Launched by Nintendo in Japan in 1983 as the Famicom, the Nintendo Entertainment System arrived in North America in 1985 and in Europe between 1986 and 1987, with a more gradual and fragmented distribution. After the crash of the U.S. video game market, Nintendo presented it as a reliable and tightly controlled home system, capable of bringing order back to the console industry. Its main rivals were the Sega Master System, Atari 7800 and, in Europe, also 8-bit home computers such as the Commodore 64, ZX Spectrum and Amstrad CPC.

The NES used a Ricoh 2A03 CPU derived from the MOS 6502, with 2 KB of main RAM and cartridge-based software. Its typical resolution was 256×240 pixels, with a 54-colour palette and fairly strict limits on simultaneous colours, often overcome through the creative use of mappers built into the cartridges. Integrated audio offered five channels, while some Japanese releases could take advantage of additional sound chips.

Worldwide sales are generally reported at around 61-62 million units. The NES consolidated Nintendo’s modern home-console model, built around mascots, catalogue control and recognisable series. Its legacy lives through Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Castlevania, Mega Man 2, Contra, Duck Hunt and Final Fantasy.