Steady growth in a fertile market
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), officially launched on 21 November 1990, will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2020, further cementing its iconic status in the video game world. The console, which was an evolution of the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), had a lasting impact not only on the video game industry, but also on the popular culture of the time. With its advanced graphics quality, selection of legendary games and technical innovations, the SNES created a fan base that continues to grow decades after its release.
Collaborations and early development In late 1988, Nintendo began a collaboration with Sony to develop a CD player for the Super Nintendo that would allow the console to read CD-ROMs instead of cassettes. This project, known as the Nintendo Play Station, could have radically changed the future of the console and the video game industry. However, due to business disagreements between the two companies, the project was cancelled and Sony decided to develop its own console on its own, giving birth to the PlayStation. Although this decision led to the separation of Nintendo and Sony, it also triggered the development of two of the most influential consoles in video game history.
Launch and commercial success
The Super Famicom, as the SNES was known in Japan, was launched on 21 November 1990 at a price of 25,000 yen. The console was an instant success, with the initial 300,000 units quickly sold out. The launch package included the legendary Super Mario World, which went on to become one of the most successful games of all time. Its ability to appeal to a wide range of gamers and its colourful and detailed graphics for the time contributed to the console’s instant success.
In 1991, the SNES made its way to the United States, followed by Europe in 1992. Despite lagging behind the Sega Mega Drive, which had already been on the market for a few years, the SNES quickly gained market share thanks to a well thought-out marketing strategy and a series of exclusive titles that were considered superior to those offered by the competition. Exclusive console games such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Super Metroid helped to cement the SNES’ success in the hearts of millions of gamers.
Evolution and updated versions
In 1997, Nintendo introduced an updated version of the console with cosmetic changes and optimised internal components. These changes made it possible to reduce production costs while maintaining the quality of the console’s performance. This upgrade helped extend the commercial life of the SNES, allowing Nintendo to maintain the competitiveness of its platform.
In 1998, the Super Famicom Jr, another compact version of the console, was released in Japan. Despite cosmetic changes and design differences, the console maintained full compatibility with SNES games, ensuring that owners of older units could continue to play their favourite titles. This adaptation to the demand for a smaller, cheaper format demonstrated Nintendo’s intention to respond to consumer needs while continuing to exploit the strength of its platform.
What’s left of the Super Nintendo (SNES)
The SNES was discontinued in Europe and North America in 1999, but remained available in Japan until 2003. Despite its demise, the console lived on in the hearts of its fans for the games that defined an era and are still considered some of the best ever made.
Today, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System is remembered as one of the most influential and iconic consoles of all time. Games such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Chrono Trigger and Super Metroid are not only milestones in video games, but continue to inspire modern games.
To relive the SNES experience, Nintendo has made a growing catalogue of classic SNES and NES games available through the Nintendo Switch Online Service, allowing fans new and old to enjoy the games that defined an era. The console’s legacy also lives on through a community of fans who celebrate its achievements every year and keep the memory of its most beloved titles alive.
In conclusion, the Super Nintendo is not just a piece of history, but a true cultural icon that has left an indelible mark on the gaming world. Its ability to innovate, combined with an extraordinary library of games, ensured that the SNES was not only a successful console, but a symbol of quality and innovation that we still celebrate today.
