction for everyone. Visitors who specifically travel to Kyoto just for the museum may find themselves somewhat disappointed. While it is cute, well-designed, and sweet, it doesn’t offer groundbreaking insights that redefine one’s perception of Nintendo as a company. In a way, it feels sanitized.
Delving into the history of the Nintendo Museum sheds light on its origins. It’s known that the museum was curated by a fan, who had organized unofficial Nintendo exhibitions in the past. Nintendo later added their official touch to the museum, but it still retains a fan-curated feel.
The main floor of the museum resembles a gallery, with beautiful glass cases showcasing different consoles’ controllers. Each case contains key titles, accessories, and information about the consoles. It’s like stepping into a nostalgic time capsule.
Unlike traditional museums, there is no structured narrative or guided tour at the Nintendo Museum. Visitors are free to explore and gravitate towards consoles that resonate with them. The exhibits may not offer much new for hardcore fans, but they can still surprise and delight casual visitors.
While the museum offers a delightful presentation, it lacks in-depth insight into the history and development of Nintendo games. The focus is more on showcasing finished games and nostalgic footage without delving into the creative process or the people behind the games.
