What Is the Best Console of All Time? And Which Was the First Video Game Played in Space?

The world of video gaming has come a long way since its inception, and throughout its history, consoles have played a major role in shaping the gaming industry. From the early days of arcade games to the modern-day immersive experiences, video game consoles have evolved to bring us the cutting-edge technology we enjoy today. With so many consoles to choose from, one might ask: what is the best console of all time? But the story of video games isn’t just limited to the living room. In fact, the first video game to be played in space holds a unique place in gaming history, showing just how far the influence of video games has spread.

In this blog, we’ll explore both of these fascinating questions: what makes a console the best of all time, and how video games reached new heights—literally—with the first game played in space.

The Best Console of All Time: What Makes a Console Truly Great?

The question of the best console of all time isn’t easy to answer. There are many factors to consider: hardware, game library, innovation, cultural impact, and how it shaped the gaming industry as a whole. Let’s dive into some of the most iconic consoles and their impact on gaming.

1. The Original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)

Released in 1985, the NES is widely regarded as one of the most important consoles in history. It wasn’t just a console; it was a lifeline for the video game industry, which had suffered a massive crash in the early 1980s. The NES brought gaming back into the mainstream with its strong library of iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. Its success led to the creation of Nintendo, a company that remains one of the giants in the gaming world.

2. The Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2)

When it comes to sheer sales, the PS2 takes the crown. Released in 2000, it went on to sell over 155 million units, making it the best-selling console of all time. The PS2 not only had a massive library of games, but it was also a DVD player, making it an affordable entertainment device. Its exclusives, like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Final Fantasy X, and Metal Gear Solid 2, helped cement its place as a gaming juggernaut. The PS2’s success helped define a generation of gamers and set the stage for future Sony consoles.

3. The Microsoft Xbox 360

Released in 2005, the Xbox 360 revolutionized online gaming with Xbox Live. The console’s high-definition graphics, extensive game library, and online multiplayer options made it a favorite for gamers, especially with titles like Halo 3, Gears of War, and Forza Motorsport. The Xbox 360 set the standard for digital gaming and led to the rise of Xbox Game Pass—Microsoft’s subscription service that now offers hundreds of games for a low monthly fee.

4. The Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, is a hybrid console that combines handheld and home console gaming. Its portability and innovative design have made it a favorite for gamers on the go. The Switch's game library includes fan-favorite franchises like Super Mario Odyssey, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. What makes the Switch unique is that it appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers, with a massive catalog of exclusive games that can be enjoyed in any setting.

5. The PlayStation 4 (PS4)

Released in 2013, the PS4 redefined gaming with its exclusive titles like The Last of Us Part II, Spider-Man, and God of War. The PS4 made it easier to play games on the internet with services like PlayStation Plus, which offered free monthly games and access to multiplayer features. With more than 117 million units sold, the PS4 was not only a powerhouse in terms of performance but also a cultural phenomenon that connected gamers globally.

The First Video Game Played in Space: A Milestone in Gaming History

Video games have had a profound influence on culture, but did you know that they also made their way into space? In 1993, the first video game was played in space by astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour during the STS-47 mission.

The Game: Tetris

The game chosen for this historic event was none other than the iconic Tetris. Tetris, developed by Russian software engineer Alexey Pajitnov in 1984, became a worldwide sensation. Its simple but addictive puzzle gameplay made it the perfect choice for astronauts to pass the time during long, isolated missions in space. Astronauts Catherine Coleman and Koichi Wakata played Tetris on a Game Boy during their mission, making this the first video game ever to be played in space.

Why Tetris?

Tetris was not only a popular game on Earth, but its accessibility, portability, and low system requirements made it the ideal choice for space missions. The Game Boy, the portable handheld console on which they played, had a lightweight design and long battery life, making it an excellent choice for use in zero gravity. The simplicity of Tetris, with its block-stacking mechanics, also made it easy for astronauts to play during their limited downtime in space, providing a welcome break from their demanding tasks.

The Intersection of Gaming and Space Exploration

The story of Tetris in space is just one example of how video games have reached incredible heights, literally and figuratively. Since that milestone, video games have continued to be part of space missions, serving not only as entertainment but also as tools for relaxation and mental well-being. In fact, NASA has acknowledged that video games can help astronauts combat stress, alleviate the monotony of long missions, and improve cognitive skills like problem-solving.

With technology advancing, who knows? Perhaps in the future, we’ll see VR games or immersive gaming experiences being part of space tourism or deep space exploration.

Conclusion: The Best Console and a Cosmic Milestone

So, what is the best console of all time? While PS2 may have sold the most units and Nintendo Switch offers innovative portability, the answer ultimately depends on personal preferences. For some, the NES will always hold a special place for resurrecting the gaming industry, while others may argue that Xbox and PlayStation lead in terms of exclusive games and online features. Each of these consoles has its own claim to greatness, and the gaming world is richer because of their contributions.

As for the first video game in space, Tetris will always hold that honor. It’s amazing to think that a simple puzzle game helped astronauts pass the time in space, showing just how universal and influential video games have become across the globe—and beyond it.

Gaming has changed the world in many ways, and its impact will only continue to grow. Whether you’re playing on a classic console or discovering new worlds in space, video games have solidified their place in history.