Nintendo Entertainment System Value Guide
- Period
- 1985
- Origin
- Japan
- Materials
- Plastic, metal, electronic components
- Category
- Nintendo
The 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a cornerstone of gaming history that single-handedly revitalized the North American market after the 1983 industry crash. Its iconic 'toaster' design and legendary library, including Super Mario Bros., make it an essential centerpiece for any retro media collection.
What affects the value of Nintendo Entertainment System?
- Functional condition of the 72-pin connector and the ability to load games without screen flickering.
- Cosmetic preservation of the plastic casing, specifically looking for a lack of 'yellowing' caused by UV exposure.
- Presence of original peripherals such as the rectangular NES controllers or the Zapper light gun.
- The inclusion of the original 1985 retail packaging and instruction manuals significantly increases collector demand.
How to Identify Nintendo Entertainment System?
- Verify the 'Nintendo Entertainment System' branding on the front-loading cartridge door.
- Check for the original red power and reset buttons which should have a distinct tactile click.
- Ensure the presence of the 72-pin connector inside the cartridge slot, characteristic of the North American model.
- Look for the official Nintendo Seal of Quality and model number NES-001 on the underside sticker.
History of Nintendo Entertainment System
The Nintendo Entertainment System, often abbreviated as NES, revolutionized the home video game industry after its North American release in 1985. It brought video games back into mainstream popularity following the video game crash of 1983. With iconic titles like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda, the NES established Nintendo as a dominant force in gaming and introduced many innovations that became industry standards.
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