The topic of what the best console ever is a hotly debated topic among gamers. With so many amazing consoles out there, it can be hard to determine which one takes the crown. But, many would argue that the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is the best console ever made. Launched in 1985, the NES revolutionized the gaming industry and introduced classic games such as Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and innovative design made it a beloved console among gamers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of retro gaming or just love a good debate, join us as we explore the reasons why the NES might just be the best console ever.
It is a matter of personal opinion whether the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is the best console ever. The NES was a revolutionary console that introduced many classic games and popular franchises, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong. Its simple, yet addictive gameplay and innovative graphics made it a hit among gamers of all ages. The NES also had a significant impact on the gaming industry and helped to establish Nintendo as a major player in the market. However, other consoles have also had a significant impact on the industry and have their own dedicated fan bases. Ultimately, whether the NES is the best console ever comes down to personal preference and the individual’s gaming experiences.
What Makes a Console Great?
Innovative Games
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a groundbreaking console that revolutionized the gaming industry. One of the key factors that made the NES a great console was its innovative games. Here are some of the ways in which the NES’s games were innovative:
Pioneering Genres
The NES was responsible for introducing several game genres that would go on to become staples of the gaming industry. For example, the classic game Super Mario Bros. was one of the first platformers, a genre that would become incredibly popular in the following years. Other pioneering genres introduced by the NES include the action-adventure game Metroid and the role-playing game (RPG) Final Fantasy.
Improved Graphics and Sound
The NES also boasted improved graphics and sound compared to its predecessors. While the graphics were still relatively simple by modern standards, they represented a significant improvement over the blocky, pixelated graphics of the previous generation of consoles. The NES also featured better sound quality, with more complex and varied sound effects and music.
Innovative Controls
The NES also featured innovative controls that set it apart from its competitors. For example, the game Duck Hunt required players to use a light gun accessory, which added a new level of interactivity to the gaming experience. Other games, such as Super Mario Bros., introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to jump and perform various moves.
Memorable Characters and Worlds
Finally, the NES’s games were known for their memorable characters and worlds. The lovable plumber Mario, the anthropomorphic dinosaur Yoshi, and the intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran are just a few examples of the iconic characters that debuted on the NES. The NES’s games also featured vivid and imaginative worlds, such as the Mushroom Kingdom, the world of Hyrule, and the alien planet Zebes. These memorable characters and worlds helped to make the NES’s games stand out from the crowd and continue to captivate gamers to this day.
Durability
When it comes to determining the best console of all time, durability is a crucial factor to consider. A console that is built to last is not only beneficial for the consumer but also for the environment. The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was released in 1985 and is still widely used today, more than 30 years later.
The NES was designed with a sturdy plastic casing that protected the internal components from damage. The power supply was also designed to be efficient and reliable, reducing the likelihood of the console overheating or malfunctioning. The cartridges used by the NES were also made of high-quality materials and were designed to withstand wear and tear.
Additionally, the NES was built with the intention of being user-friendly. The console had a simple layout and easy-to-use controls, making it accessible to gamers of all ages and skill levels. The NES also had a variety of accessories available, such as controllers and power supplies, which could be easily replaced if they were to malfunction.
In conclusion, the durability of the Nintendo Entertainment System is a significant factor in its longevity and continued popularity. The NES was built to last, with a sturdy casing, efficient power supply, and high-quality cartridges. Its user-friendly design and variety of accessories also contributed to its enduring popularity.
User Experience
The user experience is a crucial factor in determining the greatness of a console. It encompasses various aspects that affect the player’s interaction with the console, such as ease of use, controls, graphics, sound, and game selection. The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) excelled in several of these areas, making it a beloved console for many gamers.
Ease of Use
The NES was designed with a simple and intuitive layout, making it easy for players of all ages to use. The console featured a power button, a reset button, and an eject button for the cartridge slot. The controllers had only one button each, a start button, and a directional pad, which made it easy for players to learn and play games. The simplicity of the design and controls allowed for a seamless gaming experience.
