Nintendo Entertainment System
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| The original Nintendo Entertainment System console | |
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| Developer | Nintendo |
| Manufacturer | Nintendo |
| Type | Home video game console |
| Released | Template:Ubl |
| Discontinued | Template:Ubl |
| Intro price | US$179.99 (at launch, North America)[1] |
| CPU | Ricoh 2A03 8-bit processor @ 1.79 MHz (NTSC), 1.66 MHz (PAL) |
| Memory | 2 KB RAM |
| Storage | ROM cartridge |
| Display | 256 × 240 pixels, 48 colours (palette), composite video output |
| Sound | — |
| OS / Firmware | — |
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is an 8-bit third-generation home video game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo. It was first released in Japan in 1983 as the Family Computer (Famicom), and later launched in North America, Europe, and Australia under the NES name. The NES played a pivotal role in revitalising the video game industry following the video game crash of 1983 and introduced many iconic franchises, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid.
History
The NES was released as the Family Computer (Famicom) in Japan on 15 July 1983. After initial hardware issues were resolved, it became a major success. Nintendo redesigned the console for the North American market, releasing it as the Nintendo Entertainment System on 18 October 1985 in New York City, with a wider release in 1986. The NES was later launched in Europe and Australia.
Hardware
The NES is powered by a Ricoh 2A03 8-bit processor (a modified MOS Technology 6502) running at 1.79 MHz (NTSC) or 1.66 MHz (PAL). It has 2 KB of onboard RAM and uses ROM cartridges for game storage. The system outputs video at a resolution of 256 × 240 pixels and supports up to 48 colours from a palette of 54.
Controllers
The NES introduced the now-standard D-pad controller design, replacing the joysticks used by earlier consoles. The system supports two controllers and various peripherals, such as the NES Zapper light gun and the R.O.B. robot accessory.
Game library
The NES has a vast library of games, with over 700 officially licensed titles released worldwide. Notable games include Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Mega Man, and Castlevania. The NES was instrumental in establishing many of Nintendo's most famous franchises.
Legacy
The NES is widely regarded as one of the most influential video game consoles of all time. It helped to revive the video game industry and set standards for future home consoles. The NES's design and many of its games continue to be celebrated, and the console has been re-released in various forms, such as the NES Classic Edition.
See also
- Family Computer Disk System
- List of best-selling NES games
- Nintendo Entertainment System hardware clone
References
External links
- Official NES Classic Edition site (Japan)
- Official NES Classic Edition site (US)
- NES at The Strong National Museum of Play