The NES Classic Mini, the mini version of the 1983 classic
How have gamers taken to the NES Classic Mini, the mini version of the 1983 classic
In 2016, Nintendo released a miniature version of their classic console the Nintendo Entertainment System or NES. For those of you who remember the original 1983 version, the NES Classic Edition was an opportunity to relive your childhood and wander down memory lane with such classics as Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda. While others simply loved the retro feel of wired controllers and unashamed entertainment value these games had to offer.
Launch
When the NES Classic Edition first hit the internet, many people thought it was a hoax or just clever advertising, but as time went on, interest and excitement for the Classic Mini grew around the world. It was eventually launched to eager gamers on November 11 2016 in Japan and Australia and then in North America and Europe on November 23.
Like many new consoles, supply outstripped demand and in many places the NES Classic Edition sold out within hours of going on sale. In fact, some retailers were selling up to 196,000 units in the first month, while in Japan, 263,000 were sold in the first four days. It led some to think that the limited supply was a marketing tactic by Nintendo to drive sales and media interest in the retro console. Others however simply thought it was a missed opportunity by the Japanese console manufacturer.
Reception
With the slightly disappointing sales performance of the WII U, Nintendo needed to regain their reputation as a fun and family orientated console manufacturer. The NES Classic Edition went some way to achieving this by bringing together parents who remember the original console, and children who have discovered these classics for the first time.
Despite minor concerns over glitches in the emulation software, the NES Classic Edition was well received by the gaming public. With classic games such as Donkey Kong (my personal favourite), Metroid and Ice Climber built-in, it was playable out of the box. Many remarked on the excellent visual and audio reproduction which was superior to the emulation used by the Wii U.
If it’s good for one?
With the success of the NES Classic Edition and the popularity of all things retro, will this prompt other classic consoles to get a resurrection? What other consoles would people want to see relaunched and packed with classic games?
About the author
Zeeshan Mallick
Co-Founder of SuperRetroGamer.com
