Nintendo's Second U.S. Store Arrives in San Francisco This May | Image Source: www.ktvu.com
SAN FRANCISCO, March 13, 2025 – Nintendo is preparing to launch its second American boutique in the heart of San Francisco. The early location on Union Square will officially open its doors on May 15, offering fans a unique commercial experience full of exclusive goods, interactive exhibitions, and the beloved worlds of Mario, Zelda and Pokémon.
According to an official Nintendo announcement, the 10,989 square foot store on 331 Powell Street will have a careful selection of consoles, games, clothing and collectors. The large opening of the store is expected to attract large crowds, and reserves will be required to manage the anticipated demand.
What can fans expect at the new Nintendo store?
Like its counterpart in New York, the San Francisco location is designed to be more than a retail store. According to Nintendo’s press release, space will offer a “one-of-a-kind business experience”, with exclusive articles available only at this location. This means that collectors and hardcore fans will have the opportunity to seize goods that will not be sold online or in other stores.
The store should also have thematic screens, interactive gaming stations, and potentially even museum-style exhibitions that show Nintendo’s rich history. In the New York store, visitors have seen rare artifacts, such as the Game Boy damaged by the Gulf War, and it is likely that the San Francisco store will have nostalgic names similar to Nintendo’s past.
How to attend the Great Opening?
For those who want to be among the first to enter, Nintendo announced that reserves will be needed. While details on how to secure a place are still close, fans should have an eye on Nintendo’s official website and social media channels for updates.
In addition, Nintendo published a draw offering a lucky winner and two guests a trip to San Francisco for the big opening of the shop. According to the contest details, the winner will receive:
- Round-trip transportation to San Francisco
- A three-night, four-day stay in the city
- A guided tour of the Nintendo store during the launch event
- A $500 Visa gift card
- $100 in store credit for Nintendo San Francisco
The draws are open to participants over the age of 18 and fans can enter up to five times between March 13 and 8.
Why is that a lot?
Nintendo has been operating its flagship store in New York since 2005, making it an important expansion. The company was selective in opening retail stores, with only four others in the world – three in Japan (Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo) and the current location of the United States in New York.
The movement is also aligned with a broader resurgence of retail trade in Union Square, a district that faced job opportunities after the pandemic. According to local reports, several important brands, including Ross and Shoe Palace, are increasing their presence in the area. The upcoming opening of a new B. Patisserie location indicates more efforts to revitalize the neighbourhood.
Will the store come with the next gen’s console?
While rumours revolve around the Nintendo Switch 2 release, fans naturally wonder if the new store will be a privileged location for pre-ordered and early access to the next generation console. Although Nintendo has not confirmed the details of future product availability, history suggests that iconic stores often play a role in major hardware launches. If the Switch 2 is launched in 2025, as speculation suggests, the San Francisco store could be a key destination for advertising and early sales.
A new Hub for Nintendo fans
The Nintendo store in New York has long been a meeting place for fans, organizing launch events, tournaments and even viral moments, like crowds that burst into joy during Super Smash Bros. The character reveals itself. The San Francisco location should provide a similar community space for game lovers on the west coast.
With its large opening set for May 15, Nintendo San Francisco becomes an essential destination for fans and collectors. Whether visitors are looking to buy exclusive products, relive classic Nintendo moments or simply be packed in the nostalgic environment, the store should bring a new wave of emotion to Union Square.
