How Expensive Was an Original Nintendo?
The original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was released in 1985 and revolutionized the gaming industry. But how much did it cost when it first hit the market? In this article, we’ll take a journey through time to find out the answer.
The Launch Price
The NES was launched in North America on October 18, 1985, at a retail price of $149.99. This was a significant amount of money for a home console at the time, especially considering the average cost of a new car was around $7,000.
What Did You Get for Your Money?
The original NES package included:
- The NES console
- Super Mario Bros. game
- Duck Hunt game
- Light gun accessory for Duck Hunt
- Extra controller
This was a great value considering the cost, especially since Super Mario Bros. and Duck Hunt were two of the most popular games of the time.
The Deluxe Set
In 1986, Nintendo released the Deluxe Set, which included:
- The NES console
- Super Mario Bros. game
- Duck Hunt game
- Light gun accessory for Duck Hunt
- Extra controller
- Super Mario Bros./Duck Hunt combo cartridge
The Deluxe Set was priced at $199.99, which was still a significant amount of money, but the additional game and combo cartridge made it a more attractive option for gamers.
The Cost of Games
Games for the NES were relatively affordable, with most titles priced between $20-$40. This was a great value considering the quality and length of the games.
The Competition
The NES faced competition from other consoles like the Sega Master System and the Atari 7800, but the NES’s popularity and iconic games like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda helped it stay ahead of the competition.
The Impact on the Gaming Industry
The NES had a significant impact on the gaming industry, helping to establish the home console market and paving the way for future consoles like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and the Nintendo 64 (N64).
Conclusion
The original Nintendo Entertainment System was a groundbreaking console that revolutionized the gaming industry. At its launch price of $149.99, it was a significant investment, but the value it provided with its games and accessories made it a great option for gamers. The NES’s impact on the gaming industry is still felt today, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of gamers.
Table: NES Launch Price and Deluxe Set
| Item | Launch Price | Deluxe Set Price |
|---|---|---|
| NES Console | $149.99 | $199.99 |
| Super Mario Bros. Game | – | – |
| Duck Hunt Game | – | – |
| Light Gun Accessory | – | – |
| Extra Controller | – | – |
| Super Mario Bros./Duck Hunt Combo Cartridge | – | $20-$40 |
Bullets: NES Games and Their Prices
• Super Mario Bros. – $20
• Duck Hunt – $20
• The Legend of Zelda – $30
• Metroid – $30
• Contra – $30
• Castlevania – $30
Note: Prices may vary depending on the region and retailer.