Controls
The NES controller was well-designed and comfortable to hold, with a layout that made it easy to access the buttons. The directional pad allowed for precise movement, while the start button was used for confirming actions. The two-button layout of the controller made it easy for players to understand and use, and it remained largely unchanged for future Nintendo consoles. The controls were responsive and accurate, adding to the overall user experience.
Graphics and Sound
The NES had limitations in terms of graphics and sound compared to modern consoles, but for its time, it delivered impressive visuals and audio. The graphics were blocky and pixelated, but they were colorful and charming, bringing the games to life. The sound was equally impressive, with chiptunes that became iconic and memorable. The NES could produce a variety of sound effects and music, adding to the immersion of the games. While the graphics and sound may not be as advanced as today’s standards, they were impressive for their time and contributed to the overall user experience.
Game Selection
The NES had a vast library of games that catered to different tastes and preferences. It featured popular franchises such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid, as well as lesser-known but equally enjoyable games. The NES also had a variety of genres, including platformers, RPGs, sports games, and more. The quality of the games was high, with many considered classics even today. The NES’s game selection ensured that players had a diverse range of games to choose from, enhancing the overall user experience.
In conclusion, the user experience was a significant factor in the success of the Nintendo Entertainment System. Its simplicity, comfortable controls, charming graphics and sound, and extensive game library all contributed to its appeal to players. The NES provided a fun and engaging gaming experience that still resonates with gamers today.
The Evolution of Nintendo Consoles
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Innovative Games
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was launched in 1985 and was a significant leap forward in the world of video game consoles. It was the first console to use cartridges instead of disks, which made it possible to create games with much greater complexity and depth. Some of the most innovative games of the time were released for the NES, including the iconic Super Mario Bros., which revolutionized the platformer genre and became one of the best-selling video games of all time. Other popular games for the NES included The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and Castlevania, all of which were highly influential in their respective genres.
Durability
The NES was built to last, with a durable plastic casing and a design that was able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. This was a significant improvement over earlier consoles, which were often prone to breaking down or experiencing technical issues. The NES was also known for its reliability, with few reports of hardware failure or other issues even after years of use. This durability helped to make the NES a favorite among gamers, who appreciated the console’s ability to withstand the test of time.
User Experience
The NES was not only a technological marvel but also a pleasure to use. Its design was sleek and modern, with a minimalist aesthetic that looked great in any living room. The console’s controllers were also highly innovative, featuring the iconic “Start” and “Select” buttons that are still found on modern gamepads. The NES was also one of the first consoles to include a power button, which made it easy for players to turn the console on and off without having to unplug it from the wall. Overall, the NES provided an excellent user experience that helped to make it one of the most beloved consoles of all time.
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The SNES boasted a library of innovative games that showcased the capabilities of the console’s advanced hardware.
Some of the most groundbreaking games for the SNES include Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Super Metroid. These games were not only visually stunning but also introduced new gameplay mechanics and features that would go on to influence future games across various genres.
In addition to its impressive gaming library, the SNES was also known for its durability. The console was built with high-quality components that allowed it to withstand extensive use without experiencing any significant issues. This longevity made the SNES a favorite among gamers, who could rely on it to provide hours of entertainment without the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
The SNES also offered an improved user experience compared to its predecessor. The console featured a sleeker design, a better power supply, and a built-in memory cartridge slot that made it easier for players to save their progress in games. Furthermore, the SNES included a mode that allowed two players to compete against each other on a single console, adding to the system’s appeal as a multiplayer platform.
Overall, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was a significant step forward in the evolution of video game consoles. Its innovative games, durability, and improved user experience helped establish it as a fan favorite and cemented its place in the annals of gaming history.
