Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe Nintendo 64 launched in the United States on September 29, 1996, for about $200. Contemporary reports give the price as both $200 and $199.95. The console did not include games, so software cost extra.
What was the Nintendo 64’s U.S. launch price?
United Press International reported that the Nintendo 64 went on sale in the United States on September 29, 1996, with a $200 price tag (UPI, October 24, 1996). The Deseret News described a buyer paying $199.95 plus tax in a September 27, 1996, report. That is a reported purchase, rather than a formal manufacturer price statement; the two figures are consistent as a rounded price and a more precise transaction amount.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo 64 Console, Premium Bundle (Renewed) | $161.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo 64 System - Video Game Console (Renewed) | $126.12 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo 64 (Renewed) | $169.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Nintendo 64 System - Video Game Console | $90.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
N64 System with Controller, Hookups, and Mario 64 Game (Renewed) | $216.60 | Buy on Amazon |
Why do some reports say $249.95?
In May 1996, the Los Angeles Times reported that Nintendo had announced a September price of $249.95. Later reports around the U.S. launch put the price at about $200. The figures refer to different points in time: an announced price and the price reported when the system went on sale. The available reports do not establish why the figure changed.
Did the launch price include games?
No. The Washington Post described a $199 console sold without games. Buyers needed to purchase software separately; among the launch titles the paper named were Super Mario 64 and Pilotwings 64.
#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.
Was that the Nintendo 64’s price everywhere?
No: the roughly $200 figure is for the U.S. launch, not a worldwide price. Prices and launch timing varied by market. A December 1995 advance report in Japan’s Game Machine gave a planned domestic retail price of ¥25,000 and a planned launch date of April 21, 1996 (Game Machine, December 15, 1995). Those were advance plans, not confirmation of the final Japanese price or launch date.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to read the different historical figures
- Market: The U.S. figure is in dollars; the Japanese advance report gives a planned price in yen. They are not directly interchangeable.
- Timing: The $249.95 figure was reported as an announced price before launch; the roughly $200 figures describe the system around the time it went on sale.
- Price precision: $200 is a rounded report; $199.95 is a more precise reported transaction.
- What was included: The U.S. console price did not include games.
These are nominal historical prices. No inflation-adjusted comparison is included here.
Quick Recap
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.
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.
