Nintendo: Playing with Power

Nintendo, a multinational consumer electronics and video game giant, has a history dating back to 1889. This book explores Nintendo's history, political economic status, and dominance in the global video game industry, using the theory of the political economy of communication to understand its impact. It is ideal for students and scholars of media and cultural industries, critical political economy of media, production studies, and games studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally founded in 1889 as a manufacturer of playing cards, this comprehensive volume delves into the rich history and political economic standing of the multinational consumer electronics and video game giant, Nintendo. Spanning several decades, Nintendo has emerged as a dominant force in the global gaming industry, producing some of the most iconic and best-selling consoles, such as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Nintendo 64, Wii, and Switch. Moreover, the company's vast library of intellectual property, including beloved franchises like Mario, Pokémon, and Zelda, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.

In order to understand Nintendo's enduring dominance and its impact on the global video game industry, author Randy Nichols employs the theory of the political economy of communication. This theory explores how communication and media serve as powerful mechanisms of economic and political power, shaping the dynamics of industries and societies. Nichols applies this framework to examine how Nintendo has maintained its position as a leader in the video game industry and how it has used its influence to shape the industry's development.

One of the key insights of the book is that Nintendo's success is not solely attributed to its key figures and main franchises. Rather, the company's impact extends beyond the realm of video games. Nintendo's evolution as a company offers valuable lessons for other industries, particularly in terms of innovation, adaptability, and brand loyalty. The book argues that while the company's iconic characters and franchises are important, Nintendo's impact as a company is instructive beyond the video game industry.

This book is a valuable resource for students and scholars of media and cultural industries, critical political economy of media, production studies, and games studies. It provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of Nintendo's history, political economic status, and impact on the global video game industry. By exploring the theories and frameworks employed by Nichols, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape media and cultural industries, and the role that companies like Nintendo play in shaping them.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of Nintendo as a global media giant. By employing the theory of the political economy of communication, Nichols provides a valuable framework for understanding Nintendo's dominance and its impact on the global video game industry. Whether you are a student, scholar, or industry professional, this book will provide you with valuable insights and perspectives on the world industry.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367469092