What consoles are now retro?

From 8-bit nostalgia to early 3D worlds — a look at the systems now wearing the ‘retro’ crown

The term retro console might mean different things depending on your age. For some, it’s the NES. For others, it’s the PS2 or even the early Xbox 360 days. But in gaming history, retro generally refers to consoles that are no longer in production, are at least 15–20 years old, and have a distinct “old-school” gaming feel — both in graphics and gameplay design.

📜 The Timeline of Retro Consoles

Here’s a quick breakdown of systems that are now considered retro:

8-Bit Era (Early–Mid 1980s)

  • Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (1983)

  • Sega Master System (1985)

  • Why retro? Blocky pixel graphics, chip-tune music, and side-scrolling platformers define this era.

16-Bit Era (Late 1980s–Mid 1990s)

  • Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) (1990)

  • Sega Genesis / Mega Drive (1988)

  • Why retro? More colorful graphics, classic RPGs, and couch co-op dominance.

32-Bit & 64-Bit Era (Mid–Late 1990s)

  • Sony PlayStation (PS1) (1994)

  • Nintendo 64 (1996)

  • Sega Saturn (1994)

  • Why retro? Polygon graphics, 3D platformers, and the birth of cinematic storytelling.

Sixth Generation (2000s — now officially retro!)

  • PlayStation 2 (PS2) (2000)

  • Nintendo GameCube (2001)

  • Sega Dreamcast (1998)

  • Original Xbox (2001)

  • Why retro? DVD gaming, bigger 3D worlds, and iconic franchises like Halo, GTA, and Final Fantasy X.

Handheld Retro Systems

  • Game Boy / Game Boy Color / Game Boy Advance

  • Nintendo DS (early models are now retro)

  • PlayStation Portable (PSP)

  • Why retro? Simple but addictive on-the-go gaming.

🕹 What About “Modern Retro”?

Some consoles, like the Xbox 360, PS3, and Nintendo Wii, are now entering “retro” status for collectors, especially early models released between 2005–2007. The rule of thumb:

If it’s no longer being made, and it’s old enough to make you feel nostalgic — it’s retro.

💡 How to Shop for Retro Consoles

If you want to buy or collect retro consoles:

  1. Decide if you want original hardware or a modern remake.

    • Original hardware offers authenticity but may require repairs.

    • Modern replicas like the Analogue Pocket or mini classic consoles use HDMI and have built-in games.

  2. Check game availability — cartridges and discs for some systems are rare and pricey.

  3. Buy from trusted sellers — online marketplaces, retro game stores, or verified shops.

  4. Look for complete-in-box sets if collecting value matters to you.

🛒 Where to Buy Retro Consoles

🏆 Why Retro Gaming is Timeless

Retro consoles aren’t just old hardware — they’re time machines. They bring back the simplicity of gaming without endless updates, DLCs, or internet requirements. Whether you’re collecting, playing, or displaying them, retro consoles are a bridge between gaming history and today’s innovations.