May 15, 1996 the day before E3 was to kick off @ the L.A. Convention Center. Nintendo invited the Press from all over the world to the Biltmore Hotel in Downtown L.A. It was the unveiling of "Nintendo 64"!
Friends and I were waiting in the lobby before the presentation when we noticed an entourage of Japanese businessmen. One of them was the legendary Shigeru Miyamoto!! They were heading towards the restroom. The night before I couldn't sleep at all because of the excitement. We were going to be THE FIRST to witness the Nintendo 64 and a new Mario game ! I packed my knapsack with few things including some games incase I ran into some game celebs :)
As Mr. Miyamoto and his collegues made it out of the restroom - we approached him and asked if he could sign my Yoshi's Island (Super NES) cart. Without question, Mr. Miyamoto was obliged to sign the back of my cart. Not only did he sign it and dated it. But he also drew a Mario headshot ! My friend had his picture taken and Mr. Miyamoto was on his way to the presentation. Truly and awesome experience!
Also in the clip are photos of my two signed Nintendo carts. In 2002, I ran into Mr. Miyamoto again after he gave a keynote address before E3. He signed and dated my copy of Zelda: Ocarina of Time!
Thanks Mr. Miyamoto - you're one of the grestest!
