The Dark Age Of Nintendo (2012-2017)

Back To The Drawing Board

At this point, Nintendo were practically at the end of their rope; having lost millions on failing console sales, many wondered if they would have to bow out of the console business for good. For much of its life, Wii U software sales massively outpaced hardware; if it hadn't been for titles like Super Smash Bros 4, Splatoon and Bayonetta 2, Nintendo could have been knocked out just as SEGA was a decade prior.

Knowing they needed to pull themselves out of the hole they'd dug, Nintendo started thinking about their next system as early as 2015. What would come to be known as the Nintendo Switch began life as the NX; it aimed to refine concepts explored on the Wii U while doing away with the less enjoyed changes it made to the gaming experience. The corporation was keen to maintain their innovation and thought up what they could bring to the industry at large.

Luckily, Nintendo pulled it off and were able to craft something new while avoiding the mistakes of the Wii U. From the get-go it was clear what the Switch was about; this was the first hybrid console, one which allowed consumers to both play on the go and plug into a larger TV. By bridging the gap between mobile and console gaming, Nintendo has positioned themselves incredibly well to maintain their place in hardware production. In addition, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was available on day one to compel an instant purchase.