Nintendo's first console was the Family Computer, commonly known as the Famicom, which was later released internationally as the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).
The Dawn of Nintendo's Console Era
The journey of Nintendo as a dominant force in the home video game market began with the launch of the Family Computer in Japan. This 8-bit home video game console revolutionized the industry and laid the groundwork for future gaming innovations.
Key Release Details
The Famicom's initial release and its subsequent international launch as the NES mark a significant period in video game history. Understanding these details clarifies its status as Nintendo's inaugural console.
| Console Name | Release Date (Japan) | US Release Details |
|---|---|---|
| Family Computer | July 15, 1983 | |
| (Famicom) | ||
| Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) | - | October 1985 (Test Markets), 1986 (Full Launch) |
The Famicom, designed by Masayuki Uemura, quickly gained popularity in Japan due to its powerful hardware for the time and a library of engaging games. Its success led to Nintendo's decision to bring the console to Western markets, albeit with a redesigned exterior and under a new name, the Nintendo Entertainment System.
The NES: A Global Phenomenon
While the Famicom was the original, the NES version's launch in North America and other regions was instrumental in revitalizing the video game industry after the crash of 1983. It introduced iconic franchises like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid, which continue to be cornerstones of Nintendo's legacy. The NES became a cultural phenomenon, bringing video games into millions of homes worldwide and establishing Nintendo as a household name synonymous with gaming.
