Nintendo was established in 1889 as a toy and playing cards company. For the majority of its existence Nintendo was producing Japanese-style hanafuda cards and Western-style playing cards as well as toys and games. However Nintendo's former history is often forgotten due to the success it achieved afterwards with the Game and Watch and various game consoles that followed.
The Before Mario blog showcases the toys and games Nintendo created in the period from the mid 60's to the early 80's. Starting with the first board games up to the launch of the Family Computer in 1983.
It really is an amazing website as it taught me so much more about Nintendo than I ever thought I knew. Take a look and educate yourself, I did!
The Ultra Hand, created by Gameboy creator Gunpei Yokoi.