A Journey Through Gaming Evolution
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Collector's Guides: Identifying Valuable Editions and Variants
🎮🕹️ Embark on an enriching journey through the storied history of Nintendo home consoles with our comprehensive Collector's Guide.
Dive into a captivating odyssey that traces the evolution from the pioneering Color TV-Game series to the groundbreaking Nintendo Switch. Explore each release that has sculpted the gaming landscape, revealing the intricate tapestry of technology, design, and memorable gaming experiences that have left an indelible mark on the world of gaming.
Color TV-Game Series
The Color TV Game series consoles are historically significant as Nintendo's earliest home consoles, marking the company's entry into the gaming world. These consoles were exclusively released in Japan and laid the foundation for what would become the Nintendo we know today.
Here are the consoles in this series:
Color TV-Game 6 (1977)
Color TV-Game 15 (1978)
Color TV-Game Racing 112 (1978)
Color TV-Game Block Breaker/ Block Kuzushi (1979)
Computer TV-Game (1980)
Quick Overview:
Model: Color TV Game Series
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Years: 1977 - 1980
Released in Japan on June 1, 1977
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: Japan release only
Launch Price: JP¥9,800
Code Name: Early Development Phase consoles
Best-selling Game: Various
Notable Features: Pioneering Nintendo's journey in the gaming industry
Notable Games: Each console had its unique built-in and pre-installed game
Notable Accessories: None
Famicom (Family Computer)
The Famicom, known as the "Family Computer" in Japan, is a legendary console that played a pivotal role in the history of gaming. Here's a closer look at this iconic system:
Quick Overview:
Model: Famicom (Family Computer)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 1983
Released on July 15, 1983
Released Colors: Red & White
Release Countries: Japan
Launch Price: JP¥14,800
Code Name: GameCom
Best-selling Game: Super Mario Bros. (40.24 million)
Notable Features: Japan-exclusive version with AV output, top-loading design.
Notable Games: Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Duck Hunt
Notable Accessories: Famicom Disk System
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: RRicoh 2A03 8-bit processor (1.66MHz)
GPU: 8-bit Picture Processing Unit (PPU)
Memory:
RAM: 2 KB RAM and 28 bytes palette RAM
VRAM: 2KB VRAM
Storage: ROM cartridge ("Game Pak")
Video Output: RF, composite RCA, 12-pin “multi-out” composite
Audio: 5 channels
Controllers: 2 Ports, 1 Expansion Slot
Network: None
Optical Drive: None
Hard Drive: None
Famicom (2nd Generation - AV Famicom)
The AV Famicom, the second release of the Famicom, brought improvements and features not found in the original model. Here's a brief overview:
AV Famicom (Model HVC-101):
This revised model offered enhanced gaming experiences and improved compatibility.
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
The Nintendo Entertainment System, or NES, revolutionized gaming with its 8-bit graphics and iconic "front-loading" design. It introduced the iconic D-pad controller. Here's a closer look at the NES:
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Entertainment System (NES-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 1985
Released October 18, 1985, to test markets within the United States
Released September 1986 in both North America and Europe
Released Colors: Light Gray, Black & Red
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan
Launch Price: $180 (US) / $199.99 (North America) / $176 (Europe)
Code Name: GameCom
Best-selling Game: Super Mario Bros. (40.24 million)
Notable Features: 8-bit graphics, iconic "front-loading" design, introduced the D-pad controller.
Notable Games: Super Mario Bros. 2, The Legend of Zelda, Duck Hunt
Notable Accessories: Various controllers and peripherals
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: Ricoh 2A03 8-bit processor (1.66/1.79MHz)
GPU: 8-bit PPU
Memory:
RAM: 16kbit (2KB)
VRAM: 2KB
Storage: 128kbit
Media: ROM cartridge ("Game Pak")
Video Output: RCA connectors (RF, composite RCA, 12-pin “multi-out” composite)
Audio: PSG sound, 5 channels
Controllers: 2 ports; 1 expansion slot
Network: None
Optical Drive: None
Hard Drive: 128kbit (Optional)
Famicom Disk System
The Famicom Disk System was a notable peripheral for Nintendo’s Family Computer, introducing a new way to play games using floppy disks.
