The fourth generation of video game consoles, often referred to as the 16-bit era, spanned from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s. This period saw significant advancements in graphics, sound, and gameplay complexity, further cementing video gaming as a popular form of entertainment.
Popular Consoles
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
Released in 1990 in Japan and 1991 in North America, the SNES brought enhanced graphics and sound, becoming home to legendary titles like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Donkey Kong Country.
Sega Genesis (Mega Drive)
Launched in 1988 in Japan and 1989 in North America, the Sega Genesis was known for its faster processing and arcade-quality games. Key titles included Sonic the Hedgehog, Streets of Rage, and Shining Force.
TurboGrafx-16
Released in 1987 in Japan and 1989 in North America, the TurboGrafx-16 featured a unique dual-CPU architecture. Popular games included Bonk’s Adventure and Ys Book I & II.
Types of Video Game Media
This generation continued to use ROM cartridges but also introduced CD-ROMs with the Sega CD and TurboGrafx-CD add-ons, allowing for more storage and enhanced multimedia capabilities.
Region-Specific Releases
Regional differences remained significant, with distinct game libraries and marketing strategies tailored to specific markets. The Sega Genesis, for example, was marketed as the Mega Drive outside North America.
Impact and Legacy
The fourth generation saw the establishment of many iconic franchises and marked the beginning of intense rivalry between Sega and Nintendo. This competition drove innovation and quality, resulting in some of the most beloved games and consoles in history. The advancements in technology and game design during this era set new standards and greatly influenced the future of the gaming industry.
This generation’s emphasis on technological innovation and high-quality game design left a lasting legacy, shaping the video game landscape for years to come.
Fourth Generation Video Game Consoles
1987
- NEC TurboGrafx-16 / PC Engine
1988
- NEC TurboGrafx-CD / PC Engine CD-ROMยฒ
- Sega Genesis / Mega Drive
1989
- Atari Lynx
- Nintendo Game Boy
1990
- NEC TurboExpress / PC Engine GT
- Sega Game Gear
- Super Nintendo Entertainment System / Super Famicom
1991
- Bit Corporation Gamate
- Commodore CDTV
- NEC TurboDuo / PC Engine Duo
- Philips Compact Disc-Interactive / CD-i
- Sega CD / Mega-CD
- SNK Neo Geo Advanced Entertainment System / Neo Geo AES
- Sony CD-i Intelligent Discman IVO
1992
- Watara Supervision / QuickShot Supervision
1993
- Fujitsu FM Towns Marty
- Pioneer LaserActive
- Sega Pico / Kids Computer Pico
- Wellback Holdings Mega Duck WG-108 / Cougar Boy
1994
- SNK Neo Geo CD
1995
- Funtech Super A’can