The Nintendo World Store has been the mecca of everything Nintendo since it opened its doors over ten years ago. Nestled in the heart of New York City and Rockefeller Plaza, the store was the one stop shop for anything and everything Nintendo related, bolstering the best selection of video games, merchandise, clothes, and more.
When it was announced last month that the company’s flagship store was being rebranded as Nintendo New York, fans and members of the Nintendo Inquirer team began to speculate what they could possibly be changing. Many of us speculated that since they were rebranding the name to “Nintendo New York” that would imply the possibility of more Nintendo stores around the country. Unfortunately nothing to that effect was announced today, but that didn’t stop us from having a blast.
The team was greeted by a giant bronze coin with the phrase “Where everyone comes to play,” and hundreds of fans waiting in line for hours to get their chance to go inside. As we made our way inside we got the chance to take photos/videos and even dine on delicious Nintendo themed cupcakes.
Familiar faces like Doug Bowser and the voice of Mario, Charles Martinet, graced the press with their presence and took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony. Excited journalist and reporters crowded around one another trying to get the best photo and videos of the unforgettable day.
Shortly after the ribbon was cut, Charles was nice enough to take the time to talk to the press, sign autographs and of course do his iconic impressions. He was by far the star of the show and made us feel like kids again.
The store made sure they were prepared and had a wonderful selection of merchandise for fans waiting in line and the press to purchase. Highly collectible products such as Mega Yarn Yoshi, New 3DS cover plates, and Fire Emblem Fates Special Edition were well stocked.
In addition to that, the Mario and Link branded t-shirts were also available for purchase. Rocking glossy gold print on the front and back of the shirt. If that wasn’t enough, buyers who bought the t-shirt also got a collectable Mario or Link gold coin. The gold coin is fantastic quality and is must have for any Nintendo collector.
The Nintendo New York store staff went above and beyond to make sure the experience was enjoyable for everyone and were more than willing to answer any questions we had.
After spending a decent portion of our time downstairs, we made the trip upstairs and were blown away yet again. While upstairs also had merchandise, it was like walking into a Nintendo Museum. Sketches of Shigeru Miyamoto’s work were on display and a timeline of the Game Boy’s history took us back in time.
After spending nearly two hours inside and spending way too much money on merchandise it was time for us to say goodbye.
Nintendo hit a homer with the grand re-opening and we had such a fun time covering the wonderful event. We hope you had a fun time following our coverage from home, too!
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Written by Frank Costagliola
Frank is a journalism student at the College of Staten Island and knew he wanted to write and talk about video games since high school. If Frank isn't on campus, he's probably gaming, spending time with his friends, at the gym, or trying to hunt down a rare amiibo out in the wild.