Quick Overview:
Model: Family Computer Disk System
Release Year: 1986
Released on February 21, 1986, in Japan
Launch Price: JP¥ 15,000
Countries: Japan.
Media: 112KB Floppy disks
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System, known for its 16-bit graphics and impressive game library, remains a beloved classic among gamers. Here's an overview:
Europe/ Australia release (PAL):
North America release (NTSC):
Quick Overview:
Model: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 1990-1992
Released on November 21, 1990, in Japan, August 23, 1991, in North America, and April 11, 1992, in Europe
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan
Launch Price: $199.99 (US)
Code Name: Super Famicom (Japan)
Best-selling Game: Super Mario World (20.60 million)
Notable Features: 16-bit graphics, iconic design, Mode 7 graphics mode.
Notable Games: Titles like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Super Metroid, and Super Mario Kart
Notable Accessories: SNES Mouse, Super Scope, and Super Multitap
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: Ricoh 5A22 – 3.58 MHz
GPU: 16-bit PPU
Memory:
RAM: 128KB
VRAM: 64KB
Storage: ROM cartridge ("Game Pak")
Video Output: RCA connectors
Audio: PSG sound, 5 channels, or 8 ADPCM (with certain cartridges)
Controllers: 2 ports; 1 expansion slot (for Super Multitap)
Network: None
Optical Drive: None
Hard Drive: None
Super Famicom (Japan) and Other Variants
The Super Famicom in Japan saw various revisions and even different colors, appealing to collectors with its diverse range of options.
Nintendo Virtual Boy
The Nintendo Virtual Boy was a unique and ambitious console that attempted to bring 3D gaming to the living room. While commercially unsuccessful, it remains a fascinating footnote in Nintendo's history.
A Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Virtual Boy (VRB-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 1995
Released July 21, 1995, in Japan and August 14, 1995, in North America (Not released in PAL territories)
Release Color: Red and black
Release Price: $179 (US)
Best-selling Game: Mario's Tennis (1.4 million)
Notable Features: First console with stereoscopic 3D graphics, tabletop design
Notable Games:
Mario's Tennis
Red Alarm
Teleroboxer
Galactic Pinball
Technical Specifications:
Processor: NEC VR4300 32-bit RISC processor (21.5 MHz)
Display: Two monochrome LCD screens
Resolution: 384 × 224 pixels per eye
Memory: RAM: 16 MB
Storage: Cartridge
Audio: Stereo sound
Additional Notes:
The Virtual Boy's tabletop design and lack of head tracking limited its appeal.
The red monochrome display caused eye strain for some players.
Despite its shortcomings, the Virtual Boy is a historical curiosity and a testament to Nintendo's willingness to innovate.
Nintendo 64 (N64)
The Nintendo 64 introduced gamers to 3D graphics and the iconic trident-shaped controller. Here's a look at this groundbreaking console:
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo 64 (NUS-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 1996
Released on June 23, 1996, in Japan, September 29, 1996, in North America, and on March 1, 1997, in Europe
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan
Launch Price: $199.99 (US)
Code Name: Project Reality (during development)
Best-selling Game: Super Mario 64 (11.91 million)
Notable Features: 3D graphics, iconic trident-shaped controller
Notable Games: Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, GoldenEye 007, and Mario Kart 64
Notable Accessories: Expansion Pak for enhanced graphics, Rumble Pak for force feedback
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: 64-bit NEC VR4300 @ 93.75 MHz or MIPS R4300i- 93.75 MHz
GPU: Reality Co-Processor at 62.5 MHz or SGI RCP - 62.5 MHz
Memory:
RAM: 8MB (4 MB Rambus RDRAM, expandable to 8MB with Expansion Pak)
VRAM: 2KB
Storage: Cartridge-based ROM
Video Output: RCA connectors, Composite video, S-Video
Audio: SGI RCP, 64 2D Voices, ADPCM, 500 MB/sec Bus
Controllers: 4 ports
Network: None
Optical Drive: None
Hard Drive: None
Limited and Exclusive Editions:
The N64 saw various limited and exclusive editions, including the Pokémon Pikachu N64 and Pokémon Gold and Silver N64, both featuring unique designs.
