Former Nintendo Employees Look Back on 2016 Controversial Switch Teaser

Former Nintendo Employees Look Back on 2016 Controversial Switch Teaser

Key Takeaways

  • Nintendo tends to approach character reveals with more restraint; future Switch announcements expected to be less alarming.
  • Mario’s meme-worthy teaser emphasizes Nintendo’s need for refined presentation moving forward.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of Nintendo gaming under my belt, I can’t help but chuckle at the antics of Mario peeking behind the curtain during the Switch teaser. It was indeed a refreshing departure from Nintendo’s usual reserved approach, and it made for some memorable moments when the internet turned him into a meme.


The duo, Kit and Krysta (former employees of Nintendo), shared the story behind the teaser video featuring Mario peeking from behind a curtain on the Switch, as well as why Nintendo initially disapproved of it. Unlike many companies in the past that used an over-the-top sense of humor to engage gamers, Nintendo has always preferred a more restrained and refined presentation of its characters. This approach aligns with the sleek and minimalistic design aesthetic of the Switch console today.

Gamers are curious about how Nintendo will unveil their upcoming Switch console. Some might base their expectations on Nintendo’s past behavior, but the unique teaser for the original Switch is unlikely to be replicated. In 2016, Nintendo sent a tweet inviting gamers to explore the then-unrevealed NX system. The message came with an unusual Mario image that was different from anything else the company had previously shared.

Recently, in a chat on air, Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang delved into the buzz-worthy teaser released before the Nintendo Switch’s grand reveal. When they were questioned about the origin of this teaser, the hosts, Kit and Krysta, shared some nostalgic moments. They pointed out that the image, depicting Mario barging in and peeking behind the viewer’s screen, stirred quite a commotion within Nintendo. As it turns out, the brainchild behind this provocative concept was Nintendo’s ex-head of social media. The team decided to create this unique image when they realized that no specific assets had been made for that particular announcement, as they felt an original piece was needed.

Nintendo Alums Unpack Controversial Mario Picture

The photograph was prepared following the social media manager arranging a photoshoot featuring an individual dressed as Mario. Initially, Nintendo expressed reservations, highlighting their anxiety over it potentially giving too strong a clue regarding the direction of the console unveiling. Later, Kit and Krysta observed that employees were displeased after the teaser was posted due to the widespread transformation of Mario into internet memes.

Krysta discussed the frustration that arose when people were compelled to resort to using the somewhat controversial Mario image during an announcement. She and Kit suggest that Nintendo is well-prepared for such situations in the future. Essentially, this hints at the methodology behind announcing the upcoming Nintendo Switch successor. It’s plausible that the unveiling of the new console will include exclusive artwork or depictions related to the device. Given Mario’s role as the company’s icon, it’s likely he will feature prominently, but gamers should anticipate a less shocking image in terms of the photograph used for the announcement.

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2024-10-16 05:23