Nintendo Console Rankings Revealed

With the exciting announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, fans are buzzing about what Nintendo has in store with its latest console. Boasting over four decades of video game hardware innovation, Nintendo seems to be playing it safe with the Switch 2, at least based on initial impressions. If you're eagerly awaiting the arrival of this new console, we've analyzed every detail from the Switch 2 trailer. But before we dive into the future, let's take a nostalgic journey through Nintendo's storied history.

Over the past five decades, Nintendo has released eight home consoles (NES, Super NES, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, Wii U, and the Switch) and five handhelds (Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, DS, and 3DS). But which one reigns supreme? I've ranked them using an IGN Tier List, considering both the hardware's innovation and the impact and quality of its game library. Here's my personal tier list:

Simon Cardy's Nintendo Console Tier List

The NES holds a special place in my heart as my first console, evoking fond memories of playing classics like Super Mario Bros., Mega Man 2, and the challenging Hook platformer at the tender age of five. It's no surprise it lands in the S tier. Meanwhile, the Switch's ingenious hybrid design (despite the issue of stick drift) and its stellar game lineup, including masterpieces like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey, firmly places it alongside the NES at the top.

Disagree with my rankings? Believe the Virtual Boy outshines the N64? You can create your own tier list and see how your S, A, B, C, and D tiers stack up against the IGN community's opinions.

Nintendo Consoles

Although we've only seen a brief two-minute glimpse of the Nintendo Switch 2 so far, where do you think it will ultimately rank among Nintendo's legendary consoles? Share your thoughts in the comments and explain your rankings.