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In 1990, Nintendo launched what would become one of the most iconic gaming events in history, the Nintendo World Championships. This competition toured across thirty cities in the United States, aiming to crown the top NES players. Entrants competed using a special cartridge that included timed challenges from three classic games: Super Mario Bros., Rad Racer, and Tetris. Each game was chosen to test different gaming skills: platforming precision, racing agility, and puzzle-solving tactics, all within a tight, six-minute window to rack up the highest possible score.
This championship was not just about showcasing skills but also about building a spectacle around video gaming, which helped elevate it into a mainstream entertainment medium. The event’s format was a precursor to today’s multifaceted esports tournaments, combining various gaming genres into a single, thrilling competition. As a testament to its enduring legacy, the original cartridges used during the championships have become treasured relics among game collectors. These cartridges, especially the gold versions given to finalists, are rare artifacts that capture the early spirit of competitive gaming.