Nintendo Switch vs Intellivision

The Intellivision, released in 1979, was a pioneering console known for its innovative controllers and library of classic games. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, offers modern graphics, portability, and a wide range of popular titles.

General information

Nintendo Switch
Intellivision
Introduction :
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console released in 2017, offering both handheld and traditional home console gaming experiences. It quickly gained popularity for its innovative design and exclusive first-party titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey. The Switch has become a classic among gamers and collectors, appealing to a wide audience with its versatile gameplay options and nostalgic Nintendo charm.
Introduction :
The Intellivision was released in 1979 by Mattel Electronics and quickly became a popular choice among gamers in the early 1980s. Known for its innovative controllers featuring a numeric keypad and side buttons, the Intellivision offered a wide variety of games including sports, action, and strategy titles. While not as well-known as some other consoles from the era, the Intellivision has gained a cult following and is considered a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Versatile: Can be used as a handheld or home console.
  • Innovative: Features detachable Joy-Con controllers for unique gameplay.
  • Extensive game library: Offers a wide range of popular titles.
  • Portable: Easy to take on-the-go for gaming anywhere.
  • Multiplayer capabilities: Supports local and online multiplayer gaming.
Advantages :
  • Intellivision was one of the first home gaming consoles.
  • It had a unique controller with a numeric keypad.
  • Intellivision offered a variety of game genres to enjoy.
  • The console had impressive graphics and sound capabilities for its time.
  • Intellivision had a strong library of exclusive games.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited processing power compared to newer consoles
  • Lack of multimedia features like streaming apps
  • Joy-Con drift issues affecting gameplay
  • Limited internal storage space for game downloads
  • Online subscription required for multiplayer gaming
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to modern consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited storage capacity for game downloads.
  • Difficulty finding replacement parts or accessories.
Year launched : 2017
The Nintendo Switch was launched in 2017, offering a unique hybrid gaming experience that allows players to enjoy console gaming both at home and on the go with its portable design.
Year launched : 1979
The Intellivision was launched in 1979, offering gamers a new and advanced gaming experience compared to previous consoles. It featured innovative controllers and a variety of games for players to enjoy.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
Nintendo, a renowned gaming company, is the manufacturer of the popular Nintendo Switch console. Known for its innovation and iconic game franchises, Nintendo continues to be a leading force in the gaming industry.
Manufacturer : Mattel Electronics
The Intellivision Games Console was manufactured by Mattel Electronics, known for its innovative gaming technology and popular game titles during the early days of video gaming.
๐ŸŸข Popularity : High.
The Nintendo Switch has been a popular choice for gamers, with strong sales numbers and a dedicated fan base. Its unique hybrid design and strong lineup of exclusive games have contributed to its high popularity.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Intellivision had moderate success during its time, selling around 3 million units. It had a decent market share but was overshadowed by competitors like Atari. Its popularity today is mainly among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Form factor : .
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console, designed to be used both as a portable handheld device and as a home console when docked to a TV. It offers the flexibility of gaming on the go or at home.
Form factor : Home console.
The Intellivision console is designed as a home gaming unit, meant to be connected to a TV for playing games on a larger screen in the comfort of one's living room.


Market and availability

Nintendo Switch
Intellivision
Console markets :
The Nintendo Switch is available worldwide, including major markets such as North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It has a strong presence in both developed and emerging gaming markets.
Console markets :
โšช Collectible : Unknown.
The Nintendo Switch is not yet considered retro, but its unique hybrid design and popular game library could make it a sought-after collectible in the future. Keep an eye on the market trends.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Intellivision is now considered retro and collectible, with a growing market for vintage gaming consoles. Nostalgia for classic games and the limited availability of Intellivision systems contribute to its collectibility.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo Switch is readily available in both new and secondhand markets. While some limited edition versions may be harder to find, the standard model is generally easy to purchase.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
Intellivision consoles can be found in the secondhand market fairly easily, but new units are rare. Collectors may have better luck finding complete, working systems with games and accessories.
๐ŸŸก Console cost : Average.
The Nintendo Switch is currently priced at a moderate level, with availability in both new and second-hand markets. Its cost is reasonable for the features and gaming experience it offers.
๐ŸŸก Console cost : Average.
The Intellivision console is considered to have an average cost in the current market. While it may not be as expensive as some rare vintage consoles, it is also not as affordable as more common options.
๐ŸŸข Game availability : Good.
Games for the Nintendo Switch are widely available both physically and digitally. The console has a large library of popular titles and indie games, with new releases regularly added to the lineup.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Intellivision can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to find or more expensive due to the console's age and collectible status.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Nintendo Switch is considered average. While some new releases can be expensive, there are also many affordable options available, especially in the second-hand market.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Intellivision console is considered average. While some games may be more affordable due to their age, others may be harder to find and therefore more expensive.


