High Score: The 20 Best-Selling Video Game Consoles in History
From pixelated classics to high-definition masterpieces, the world of gaming has come a long way since its inception. With each new console release, gamers have eagerly anticipated the next big thing that would propel them into a new dimension of engagement. As we look back on the trailblazing consoles that shaped the gaming landscape, it's hard not to feel a pang of nostalgia for the good old days of blowing into cartridges and the sweet sound of a dial-up connection.
In this listicle, we'll explore the top 20 best-selling gaming consoles of all time, taking you on a pixel-packed journey through the annals of gaming history. From iconic handhelds to groundbreaking home systems, these gaming giants have captured our hearts, minds, and thumbs, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
So grab your controllers and dust off your memory cards, as we power up for a trip down memory lane, celebrating the gaming consoles that have entertained generations and made history along the way.
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20. Atari 2600
This early gaming console sold 30 million units and introduced gamers to classics like "Pac-Man," "Space Invaders," and "Pitfall!" It played a key role in shaping the early video game industry.
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19. PlayStation 5
Sony's latest console has already sold 30 million units, thanks to its powerful hardware and a promising lineup of exclusive games like "Demon's Souls" and "Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart."
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18. Sega Genesis/Mega Drive
Sega's 16-bit console sold 30.75 million units, bringing fierce competition to the gaming industry with titles like "Sonic the Hedgehog," "Streets of Rage," and "ToeJam & Earl."
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17. Nintendo 64
With 32.93 million units sold, this console had 3D graphics and a very unique controller. Iconic titles like "Super Mario 64," "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time," and "GoldenEye 007" still hold a special place in gamers' hearts.
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16. Game & Watch
These simple handhelds sold 43.4 million units and paved the way for Nintendo's future handheld successes. With basic but engaging games like "Ball" and "Manhole," they entertained players for hours.
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15. SNES/Super Famicom
The 16-bit follow-up to the NES sold 49.1 million units, bringing groundbreaking games like "Super Mario World," "The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past," and "Super Metroid" to eager gamers.
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14. Xbox One
Microsoft's third console sold between 51 and 58.5 million units, offering a powerful gaming experience, multimedia capabilities, and a growing library of exclusive games like "Halo 5: Guardians" and "Forza Horizon 4."
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13. NES/Famicom
One of the greatest consoles of all time, Nintendo's NES (Famicom in Japan) sold 61.91 million units and revitalized the gaming industry in the 1980s. Classics like "Super Mario Bros.," "The Legend of Zelda," and "Metroid" laid the foundation for Nintendo's future successes.
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12. Nintendo 3DS
With 75.94 million units sold, this handheld console introduced glasses-free 3D gaming to the masses. Memorable games like "Pokémon X" and "Y," "Super Mario 3D Land," and "The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds" kept players engaged and entertained.
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11. PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Sony's first handheld console sold between 80 and 82 million units, offering PS2-quality graphics and multimedia features in a portable package. Titles like "God of War: Chains of Olympus" and "Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories" solidified its legacy.
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10. Game Boy Advance
This powerful handheld sold 81.51 million units, bringing enhanced graphics and gameplay to the portable scene with titles like "Metroid Fusion" and "Pokémon Ruby" and "Sapphire."
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9. Xbox 360
Microsoft's second console sold over 84 million units, thanks to a robust online infrastructure, innovative features like achievements, and popular games like "Halo 3" and "Gears of War."
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8. PlayStation 3
Despite a rocky start, the PS3 went on to sell over 87.4 million units. With a powerful hardware and a selection of great games like "Uncharted 2: Among Thieves" and "The Last of Us," it became a mainstay in many homes.
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7. Wii
Nintendo's motion-controlled console sold 101.63 million units, popularizing motion gaming and catering to casual gamers. Titles like "Wii Sports," "Mario Kart Wii," and "Super Smash Bros. Brawl" made it a family favorite.
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6. PlayStation
Sony's original PlayStation took the world by storm with 102.49 million units sold, introducing 3D graphics and CD-based games. Memorable titles like "Final Fantasy VII," "Metal Gear Solid," and "Crash Bandicoot" made this console a hit.
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5. PlayStation 4
Sony's PS4 boasted 117.2 million units sold, thanks to a strong lineup of exclusive titles such as "The Last of Us Part II," "God of War," and "Spider-Man."
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4. Game Boy & Game Boy Color
These iconic handheld consoles revolutionized portable gaming, selling 118.69 million units combined. With classics like "Pokémon Red" and "Blue," "Tetris," and "The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening," they remain fan favorites.
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3. Nintendo Switch
The Switch's hybrid design changed the game by allowing players to seamlessly transition between handheld and console modes. With 122.55 million units sold, it continues to impress with a strong lineup of games, including "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" and "Animal Crossing: New Horizons."
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2. Nintendo DS
This dual-screen handheld innovated with a touchscreen and introduced gaming to new audiences. With 154.02 million units sold, it was the perfect companion for gamers on the go, popularizing franchises like "Nintendogs" and "Brain Age."
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1. PlayStation 2
Sony's PS2 took the world by storm with its massive library of games and backward compatibility with PlayStation 1 titles. With over 155 million units sold, it remains the undisputed king of gaming consoles, offering memorable experiences like "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas," "Shadow of the Colossus," and "Final Fantasy X."
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