Following the Switch’s release last March, Nintendo has made their comeback. In a new interview (via Nintendo Everything), Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime talks about the Wii U’s failure and how that factored into the Switch’s production.
On the Wii U
In regards to the Wii U, here’s what Reggie had to say:
“We had launched the Wii U, following on the heels of the Wii, which had sold 100 million units globally. The Wii U did not have the same level of success. But what we heard from consumers is that the proposition of a tablet that they could experience gameplay [with], coupled with the ability to play games on the big screen TV, was really compelling.”
How reinvention is “in our DNA”
As the interview went on, Reggie discusses Nintendo’s approach to reinventing themselves:
“We reinvent ourselves every five, ten years. We have to, in this fast-moving entertainment business. When you’re doing well, don’t be excited about that high flying performance. When you’re doing poorly, don’t be sad. Always have an even keel and always focus on the next big adventure. And that’s what we do.”
Nintendo launched the Wii U in November 2012 and sold 13.56 million units globally over its lifecycle. Switch, on the other hand, has sold roughly 20 million units globally. With games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Pokemon Let’s Go, and Animal Crossing on the horizon, that number is bound to go up. Over the span of Nintendo’s 125-year history, they’ve sold over 700 million consoles worldwide. Their stance on reinvention proves their among the best at what they do.
Did you own a Wii U when it came out? What were some of your favorite games on it? Let us know in the comments section below. For more news regarding Nintendo and all things gaming, keep it locked to VGR.