The 20 Greatest Video Game Consoles of All Time
Article by Ion Hatzithomas
Step into the dazzling world of the video game console, where buttons become portals, pixels transform into adventures, and every joystick maneuver is a dance move in the rhythm of fun! Here is our list of the 20 greatest Video Game Consoles of All Time, sorted by release date.
1976 Atari Pong
Original Price $99First on our list is The Atari Pong, the OG of video game consoles created by the genius combo of Nolan Bushnell and Allan Alcorn. Pong wasn't just a game, it was a cultural earthquake. Imagine controlling your paddle like a boss, trying to outwit your buddy and shoot that ball past them like a digital tennis pro. The graphics may have been simple, just basic lines and a square ball, but oh boy did it start a revolution! It's the granddaddy of all video games, inspiring tons of imitations and putting Atari on the map.
1977 Atari 2600
Original Price $199Next on our list is the Atari 2600. Launched in 1977 and originally known as the Atari Video Computer System, this console marked a quantum leap in home entertainment. With its sleek wood-panel design and a joystick that felt like a spaceship control, the Atari 2600 transported players to a universe of imagination. From classics like "Space Invaders" and "Pac-Man" to the revolutionary "Adventure," the console laid the groundwork for the gaming industry as we know it. Its 8-bit graphics and iconic bleeps and bloops were a symphony of nostalgia for a generation discovering the joy of interactive entertainment.
The Atari 2600 wasn't just a console; it was a cultural touchstone, sparking a craze that birthed home gaming. Families gathered around the flickering screen, mastering the art of the joystick as pixels danced in a kaleidoscope of electronic joy. The 2600 remains a cherished relic, a time machine to an era when gaming was a cosmic odyssey, and every joystick movement felt like a journey into the unknown.
1978 Magnavox Odyssey 2
Original Price $179Next on our list is the Magnavox Odyssey 2. Imagine a sleek console with a design that echoes the era's fascination with futuristic aesthetics. The controllers weren't just joysticks; they were your navigation tools through a galaxy of gaming wonders. And who could forget the integrated keyboard, a feature that transformed the Odyssey 2 into not just a gaming console but a platform for creativity and coding exploration.
But the Odyssey 2 wasn't content with just being cool, it aimed for the stars with an impressive library of games. Embark on a journey with "K.C. Munchkin!" as you navigate mazes, outsmarting enemies and munching your way to victory. Feel the pulse of excitement with "Pick Axe Pete," where you navigate treacherous caves, avoiding traps and collecting points in a pixelated adventure.
1979 Mattel Intellivision
Original Price $299Next up is the iconic Intellivision by Mattel. This console had a unique disc-shaped controller featuring a keypad that sat in the palm of your hand, a precursor to modern gaming input devices. The Intellivision wasn't just a console; it was a trendsetter, a glimpse into the future of interactive entertainment. With its innovative controller and captivating games, it left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, proving that the future of fun had just begun.
The Intellivision had an expansive library of games, like the cybernetic challenge "Tron: Deadly Discs," where you unleash digital frisbees to fend off adversaries in a neon-lit arena. Or you could feel the rush of "Astrosmash," a cosmic carnival of exploding meteors where your reflexes are the only thing standing between chaos and victory.
But the Intellivision wasn't just about gaming; it was a complete entertainment experience. Imagine flipping through channels with the "Intellivision Entertainment Computer System" add-on, a visionary attempt at merging gaming and television.
1982 ColecoVision
Original Price $175Next we have The ColecoVision, with its sleek design and a controller similar to the Intellivision's, this console represented a huge leap forward. The ColecoVision was a digital treasure trove, featuring a game library that etched itself into the collective memory of gamers. Holding the controller felt like gripping the helm of a digital spaceship, especially when diving into classics like "Donkey Kong," where you ascended platforms to rescue your love from the pixelated clutches of a giant ape.
But the magic didn't stop there. The ColecoVision wasn't afraid to venture into uncharted territories, offering diverse experiences like "Zaxxon," an isometric space shooter that defied conventional 2D norms, and "Venture," a dungeon-crawling adventure that had you braving dangers for treasure. This console wasn't just about games; it was about innovation. The Expansion Module #1 allowed you to play Atari 2600 games, bridging gaps between gaming ecosystems.
