A Comprehensive Timeline of Release Dates

When you think about video games, Nintendo is a company that probably comes to mind immediately. Since its inception, Nintendo has been an industry leader, consistently introducing groundbreaking ideas and beloved series that have captured the hearts of players for generations. With the highly anticipated release of the Switch 2 just around the corner, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on Nintendo’s remarkable journey through the world of consoles.

We’ve painstakingly compiled a comprehensive list of every console Nintendo has ever produced. As you browse through this list, you’ll gain insight into how this gaming powerhouse has consistently pushed the boundaries of what video games can offer.

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Over the years, Nintendo has launched 32 consoles, and soon, the Switch 2 will make it 33. This tally includes various iterations, such as the "XL" and "Mini" versions of both home and portable systems.

Rewinding Time with Nintendo’s Console Evolution

Color TV-Game – June 1, 1977
Nintendo took its first bold steps into the gaming arena with the Color TV-Game lineup. Collaborating with Mitsubishi Electronics, Nintendo ventured into hardware development. This partnership bore fruit, marking the beginning of Nintendo’s journey in the gaming hardware space. Even now, nearly five decades later, Nintendo remains deeply committed to gaming innovation.

Game & Watch – April 28, 1980
Dipping into the handheld segment, Nintendo introduced Game & Watch devices, each with a different game. With over 40 million units sold globally, these devices laid the groundwork for fundamental features still used today, such as the D-Pad. Nintendo later revived these systems with limited editions for anniversaries, showcasing their enduring appeal.

Nintendo Entertainment System – October 18, 1985
Launching in North America, the NES, or the Famicom in Japan, revolutionized home gaming with its cartridge system, enabling players to expand their game library significantly. Iconic franchises like Super Mario, Zelda, and Metroid originated from this console, cementing its place in gaming history as a trailblazer.

Game Boy – July 31, 1989
The Game Boy marked Nintendo’s first significant entry into handheld gaming, offering swappable cartridges. Many remember it fondly for games like Tetris, which was bundled with the device. Its legacy continues as one of Nintendo’s most successful innovations.

Super Nintendo Entertainment System – August 23, 1991
With the SNES, Nintendo embraced 16-bit graphics and ushered in a new era of gaming excellence. This console introduced gamers to unforgettable titles like Super Mario World and Donkey Kong Country. Despite launching later in its console generation, the SNES dominated the market with its stellar library.

Virtual Boy – August 14, 1995
The Virtual Boy was an ambitious attempt to bring 3D visuals to gaming, albeit with limited success. The system saw only 22 games and a short life span, yet it remains a unique part of Nintendo’s history.

Nintendo 64 – September 29, 1996
Introducing 3D graphics to home consoles, the N64 wowed audiences with groundbreaking games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The analog stick on its controller paved the way for future gaming innovations.

Game Boy Color – November 18, 1998
This console brought vibrant color to handheld gaming, and its backward compatibility made it a favorite among fans. New titles took advantage of the enhanced features, solidifying the Game Boy Color’s place in Nintendo’s portfolio.

Game Boy Advance – June 11, 2001
Representing a significant upgrade, the GBA introduced 16-bit graphics and a horizontal design, enhancing portability. Its backward compatibility included thousands of Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, offering endless entertainment options.

Nintendo DS – November 21, 2004
The DS, with its dual screens and Wi-Fi capability, reimagined portable gaming. The inclusion of a touchscreen provided new ways to interact with games, pushing developers to craft innovative experiences.

Nintendo Wii – November 19, 2006
Revolutionizing the gaming landscape with motion control systems, the Wii captured audiences of all ages, boasting backward compatibility with GameCube games. Its Virtual Console feature allowed players to enjoy retro games digitally.

Nintendo Switch – March 3, 2017
Combining home and portable gaming, the Switch redefined how games could be enjoyed. Its diverse library made it a versatile and cherished system.

Looking Ahead to the Switch 2

With the Switch 2 scheduled for a June 5, 2025 release, Nintendo hints at a significant evolution in its console lineup. A variety of fresh features, enhanced storage, and enticing bundles, including a new Mario Kart, promise to captivate audiences and elevate gaming to new heights.

As we await the arrival of the Switch 2, it’s intriguing to ponder how Nintendo might continue to innovate or expand this new console generation. With a legacy spanning decades, Nintendo’s ability to surprise and delight its audience remains unmatched.

Noah Hunter, a freelance writer with a keen interest in gaming and tech, co-founded Final Weapon in 2019 to focus on Japanese gaming. He’s contributed insights and reviews across numerous platforms, sharing his deep appreciation for the gaming world.