Nintendo Entertainment System
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), known as the Family Computer or Famicom in Japan, is an 8-bit home video game console developed and manufactured by Nintendo. Here's an in-depth look at this iconic gaming system:
History
- Launch: The Famicom was released in Japan on July 15, 1983. After initial setbacks due to quality issues, it was re-released with a redesign in 1984.
- North American Release: The NES was introduced to North America in October 1985, following a period known as the Video Game Crash of 1983. Nintendo adopted strict licensing practices and quality control to prevent another market collapse.
- European and Australian Release: The system was launched in Europe in 1986 and in Australia in 1987 under the name "Nintendo Entertainment System".
Hardware
- CPU: The NES uses a modified Ricoh 2A03 processor, which is based on the MOS Technology 6502.
- Graphics: It features a Picture Processing Unit (PPU) for rendering sprites and backgrounds, with support for up to 25 colors on-screen.
- Audio: The system includes a five-channel audio system, with two pulse wave channels, one triangle wave channel, one noise channel, and one DPCM channel.
Game Library
Impact and Legacy
- Revitalizing the Industry: The NES is credited with revitalizing the video game industry in North America after the crash of 1983.
- Iconic Design: Its iconic grey box design with front-loading cartridge system became a cultural symbol.
- Nintendo Seal of Quality: This seal was used to assure consumers of game quality, helping to build trust in the brand.
Discontinuation and Aftermath
- End of Production: The NES was officially discontinued in North America in 1995, with the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) taking over as Nintendo's flagship console.
- Legacy Systems: Nintendo released the Nintendo Classic Mini in 2016, which includes 30 pre-installed NES games, as a tribute to its legacy.
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See Also