The ColecoVision was a gateway to a universe of gaming possibilities, where every pixel told a story and every joystick move was a step into the future of interactive entertainment.
1985 Nintendo NES
Original Price $179In 1985, the game console world was changed forever with the introduction of the Nintendo NES. This cultural icon transformed our living rooms into next gen gaming playgrounds. The second you saw the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) you knew this was something different. Imagine yourself gripping the rectangular controller, with the cross-shaped pad that became the compass guiding players through timeless adventures.
The NES introduced us to the magical world of "Super Mario Bros.," where plumbers became heroes in a mushroom-infested kingdom. And the NES extended beyond the Mushroom Kingdom to the outer reaches of space with "Metroid," a sci-fi epic that introduced us to the iconic bounty hunter Samus Aran. But the NES wasn't just about plumbers and bounty hunters. It was a treasure trove of diverse experiences, from the strategic warfare of "Commando" to the mesmerizing exploration of "The Legend of Zelda."
The NES wasn't just a console; it was an odyssey into imagination, a catalyst for friendships, and the birthplace of gaming legends.
1989 NEC TurboGrafx 16
Original Price $199Step into the era of the NEC TurboGrafx-16, a console that may have been the underdog but left an indelible mark on gaming history. This sleek 16-bit compact powerhouse wasn't just a machine; it was a gateway to a unique gaming experience that blended Japanese innovation with American flare. Once you gripped the TurboGrafx's unique rectangular controller; you knew it was your passport to adventure.
Whether you were diving into the mystical realms of "Legendary Axe" or challenging your reflexes in "Military Madness," the TurboGrafx-16 offered a diverse palette of gaming delights, earning its place as a cherished gem in the treasure trove of gaming nostalgia. And who could forget the charming world of "Bonk's Adventure," where a prehistoric caveman headbutted his way through obstacles, or the intense shoot 'em up action of "Blazing Lazers."
The TurboGrafx-16 was a cross-cultural fusion of gaming styles that painted a diverse canvas of gaming delights, earning its status as a cherished gem in the rich tapestry of gaming nostalgia.
1989 Sega Genesis
Original Price $189Enter the realm of the 1989 Sega Genesis, a 16-bit gaming behemoth that not only revolutionized home entertainment but laid the groundwork for a fierce console rivalry. The Sega Genesis wasn't just a machine; it was an attitude, a sonic boom of coolness that resonated through every pixel. Picture yourself wielding the iconic three-button controller, a sleek interface to adventures that pushed the limits of imagination.
The Genesis introduced gamers to the speedy blue blur in "Sonic the Hedgehog," where loop-de-loops and supersonic speeds became the norm, redefining platformers forever. Yet, the Genesis wasn't just about speed. It was a battleground for epic clashes in "Streets of Rage," a side-scrolling beat 'em up that transformed the city into a canvas of chaos. The Genesis wasn't afraid to embrace the macabre with "Castlevania: Bloodlines," where vampire hunters battled the undead in a Gothic spectacle.
What set the Genesis apart was its "blast processing" power, a tagline that fueled playground debates. The console wasn't just a gaming machine; it was a gauntlet thrown in the face of competitors.
1990 SNK NEO-GEO
Original Price $649Up next we have the SNK NEO-GEO, a console that wasn't just a gaming machine but a symbol of arcade-quality excellence in the comfort of your living room. This technological marvel, often dubbed the "Rolls Royce of video game systems," brought unparalleled power to the gaming world. The NEO-GEO was no ordinary console, it was an arcade cabinet condensed into a sleek home device. But with an eye-popping price of $649, this console was out of reach of most of us.
What truly set the NEO-GEO apart was its dedication to delivering an authentic arcade experience. Games like "The King of Fighters" and "Samurai Shodown" weren't just games; they were interactive masterpieces, setting a standard for fighting games that would endure for decades. Titles like "Metal Slug," a run-and-gun masterpiece showcased the system's graphical prowess and captivating gameplay.
