What Magazine Did Nintendo Publish for SNES Games?

This article identifies Nintendo Power as the primary magazine published by Nintendo to promote SNES games. It details the publication’s history, its role in marketing the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and its influence on gamers during the 1990s. The following sections cover the magazine’s content, distribution, and eventual legacy within the gaming industry.

The Rise of Nintendo Power

Launched in July 1988, Nintendo Power was the official magazine of Nintendo of America. While it began during the tail end of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) era, it became synonymous with the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) launch and subsequent lifecycle. The publication served as a direct marketing channel for the company, allowing Nintendo to control the narrative around upcoming releases, provide official strategy guides, and cultivate a loyal community of players.

Content and SNES Promotion

During the SNES era, Nintendo Power was essential for players seeking information on new titles. Each issue featured exclusive previews, developer interviews, and detailed walkthroughs for major franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario World, and Metroid. The magazine often included fold-out posters and strategy guides that were not available elsewhere. This content was crucial in an era before the internet, where printed media was the primary source for gaming news and cheat codes.

Distribution and Impact

Nintendo Power was available through subscription and at newsstands across North America. At its peak, the magazine boasted a circulation of over 1.5 million copies per month. Its influence extended beyond mere advertising; the magazine’s ratings and coverage could significantly impact the sales of third-party games. By featuring specific SNES cartridges on the cover, Nintendo could guarantee a surge in consumer interest and retail demand.

Legacy and Discontinuation

The magazine continued publication through the Nintendo 64, GameCube, and Wii eras. However, as digital media began to dominate the landscape, the need for a printed monthly publication diminished. Nintendo Power ceased regular publication in December 2012 after 24 years. Despite its discontinuation, it remains a nostalgic artifact for retro gaming collectors and is recognized as the definitive answer to what magazine was published by Nintendo to promote SNES games.