Back in the late 80’s, Nintendo showcased its true devotion to gamers with the Nintendo World Championships, a gamer-friendly competition where players could prove their worth in games like Tetris and other titles, in the hopes of winning awards.
Sadly, that championship series has been dormant for 25 years – but fans should be pleased that Nintendo is bringing it back stronger than ever.
The publisher announced the Nintendo World Championships 2015 earlier today, as part of its overall plans for next month’s Electronic Entertainment Expo. The tournaments will kick off with preliminary rounds on May 30, before heading to the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles for the finals on June 14. Titles haven’t been confirmed for the competition just yet, but should be announced soon.
This is just the latest move by the publisher to “win back” its loyal audience, following its impressive sales numbers that were reported earlier in the month. The World Championships certainly hold value in their nostalgia, and that’s exactly what Nintendo is counting on.
“Whether you’re tuning in online or joining us at the show, we want to include fans of all ages this E3 with an innovative and nostalgic focus on fun,” Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America’s President and Chief Operating Officer, added in a prepared statement. “I’m especially eager to bring back the Nintendo World Championships and to crown the 2015 Nintendo World Champion.”
For those who are unable to attend the big event, Nintendo will hold a separate event at Best Buy locations on June 17 and 20, where people can check out the forthcoming title Mario Maker before it releases later this year. Those who attend will acquire a special 30 anniversary Super Mario pin as well.
Viewers will also be able to check out a special digital event that will air on Tuesday, June 16, and will highlight Nintendo’s forthcoming titles for the Wii U and 3DS systems for the coming year. Nintendo Treehouse: Live @ E3 will also air over the three days of the event, with various developers showing off titles that will be at the event.
Oh, and if that’s not enough nostalgia, Nintendo also released a fun little video, posted below, that features president Reggie Fils-Aime “working out” for the World Championships. His body is clearly ready.