While the NEO-GEO's price tag made it an exclusive luxury, its impact on gaming was immeasurable. It was a testament to the pursuit of gaming perfection, an artifact that remains etched in the annals of gaming history as a symbol of uncompromising quality.
1991 Super Nintendo Entertainment System SNES
Original Price $199The gaming behemoth released in 1991 that left an indelible mark on the industry, The SNES was a technological leap forward. This Nintendo system boasted a 16-bit processor that elevated graphics and gameplay to a whole new level. From the console's iconic design to the unforgettable purple controller, this was Nintendos big reentry into the console market.
"Super Mario World," was bundled with the console and introduced players to the expansive Dinosaur Land, showcasing the system's ability to render vibrant, detailed worlds. "The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past" expanded the scope of adventure games with its intricate dungeons and engaging narrative. The SNES library wasn't just about flagship franchises. "Super Metroid" revolutionized exploration and atmosphere, while "Street Fighter II" defined the fighting game genre with its precise controls and memorable characters. The introduction of Mode 7 graphics allowed for impressive effects, witnessed in games like "F-Zero" and "Super Mario Kart," which pioneered pseudo-3D visuals.
The SNES was a cultural touchstone that shaped the gaming landscape, providing a platform for innovation and creativity that continues to influence the industry today.
1993 Atari Jaguar
Original Price $249The Atari Jaguar, introduced in 1993, emerged as a bold attempt to redefine gaming with its 64-bit architecture, marking it the first 64-bit console on the market. Designed to surpass its 16-bit competitors, the Jaguar aimed to deliver cutting-edge graphics and immersive gameplay. The Jaguar, however, faced challenges due to its complex hardware architecture, making it a challenging platform for developers.
The Jaguar library featured ambitious titles like "Alien vs. Predator", which showcased the console's potential with its atmospheric first-person gameplay, allowing players to take on the roles of Colonial Marines, Predators, or Aliens. "Rayman" brought vibrant platforming to the Jaguar, displaying its capacity for colorful and detailed graphics. And "Tempest 2000," was a visually stunning and frenetic shooter that became a cult classic.
Despite its limited success and a relatively small game library, the Atari Jaguar holds a unique place in gaming history as a pioneer of 64-bit technology. Its ambitious hardware laid the groundwork for future generations of consoles, leaving an enduring legacy as a bold experiment in the evolution of gaming technology.
1995 Sega Saturn
Original Price $399Aiming to surpass its 16-bit competitors, the Saturn marked Sega's ambitious foray into the realm of 32-bit gaming. This console boasted a dual-CPU architecture and advanced graphics capabilities, promising a new era of gaming immersion. The Saturn faced challenges, including a surprise launch that caught developers off guard, limiting the initial lineup. However, it eventually found success with it's iconic oval-shaped controller and a library of popular games that showcased the Saturn's prowess.
The Saturn's library included games like "Virtua Fighter," a 3D fighting game, which demonstrated the system's capabilities with its polygonal characters and smooth animations, setting a standard for the genre. "Nights into Dreams" introduced players to a surreal world of dreams, highlighting the console's ability to deliver visually captivating experiences. And "Sega Rally Championship," an acclaimed racing game showcased the console's graphic capabilities.
The Sega Saturn holds historical significance for being a transitional console, bridging the gap between 2D and 3D gaming. Despite facing fierce competition, it laid the foundation for Sega's later ventures and left an enduring legacy as a symbol of the industry's evolution toward more sophisticated gaming experiences.
1995 Sony PlayStation
Original Price $299The Sony PlayStation, unleashed in 1995, emerged as a transformative force that reshaped the gaming landscape. Introducing a CD-based format and a 32-bit architecture, the PlayStation revolutionized gaming with its advanced graphics and expansive storage capacity.
Grip the iconic PlayStation controller and delve into a library that defined the era. "Final Fantasy VII" elevated storytelling in games, weaving a complex narrative with stunning pre-rendered backgrounds. "Metal Gear Solid" introduced stealth-action gameplay with cinematic flair, while "Tekken 3" showcased the prowess of the PlayStation in delivering intense 3D fighting experiences. And of course, the introduction of iconic franchises like "Resident Evil" and "Tomb Raider" further solidified the PlayStation as a cultural phenomenon.
