Nintendo stands as a titan in video game history, well-established for consistently driving imagination and technological advancements for home consoles. Everyone from die-hard gamers to casual players can probably name more than a few of Nintendo’s well-loved franchises that continue to charm across the decades. With anticipation building around the launch of the Switch 2, it feels like a perfect time to reminisce about the company’s iconic journey in console development.
We’ve gathered a comprehensive list of all the consoles that Nintendo has launched over the years, tracing their evolution and influence in gaming. This collection highlights Nintendo’s relentless pursuit of innovation, keeping players on their toes and redefining what gaming can be.
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Throughout its history, Nintendo has released a total of 32 consoles, with the Switch 2 upcoming as the 33rd addition. Our list includes not just the main consoles, but also the various revisions, including those marked as XL or Mini models.
Starting from Nintendo’s early dabblings with their humble beginnings, let’s dive into some pivotal moments:
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Color TV-Game – June 1, 1977
This marked Nintendo’s initial step into gaming hardware, a collaboration with Mitsubishi as Nintendo was new to hardware development. It set a strong foundation for Nintendo’s future as a gaming hardware developer, with an influence that still resonates. -
Game & Watch – April 28, 1980
Launched as Nintendo’s first handheld devices, each with its own game, these sold millions worldwide. They introduced features like the D-Pad, which remains a staple in gaming today. Special editions even celebrated iconic franchises years later. -
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) – October 18, 1985
The NES laid the groundwork for many beloved franchises, like Mario and Zelda. It was pioneering in letting players swap cartridges, which opened vast gaming possibilities that shaped future consoles. -
Game Boy – July 31, 1989
This handheld legend revolutionized portable gaming with its cartridge system, leading to massive success. Games like Tetris became household names, enhancing its legacy. -
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) – August 23, 1991
SNES introduced 16-bit graphics and became the birthplace for iconic titles, keeping Nintendo at the top with a stellar lineup. -
Virtual Boy – August 14, 1995
A quirky attempt at 3D gaming that didn’t last long but showcased Nintendo’s willingness to explore new frontiers. -
Nintendo 64 – September 29, 1996
The N64 introduced 3D gaming to Nintendo’s home console fans, with groundbreaking titles like Super Mario 64 shaping the industry. -
GameCube – November 18, 2001
Moving to disc-based gaming, GameCube brought unforgettable sequels to gamers, setting up a legacy that remains influential today. -
Nintendo DS – November 21, 2004
With its touch capabilities and dual screens, the DS expanded gaming possibilities, becoming a bestseller. -
Nintendo Wii – November 19, 2006
Breaking new ground with motion controls, the Wii became a favorite for family and group gaming, selling in huge numbers. - Nintendo Switch – March 3, 2017
Combining portable and home gaming, the Switch set a new standard and was a game-changer in how and where people play games.
And coming up next is the highly anticipated Switch 2, promising to blend innovation with nostalgia as it steps forward into the future of gaming. The excitement around new features, redesigned Joy-Cons, and expanded storage has everyone eagerly awaiting its arrival.
For anyone watching Nintendo’s journey, it’s clear that they have a knack for creating systems that don’t just play games but create experience-forming stories and memories for their players. Whether you’re a collector, a nostalgic gamer, or interested in cutting-edge play, Nintendo remains an influential force shaping the direction of gaming worldwide. Keep your eyes peeled for the Switch 2, which is likely to write the next chapter of an already rich story.