Nintendo GameCube
The Nintendo GameCube brought a unique mini-disc format and some excellent games to the table. Here's a concise look at this colorful console:
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo GameCube (DOL-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 2001
Released on September 14, 2001, in Japan, November 18, 2001, in North America, and May 3, 2002, in Europe
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan
Launch Price: $199.99 (US)
Code Name: N2000, Star Cube, Nintendo Advance, Project Dolphin (during development)
Best-selling Game: Super Smash Bros. Melee (7.41 million)
Notable Features: MiniDVD discs, carrying handle, Game Boy Player compatibility
Notable Games: Titles like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Metroid Prime, and Resident Evil 4
Notable Accessories: Game Boy Player, GameCube Broadband Adapter, WaveBird Wireless Controller
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: IBM PowerPC 750CXe Gekko- 485 MHz
GPU: ATI Flipper graphics processor- 162 MHz
Memory:
RAM: 43MB
VRAM: Not specified
Storage: 1.5 GB Optical Disc
Video Output: AV Cable, Scart, D-Video, Multi Out, Digital A/V
Audio: 64 audio channels
Controllers: 2 ports; 1 expansion slot
Network: LAN, Ethernet, Wireless (with adapter)
Optical Drive: MiniDVD
Hard Drive: None
GameCube Variants:
The GameCube saw unique variations like the GameCube Panasonic Q, a hybrid with DVD playback, and colored editions like the Platinum and Spice Orange versions.
Nintendo Wii
The Nintendo Wii revolutionized gaming with its motion controls. Here's a quick dive into this innovative console:
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Wii (RVL-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 2006
Released on November 19, 2006, in North America, December 2, 2006, in Japan, and December 8, 2006, in Europe
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan
Launch Price: $249.99 (US)
Code Name: Revolution (during development)
Best-selling Game: Wii Sports (82.90 million)
Notable Features: Motion controls, Virtual Console, backward compatibility with GameCube games
Notable Games: Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Wii Fit, and Mario Kart Wii
Notable Accessories: Wii Balance Board, Wii MotionPlus, Classic Controller
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: IBM PowerPC at 729 MHz
GPU: ATI "Hollywood" GPU
Memory:
RAM: 64MB
VRAM: Not specified
Storage: External SD cards
Video Output: 480p, Composite, S-Video, RGB Scart, VGA
Audio: Stereo Dolby Pro Logic II-capable
Controllers: Wii Remote, Nunchuk, Classic Controller
Network: Wi-Fi, Ethernet Cable
Optical Drive: Wii Game Disc
Hard Drive: 512 MB NAND flash memory
Wii Variants:
The Wii saw various releases, including the Wii Family Edition and Wii Mini, catering to different user preferences.
Nintendo Wii U
The Nintendo Wii U introduced the concept of dual-screen gameplay with its GamePad controller. Here's an overview of this unique console:
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Wii U (WUP-001)
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 2012
Released on November 18, 2012, in North America, November 30, 2012, in Europe, and December 8, 2012, in Japan
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan
Launch Price: $299.99 (Basic) / $349.99 (Deluxe)
Code Name: Project Café (during development)
Best-selling Game: Mario Kart 8 (8.45 Million)
Notable Features: Dual-screen gameplay with the GamePad controller, Miiverse social network
Notable Games: Titles like Super Mario 3D World, Pikmin 3, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD
Notable Accessories: Wii U Pro Controller, Wii U GameCube Adapter
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: Tri-Core IBM PowerPC “Espresso”- 1.24 GHz
GPU: AMD Radeon-based “Latte”- 550 MHz
Memory:
RAM: 2 GB DDR3
VRAM: Not specified
Storage: Internal flash memory, external USB storage
Video Output: S-video, RGB Scart, HDMI (1080p)
Audio: 5.1 Linear PCM, Analog stereo
Controllers: Wii U GamePad, Wii U Pro Controller, Wii Remote, Nunchuk
Network: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Optical Drive: Wii U Game Disc, Wii Game Disc (backward compatible)
Hard Drive: 8 GB (Basic Set) / 32 GB (Deluxe Set, North America)
Wii U Variants:
The Wii U saw different bundles and limited edition releases, offering various games and accessories to suit different gaming preferences.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch combines the best of both worlds with its hybrid design. Here's a quick look at this innovative console:
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Switch
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 2017
Released on March 3, 2017, worldwide
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan, worldwide
Launch Price: $299.99 (US)
Code Name: Nintendo Switch (from the start)
Best-selling Game: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (28.99 million and counting)
Notable Features: Hybrid console with docked and portable play modes, detachable Joy-Con controllers
Notable Games: Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Splatoon 2, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Notable Accessories: Nintendo Labo, Pro Controller, Joy-Con Wheel
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: Four ARM Cortex A57 cores (theoretical max 2 GHz)
GPU: 256 CUDA cores (theoretical max 1 GHz)
Memory:
RAM: 4 GB
VRAM: Not specified
Storage: Internal storage, expandable with microSD cards
Video Output:
TV Mode: HDMI (Up to 1080p)
Handheld Mode: Built-in screen (Up to 720p)
Audio: Compatible with 5.1ch Linear PCM output via HDMI, built-in speaker in the console
Controllers: Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controller, Joy-Con Grip
Network: Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant), Bluetooth
Optical Drive: Nintendo Cartridge, Digital
Hard Drive: 32 GB Internal Storage
Nintendo Switch Variants:
The Nintendo Switch has seen various editions, including the Nintendo Switch Lite and the Nintendo Switch (OLED model), catering to different gaming styles and preferences.