Nintendo GameCube
The Nintendo GameCube, released in 2001, was a groundbreaking console that featured several innovative games. One of the most notable games was “Super Smash Bros. Melee,” which revolutionized the fighting game genre with its unique gameplay mechanics and character roster. Additionally, the GameCube’s exclusive game “Pikmin” introduced a unique gameplay concept of controlling small plant-like creatures to solve puzzles and collect resources. The console also boasted a strong lineup of family-friendly games, such as “Super Mario Sunshine” and “Animal Crossing,” which became beloved classics.
The Nintendo GameCube was built to last, with a durable design that could withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. The console’s case was made of a sturdy plastic material that provided excellent protection for the delicate components inside. The disc tray was also designed to be robust and easy to use, ensuring that players could insert and remove games without any issues. The GameCube’s controller was also built to last, with a solid construction that could withstand the rough play of enthusiastic gamers.
The Nintendo GameCube offered a user-friendly experience that was accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. The console’s simple, intuitive interface made it easy to navigate menus and access game features. The controller’s unique shape and button layout provided an ergonomic grip that was comfortable for extended play sessions. Additionally, the GameCube’s compact size made it easy to store and transport, making it a popular choice for families and gamers on the go. Overall, the Nintendo GameCube’s combination of innovative games, durability, and user-friendly design made it a standout console in the gaming world.
Nintendo Wii
The Nintendo Wii, released in 2006, was a significant departure from its predecessors in terms of gameplay and innovation. It featured a unique controller that allowed for motion-sensing technology, enabling players to interact with games in a more immersive and intuitive way. The Wii Remote, as it was called, revolutionized the gaming industry and set a new standard for user interaction. Some of the most popular games for the Wii include “Wii Sports,” “Super Mario Galaxy,” and “The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.” These games showcased the unique capabilities of the Wii Remote and demonstrated the potential for new and exciting gaming experiences.
The Nintendo Wii was built to last, with a durable design that could withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. The console’s casing was made of high-quality plastic, which provided a sturdy and lightweight construction. Additionally, the Wii was designed with a fan that kept the system cool during gameplay, reducing the risk of overheating and extending the console’s lifespan. The combination of durable materials and effective cooling systems ensured that the Nintendo Wii could provide hours of gaming entertainment without any interruptions or technical issues.
The Nintendo Wii was known for its user-friendly interface and accessible controls, making it an ideal console for players of all ages and skill levels. The Wii Remote’s intuitive design allowed players to easily navigate menus and select games with just a few buttons. Additionally, the Wii featured a simple setup process, allowing users to connect the console to their TV and start playing in just a few minutes. The Wii’s focus on user experience and accessibility contributed to its widespread popularity and helped establish it as a household name in the gaming industry.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch has a plethora of innovative games that make it stand out from other consoles. The console’s versatility allows it to be played on a television or on-the-go, providing players with a unique gaming experience. Some of the most popular games on the Switch include “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” “Super Mario Odyssey,” and “Animal Crossing: New Horizons.” These games are known for their creative gameplay, engaging storylines, and immersive worlds, which keep players engaged for hours on end.
The Nintendo Switch is known for its durability, making it a popular choice among gamers who are on-the-go. The console’s portable design and built-in stand make it easy to play for extended periods without the need for additional accessories. Additionally, the Switch’s detachable Joy-Con controllers can be replaced if they become damaged, making it a cost-effective option for those who want a reliable gaming device.
The Nintendo Switch provides an exceptional user experience, with its intuitive interface and easy-to-use controls. The console’s design is simple and straightforward, making it accessible to gamers of all ages and skill levels. The Switch also features a variety of input options, including motion controls, touch screen, and traditional button controls, which add to the overall user experience. Furthermore, the Switch’s online gaming features, such as Nintendo Switch Online, offer a seamless and enjoyable online gaming experience for players.
Why the NES Stands Out
Revolutionary Games
Super Mario Bros.
- Impact: Super Mario Bros. is considered one of the most influential video games of all time, revolutionizing the platformer genre and establishing Nintendo as a leader in the industry.
- Innovations: The game introduced numerous innovations, such as a diverse and interactive environment, the iconic power-up mushrooms, and the now-famous Koopalings.