Technology

Nintendo Switch
Intellivision
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Nintendo Switch uses a 64-bit architecture, allowing for advanced graphics and processing capabilities. This architecture enables the console to deliver high-quality gaming experiences to players.
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Intellivision uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for consoles in the early 1980s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to modern consoles.
CPU : NVIDIA Custom Tegra X1
The Nintendo Switch uses a custom version of the NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor, providing a balance of performance and power efficiency for gaming on the go. It features a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 CPU and a Maxwell-based GPU.
CPU : General Instrument CP1610
The Intellivision uses the General Instrument CP1610 CPU, which is an 8-bit microprocessor known for its performance in handling graphics and sound in early gaming consoles.
Memory : 32GB
The Nintendo Switch comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using microSD cards for additional game downloads and data storage.
Memory : 2 Kb
The Intellivision Games Console has 2 Kb of memory, which was considered impressive for its time in the late 1970s. This limited memory capacity influenced game design and graphics capabilities.
Video output : HDMI
The Nintendo Switch has an HDMI output connection, which is the standard for connecting to modern TVs and monitors for high-definition video and audio output.
Video output : RF and composite
Intellivision has RF and composite video output connections, which may require adapters to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI inputs.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch features a dedicated NVIDIA GPU, providing enhanced graphics performance for a more immersive gaming experience compared to consoles without a dedicated GPU.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Intellivision console does not have a dedicated GPU as modern consoles do, but it does have specialized graphics hardware designed to handle the specific demands of its games.
๐ŸŸข Internet connected : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch is internet connected, supporting both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for online gaming, downloading games, and accessing the eShop for digital purchases and updates.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Intellivision console is not internet connected. Released in 1979, it predates modern internet capabilities, lacking Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity for online gaming or browsing.
Game media format : Cartridge.
Nintendo Switch primarily uses game cartridges as the main game format. These cartridges are inserted into the console to play games, offering a physical option for game storage and play.
Game media format : Cartridge.
Intellivision primarily uses cartridges as the game format. These cartridges are inserted into the console to play different games, providing a physical and tangible gaming experience for users.


Gaming

Nintendo Switch
Intellivision
Controllers : Up to 8 controllers
The Nintendo Switch supports up to 8 controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for a variety of multiplayer options for games that support multiple players on a single console.
Controllers : Up to 4 controllers/players
The Intellivision console supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 players using wired controllers. This allows for a fun and competitive gaming experience for friends and family.
๐ŸŸข Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch allows players to enjoy multiplayer gaming online, connecting with friends and other players worldwide for competitive and cooperative gameplay experiences.
๐ŸŸข Online multiplayer : Yes.
Intellivision allows multiplayer online play through its Intellivision Network. However, the availability of online multiplayer games may be limited compared to newer consoles.
๐ŸŸข Number of titles : Good.
Nintendo Switch game titles have been consistently released with a good variety and frequency, catering to a wide range of gaming preferences. The console's popularity ensures a strong market for both new and used games.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Intellivision game titles have been released in good numbers, but due to the console's age, finding specific titles can be challenging. However, the secondhand market offers a variety of options for collectors.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch has exclusive games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, making it a must-have console for fans of these iconic franchises.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
Intellivision has exclusive and iconic games such as 'Astrosmash', 'Night Stalker', and 'Utopia'. These titles are unique to the Intellivision console and are highly regarded by retro gaming enthusiasts.


When deciding between the Intellivision and Nintendo Switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and gaming needs. Retro enthusiasts may appreciate the nostalgia of the Intellivision, while modern gamers may prefer the versatility and advanced features of the Nintendo Switch. Both consoles have their own unique appeal, so choose based on your gaming style and preferences.