Trying to rank the best video game consoles is honestly a pretty subjective task. Even the worst consoles can offer something appealing.
Still, the best consoles have an impressive lineup of stellar video games. Some of these are revolutionary titles that changed the game, and others are just really, really good games that refine the wheel rather than reinvent it.
Today, we will attempt one of the most difficult tasks in gaming: ranking the best consoles.
We’re focusing on home consoles here, so don’t expect to see any handhelds.
Nintendo GameCube
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
The GameCube may be the most underrated console of all time.
It was mocked for its appearance, and its launch window was missing a mainstream game like Super Mario. That’s not to slight the strength of Super Smash Bros. Melee and Rogue Leader; they didn’t have crossover appeal.
Given time, though, the GameCube found itself with a well-rounded library and an impressive amount of horsepower, too.
Sega Dreamcast
- Image Credit: Asim Saleem – Own work, CC BY 3.0/Wiki Commons.
Speaking of underrated consoles, may we present the Sega Dreamcast?
To call the Dreamcast ahead of its time is an understatement. It helped birth a lot of modern, innovative features we take for granted today, like online multiplayer.
While the Dreamcast was outclassed by the PlayStation 2, it still has a soft spot in our hearts.
PlayStation 4
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
Sony needed to rebound from a poor PlayStation 3 launch. They did just that with the PS4, taking advantage of the missteps of the Xbox One and Wii U.
While Microsoft focused on media and Nintendo was content to do its own thing, Sony delivered an excellent, user-friendly console that focused on providing great video games.
Nintendo Switch
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
Speaking of the Wii U, Nintendo needed to rebound after its complete failure. They did just that on the back of one of the best Zelda games ever made.
The Nintendo Switch combines the best of a home console and a handheld device. Best of all, the game lineup is incredibly impressive, even if Nintendo does most of the heavy lifting. Thankfully, there’s an impressive amount of indie game support, too.
Atari 2600/5200
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain – Wiki Commons.
Okay, hear me out.
The Atari consoles are absolutely outclassed today, but they were revolutionary at the time of its release.
Being able to play games like Centipede, Pong, Asteroids, and more at home helped change the industry, even if it did see a crash in 1983.
NES
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
Following that infamous video game crash, the NES, off the back of Super Mario Bros., saved the day.
Countless Nintendo franchises started on the NES, but its third-party support is just as impressive. Again, these games may be outclassed today, but they still hold up remarkably well.
PlayStation 1
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
What began as a CD add-on for Nintendo to compete with the Sega CD would become one of the best game consoles of all time.
The PS1 dominated from day one, and it brought an incredible game lineup with it. The Final Fantasy franchise saw major steps forward, Crash Bandicoot and Spyro proved worthy of competing as 3D platformers, and Resident Evil got its start here.
Nintendo 64
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
This might be a homer pick, but it’s my list and I love the Nintendo 64.
As great as the PS1 was for 3D platformers, they’re outclassed by Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie. Plus, who could forget some of the best console FPS games like GoldenEye 007 and Perfect Dark.
Xbox 360
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
After a successful debut console, the Xbox 360 ushered in the modern era of gaming with HD visuals, an improved online infrastructure, and downloadable game content.
Oh, and who can forget the games? Gears of War, Halo 3, Elder Scrolls Oblivion, and the peak of Call of Duty.
You just had to be there.
PlayStation 2
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
The best-selling console of all time, the PS2 dominated the gaming landscape in the 2000s.
The PlayStation 2’s best strengths are its longevity and versatility. There was a game for anyone and everyone, no matter what your tastes were, and its staying power is impressive still to this day.
Super Nintendo
- Image Credit: Evan-Amos – Own work, Public Domain/Wiki Commons.
If the NES saved video games, the Super Nintendo reinforced that they’re here to stay.
When making a list of the best games ever made, you need to start with several Super Nintendo classics: Super Mario World, Final Fantasy VI, A Link to the Past, Super Metroid, and countless more.
Then, of course, come the cult classics: Chrono Trigger, Earthbound, and Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts, just to name a few.
The Super Nintendo is more than iconic; it’s easily the best game console of all time.
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