How much was a Nintendo 64 when it first came out?

When the Nintendo 64 (N64) was released in 1996, it marked a monumental leap forward in gaming technology. As Nintendo’s first console to feature 3D graphics, it brought a new dimension to video games, quite literally. Titles like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007 became iconic, shaping the future of gaming. But one of the big questions for gaming enthusiasts at the time was, “How much did it cost?”

The Launch Price of the Nintendo 64 in 1996

The Nintendo 64 was released in North America on September 29, 1996, with a retail price of $199.95. This price included the N64 console, one controller, and the AC adapter. It was quite competitive compared to other consoles of the time, especially considering the technological advances the N64 introduced.

At launch, the Nintendo 64 was one of the first major gaming consoles to offer 3D rendering. This was a huge deal for the gaming industry at the time, as it offered a fully immersive experience that was previously not possible on home consoles.

The Value of $199.95 in 1996

To put the cost of the Nintendo 64 into perspective, let’s consider inflation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, $199.95 in 1996 is equivalent to about $350 - $380 today (depending on the exact year and inflation rates).

So, in modern terms, the price of the N64 was not cheap, but it was a great value considering the groundbreaking 3D graphics, iconic games, and the quality of the hardware. The N64’s cartridge-based system was also a factor that added to its cost, as cartridges were typically more expensive to manufacture than CDs.

The Nintendo 64's Competitors

At the time of the Nintendo 64’s release, the gaming market was fiercely competitive. The Sony PlayStation had already established a strong presence with its $299 price tag, offering a mix of CD-based games with a wide variety of third-party titles. Meanwhile, Sega’s Saturn had launched earlier in 1995 for a price of $399, a hefty amount that struggled to capture the same attention as Sony and Nintendo.

Nintendo’s choice to launch the N64 at $199.95 was a strategic move to undercut the competition, offering an appealing price while delivering the cutting-edge 3D graphics that gamers had been waiting for.

What Was Included in the Box?

The $199.95 price for the Nintendo 64 didn’t include any bundled games, unlike many modern consoles that come with pre-installed titles. Instead, the console came with:

• The Nintendo 64 console itself
• One controller
• AC adapter and AV cables for connection to the TV

The Nintendo 64 controller was revolutionary, with its unique trident-like design, featuring an analog stick for the first time on a console. This allowed for more precise control in 3D environments, which was a game-changer for titles like Super Mario 64 and Pilotwings 64.

The N64's Impact on Gaming

Even at the $199.95 price point, the Nintendo 64 was considered a great value, especially when you factor in the revolutionary nature of the console. It provided gamers with an experience that was hard to beat at the time. With Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007, the N64 established itself as home to some of the most influential and memorable games ever made.

While the console wasn’t immediately as successful as its competitors (the PlayStation, in particular, eventually outsold it), it still left a lasting legacy. The N64 introduced 3D gameplay that would shape the design of games for years to come, and it holds a special place in the hearts of gamers who grew up with it.

Modern-Day Value of the Nintendo 64

Today, the Nintendo 64 is considered a vintage console and can be difficult to find in good condition. If you do find one, the price can vary. A used N64 console can sell for anywhere between $40 to $150, depending on its condition and whether it includes any games or accessories.

Some of the most collectible versions of the N64, such as the limited edition Pokémon-themed console, can go for even higher prices. Similarly, rare games from the N64 era, like Super Mario 64 or The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, can fetch hundreds of dollars when they are in good condition and come with original packaging.

For collectors and nostalgic gamers, the Nintendo 64 continues to hold value as a piece of gaming history.

Conclusion

When the Nintendo 64 launched in 1996 for $199.95, it represented a huge leap in gaming technology. For the price, gamers got a console that brought them into the world of 3D gaming, with titles that would become icons. Considering inflation, the N64’s launch price would be equivalent to roughly $350 - $380 today, which still feels like a reasonable investment for the revolutionary gaming experience it provided.

While the N64 may no longer be the powerhouse it once was, its legacy continues to resonate in the world of gaming, with fans cherishing the console and its iconic games. If you’re lucky enough to still have an N64 lying around, you’ve got a piece of gaming history in your hands!

What are your thoughts on the Nintendo 64? Was it worth the price in 1996? Let us know in the comments!