- Lasting Appeal: The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay, coupled with its endearing characters and immersive world, has made it a timeless classic that continues to captivate players even decades after its release.
The Legend of Zelda
- Impact: The Legend of Zelda was groundbreaking in its combination of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements, setting a new standard for the action-adventure genre.
- Open-World Design: The game featured a vast, open world with multiple areas to explore, providing players with a sense of freedom and autonomy rarely seen in games at the time.
- Complexity: The game’s intricate storyline, challenging dungeons, and wide array of items and abilities kept players engaged and challenged them to think creatively and strategically.
Castlevania
- Impact: Castlevania is often credited with pioneering the side-scrolling platformer genre and popularizing the “Metroidvania” subgenre.
- Atmosphere: The game’s Gothic horror setting, atmospheric music, and challenging gameplay created a unique and immersive experience that captured the imagination of players.
- Enduring Legacy: The game’s success spawned numerous sequels and imitators, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the video game industry and a benchmark for future platformers.
These three games, among many others in the NES library, showcased the console’s ability to produce groundbreaking, innovative, and timeless games that have left an indelible mark on the industry and continue to be beloved by gamers today.
Iconic Design
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is undoubtedly one of the most iconic gaming consoles of all time. Its design, which was released in the 1980s, has remained a symbol of nostalgia for many gamers. The console’s distinctive shape, with its boxy form and gray and red color scheme, has become an enduring image in the world of gaming.
The NES was not only iconic in its appearance but also in its features. The controller, with its unique cross-shaped layout, became an integral part of gaming culture. The buttons, which were arranged in a diamond pattern, allowed for precise controls that made playing games on the NES a unique experience.
Furthermore, the NES was the first console to offer a variety of genres, including action, adventure, puzzle, and sports games. The console’s library included some of the most popular and enduring franchises in gaming history, such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. These games helped to establish the NES as a leader in the gaming industry and solidified its place in the hearts of gamers.
In conclusion, the NES’s iconic design and unique features, combined with its diverse library of games, have made it a beloved console among gamers. Its influence can still be felt in the gaming industry today, and it remains a benchmark for classic gaming experiences.
Unforgettable Memories
For many gamers, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) holds a special place in their hearts. This classic console, which was released in the 1980s, provided players with an array of memorable experiences that continue to resonate with them today.
One of the reasons why the NES remains so beloved is because of the wide variety of iconic games that it offered. From the classic Super Mario Bros. to the action-packed Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, the NES was home to some of the most groundbreaking and memorable games of all time. These titles not only set the standard for what a video game could be, but they also provided players with unforgettable experiences that have remained with them for decades.
In addition to its impressive library of games, the NES was also known for its innovative design and user-friendly interface. The console’s unique controllers, which featured the famous “Start” and “Select” buttons, made it easy for players to navigate through games and save their progress. This level of convenience and innovation was a significant departure from earlier consoles, which often required players to rely on cumbersome keyboard and joystick combinations.
Perhaps most importantly, the NES was a console that brought families and friends together. Whether it was gathering around the TV to watch a friend try to conquer the latest challenge in Super Mario Bros. or taking turns playing through the sprawling world of The Legend of Zelda, the NES provided a shared experience that brought people together and created lasting memories.
All of these factors have contributed to the enduring popularity of the NES, and many gamers would argue that it remains the best console of all time. Whether you’re a fan of classic 8-bit adventures or cutting-edge 16-bit epics, the NES has something for everyone, and its impact on the gaming industry can still be felt to this day.
Lasting Impact on the Gaming Industry
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry in several ways. Some of the most significant contributions of the NES to the gaming industry include:
Innovative Game Design
The NES introduced several innovative game designs that have become staples of the gaming industry. For example, the “The Legend of Zelda” series, which was first introduced on the NES, revolutionized the action-adventure genre and set the standard for open-world gaming. Similarly, the “Super Mario Bros.” series, which was also first introduced on the NES, established the platformer genre and popularized the concept of power-ups and secret areas.