Sony's console not only set the stage for the 3D gaming era but also cultivated an environment for experimentation and innovation. Its success marked the beginning of Sony's dominance in the console market and paved the way for subsequent PlayStation iterations, leaving an indelible legacy in the history of video gaming.
1996 Nintendo 64
Original Price $199The Nintendo 64, launched in 1996, stood as a testament to Nintendo's commitment to pushing the boundaries of gaming technology. Boasting a 64-bit processor and introducing 3D graphics, it marked a significant leap forward from its predecessors. The use of cartridges, while limiting storage capacity, allowed for faster loading times and durability. However, it also faced challenges from the emerging CD-based consoles. with it's distinctive trident-shaped controller and a library that showcased the N64's innovative capabilities, The N64 was a favorite among Nintendo fans.
"Super Mario 64" revolutionized platformers, introducing an open-world 3D environment with dynamic camera angles. "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" set new standards for action-adventure games, combining intricate puzzles with a compelling narrative. And the N64's multiplayer prowess shone through with titles like "GoldenEye 007," a groundbreaking first-person shooter that became a local multiplayer favorite. "Mario Kart 64" brought the joy of kart racing to living rooms, setting the stage for the iconic series.
The Nintendo 64 remains a beloved console, cherished for its innovative games and its role in shaping the 3D gaming landscape. Its impact on the industry is evident in the nostalgic memories it continues to evoke among gaming enthusiasts.
1999 Sega Dreamcast
Original Price $199The Sega Dreamcast signaled Sega's ambitious attempt to reclaim its position in the gaming industry. Packed with a 128-bit processor and a built-in modem for online connectivity, the Dreamcast was ahead of its time. Despite its unique controller, technological edge and a strong game library, the Dreamcast faced tough competition and financial challenges.
With it's introduction, "Sonic Adventure" brought the iconic blue hedgehog into a vibrant 3D world, demonstrating the console's graphical splendor. "Shenmue" redefined open-world gaming with its detailed environments and branching narrative, setting new standards for immersion. The Dreamcast's crowning achievement was its online capabilities. "Phantasy Star Online" pioneered online multiplayer roleplaying, fostering a community of players exploring dungeons together. "Jet Set Radio" combined stylish visuals with a unique soundtrack, showcasing the console's ability to deliver innovative and artistic experiences.
However, its impact on the gaming landscape was undeniable, influencing subsequent consoles with its emphasis on online play and innovative game design. The Dreamcast may not have secured Sega's dominance, but its legacy lives on as a symbol of innovation and a precursor to modern gaming trends.
2000 Sony PlayStation 2
Original Price $299The Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2), released in the year 2000, stands as a legendary console that not only continued Sony's dominance but also became the best-selling video game console in history. Sporting a powerful Emotion Engine processor and the ability to play DVDs, the PS2 marked a technological leap and became a centerpiece of home entertainment.
With it's DualShock 2 controller and a diverse library that defined the PS2 era. "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas" expanded open-world gaming, offering a vast, immersive environment. "Final Fantasy X" showcased cinematic storytelling with impressive graphics, while "Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty" demonstrated narrative complexity and stealth-action excellence. The PS2's versatility extended beyond gaming; it served as a DVD player, making it a household entertainment hub. The introduction of innovative peripherals like the EyeToy and SingStar broadened gaming experiences. Additionally, the PS2 embraced multiplayer with titles like "SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs" and "Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3."
With a lifespan that extended well into the next generation, the PS2 left an indelible mark on gaming culture. Its extensive game library, technological advancements, and cultural impact solidify its place as a cornerstone in the evolution of video game consoles.
2001 Nintendo Game Cube
Original Price $199The Nintendo GameCube holds a distinctive place in gaming history as Nintendo's foray into disc-based gaming. Sporting a compact design and a handle for portability, the GameCube aimed to provide a unique gaming experience. With it's unconventional, ergonomic controller, the GameCube allowed us to explore a library that emphasized Nintendo's commitment to innovative gameplay.
