In the United States, the Nintendo 64 launched in September 1996 at about $200. A contemporary October report listed it at $199.99; a December report gave a retail price of $199.95. The small discrepancy makes “about $200” the clearest short answer.
What was the Nintendo 64’s US launch price?
The Spokesman-Review reported a US list price of $199.99 in October 1996. United Press International reported a retail price of $199.95 in December 1996, while covering fourth-quarter sales. Both contemporary reports put the console at roughly $200. The Spokesman-Review’s October 3, 1996 report and UPI’s December 27, 1996 report give the respective figures.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo 64 Console, Premium Bundle (Renewed) | $161.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo 64 System - Video Game Console (Renewed) | $115.92 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo 64 (Renewed) | $169.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Nintendo 64 System - Video Game Console | $90.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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N64 System with Controller, Hookups, and Mario 64 Game (Renewed) | $216.60 | Buy on Amazon |
When did it launch?
Launch dates varied by market. Nintendo’s official history dates the first launch, in Japan, to June 23, 1996. UPI reported that the US launch was September 29, 1996. Nintendo’s history also says more than 500,000 systems sold in Japan on the first day; that is Nintendo’s account of the 1996 event, not an independent audit. Nintendo’s hardware history records the Japanese date and first-day sales figure.
Was that the price everywhere?
No. The roughly $200 figure is the reported US launch-era price, not a worldwide price. The sources here establish a US price and Japan’s launch date, but not comparable launch prices for every territory. A current resale price is a separate matter and should not be confused with the original retail price.
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Best Value
- Nintendo 64 game console
Rank #4
- 64-Bit Graphics
- Cartridge based game system (no scratched games!)
- Excellent game library available (over 300)
- Inexpensive compared to newer gaming systems
Rank #3
- Sleek Black N64 Console: A classic Nintendo 64 reimagined in a bold black finish, blending retro charm with a modern aesthetic.
- Two Vibrant Controllers: Jump straight into multiplayer fun with a red and blue controller included, perfect for head-to-head gaming sessions.
- Save & Store with Ease: The included 256KB memory card gives you plenty of space to save game progress across your favorite titles.
- Modern Display Ready: An HDMI and cable are included, delivering a clean, high-quality connection to today's TVs right out of the box.
- Everything You Need to Play: Complete with a power and all essentiala, this is ready for instant setup — ideal for nostalgic fans and curious newcomers alike.
#1 Best Overall
- Nintendo 64 Console (Black): Retro gaming console in a sleek black finish.
- Two Controllers (Red & Blue): Includes two vibrant controllers for multiplayer gaming.
- 256KB Memory Card: Save your game progress easily with ample storage.
- HDMI Adapter: Modern connectivity for easy setup with today’s TVs
- Power Adapter: Essential power supply included for immediate play.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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