Welcome to So Expensive, I’m your host. Today we’re unpacking why Nintendo products carry a surprisingly high price tag—even as the company keeps its consoles “never cost more than $300.” For roughly 15 years, “big-budget Nintendo games cost $60,” matching the industry standard. Yet Nintendo still manages to charge a premium on titles, and there are a few key reasons why. First, Nintendo designs and manufactures custom cartridges and hardware, which ramp up production costs compared to downloadable games or standard discs. Second, their games often come with unique features—think motion controls, handheld play, and exclusive characters—that demand extra development time and resources. Finally, Nintendo limits supply to protect its margins and maintain collector appeal. While Xbox and PlayStation push the latest graphics, Nintendo bets on innovation and nostalgia. And that’s why Nintendo remains expensive—valuing quality, exclusivity, and a touch of magic.
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