Watch Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story

Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story is a six-part documentary series that takes viewers through the fascinating history of Nintendo, from its humble beginnings in 1889 as a playing card manufacturer to the world-renowned video game company it is today. The show features interviews with key players in Nintendo's history, including former executives, insiders, and game developers, as well as celebrity fans like Sean Astin, Wil Wheaton, and Alison Haislip.

The first episode dives into the company's early years, exploring its initial foray into the video game industry with the creation of the Color TV-Game console in the late 1970s. Viewers get a glimpse into the early days of game development, with pioneering titles like Donkey Kong revolutionizing the industry in the early '80s. As well as the creation of some of the characters most beloved by gamers all over the world today.

As the series progresses, we learn about the company's struggles in the mid-'90s, when competition from Sony and Microsoft threatened to push the company out of the console market entirely. The show explores the behind-the-scenes decisions that led to the creation of the Nintendo 64 and the GameCube, two consoles that were critical to the company's survival and eventual resurgence with the Wii.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Playing with Power is the insight it gives into the creative process behind some of Nintendo's most famous games. Celebrity fans like Sean Astin and Wil Wheaton share their love for titles like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros., and developers give viewers an inside look into the process of creating iconic games that have stood the test of time.

The show also explores the cultural impact of Nintendo, from its introduction of gaming to the mainstream with the original Nintendo Entertainment System to its role in creating the phenomenon of esports with titles like Super Smash Bros. And Competitive Gaming.

Playing with Power is a must-watch for anyone who has ever picked up a Nintendo controller, and even those who haven't will find themselves captivated by the stories of passion, creativity, and determination that have defined the company for more than a century. With its engaging mix of interviews, archival footage, and insider access, the show provides a comprehensive look at the history of one of the most iconic brands in gaming history.

In addition to its entertainment value, Playing with Power also serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand the evolution of the video game industry over the past several decades. From the challenges faced by early game developers to the rise of online gaming and the emergence of virtual reality, the show provides a play-by-play of the industry's evolution through the eyes of one of its most influential players.

Overall, Playing with Power delivers a captivating look at the fascinating history of Nintendo through entertaining, informative, and inspiring storytelling. Fans of video games, pop culture, and history alike will find something to love in this six-part series that is sure to go down as a classic in the ongoing saga of Nintendo's legacy.

Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (5 episodes). The series first aired on March 1, 2021.