Super Smash Bros Melee - #deconstruction post
Who created this message?
Nintendo, one of the largest gaming companies in the world, created this message when Super Smash Bros Melee came out in 2001, the same year this commercial came out, and same year that the GameCube console was released.
What creative techniques are used to attract my attention?
The man in the commercial walks up to a glass cube, where the cube is likely representative of the console, which appears in place of the glass cube at the end of the commercial. While standing in front of the glass cube, he watches two individuals fight inside for a moment. As time goes on, the images change to gameplay clips from Super Smash Bros Melee, making it seem like he is part of the action. When watching, you feel like you're seeing the action from his eyes in moments, involving the viewer.
How might different people interpret this message differently than me?
Some individuals may not feel engaged when watching scenes of combat, and may be turned off by the game from this commercial. Despite the lack of gore, and the fact that the GameCube has many games that any age could enjoy playing, this game in particular, is not noted for its slowness, a point the commercial relays well. The appeal lies rather in its quick gameplay, its point scoring system, and interesting characters that had been used in Nintendo games before. This commercial would likely attract those who are familiar with Nintendo characters like Mario and Yoshi, as well as newcomers that are intrigued by this single and multiplayer gameplay.
What viewpoints or world views are included or left out of this message?
The individuals in the glass cube that the man is watching seem to be Samurai, which traditionally hail from Japan. Nintendo was created in Japan, and its headquarters are still located there today, in Kyoto.
Why is this message being sent?
Japan’s reputation for cutting edge technology (including video game creation) in the country is well recognized globally, as is the notion that Samurai are fierce, quick, and relentless, just like the gameplay is intended to be in Super Smash Bros Melee. They may have included this bit of Japanese culture, tying it in with combat you can participate in the game, to appeal to the Japanese market, as well as those impressed by Japanese culture and reputation.