Nintendo Switch Starter Packs

Introduction

• Nintendo introduced starter packs for Nintendo Switch games during the console's first year.
• The games included in these packs were major titles:
  • Breath of the Wild
  • Splatoon 2
  • Super Mario Odyssey

Details of Starter Packs

• Re-releases in slightly larger cardboard boxes containing strategy guides.
• Original releases included additional items like maps and stickers.
• Cost remained $60, similar to the original game price.

Specific Game Details

Super Mario Odyssey

• Pack includes:
  • Traveler's Guide
  • Copy of the game with unique box art design (no ESRB logo).
• Guide criticized for being basic, ending abruptly, and having low-resolution artwork.

Breath of the Wild

• Original Explorer Edition included a map.
• Re-release lacked map but included a nearly 100-page Explorers Guide.
  • More content-filled compared to Mario Odyssey's guide.
  • Design considered bland despite detailed content.

Splatoon 2

• Starter Edition included:
  • Splattergy guide.
  • Unique box design.
• Guide praised for cohesive, colorful design, echoing classic game manuals.

Marketing and Availability

• Purpose of re-releases seemed to rejuvenate interest in major titles.
• Larger box design aimed to capture consumer attention on shelves.
• Re-released editions are now rare and collectible, especially those with additional items like maps.

Criticisms

• Re-releases appeared to offer less value without maps or stickers.
• Guides perceived as unnecessary for the already user-friendly games.
• Suggested alternatives include art books or maps for added value.

Conclusion

• Strategy guides served more to enhance collector's value than provide utility.
• These editions briefly boosted shelf presence and perceived game value.
• Despite criticisms, the strategy was a unique marketing approach by Nintendo.