What We Know About Nintendo’s First Authorized Store in the PH
For Filipino families, Nintendo’s first authorized store in the PH is a test of nostalgia, pricing, and how we choose to play together.
The upcoming opening of Nintendo’s first authorized store at SM Makati has drawn strong interest from Filipino gamers and families, many of whom see it as more than just a retail expansion. According to reports from When In Manila, GMA Network, and Gamer Braves, the store will be located on the second floor of SM Makati and is scheduled to open on May 22, 2026.
Early indicators confirm official Nintendo branding, including prominent Super Mario visuals, though full details on store layout, product offerings, and possible third-party collaborations remain undisclosed.
A Gamer’s Version of Disney
For a generation raised on 8-bit adventures and early handheld consoles, Nintendo represents a shared cultural touchpoint—one tied to iconic titles, cooperative play, and formative gaming experiences that shaped early home entertainment.
Many millennials will recall growing up on both Disney and Nintendo. But the latter wasn’t passive entertainment. It was a test of skill and challenge for resilienceResilienceThe ability to bounce back from setbacks, disappointment, and stress. Children build it through supportive relationships, chances to solve problems, and adults who show that mistakes are part of learning—the frustration of timing jumps in Super Mario, navigating areas in Pokémon with the right moves and team, destroying friendships with Super Mario Kart, and even linking Game Boys with a cable to trade and battle.
Today, that same generation is raising kids who know Mario from movies, not mechanics. Kids who might recognize Pikachu—but have never struggled through a gym battle.
What the Store Might Actually Look Like
While the Makati branch hasn’t been revealed in full, similar stores abroad offer a clue. Hongkong’s Nintendo Switch Specialty Store, also known as Assemble in Hopewell Hotel, Wan Chai, may clue us in. That particular store had curated sections which revealed other gaming studio collaborations like Capcom, Bandai, Atlus, etc.
It’s a sharp contrast to local staples like DataBlitz, where there are a lot products but they are all bunched up together. But most gaming stores don’t just sell merch, but equipment too.
If the Makati store follows that curated model similar to MOA’s first Disney SEA Store, expect something closer to a walkable showcase:
- themed sections
- character-driven displays
- merch that feels intentional, not incidental
In short: less “grab what you can,” more “stay awhile.”
Is It Worth the Trip?
For now? Yes.
For many gamer parents, they probably want to bring back the “old school” franchises so that their kids can see where the games of today came from. They may even want to “challenge” their kids more if their current gaming library has lost its replay value.
The MRT ride to SM Makati might be worth it—for the novelty, for the memories, for the simple joy of seeing something long overdue finally arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
The first authorized Nintendo store in the Philippines is expected to open on May 22, 2026 at SM Makati.
Most commonly known franchises include Super Mario, Pokémon, Zelda, and Kirby.
While details are limited, similar global stores feature curated displays, themed sections, and official merchandise showcasing Nintendo franchises.
Unlike typical retail shops, the Nintendo store is expected to focus on immersive, experience-driven layouts rather than bulk product displays.
Yes. It offers both nostalgia for parents and a hands-on introduction for kids to iconic games and characters like Mario and Pokémon.
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