Nintendo Switch Lite
Engineered for dedicated handheld play, this streamlined version offers a compact, lightweight design without compromising the Nintendo Switch experience.
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Switch Lite
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 2019
Released on September 20, 2019, worldwide
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan, worldwide
Launch Price: $199.99 (US)
Code Name: Nintendo Switch Lite (from the start)
Best-selling Game: N/A (No bundled game)
Notable Features: Dedicated handheld design, integrated controls, portable-only mode
Notable Games: Compatible with all Nintendo Switch games, but optimized for handheld play
Notable Accessories: Compatible with Joy-Con controllers (sold separately)
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: Four ARM Cortex-A57 cores (theoretical max 2 GHz)
GPU: 256 CUDA cores (theoretical max 1 GHz)
Memory:
RAM: 4 GB
VRAM: Not specified
Storage: Internal storage, expandable with microSD cards
Video Output:
Handheld Mode: Built-in 720p screen
Audio: Compatible with 5.1ch Linear PCM output via USB-C/Bluetooth, built-in speakers
Controllers: Integrated controls, compatible with Joy-Con controllers (sold separately)
Network: Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant), Bluetooth
Optical Drive: Nintendo Cartridge, Digital
Hard Drive: 32 GB Internal Storage
Nintendo Switch OLED Model
Featuring a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen and enhanced audio, this console takes your gaming adventures to new heights. Let's delve into the details of these unique additions to the Nintendo Switch family.
Quick Overview:
Model: Nintendo Switch OLED Model
Manufacturer: Nintendo
Release Year: 2021
Released on October 8, 2021, worldwide
Released Colors: Various
Release Countries: US, Europe, Japan, worldwide
Launch Price: $349.99 (US)
Code Name: Nintendo Switch (from the start)
Best-selling Game: N/A (No bundled game)
Notable Features: 7-inch OLED screen, enhanced audio for handheld and tabletop play
Notable Games: Compatible with all Nintendo Switch games
Notable Accessories: Compatible with Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controller, Joy-Con Grip
Technical Specifications:
Processor and Graphics:
CPU: Four ARM Cortex-A57 cores (theoretical max 2 GHz)
GPU: 256 CUDA cores (theoretical max 1 GHz)
Memory:
RAM: 4 GB
VRAM: Not specified
Storage: Internal storage, expandable with microSD cards
Video Output:
Handheld Mode: 7-inch OLED screen
Audio: Enhanced audio for handheld and tabletop play, compatible with 5.1ch Linear PCM output via USB-C/Bluetooth, built-in speakers
Controllers: Compatible with Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controller, Joy-Con Grip
Network: Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant), Bluetooth
Optical Drive: Nintendo Cartridge, Digital
Hard Drive: 64 GB Internal Storage
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of Nintendo's console history, remember, the journey continues. For comprehensive collector guides and insights into reselling, collecting, and investing, delve into our other blog articles. Discover limited and rare editions celebrating franchises like Mario and Pokémon. Connect with a community of enthusiasts on our Instagram page, where nostalgia and gaming converge. Thank you for joining us on this journey; may your gaming collection always level up!
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