Nintendo 64 (N64)

Introduction :
The Nintendo 64 (N64) was released in 1996 and quickly became a beloved console for gamers around the world. Known for its innovative 3D graphics and iconic games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, the N64 has solidified its place as a classic in the gaming industry. With its unique controller featuring the iconic joystick, the N64 remains a popular choice for collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Iconic 90s console with nostalgic appeal for retro gaming enthusiasts. - Wide selection of classic games available for collectors and fans. - Innovative controller design with unique features for immersive gameplay. - Affordable option for budget-conscious gamers looking to experience retro titles. - Durable hardware that has stood the test of time for long-term use.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves
  • Limited selection of games compared to newer consoles
  • Outdated controller design and functionality
Year launched : 1996
The Nintendo 64 was launched in 1996, offering groundbreaking 3D graphics and iconic games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, revolutionizing gaming experiences for players.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
Nintendo, a renowned gaming company, manufactured the Nintendo 64 (N64) console, known for its iconic games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Nintendo 64 was popular during its release in the late 90s, selling over 32 million units worldwide. It had a significant market share but faced strong competition from Sony's PlayStation.
Form factor : Home console.
The Nintendo 64 (N64) is a home console designed to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not meant to be easily portable, as it requires a power source and controllers to play.


Market and availability

Console markets :
The Nintendo 64 was available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It was not officially released in regions such as South America and Africa.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Nintendo 64 is now considered retro and highly collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its iconic games and unique controller design have contributed to its lasting popularity in the gaming community.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo 64 is moderately available on the secondhand market, with a decent selection of consoles and games to choose from. However, finding brand new units may be more challenging.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The relative cost of the Nintendo 64 (N64) is average. While it is no longer in production, it is still popular among retro gamers, leading to a steady demand and stable pricing in the second-hand market.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Nintendo 64 can be found through online marketplaces, retro game stores, and secondhand shops. While some titles are more rare and expensive, there is a decent selection available for collectors and gamers.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
Games for the Nintendo 64 are relatively affordable on the second-hand market, with a good selection available at reasonable prices. However, some rare titles can be expensive to acquire.


Technology

Architecture : 64-bit.
The Nintendo 64 uses a 64-bit architecture, which was considered advanced for its time, allowing for improved graphics and gameplay compared to older consoles with lower bit architectures.
CPU : NEC VR4300
The Nintendo 64 (N64) uses the NEC VR4300 CPU, a 64-bit processor with a clock speed of 93.75 MHz. It is known for its performance and efficiency in handling N64 games.
Memory : 4 MB
The Nintendo 64 (N64) has 4 MB of memory, which was considered impressive for its time and allowed for more detailed graphics and larger game worlds compared to previous consoles.
Video output : Composite
The Nintendo 64 has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or other digital inputs.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Nintendo 64 has a dedicated GPU, the Reality Coprocessor, which was designed by Silicon Graphics specifically for the console. It provided impressive graphics capabilities for its time.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Nintendo 64 does not have internet connectivity capabilities, as it was released before online gaming became mainstream. It relies solely on physical game cartridges for gameplay.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Nintendo 64 is cartridge-based. Games are inserted into the console via cartridges, which contain the game data and are specific to the N64 system.


Gaming

Controllers : 4 controllers
The Nintendo 64 supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay on a single console, making it a great option for group gaming sessions.
🔴 Online multiplayer : No.
The Nintendo 64 does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, some games may have been modified by fans to enable online play through unofficial means.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Nintendo 64 were released in physical cartridges, which are still widely available in the secondhand market. Some titles have become collectible and can be more expensive to acquire.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo 64 has several exclusive, iconic, and notable games such as Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007, which are considered classics in the gaming world.