Nintendo has officially responded to the results of a massive 40th-anniversary survey conducted by the Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu. The poll, which gathered input from over 5,000 readers, saw the company crowned as the "Favorite Developer," a title that prompted a heartfelt message from the Kyoto-based firm.
In a statement translated by SatsumaFS and Simon Griffin via Nintendo Everything, the company expressed gratitude for the recognition. "Thank you for choosing Nintendo as the No. 1 'Game Developer I Like,'" the statement read. "We are also extremely happy that Mario and The Legend of Zelda have been received favorably."
A Legacy of Originality
The survey results highlighted just how deeply embedded Nintendo's franchises are in the gaming landscape. Super Mario Bros. took the top spot as the "first ever game" played by survey respondents, while Mario himself was named the favorite character, edging out Final Fantasy 7 icons Cloud and Tifa. Additionally, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild dominated two specific categories: "game to play again if you lost your memory" and "favorite game to recommend to others."
Reflecting on four decades of history, Nintendo emphasized that its approach has remained consistent since the release of the Famicom in 1983. "During these 40 years, technology related to game development has evolved, and the environment has changed as well, but we have continued to keep 'originality' as our central theme," the company noted. "If this 40-year-long path has become a part of everyone's memories, there is nothing that would make us happier."
Looking Toward the Future
Beyond celebrating the past, Nintendo addressed its path forward in the industry. The company stated that it will continue to "challenge various things," aiming to produce unique entertainment that only they can create. They added, "We shall continue to be in your care from now on."
The survey results also recognized individuals within the industry, with Kirby and Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai taking home the title of "Favorite Creator." Sakurai, known for his deep commitment to his craft, was recently described by a former Tekken boss as "a Saiyan who genuinely believes he's just another ordinary human."
As the industry continues to navigate a period marked by significant shifts at major companies like Microsoft and Sony, Nintendo’s focus remains centered on trial and error with the singular goal of "putting smiles on customers' faces."