A few months ago, I was talking to my nephew about gaming. Spoiler alert, he is a huge gaming buff. I told him we used to play games without the internet.
As a 90s kid, it never occurred to me that the new generation would struggle with the idea of playing games without the internet. But here, I was trying to explain how retro gaming consoles work.
Long story short, I had to buy a retro gaming console just to prove my point.
If you are missing all things 90’s, here is everything that I found out about the evolution of retro gaming consoles, the best Retro Gaming console options and how can you get them.
So without further ado, let us get started.
A Brief History of Retro Gaming Consoles
Magnavox Odyssey (1972)
This was the first ever home gaming console, and it was designed by Ralph Baer, also commonly known as the “Father of Video Games.” The purpose of this home console was to bring an arcade-like effect to the home. However, it was a simple barebones structure that paved the way for modern-day gaming consoles.
Atari Pong (1975)
This was the first ever commercially and critically acclaimed console. With over 35000 sold machines, this created a wave for home consoles. It featured the popular game “Pong,” which is considered iconic even by gamers today.
Atari 2600 (1977)
A slightly advanced version of a gaming console with changeable gaming cartilage paved the way for gaming libraries, gaming CDs, and DVDs. This gaming console offered a cheaper alternative with multiple gaming options within the same console.
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (1983)
With the release of this console, the gaming industry saw its first boom right after the 1983 market crash. This console also introduced the famous Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda.
Sega Master System (1985)
A rival to NES, this gaming console had the capability to display 8-bit graphics. It offered a much superior visual and display experience with perfectly compatible sound. This paved the way for the iconic NES and Sega rivalry.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) (1990)
To beat Sega, Nintendo then came up with the SNES, which was equipped with a 16-bit processor, offering much superior graphic details. Moreover, it had the most impressive library of games.
Sega Genesis (1988)
To keep up with the SNES, Sega came up with the Genesis, which offered 16-bit graphics besides excellent sound capabilities. Sega is home to some of the most famous games that we see today, including Sonic the Hedgehog franchise and Mortal Kombat series.
Sony PlayStation (1994)
The start of the fifth generation video gaming kicked off with play satiation. This console offered more gaming options than any other console. Moreover, it introduced CD-based games and popularized 3D graphics, taking home gaming to a new height.
Nintendo 64 (1996)
Nintendo 64 offered the first 3D gaming experience for users. While Nintendo 64 was iconic, enough to outsell every other console in the market, it came equipped with a multiplayer gaming version, a stick controller, and offered immersive control.
Sega Dreamcast (1998)
This is known to be the last console by Sega. The most noteworthy part of Sega Dreamcast is online gaming. While online gaming became more popular in the later stage when big Internet became more accessible, Sega Dreamcast paved the way in 1998. Regardless of such a remarkable contribution, the rivals outshined the console.
PlayStation 2 (2000)
The second version of PlayStation took the world by storm with its compatibility, versatility, and plethora of features. With PlayStation, users were able to not just play games but also enjoy movies, TV shows, and other type of content.
Xbox 360 (2005)
The launch of Xbox 360 was the official start of the iconic PlayStation and Xbox rivalry that we see even today. It offered an interactive gaming experience to players with its online multiplayer capabilities. One of the most iconic features of Xbox 360 was the reward system. The reward and ranking system is applicable even today.
Top 5 Best Retro Gaming Consoles that Every Millennial Must Buy
I am a huge fan of mini things, so it comes as no surprise that I am recommending Neo Geo Mini (2018). This console has kept me entertained for hours at a stretch. Since it’s affordable and portable, it has become my travel companion as well.
There is no doubt that the Neo Geo Mini has not experienced the same success as Sega or Nintendo, but its retro look will take you back to the old-school arcade times. In fact, one of my friends has this console on display in their room as well. Out of 40, 25 games are 2D fighters, including all 10 King of Fighters titles that ran on Neo Geo arcade hardware.
This console offers an exceptional experience when playing fighting games. You can either connect it to the TV with HDMI or enjoy a joystick-smashing experience as is.
What to play?
Although there are many noteworthy games, some of the games I would like to recommend include Garou: Mark of the Wolves, The King of Fighters ’98, Metal Slug X, and Samurai Shodown II.
Why buy it?
If you are a 90s kid and want something more old-school without breaking the bank, this is a perfect choice. Moreover, this is a great pick for every SNK fan.
Where to buy?
This console is available on Amazon, and depending on your location, it can cost you somewhere between $109 to $64. Keep in mind that there may be shipment restrictions, so before you order, make sure it’s available in your area.
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Nintendo Switch (With Nintendo Switch Online)
Nintendo is known to be the most iconic console, and you must have judged by the evolution history as well. So, if you want to experience the nostalgia, Nintendo Switch is a must-have.
There is no doubt that contrary recommendations exist. However, it will be an ideal pick for people who want to experience both a home game system and a handheld system.
Moreover, it has kept some of the most legendary games of the 90s alive, so keep your eyes peeled for that as well.
What to play?
Some of the fun games that you can enjoy with Nintendo Switch include Kirby’s Adventure, StarTropics, Super Mario 64, Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Metroid, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and The Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time.
Why buy it?
Most people like the Nintendo Switch just because it is compact, easy to play, and portable. From becoming your travel buddy to keeping you entertained in remote places, this console is worth your money.
Where to buy?
This console is easily available in most gaming shops. Moreover, you can also buy it on Amazon, where it is available for almost $349 without a sale.
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Sony PlayStation 5 (With PlayStation plus Premium)
Most people might call me crazy for calling the PlayStation 5 retro, but if you do the math, you will agree with me. One of the major reasons PlayStation 5 is retro in my opinion is because of its compatibility with retro games. It supports nearly all the famous retro games.
Especially if you have PlayStation Plus premium membership, prepare to be amazed. With a PlayStation Plus Premium membership, you will have access to a gold mine of retro games. Moreover, the membership comes with a full catalog of classic games from PS2, PS3, and PSP.
What to Play?
While there is a huge collection of games to choose from, I encourage you to go through the catalog and try some fun options. Some of the noteworthy games that you should explore include Dark Cloud 2, God of War II, Ico, Split/Second, and Wild Arms 3.
Why buy it?
There is no doubt that PlayStation 5 is a little on the expensive side. However, considering the extensive gaming library from PS3, PS2, and portable, it is worth the money.
Where to buy?
PlayStation 5 is available in nearly all big stores. You can buy it on Amazon or Walmart. Depending on the version and the style, this purchase will cost you somewhere between $350 to $600.
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Nintendo NES Classic Edition
Retro in every possible sense, this console will truly give you an idea of gaming in older times. From its design, and style, to its finish and look, this console screams of the late 90s. If you are a retro gaming enthusiast, you will recognize this console easily. It was one of the trendiest consoles that truly got the cool console dice rolling. Even if you compare it to the Atari Flashback series, you will still notice the NES still takes the crown, as it was the first console that was originally introduced by NES.
What to Play?
While the options are endless with the NES Classic, I would recommend you explore Castlevania, Kirby’s Adventure, The Legend of Zelda, Mega Man 2, Metroid, and Super Mario Bros. 3.
Why buy it?
There is no doubt that you can play retro games with this console, but it is an ideal showpiece for your retro collection. As a gaming enthusiast or even as a collector, the NES Classic will be your perfect pick.
Where to buy?
Although the Nintendo NES Classic Edition is a collector’s piece, it is quite easily available. You can find this on Walmart as well as Amazon. Based on the location, edition, and size, this purchase will cost you around $150 to $250.
