Nintendo Directs are usually smooth sailing, right? But there was that one time in 2018 when everything went sideways, and it’s a story worth telling. Picture this: September 6, 2018, was the day Nintendo had set for one of its much-anticipated presentations. But just days prior, disaster struck with a significant earthquake in Hokkaido, Japan. The presentation got pushed back to September 13, and it turned out to be a monumental decision. Former Nintendo of America employees, Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, recently spilled the beans about those chaotic days on their podcast, revealing just how complicated things became behind the scenes.
Initially, the earthquake was the main reason for the delay, but it wasn’t the sole factor at play. Just a week before, a tragic shooting occurred at Jacksonville Landing during a Madden NFL tournament, sending shockwaves through the gaming community. This prompted serious discussions within Nintendo of America about whether or not to proceed with the Direct. After all, they had EA lined up for a segment, and they needed to coordinate with them. Although no one suggested outright canceling the event, the gravity of the situation was felt strongly by everyone involved.
Yang: “We went into this with one on the Nintendo of America side having this really uneasiness around the shooting, and then when the thing in Japan happened, it was even obviously more devastating.”
Ellis chimed in, noting the pressure they were under: “So yeah, this happened, and I remember late that day, it was like, ‘Oh, Doug Bowser got a phone call from Mr. Furukawa and we’re delaying the Direct.’” There was no lengthy bureaucratic process; it was a clear command from the top. In that moment, the decision felt right, but it also sent everyone into a frenzy to notify all involved parties about the new plan.
With the presentation delayed, it was a mad dash. Employees worked through the night, reaching out to everyone involved, including third-party developers, to ensure they were on the same page. The sudden change stirred concerns about leaks, which could have been disastrous for the planned announcements. Surprisingly, though, very little information slipped through the cracks before the new date rolled around.
This wasn’t the first time a Nintendo Direct faced external pressures. Fast forward to September 2022, and the company again showed sensitivity to current events. Out of respect for the late Queen Elizabeth II, the September presentation was not live-streamed in the UK. However, the show went on as planned elsewhere, demonstrating Nintendo’s commitment to balancing business with respect for significant global events.
As we look back on these moments in 2025, it’s fascinating to see how the gaming industry navigates such waters. In an age where information spreads like wildfire, the ability to adapt and make tough calls is crucial. Nintendo has shown time and again that it can pivot when necessary, even when the stakes are high.
Ultimately, the 2018 delay was more than just a scheduling issue; it was a reflection of the broader challenges faced by companies in the wake of tragic events. So the next time you tune into a Nintendo Direct, remember that behind the polished presentations, there’s a team that’s ready to adapt to whatever comes their way. They’re not just about games; they’re about community, respect, and navigating the complexities of the world we live in.
In conclusion, the stories shared by Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang remind us of the human side of gaming companies. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the people who make the tough calls, often under pressure, to ensure that fans get the content they love while also being mindful of the world around them. As we continue into 2025, let’s hope for more great games and fewer delays—unless, of course, they’re for the right reasons.
