Visited: July 2025

My recent trip to NYC wouldn’t have been complete without a pilgrimage to the Nintendo World Store, and it absolutely delivered on the hype. From the moment you approach, you know you’re in for something special. The iconic golden Mario statue gleaming in the front corner sets the stage, and the Pokéball door handles are the perfect first touch – pure Nintendo magic!

Stepping inside is sensory overload in the best possible way. Wall-to-wall Nintendo merchandise hits you immediately, a kaleidoscope of colors and beloved characters. The welcoming plaque declaring “Where everyone comes to play EST 1889” feels authentic – this place celebrates Nintendo’s incredible legacy. The first floor is a shopper’s paradise (and peril!): T-shirts, hoodies, dishware, plushies, keychains, and more cover every conceivable franchise. I succumbed to the allure, walking out with a cool shirt and an adorable Pikmin keychain.

Heading upstairs, you’re greeted by another iconic moment: Mario himself, frozen mid-slide down his classic flagpole. The second floor offers even more merchandise, but the real treasures lie in the center: a fascinating historical display housed in glass cases. Seeing the ribbon-cutting photos from the store’s opening, original blueprints and floor plans, commemorative coins, and especially the framed drawings from the legendary Shigeru Miyamoto was a genuine treat. It adds a wonderful layer of depth and appreciation for Nintendo’s history.

The heart of the second floor, however, is pure fun: the massive gaming floor. The giant screen showcasing Mario Kart World was impressive, but the real star was watching my son dive into Donkey Kong Bananza. The game looked absolutely beautiful and, crucially, played incredibly smoothly. The controls were intuitive – he picked up the controller and was immediately smashing rocks, sending Donkey Kong into a joyful frenzy chasing banana jewels. His huge grin and the seamless gameplay were a testament to the well-designed experience. It wasn’t just watching; it was pure, accessible fun.

Throughout the entire store, you’ll find fantastic photo opportunities with life-size figures of Pikachu, Link, Bowser, and more. These are perfect for capturing those essential fan moments.

Final Power-Up: If you have any love for Nintendo – whether you grew up with the NES, are a Switch2 devotee, or have kids discovering the magic – the Nintendo World Store is an essential NYC stop. It’s more than just a store; it’s an interactive museum, a celebration of gaming history, and a vibrant community hub. Be prepared to geek out hard… and maybe hide your credit card! Just go – you won’t regret it (though your wallet might!).