The many colors of the Nintendo 64

Summary

Consoles have appeared in different forms since the early days of video games, reflecting regional releases, licensed manufacturers and redesigns. Apart from the Game Boy and Twin Famicom, the Nintendo 64 was the first console to use different colours as a marketing feature. New variants followed the original charcoal-grey model. Not all of the 16 console and 32 controller versions were released worldwide.

The colourful design supports Nintendo’s image as a friendly company and is simultaneously an expression of the colourful 1990s. It also contributes to an increasingly diverse market in which customers can choose a design that suits them.

In the sixth generation, all the other manufacturers follow suit and offer their consoles in alternative designs.