The third generation of video game consoles, spanning from the early 1980s to the early 1990s, heralded the era of 8-bit graphics and more sophisticated gameplay. This generation was pivotal in establishing the home console market and introducing many iconic games and franchises.
Popular Consoles
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Released in 1983 as the Famicom in Japan and later in 1985 in North America, the NES revolutionized the gaming industry. It introduced classic titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid.
Sega Master System
Launched in 1985, the Sega Master System offered impressive graphics and sound for its time. It provided a solid alternative to the NES, with titles like Alex Kidd and Phantasy Star.
Atari 7800
Released in 1986, the Atari 7800 was backward compatible with Atari 2600 games. It featured improved graphics and a modest library of games, striving to recapture Atari’s early success.
Types of Video Game Media
The third generation continued the use of ROM cartridges, which allowed for more complex and varied games. This period also saw the beginning of licensed game production, leading to higher quality and more diverse gaming experiences.
Region-Specific Releases
Regional variations were again significant in this generation, with different console designs, game libraries, and market strategies tailored to specific regions. The NES, for example, had different designs and game releases in Japan and North America.
Impact and Legacy
The third generation solidified video gaming as a mainstream entertainment medium. It saw the birth of numerous enduring franchises and set new standards for game design and console capabilities. The success of the NES, in particular, laid the foundation for Nintendo’s future dominance in the industry.
This generation’s focus on quality, innovation, and broad appeal helped ensure the survival and growth of the video game industry, leading to the rich and varied gaming landscape we have today.
Third Generation Video Game Consoles
1983
- Casio PV-1000
- Nichibutsu My Vision Game System
- Nintendo Entertainment System / Family Computer / Famicom
- Philips Videopac+ G7400
- Sega SG-1000
- Tomy Tutor Jr. / Pyลซta Jr.
1984
- Epoch Super Cassette Vision
1985
- BBC Bridge Companion
- Daewoo Zemmix
- LJN Video Art
- RDI Video Systems Halcyon (cancelled)
- Sega Master System / Mark III
1986
- Atari 7800
- Bit Corporation Dina / Telegames Personal Arcade
- Nintendo Family Computer Disk System
1987
- Atari XE Video Game System / Atari XEGS
- Worlds of Wonder Action Max
1988
- Video-Master Interactive Vision
- VTech Socrates
1990
- Amstrad GX4000
- Commodore 64 Games System
1992
- Steepler Dendy (unlicensed Famiclone)