Microsoft is releasing the takeover letter that made it laugh out of Nintendo’s office

What would the world be like if Mario and Master Chef formed teams? How would Bowser look like a guest character in Killer instinct? Can you imagine one Forza Horizon and Mario Kart crossover? How about seeing one Defeat agent i Smash?

In an alternate timeline, all of these things have happened. Over 20 years ago, when Microsoft was getting ready to launch the original Xbox console, a few executives at the company were worried that there would not be enough games for the hardware at launch. The solution? Buy Nintendo!

Nintendo “laughed at” the offer, though. Now – perhaps as the embarrassment disappears more than 20 years later – Microsoft has published a letter sent between the two companies at the time, which gives us an insight into the thinking behind the agreement.

The letter has been shared as part of the new browser-based Xbox 20th anniversary interactive museum, and although much of the document is covered for (boo), there is still much to learn from the visible.

“Dear Jacqualee, I appreciate you taking the time to try to arrange a meeting with Mr. Takeda and Mr. Yamauchi to discuss a possible strategic partnership between Nintendo and Microsoft on future video game platforms,” ​​the letter reads. “I understand Mr. Takeda’s concerns about the possible partnership and will try to [blocked out] the guidelines he has requested. “

It is worth looking at the link above if you want to take a look at some game history yourself. While you’re at it, you can also check out your own Xbox history and look at more items from the company’s past. It’s a pretty cool show and a really nice way to celebrate Xbox’s 20th anniversary.