"Super Smash Bros. Melee" became a competitive multiplayer phenomenon, blending beloved characters in frenetic battles. "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker" took Link into a cel-shaded, nautical adventure, showcasing the console's graphical capabilities. The GameCube also featured connectivity with the Game Boy Advance through the link cable, offering innovative gameplay in titles like "The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures." Additionally, the console embraced multiplayer fun with "Mario Kart: Double Dash!!" and "Luigi's Mansion," showcasing the versatility of Nintendo's game design.
While the GameCube faced competition from the PlayStation 2 and Xbox, its unique library and innovative features contributed to its cult following. Despite not achieving the commercial success of its competitors, the Nintendo GameCube remains cherished for its distinct charm, solidifying its place as a beloved chapter in Nintendo's storied gaming legacy.
2001 Microsoft X-Box
Original Price $299In 2001, Microsoft entered the console arena with the Xbox, a robust gaming system that marked the beginning of a new era. Featuring an Intel processor and an internal hard drive, the Xbox was a powerhouse designed to compete with established players in the industry. Microsoft was unable to make a steady profit off the console, which had a manufacturing price far more expensive than its retail price, despite its popularity, losing over $4 billion during its market life. The system outsold the GameCube and the Sega Dreamcast but was vastly outsold by the PlayStation 2.
Hold the substantial "Duke" controller and dive into a library that emphasized cutting-edge graphics and online multiplayer capabilities. "Halo: Combat Evolved" became an instant classic, revolutionizing first-person shooters with its gripping narrative and intense multiplayer modes. The Xbox Live service allowed gamers to connect globally, paving the way for online multiplayer experiences in titles like "Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell" and "MechAssault."
The success of the Xbox, bolstered by a growing library featuring franchises like "Fable" and "Halo," cemented Microsoft's position in the console market. The legacy of the original Xbox endures as a pioneer in online gaming, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and setting the stage for future generations of Microsoft consoles.
2005 Microsoft X-Box 360
Original Price $399The Xbox 360 stands as a transformative milestone in the gaming industry, representing Microsoft's commitment to cutting-edge technology and immersive gaming experiences. Armed with a triple-core processor and a robust online infrastructure through Xbox Live, the console marked a significant leap forward. With it's iconic controller and next gen processing power, gamers could delve into a library that pushed graphical boundaries.
"Gears of War" set a new standard for third-person shooters with its intense action and cinematic presentation. "Mass Effect" introduced players to epic, choice-driven narratives, showcasing the console's capability to deliver rich storytelling. Xbox Live continued to evolve, becoming a thriving online ecosystem. Multiplayer experiences reached new heights with titles like "Halo 3" and "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare." The Xbox Live Arcade also provided a platform for indie developers to showcase their creativity.
The Xbox 360's multimedia capabilities extended beyond gaming, offering features like streaming services and a digital marketplace. Despite facing the infamous "Red Ring of Death" hardware issue, the Xbox 360 left an indelible mark on gaming culture, solidifying Microsoft's position in the console market and laying the foundation for future gaming experiences.
2006 Nintendo Wii
Original Price $249Nintendo revolutionized gaming with the release of the Wii, a console that redefined the gaming landscape through motion controls and accessibility. Ditching traditional controllers, the Wii introduced the motion-sensing Wii Remote, allowing players to physically interact with games. Grip the Wii Remote and explore a library that aimed to cater to a broad audience.
"Wii Sports" became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the intuitive controls in sports simulations like tennis and bowling. "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess" demonstrated the versatility of motion controls in traditional adventure games. The Wii's success extended beyond gaming enthusiasts to families and casual gamers. Titles like "Wii Fit" transformed gaming into a fitness experience, while "Mario Kart Wii" brought accessible yet exciting racing action to living rooms.
The console's Virtual Console service enabled players to access a vast library of classic games from previous Nintendo consoles. Despite facing criticisms for its relatively modest graphical capabilities, the Wii's innovative approach and expansive game library made it a commercial success, selling over 100 million units worldwide and leaving an enduring legacy as a console that brought gaming to the masses.