Groundbreaking Graphics and Sound
The NES also set new standards for graphics and sound in video games. Its graphics were significantly better than those of its predecessors, and its use of limited animation and sprites allowed for more detailed and expressive characters and environments. The NES also featured some of the most iconic and memorable video game music of all time, including the theme songs for “Super Mario Bros.” and “The Legend of Zelda.”
Popularization of Home Gaming
The NES played a significant role in popularizing home gaming in the 1980s and 1990s. Prior to the NES, most video games were arcade games, and home consoles were relatively rare. However, the NES made gaming accessible and affordable for families, and its intuitive controller and simple gameplay made it easy for anyone to pick up and play. The NES also introduced several classic franchises that have continued to be popular to this day, including “Mario,” “Zelda,” and “Donkey Kong.”
Overall, the NES had a lasting impact on the gaming industry in several ways, and its influence can still be felt today. Its innovative game design, groundbreaking graphics and sound, and popularization of home gaming have made it one of the most influential and beloved consoles of all time.
The Verdict
Is the NES the Best Console Ever?
When considering the question of whether the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is the best console ever, it is important to examine its impact on the gaming industry and its lasting influence on popular culture. The NES revolutionized home gaming and helped to establish Nintendo as a dominant force in the industry.
One reason why the NES is often considered the best console ever is its extensive library of iconic games. Classic titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid have become beloved by gamers of all ages and have helped to define the platformer, action-adventure, and sci-fi genres, respectively. These games have been praised for their innovative gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and imaginative worlds, which have inspired countless other games and media.
Another factor contributing to the NES’s status as a great console is its technological innovations. The NES was the first console to use cartridges, which allowed for more complex and varied games than the previous generation of consoles. The NES also introduced features such as the power button, eject button, and save feature, which have become standard in modern consoles.
The NES also had a significant impact on popular culture. The characters and worlds of NES games have become cultural icons, and the console has been featured in numerous TV shows, movies, and books. The NES also helped to establish gaming as a legitimate form of entertainment, paving the way for the mainstream acceptance of video games in the following decades.
However, despite its many strengths, the NES was not without its flaws. Its limited storage capacity meant that games were often short and relied heavily on trial-and-error gameplay. Additionally, the NES’s controller was not as versatile as modern controllers, limiting the complexity of certain genres such as fighting games.
Overall, while the NES may not be the best console ever in every aspect, it has had a profound impact on the gaming industry and popular culture. Its iconic games, technological innovations, and cultural influence have made it a beloved part of gaming history, and its legacy can still be felt in the modern gaming landscape.
Why It Matters
The debate surrounding the best console of all time is a contentious one, with many gamers passionately defending their favorite systems. However, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) has a strong case for being the best console ever. In this section, we will explore why this topic matters and why the NES deserves consideration for the title of the best console.
Historical Significance
The NES was the first console to gain widespread popularity in the United States and helped to establish the gaming industry as a mainstream entertainment medium. It was responsible for popularizing classic franchises such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong, which have since become iconic figures in popular culture. The NES also paved the way for future consoles, introducing features such as save systems, battery-backed RAM, and the ability to play games on television.
Innovation and Diversity of Games
The NES was not only a technological innovation but also a hub for diverse and imaginative games. From action-packed platformers to puzzle-solving adventures, the NES had something for every type of gamer. Its library of games included a wide range of genres, including sports, racing, strategy, and role-playing games, showcasing the versatility of the console.
Impact on Gaming Culture
The NES had a profound impact on gaming culture, influencing everything from the design of consoles to the expectations of gamers. Its simple, intuitive controls and accessible gameplay made gaming a pastime for people of all ages, helping to establish it as a mainstream form of entertainment. The NES also introduced the concept of replay value, with many games featuring multiple endings or hidden secrets, encouraging players to revisit their favorite titles.
