Can Android Game Pricing Learn Anything From Nintendo?

Author: Daniel Mar 04,2025

The High Cost of Gaming: Nintendo vs. Android

Gaming is a lifestyle, but budget constraints are a gamer's constant companion. While Android game prices fluctuate wildly, Nintendo titles remain stubbornly expensive, a strategy that begs the question: is this a model Android should emulate? We partnered with Eneba to explore this.

The Unwavering Price of Nintendo Games

Years after release, Nintendo games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild maintain their original price. This contrasts sharply with Android games on Google Play, which frequently offer deep discounts. Nintendo's control over its market allows this; why discount when consumers consistently pay full price?

The Pain of Patience

The high cost of Nintendo games forces gamers into a waiting game, often in vain. Even holiday sales rarely offer significant price reductions on popular titles. However, purchasing Nintendo eShop gift cards through Eneba can mitigate the expense, offering savings on full-priced games. Eneba also provides Google Play gift cards.

The Enduring Appeal of Nintendo

Despite the high prices, Nintendo consistently delivers high-quality, exclusive titles that often become cultural touchstones. The fear of missing out (FOMO) plays a significant role; no one wants to be the only person who hasn't experienced the latest Nintendo hit.

Android and Nintendo: A Pricing Paradox

Direct comparison between Google Play and Nintendo's first-party pricing is impossible. Nintendo's pricing power is unmatched. While patience might yield occasional bargains on either platform, the era of consistently premium-priced games on Google Play is largely over.

Fortunately, services like Eneba offer a solution for both platforms, providing gift cards and deals to make gaming more affordable. Whether you're finally buying a classic or exploring new releases, Eneba helps stretch your gaming budget.