"Nintendo Consoles Ranked: A Comprehensive Tier List"

With the exciting reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has officially confirmed the launch of its latest console. Boasting over four decades of innovation in video game hardware, we're eager to discover what Nintendo has in store for us, even though initial impressions suggest a more conservative approach this time. For those eagerly anticipating this next-generation console, we've thoroughly analyzed the Switch 2 trailer details, which you can find here. But before we dive into the future, let's take a nostalgic journey through Nintendo's storied past.

Over the past five decades, Nintendo has introduced 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). The question arises: which of these iconic platforms reigns supreme? I've taken the liberty of ranking them using an IGN Tier List, considering both the innovative aspects of the hardware and the enduring quality and legacy of each console's game library. Here's a glimpse at my personal tier list:

Simon Cardy's Nintendo Console Tier ListThe NES, my very first console, holds a special place in my heart with unforgettable memories of playing classics like Super Mario Bros., Mega Man 2, and the notoriously challenging Hook. Its impact earns it a spot in the S tier. Similarly, the Switch's innovative hybrid design, despite issues like stick drift, has delivered some of Nintendo's finest titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey, securing its place alongside the NES at the top.

Disagree with my rankings? Perhaps you believe the Virtual Boy outperforms the N64? Feel free to create your own tier list and compare your S, A, B, C, and D rankings with the broader IGN community.

Nintendo Consoles

Although we've only glimpsed two minutes of footage so far, where do you anticipate the Nintendo Switch 2 will rank once it's fully unveiled? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know the reasoning behind your console rankings.