Top 15 Nintendo Handhelds
Nintendo has been a leader in the gaming industry, particularly when it comes to handheld consoles. Starting from the early Game Boy models to the revolution of Nintendo Switch, each handheld device has left a lasting mark on gamers worldwide. Let’s take a look at the top 15 Nintendo handhelds that shaped the portable gaming scene.
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1. Game Boy (1989)
The original Game Boy introduced portable gaming to a wide audience. With its 8-bit processor and simple black-and-white screen, it revolutionized how people played video games, allowing for hours of gameplay on the go. Games like Tetris and Super Mario Land made the Game Boy a must-have device.
2. Game Boy Color (1998)
A significant upgrade from the original Game Boy, the Game Boy Color introduced a color screen and improved hardware. It retained compatibility with original Game Boy
games while introducing new, colorful experiences. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages and Pokémon Gold and Silver pushed the system’s capabilities.
3. Game Boy Advance (2001)
The Game Boy Advance was a leap forward, featuring a 32-bit ARM processor and better graphics. Its horizontal design made it more comfortable to hold, and it offered a wider range of games, including The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap and Mario Kart: Super Circuit.
4. Game Boy Advance SP (2003)
Building on the success of the Game Boy Advance, the SP version added a backlit screen and a clamshell design, protecting the screen when not in use. The addition of a rechargeable battery made it even more portable and convenient.
5. Game Boy Micro (2005)
Though it didn’t offer new gameplay features, the Game Boy Micro was designed for style. Its ultra-compact design and sharp, bright screen made it one of the smallest handhelds, appealing to those looking for portability and aesthetics.
6. Nintendo DS (2004)
The Nintendo DS was a game-changer with its dual-screen design and touchscreen capabilities. Offering backward compatibility with Game Boy Advance games, the DS introduced a new way to interact with games, making titles like Brain Age and Nintendogs global hits.
7. Nintendo DS Lite (2006)
The DS Lite was a slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing version of the original DS. It featured brighter screens and longer battery life, which made it even more appealing for gamers on the go. This model became a massive hit globally.
8. Nintendo DSi (2008)
The DSi brought several enhancements, including built-in cameras, downloadable games, and multimedia features. While it removed the Game Boy Advance cartridge slot, it marked a shift towards online content and a more multimedia-focused approach.
9. Nintendo DSi XL (2009)
Offering larger screens and a more comfortable grip, the DSi XL was designed for gamers who preferred a bigger display. It maintained all the features of the DSi but in a larger package, making it ideal for those who wanted an immersive experience on a handheld device.
10. Nintendo 3DS (2011)
Nintendo pushed boundaries with the 3DS, offering glasses-free 3D gameplay. It was packed with powerful features like StreetPass and SpotPass, allowing players to exchange data with other users nearby. Games like Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Super Mario 3D Land showcased the system’s potential.
11. Nintendo 3DS XL (2012)
The 3DS XL offered larger screens and better battery life, enhancing the 3DS experience. Its bigger size made 3D gameplay more immersive, while games like Fire Emblem: Awakening benefited from the improved display.
12. Nintendo 2DS (2013)
Designed as a more affordable option, the Nintendo 2DS removed the 3D feature while maintaining compatibility with all 3DS games. Its flat design made it more durable, especially for younger players. Despite its simpler look, it offered access to the rich library of 3DS titles.
13. New Nintendo 3DS (2014)
An upgraded version of the original 3DS, the New Nintendo 3DS added additional controls, improved processing power, and a better 3D experience with face-tracking technology. It was compatible with certain exclusive games, like Xenoblade Chronicles 3D.
14. New Nintendo 3DS XL (2014)
Offering all the improvements of the New Nintendo 3DS but with larger screens, the XL version catered to gamers who wanted more screen real estate. Its enhanced features, coupled with the large selection of 3DS games, made it a popular choice.
15. Nintendo Switch (2017)
The ultimate evolution in Nintendo’s handheld lineup, the Switch combines home console power with handheld portability. Its hybrid design allows gamers to play on their TV and seamlessly transition to handheld mode. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey exemplify the Switch’s versatility and power.
Nintendo’s handheld journey has been a remarkable evolution, with each device building on the successes and lessons of its predecessor. From the classic Game Boy to the innovative Nintendo Switch, these consoles have shaped how we play games, both at home and on the go. Whether you're a fan of retro gaming or the latest technology, Nintendo’s handheld legacy continues to be a pivotal part of gaming history.
