Many of us often feel nostalgic for our first video game consoles. And for many of us, that first console was a Nintendo Entertainment System.
However, the chances are you no longer own your first NES. So, what happens if you've built a collection of games but no longer have the console to play them on?
You may need an NES clone. And in this article, we take a look at NES clones, how they differ from a real NES, and whether you should invest in one.
What Are NES Clones?
NES clones are essentially video game consoles made in the modern-day that are reliable, compact, and have the ability to play original NES cartridges. These video game consoles are made by a variety of companies, such as Hyperkin, Retro-bit, and even Nintendo itself.
Some of you might be asking, "why does Nintendo allow third-party companies to make clones of its old console?" Patents for game consoles last a maximum of 20 years, and since the Nintendo Entertainment System came out in 1983, the patent has been expired for almost two decades.
This is great for gamers, because it allows the love of classic Nintendo games to live on decades past when they were first released. This is also good for Nintendo because when it inevitably decides to release digital or even physical copies of these classic games on its current console, they're more likely to sell well.
The NES Mini Classic Edition was an official console released by Nintendo between 2016 and 2018 for $59.99. It was smaller than the original NES, came with a remake of the original NES controller, and was preloaded with 30 games that were popular throughout the console's life. The NES Classic Edition came with all of this for an affordable price. So, what was the catch?
The system could not play original cartridges, so If you had some of your favorite games laying around the house, you could not use this new system to play them.
The console also used a different controller port, so if you had an extra original NES controller, it could not be used with this console. However, there are third-party companies, such as Hyperkin, that released adaptors that would allow you to use your original controller with the system.
Though the NES Mini Classic Edition was affordable, compact, and had the ability to play 30 pre-loaded games, it was not a great solution for everyone.
The NES Mini Classic Edition isn't available in new condition from the manufacturer any more. However, other fantastic alternatives, such as the Evercade VS, have since come onto the market.
How Do NES Clones Differ From the Real Thing?
If you go with an NES clone, what is it like compared to genuine Nintendo hardware? Let's look at the major differences.
Price
One of the biggest pros of buying an NES clone is the price. At the low end, NES clones go for around $25, while they increase to around $80 depending on features.
For example, the Hyperkin RetroN 1 AV retails for $24.99 and is all you need to get started playing all of your old NES games. In the box, it includes the console, power adapter, AV cables, and a Hyperkin controller that resembles an original NES controller.
The updated version, the Hyperkin RetroN 1 HD, retails for $39.99. This model has a redesigned exterior and controller, a switch on the back to change the aspect ratio from the original 4:3 to 16:9, as well as an HDMI port to upscale the video output to 720p. This gives gamers the ability to insert an HDMI capture card to stream to sites like Twitch.
Other companies release NES clones that come with multiple cartridge slots so gamers can play their original NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis games using one console. Generally speaking, the more features available, the higher the price.
An original Nintendo Entertainment System in good condition from reputable sites, such as DK Oldies, retail for around $120 at the low end, and go higher in price depending on condition and if it's packaged with a controller or video game. Original NES consoles can be found cheaper. However, there is a higher risk of getting a console in poor condition.
Features
NES clones are great because they don't take away features; they add them! As stated above, streaming your NES games to Twitch or YouTube has never been easier with the addition of an HDMI port and aspect ratio options on certain consoles.
Depending on the NES clone you get, they also support official NES accessories. This includes the Nintendo Zapper, a plastic gun used for Duck Hunt and other games, the NES Advantage, an arcade stick perfect for fighting games, and many others.
Graphics and Sound Quality
NES clones support a variety of accessories, making it easier for users to stream their games. They are also more affordable than many modern video game consoles. Is there anything to look out for? Of course there is, but these cons depend on what kind of gamer you are.
Many NES clones have these same issues and are not exclusive to one or the other.
One con of these systems is the graphics are not as genuine as when you play the game on an original NES. Character sprites may look muddy or dark, and title screens, objects, and backgrounds in games may show a different color than when they're played on original hardware.
Another issue with these systems is sound quality. The background music may sound sped up, slowed down, tinny, or have a different pitch than if they were on an original NES.
If you love retro video game soundtracks, there are plenty of video game music radio sites to enjoy your favorites.
Should You Buy an NES Clone or a Real NES?
The answer to this question depends on who you are. If you're someone who grew up with an original NES and value the original console's look, graphics, and sound quality, you may benefit from purchasing an original refurbished Nintendo Entertainment System.
Although streaming your video games is possible with an original NES, it will be a little bit more complex than if you owned an NES clone with an HDMI port.
If you're someone who is brand new to the NES and its large library of classic games, an NES clone would be the perfect way to go. These systems are great for those who are on a budget and they support a variety of accessories that can be fun for every member of your family.
For those who want to play their old video games but have since lost their original hardware, all hope is not lost. Console clones from the Nintendo Entertainment System to the Sega Genesis are available for an affordable price, support your original games, and will allow you to relive your childhood and be the coolest kid in your neighborhood.