Ove Bergsten's chance purchase of an LCD game in Singapore leads to curiosity about its manufacturer, Nintendo.

• During a layover in Singapore, Bergsten buys an LCD game called 'Fire RC4' from a camera shop.
• He becomes hooked on the game, playing it throughout his journey back to Gothenburg.
• Bergsten wonders about the maker of the game, Nintendo, and considers the potential to sell their products.

Bergsten sends a telex to Nintendo, which lays the foundation for their future partnership.

• Bergsten contacts a local trade organization to obtain contact details for Nintendo.
• He sends a telex to Nintendo's Tokyo export office, expressing interest in their products.
• Years later, Bergsten acknowledges that his initial communication with Nintendo contained a lie to make his company seem larger.

The tale of Bergsten's journey from a pub anecdote to a meeting with Nintendo reflects his unconventional approach to business.

• Bergsten's story circulates as a Swedish folk tale about his business successes.
• After hearing the story, the author arranges a meeting with Bergsten to learn about his journey.
• Bergsten's company, Bergsala, becomes synonymous with Nintendo in Scandinavia.

Bergsala's deep ties with Nintendo and its influential role in the Scandinavian gaming market.

• Bergsala is not only the distributor for Nintendo but has become part of the brand's identity in Scandinavia.
• The company's headquarters feature Nintendo-themed decor and a museum showcasing its history with the gaming giant.
• Bergsala's success in selling Game & Watch units in Sweden sets the stage for Nintendo's entry into the Western market.

Bergsten's humorous and unconventional negotiation tactics lead to securing distribution rights for Nintendo in Sweden.

• Bergsten's impromptu arrival and negotiation skills lead to a dinner with Nintendo's export manager.
• He adheres to cultural negotiation rules such as bringing a gift and not being overly insistent.
• Bergsten's strategy pays off, and he secures the rights to distribute Game & Watch in Sweden.

Bergsten overcomes numerous obstacles, leading to the explosive popularity of Game & Watch in Sweden.

• Facing transportation issues and tight schedules, Bergsten manages to meet with Nintendo against all odds.
• A surge in sales of Game & Watch units in Sweden vindicates Bergsten's persistence.
• Bergsala's success with Game & Watch makes it a pivotal market for Nintendo.

Bergsten's relentless efforts influence Nintendo's decision to expand into the Western console market.

• Bergsten's continued enthusiasm and visits to Nintendo pave the way for the introduction of the Famicom in the West.
• His insight into the potential of the Famicom, later known as the NES, helps convince Nintendo to take the leap into Western markets.
• Bergsala's success story becomes a blueprint for Nintendo's own marketing strategies, including the creation of Nintendo clubs.

Bergsten's initial lie to Nintendo leads to a lasting partnership and has widespread effects on the gaming industry.

• Bergsten's relationship with Nintendo evolves into a long-term partnership and friendship.
• Bergsala remains the only non-Nintendo owned distributor, a testament to Bergsten's impact on the company.
• Bergsten's story illustrates how a small deception can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes and change the course of industry history.

The author contemplates Bergsten's influence on their own life and the broader gaming industry.

• The author reflects on the consequences of Bergsten's actions, recognizing their impact on the existence of games like Super Mario Odyssey.
• Bergsten's story is seen as a catalyst for the author's own career and the gaming industry's trajectory.
• While attempting to emulate Bergsten's tactics to change a flight, the author realizes the uniqueness of Bergsten's charm and business acumen.