Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story Season 1 Episode 4 Forward Motion

In episode 4 of Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story, titled 'Forward Motion', viewers are taken through the history of some of the company's most famous franchises and innovations. The episode explores how Nintendo's move to the handheld gaming market brought about a revolution in portable gaming devices.

The show documents the release of Nintendo's first handheld console, the Game & Watch, which would go on to sell over 80 million units worldwide. Through interviews with key personnel at Nintendo, viewers learn about how the Game & Watch was the starting point for many of Nintendo's future innovations, including the dual screen concept that would eventually become part of the DS and 3DS consoles.

The episode also delves into the creation of Nintendo's first console, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Rather than being met with praise and enthusiasm upon its release, the NES faced opposition from retailers and the gaming industry, which had been plagued by the infamous Atari video game crash of 1983. The NES's success, which would eventually help pave the way for Nintendo's position as a gaming industry giant, did not come easily.

Viewers are given insights into how Nintendo overcame the obstacles that arose during the NES's development and release. The episode explores how the company's unique approach, which drew on its success with the Game & Watch and other handheld consoles, helped Nintendo to appeal to a new generation of gamers.

'Forward Motion' also delves into the iconic characters and franchises that Nintendo has become known for over the years. The show explores how games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid pushed the boundaries of gaming and established Nintendo as a leader in the industry. Viewers learn about the development of these games, as well as the teams behind them and the impact they had on the gaming landscape.

Overall, episode 4 of Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story provides an in-depth look at how Nintendo established itself as a major player in the gaming industry. Through interviews with key personnel and behind-the-scenes insights, viewers are taken on a journey through the company's innovations, the development of its most iconic franchises, and its continued impact on the gaming world.