Nintendo continues to maintain its distinctive identity in the gaming world, announcing the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 for 2025 amidst the current console generation. Renowned for catering to families, Nintendo’s console pricing typically undercuts competitors like PlayStation and Xbox, making them more accessible. A dive into Nintendo’s extensive history reveals intriguing insights, particularly when adjusting console prices for inflation.
Founded early in the gaming industry lifecycle, Nintendo has evolved tremendously since launching its first home console, establishing itself as a dominant force in gaming.
1 The Nintendo Entertainment System Launched in 1985 at $199
Adjusted for Inflation, it Would Now Cost $587.51
Nintendo’s journey in home gaming began with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985, launching at a price of $199. While it seemed affordable at the time, adjusting for inflation reveals a current equivalent of $587.51 in 2025, surpassing the launch prices of today’s PS5 models ($399 for the digital version and $499 for the standard version). This price adjustment firmly positions the NES as Nintendo’s most costly home console once inflation is considered.
The NES made its debut in Japan two years prior, priced at ¥14,800 in 1983. It marked a pivotal point in gaming history, introducing iconic titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. These foundational games not only established key franchises but also justified the NES’s inflated price in today’s market, highlighting the nostalgia and significant impact it left on the gaming landscape.
2 Release of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1991 at $199
It Would Cost $464.14 After Inflation Adjustment
Following the NES, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) launched in 1991, also priced at $199. Despite being released six years later, inflation means the SNES’s price equates to only $464.14 today, which is over $100 cheaper than the NES. This pricing strategy allowed it to compete better against the Xbox Series X, which launched at $499 in 2020, while still maintaining its status as a premium console.
The SNES was synonymous with groundbreaking sequels that took advantage of its enhanced capabilities. Memorable titles such as Super Mario World, Super Mario Kart, and Super Metroid emerged, alongside original franchises like F-Zero and Star Fox, enriching Nintendo’s catalog and cementing its legacy in gaming.
3 Nintendo 64 Release at $199 in 1996
After Inflation, it Would Cost $402.91
In 1996, the Nintendo 64 debuted, also priced at $199—the same price point as its predecessors. When inflation is taken into account, its price translates to around $402.91 in 2025. Notably, Nintendo maintained this price structure for over a decade.
The N64 is celebrated for its classic titles, featuring Super Mario 64, Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007. These games not only advanced notable franchises but are still regarded as some of the finest in gaming history, contributing to Nintendo’s enduring reputation for quality gaming experiences.
4 Nintendo GameCube Launched at $199 in 2001
Its Adjusted Cost is $356.95
Meeting the new millennium, the Nintendo GameCube entered the market in 2001 at the same $199 price point. Adjusted for inflation, this price amounts to $356.95 today, making it the least expensive of Nintendo’s consoles when viewed through an inflation lens. However, it undeniably left its mark with a memorable library.
Key titles such as Super Smash Bros. Melee, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Super Mario Sunshine highlight its diverse offerings. While it faced the challenge of following the beloved N64, the GameCube effectively captivated audiences and remains a nostalgic favorite.
5 Nintendo Wii Launched at $249 in 2006
Its Adjusted Cost is $392.36
The Nintendo Wii, which debuted in 2006, added motion controls, drastically changing the gaming experience and broadening its appeal. Priced at $249, it translates to about $392.36 in today’s dollars, proving to be less expensive than the PS3 and Xbox 360 upon release. Its engaging family-friendly titles and innovative design made it a ubiquitous presence in homes worldwide.
Wii Sports became iconic, introducing a wider audience to gaming. Coupled with titles like Super Mario Galaxy and Zelda: Skyward Sword, it enhanced the appeal of Nintendo’s long-standing franchises, making gaming a more communal experience.
6 The Wii U Launched in 2012 at $299 (Standard) and $349 (Deluxe)
Future Costs Will be $413.70 (Standard) and $482.88 (Deluxe)
The Wii U, released in 2012, carried a price tag of $299 for the standard model and $349 for the deluxe version. Adjusted for inflation, these figures represent approximately $413.70 and $482.88, respectively. Despite the relatively modest pricing, the Wii U did not resonate well with audiences, partially due to its unclear branding and marketing issues.
Despite its shortcomings, the Wii U offered notable titles, including Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and Splatoon, some of which were repurposed for the Switch, expanding their lifespan within Nintendo’s ecosystem.
7 The Nintendo Switch Launched in 2017 at $299
Adjusted for Inflation, it Would Cost $387.50 Today
Revolutionizing gaming, the Nintendo Switch was launched in 2017 for $299, a price that remains competitive today, adjusting to about $387.50. Its hybrid design successfully attracted both casual and dedicated gamers, resulting in sales that reached impressive heights, with reports indicating over 150.86 million units sold by December 31, 2024.
8 The Nintendo Switch 2 is Set to Launch at $449.99
Even After Inflation, It Will Not Be Nintendo’s Most Expensive Console
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The forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled for launch on June 5, 2025, will retail at $449.99. While this represents a significant increase from the original Switch, it is positioned competitively with other next-gen consoles. Even after accounting for inflation, the Switch 2 is still less expensive than the original NES and the SNES.
Featuring advanced technical specifications, the Switch 2 will promise gameplay at 120FPS with high-profile titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy making their way to the platform. Moreover, Nintendo’s commitment to introducing exclusive franchises ensures the Switch 2 will have a compelling library of games from launch day onward.