In conclusion, the NES was a groundbreaking console that changed the face of gaming and has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its historical significance, innovation, diversity of games, and impact on gaming culture make it a strong contender for the title of the best console ever.
Future of Gaming
- Innovative Game Design
- The NES was the first console to popularize the use of RPGs (Role-Playing Games) and platformers, which are still widely played genres today.
- Its library of games, including titles like Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda, and Final Fantasy, helped define the modern gaming landscape.
- Enduring Popularity
- The NES remains a beloved console among gamers, with its games continuing to be played and re-released on modern platforms.
- This enduring popularity is a testament to the quality and timelessness of its library.
- Influence on the Industry
- The NES was a driving force behind the growth of the video game industry in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Its success led to the development of new consoles and games, pushing the industry to new heights.
- Technological Advancements
- While the NES may not have the most advanced hardware compared to modern consoles, it was a significant step forward in terms of technology for its time.
- Its use of the Famicom disk system in Japan and the NES Advantage accessory in the US demonstrate the console’s innovative spirit.
- Impact on Pop Culture
- The NES and its games have had a lasting impact on popular culture, with its characters and music becoming iconic symbols of the era.
- This impact is evident in the continued popularity of NES games and the ongoing demand for retro gaming experiences.
Overall, the NES’s impact on the future of gaming cannot be overstated. Its innovative game design, enduring popularity, influence on the industry, technological advancements, and impact on pop culture have all contributed to its status as one of the greatest consoles of all time.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers and enthusiasts alike. While it may not be the most technologically advanced console available today, its impact on the gaming industry and popular culture cannot be denied.
The NES revolutionized the way games were played and marketed, paving the way for future consoles and gaming experiences. Its library of classic games, such as Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, continues to inspire new generations of gamers and remains a beloved part of many childhood memories.
Additionally, the NES was instrumental in shaping the perception of video games as a legitimate form of entertainment, rather than just a passing fad. This shift in perception helped to establish gaming as a mainstream hobby and industry, leading to the development of countless new games, consoles, and technologies.
However, it is important to note that the NES was not without its flaws. Its limited hardware capabilities meant that some games suffered from limited graphics and sound, and its controller design was not without its own set of issues.
Despite these limitations, the NES remains a beloved console among many gamers and enthusiasts. Its impact on the industry and popular culture cannot be overstated, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of gamers and developers.
FAQs
1. What is the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)?
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a popular video game console that was released by Nintendo in 1985. It was the first console to be released by the company and was a major success, selling over 60 million units worldwide. The NES was known for its iconic black and white design and its wide range of popular games, including Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong.
2. What makes the NES the best console ever?
The NES is widely considered to be the best console ever because of its groundbreaking games, innovative features, and enduring popularity. The console introduced a number of iconic franchises and characters that continue to be popular today, and its gameplay mechanics and graphics set the standard for the entire video game industry. Additionally, the NES was one of the first consoles to offer a variety of controller options, including the classic NES controller, which is still widely recognized and beloved by gamers today.
3. What are some of the most popular games on the NES?
Some of the most popular games on the NES include Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Metroid, Castlevania, and Final Fantasy. These games were critically acclaimed for their innovative gameplay, engaging storylines, and memorable characters, and they continue to be beloved by gamers of all ages today.
4. Why was the NES so successful?
The NES was successful for a number of reasons. It was one of the first consoles to offer a wide range of high-quality games, and its iconic design and distinctive sound effects helped to establish it as a must-have item for gamers. Additionally, the NES was well-marketed and received widespread media coverage, which helped to fuel its popularity. Finally, the NES was well-made and durable, which helped to ensure that it remained a popular choice for gamers for many years.
5. How does the NES compare to other consoles?
The NES is often compared to other classic consoles such as the Sega Genesis and the Sony PlayStation. While each console had its own strengths and weaknesses, the NES is widely considered to be one of the best consoles of all time due to its groundbreaking games, innovative features, and enduring popularity. The NES helped to establish the video game industry and set the standard for console gaming, and its legacy can still be felt today.