Nintendo marks an unlikely milestone this week: 135 years since its founding. The company that introduced Mario, Zelda and Donkey Kong remains a defining force in gaming, now supporting a new generation of hardware, software and collectible merch – and many of those items are available to buy right now.
Why the anniversary matters now
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Surviving 135 years in any industry is rare; doing so while repeatedly reinventing yourself is rarer still. Nintendo’s latest hardware cycle — centered on the new Switch 2 — shows the firm is still shaping how people play, from living rooms to commutes.
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That matters for players and the market: fresh consoles change which games get made, influence accessory sales, and push licensors (including toy makers) to refresh their lines. Availability of popular titles and peripherals is also an immediate concern for shoppers watching prices and stock.
Recommended Nintendo picks available now
Below are curated items across consoles, controllers, accessories, games and collectible sets. Prices are approximate and subject to change; think of this as a practical starting point if you want to celebrate the milestone with a purchase.
| Category | Item | Approx. price | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Console | Switch 2 system | $499 | Current-generation hardware and the gateway to new first-party releases. |
| Controller | Joy-Con pair (color variants) | $99 | Extra controllers let you share local multiplayer without swapping devices. |
| Accessory | Slim travel case with tracking slot | ~$27 | Protects a portable console and keeps cables, cards and trackers organized. |
| First-party game | The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (current edition) | $69 | A benchmark open-world adventure that continues to attract new players. |
| Racing | Mario Kart World (latest entry) | $79 | Party-friendly, frequently updated with new modes and characters. |
| Classic franchise | Star Fox (modern release) | $59 | Revives a long-running Nintendo series with modern visuals and controls. |
| Action/retro | Donkey Kong title (new release) | $69 | Combines platforming nostalgia with updated level design. |
| Third-party | Onimusha: Way of the Sword (console edition) | $69.99 | Remastered action for fans of cinematic combat and samurai-era settings. |
| Collectible | LEGO Super Mario: Piranha Plant | $56.99 | Display-quality set that bridges video game IP and collectible building toys. |
| Collectible | LEGO The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time set | $129.99 | A larger, nostalgia-driven build aimed at adult collectors. |
| Collectible | LEGO Mario Kart: Luigi & Mach 8 | $179.95 | High-end model that ties into racing IP and detailed display pieces. |
The list above mixes hardware you’ll use daily with collectible items that tend to hold value for fans. If you’re prioritizing playtime, the console and a couple of games are the clearest starting points. Collectors may prefer larger LEGO sets or special editions.
A few quick buying notes
- Stock and pricing can change rapidly when anniversaries or promotions appear; expect short windows on popular items.
- If portability is important, prioritize a compact travel case and extra Joy‑Con controllers for shared sessions.
- For long-term value, limited-run or large-format LEGO and special-game editions often stay desirable to collectors.
Nintendo’s 135th birthday underscores a simple fact: the company continues to shape culture and commerce across generations. Whether you’re after a new console, a multiplayer upgrade, or a display-worthy collectible, the current crop of releases reflects both the company’s legacy and its direction for the next chapter.
Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.