1985 Nintendo NES-001 Control Deck

The Nintendo NES-001 Control Deck was a home video game console that was manufactured by the well-known company Nintendo and subsequently released to the public in the year 1985.

Background

The Nintendo Entertainment System came into existence as a result of Nintendo’s successful history in the arcade game industry during the early 1980s. Initially developed in Japan and known as the Family Computer, or Famicom, the system was meticulously designed by the engineer Masayuki Uemura with the intention of entering the burgeoning home gaming market. Nintendo’s first version of the console faced numerous technical challenges, with the early models being prone to various programming errors and system freezes, which in turn led to a product recall and an extensive redesign of the motherboard.

The console represented a strategic maneuver by Nintendo to penetrate the North American gaming market following significant commercial success in Japan. Initial negotiations with Atari to distribute the system ultimately fell through, prompting Nintendo to take the initiative to independently launch the NES in the United States. The company astutely tested the market in major urban areas such as New York City and Los Angeles prior to a nationwide release that took place in 1985.

Features

The NES-001 Control Deck included several key technical specifications that effectively distinguished it from earlier gaming systems. The console utilized a Ricoh 8-bit processor, which was based on the MOS Technology 6502 core, and this provided a robust level of performance that was quite impressive for its time. Its front-loading cartridge slot, which was a distinctive design feature, allowed users to easily insert game cartridges, which were referred to as “Game Paks” by the company Nintendo.

Key hardware features included:
– 8-bit processor
– Two controller ports
– An expansion port located on the bottom of the unit
– A gray, black, and red color scheme that was visually striking
– An RF switch along with an AV cable for seamless television connectivity

The system came bundled with not only two controllers but typically also included the Super Mario Bros. game cartridge, which would go on to become one of the most recognizable and iconic games in the history of video gaming.

Popularity and Legacy

The Nintendo Entertainment System played a pivotal and influential role in revitalizing the video game industry after the significant and troubling market crash that occurred in 1983. Nintendo’s strategic approach of fostering relationships with third-party developers while simultaneously maintaining strict quality control standards significantly helped to establish new industry practices that were beneficial. The system sold approximately 60 million units worldwide, achieving substantial market penetration in regions such as Asia and North America.

Games like Super Mario Bros. became cultural touchstones, establishing beloved franchises that would continue to thrive for decades. The NES introduced many players to popular genres such as platform games and role-playing games, fundamentally changing the landscape of interactive entertainment.

Video Reviews and Commercials

A YouTuber unboxes an original silver Nintendo console, carefully unwrapping it with excitement. He received the package quickly and is impressed by its careful packaging. The console comes with eight games, a controller, and a light zapper. He plans to test if it works on his current TV.

Availability and Collectability

The NES-001 Control Deck initially retailed for a price of US$199.99, which was regarded as a significant financial investment for families during the mid-1980s. The system was made widely available through various electronics and toy stores located across North America, with subsequent releases occurring in Europe and Australia in the following years.

In the present day, the NES has become a highly sought-after collectible among vintage gaming enthusiasts. Original systems that are in good condition, particularly those with minimal signs of wear and complete accessories, can command significant prices in the collector’s market. Rare game cartridges and limited edition sets are especially prized by collectors who hold a deep appreciation for the system’s historical significance.

Collectors often seek systems that come with:
– The original packaging that preserves its value
– Pristine controllers that are in excellent condition
– Complete sets of game cartridges that are intact
– Minimal signs of wear that indicate careful usage
– Functional hardware that operates as intended

The Nintendo Entertainment System continues to remain an important milestone in the annals of video game history, representing a significant turning point in the evolution of home entertainment technology.