Most people simply don't understand the long game that Nintendo has been playing since the late 90s. When the N64 was announced, it was shown to be one of the most graphically powerful consoles of all time. This was
move number 1 in a game of 5-D chess that Nintendo is playing that all the other console manufacturers haven't even realized they're playing.
The N64 was a ruse, a trick that Nintendo played on the industry. Get the other console manufacturers focused on console power levels, a near -zero sum game where everyone will chase photo realism, something contrary to Nintendo's style and image. That's why the N64 has the smallest game library of any successful console.
It was a head fake.
Then, Nintendo brilliantly moves the other direction, focusing on innovation. All the while retaining their accessible family friendly image.
Think of it this way.
Nintendo and Sega had the two most popular restaurants in the world serving family friendly delicious offerings. Then Nintendo gets the brilliant idea to convince others in the industry - and looking to enter it - that all people really want is
five star high-end sushi and French fare.
What happened next? Microsoft enters the picture, and everyone was focused on the high-end dining experience - meanwhile Nintendo reveals that their high-end dining experience was really
just a food truck. They simply went back to their restaurant and continued to do what they do best.
The others in the industry haven't even realized that Nintendo is not in the game anymore. Nintendo created the fake game of chasing high-end graphics, realizing it would lead to profit losses.
They tricked the entire industry and havee been laughing all the way to the bank for 20 plus years.
11 billion in cash and no debt.
My compliments to the chef.