Ever since Nintendo seized hold of the gaming public's imagination with the launch of the NES and a certain plumber's debut, it has often been called the "Disney of gaming." The parallels between these two iconic companies are easy to spot:
- Emphasis on all-ages entertainment with colorful worlds and characters.
- A stable of iconic characters that make appearances across various series and media.
- Robust merchandising and licensing programs for their biggest characters and brands.
- Polish that pervades (nearly) all of their flagship products, lending them their trademark feel or "magic."
- Wholesome, universally appealing gloved/booted heroes that serve as the figurehead/mascot for both companies.
Anyway, I was browsing around Downtown Disney recently and marveling at all of the expertly executed Disney theming and branding throughout all the shops and dining establishments. Disney has obviously been at this for a long time, and they have managed to cultivate a very distinct, consistent, and recognizable brand through the use of their theme parks, TV series, movies, and merchandise. I can't help but look at what Disney has accomplished and wonder what Nintendo can learn from them, given their similar audiences and overall vibe. Nintendo already does a pretty damn good job with their merchandising and living up to their "seal of quality" with their flagship series, and I'd like to see them succeed even further after winning back my support with their lineup of great Wii U titles.