Nintendo Console Rankings Revealed

With the much-anticipated reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has confirmed the arrival of its latest console. Boasting over four decades of experience in video game hardware, we're eager to see what innovations Nintendo has planned, though initial impressions suggest a more conservative approach this time. If you're eagerly awaiting this new console, we've thoroughly analyzed the Switch 2 trailer details 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 launched 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 of these stands out as the best? I've ranked them using an IGN Tier List, considering both the innovation of the hardware and the quality and legacy of their game libraries. Here's my personal tier list:

The NES holds a special place in my heart as my first console, with fond memories of playing Super Mario Bros., Mega Man 2, and the challenging Hook platformer as a five-year-old. This nostalgia places it firmly in the S tier. The Switch, with its innovative hybrid design (despite issues like stick drift), and exceptional games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey, also earns a spot in the top bracket.

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

Nintendo Consoles

We've only glimpsed two minutes of the Nintendo Switch 2 so far, but where do you think it will ultimately rank among Nintendo's legendary consoles? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know your reasoning behind your console rankings.