Why Nintendo’s Legacy Continues to Dominate Gaming
Nintendo has shaped the gaming industry for decades, creating legendary franchises that have captured hearts across multiple generations. From the mushroom-filled adventures of Mario to the monster-catching phenomenon of Pokémon, these iconic game series have become cultural touchstones that extend far beyond gaming.
The company’s ability to create timeless characters and engaging gameplay has resulted in franchises that remain relevant and beloved today. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting your gaming journey, these five Nintendo franchises represent the absolute pinnacle of interactive entertainment.
Here are the 5 most iconic Nintendo game franchises that have defined gaming culture and continue to set industry standards.
1. Super Mario Series
The Ultimate Platforming Adventure
The Super Mario series stands as gaming’s most recognizable franchise, featuring the beloved Italian plumber who has become Nintendo’s official mascot. Since Mario’s debut in 1985, this series has sold over 400 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video game franchises in history.
What Makes Mario So Special
Mario games revolutionized the platforming genre with their innovative level design, precise controls, and creative power-ups. The series introduced gaming concepts that became industry standards, including:
- Power-up mechanics that transform gameplay
- World-based progression with themed environments
- Hidden secrets and bonus areas that reward exploration
- Memorable soundtracks that enhance the gaming experience
How to Experience Mario’s Magic
Playing a Mario game involves guiding the titular character through colorful worlds filled with obstacles, enemies, and collectibles. The core gameplay loop focuses on jumping, running, and using various power-ups to overcome challenges. Each game typically features multiple worlds with distinct themes, from underwater levels to volcanic landscapes.
Where to Play Mario Games
Mario games are available across multiple Nintendo platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS, and through Nintendo Switch Online’s classic game library. Popular recent titles include Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario Wonder, and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe.
2. The Legend of Zelda Series
Epic Adventures in Hyrule
The Legend of Zelda franchise represents the gold standard for action-adventure gaming, combining exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat in beautifully crafted worlds. This series has consistently pushed technological boundaries while maintaining its core identity as an epic fantasy adventure.
Why Zelda Remains Legendary
The Zelda series has earned critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and storytelling. Each entry introduces new concepts while maintaining the series’ signature elements:
- Non-linear exploration that encourages player curiosity
- Complex dungeons with intricate puzzles and boss battles
- Rich storytelling featuring recurring characters and themes
- Musical excellence with iconic compositions
Understanding Zelda’s Gameplay
Zelda games typically cast players as Link, a hero tasked with saving Princess Zelda and the kingdom of Hyrule. The gameplay combines combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving, with players acquiring new items and abilities that unlock previously inaccessible areas. Recent entries have embraced open-world design, allowing unprecedented freedom in exploration.
Finding Your Zelda Adventure
The series is primarily available on Nintendo platforms, with recent highlights including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch. Classic entries can be found through Nintendo Switch Online or remasters on current systems.
3. Super Smash Bros. Series
The Ultimate Gaming Crossover
Super Smash Bros. represents gaming’s most ambitious crossover fighting game, bringing together characters from various Nintendo franchises and beyond. This series has transformed from a simple concept into a competitive esports phenomenon that celebrates gaming history.
What Makes Smash Bros. Unique
The series stands out in the fighting game genre through its accessible yet deep gameplay and incredible roster diversity. Key features include:
- Easy-to-learn controls that welcome newcomers
- Deep strategic gameplay that supports competitive play
- Massive character roster spanning gaming history
- Dynamic stages that add environmental hazards and variety
How Smash Bros. Works
Unlike traditional fighting games, Smash Bros. uses percentage-based damage rather than health bars. Players attempt to knock opponents off the stage by building up damage and landing powerful attacks. The game supports up to eight players simultaneously, creating chaotic and entertaining multiplayer experiences.
Where to Join the Battle
The latest entry, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for Nintendo Switch, features the largest roster in series history with over 80 fighters. The game offers extensive single-player content alongside robust online multiplayer modes, making it perfect for both casual and competitive players.
4. Metroid Series
Atmospheric Sci-Fi Exploration
The Metroid series pioneered the exploration-based action genre, creating atmospheric adventures that blend shooting, platforming, and puzzle-solving. Featuring bounty hunter Samus Aran, this franchise has consistently delivered some of gaming’s most immersive experiences.
Why Metroid Stands Apart
Metroid games are renowned for their non-linear design and atmospheric storytelling. The series excels in several key areas:
- Interconnected world design that rewards thorough exploration
- Gradual ability progression that opens new areas
- Atmospheric presentation with minimal dialogue
- Challenging gameplay that respects player intelligence
Exploring Samus’s Universe
Metroid games task players with exploring alien worlds as Samus Aran, a powered armor-wearing bounty hunter. The gameplay emphasizes exploration and backtracking, as new abilities allow access to previously unreachable areas. Combat focuses on precise shooting and movement, with various beam weapons and defensive capabilities.
Where to Experience Metroid
Recent entries include Metroid Dread on Nintendo Switch, which marked the series’ return to 2D gameplay. Classic entries are available through various collections and remasters, with the Metroid Prime series offering acclaimed 3D adventures.
5. Pokémon Series
Gotta Catch ‘Em All
The Pokémon franchise has become a global phenomenon extending far beyond video games into anime, movies, and merchandise. As one of the highest-grossing media franchises ever created, Pokémon has captured imaginations worldwide with its creature-collecting gameplay.
The Pokemon Phenomenon
Pokémon’s success stems from its addictive collecting mechanics and social gameplay elements. The series consistently delivers:
- Hundreds of unique creatures to discover and collect
- Strategic turn-based combat with type advantages
- Social trading mechanics that encourage player interaction
- Evolving gameplay that introduces new mechanics with each generation
How Pokemon Adventures Work
Pokémon games typically follow a role-playing game structure where players explore regions, catch wild Pokémon, and battle other trainers. The core loop involves capturing creatures, training them through battles, and challenging gym leaders to become the regional champion. Strategic team building and type matchups add depth to the combat system.
Where to Start Your Pokemon Journey
The latest mainline entries, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, are available on Nintendo Switch, featuring open-world exploration for the first time in the series. Classic games remain available through remakes and the Nintendo Switch Online service, offering multiple entry points for new trainers.
The Enduring Magic of Nintendo
These five franchises represent more than just video games—they’re cultural institutions that have influenced countless developers and entertained millions of players worldwide. Nintendo’s commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility has ensured these series remain relevant across multiple console generations.
Whether you’re seeking platforming perfection, epic adventures, competitive fighting, atmospheric exploration, or creature-collecting fun, these iconic Nintendo franchises offer something special for every type of gamer. Their continued evolution and enduring popularity prove that great game design truly stands the test of time.
