Introduction
Are you a fan of classic video games and the nostalgia that comes with them? Retro gaming consoles are a blast from the past and are loved by gamers old and new. In this article, we’ll be counting down the top 10 gaming consoles of the 80s, the decade that paved the way for modern gaming.
10. ColecoVision (1982)
The ColecoVision was released in 1982 and became one of the most popular consoles of the 80s. It could handle more complex games than many of its rivals, and its game library included many arcade ports such as Donkey Kong, Zaxxon, and Ms. Pac-Man.
9. Atari 7800 (1986)
The Atari 7800 was released in 1986 and was backwards compatible with the Atari 2600. It was notable for its graphics, which were considered to be very good for the time, and for having a number of quality games, such as Xevious, Galaga, and Food Fight.
8. Sega Master System (1986)
The Sega Master System was released in 1986 and was Sega’s first major rival to the NES. It was also one of the first consoles to offer a light gun, which was used in a number of popular games, including Operation Wolf and Rambo.
7. ZX Spectrum (1982)
The ZX Spectrum was a hit in the UK and was known for its versatile programming language and vast library of games. It was also one of the first home computers to support sound and graphics.
6. Intellivision (1980)
The Intellivision was one of the first consoles to offer a true gaming experience at home. It featured advanced graphics and sound for the time, along with a library of games that included classic titles like Astrosmash and B-17 Bomber.
5. Commodore 64 (1982)
The Commodore 64 was released in 1982 and quickly became one of the most popular computers of the era. Its gaming capabilities were exceptional for its time and even today, it’s celebrated as one of the best 8-bit machines ever made. Its game library included classics like The Bard’s Tale and the Ultima series.
4. Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (1985)
The Nintendo Entertainment System, commonly known as the NES, was released in 1985 and was a complete game-changer. It popularized the use of the D-pad and transformed the way we play video games. Not only that, but it had a stellar library of games, which included all-time classics like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid.
3. Sega Genesis (1988)
The Sega Genesis was released in 1988 and is known for its iconic advertising campaign, which featured the tagline, “Genesis does what Nintendon’t”. The console had advanced graphics and sound for the time, along with a library of games that included Sonic the Hedgehog and Phantasy Star.
2. Atari 2600 (1977)
The Atari 2600 was released in 1977 and is remembered as the console that kick-started the entire video game industry. It had a vast library of games, including the hugely popular Space Invaders, and is still celebrated for its influence on gaming culture to this day.
1. Commodore Amiga (1985)
The Commodore Amiga was a groundbreaking computer that was released in 1985. While it wasn’t just a console and could be used for other purposes, it had advanced graphics and sound for the time. It was powered by a 16-bit processor that outperformed many of its rivals, and its gaming library included classics like Great Giana Sisters and Battle Squadron.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the top 10 gaming consoles of the 80s. These retro gems still hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer to the scene, these consoles are sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgia.
