NES Classic Edition FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

The 80s are back, courtesy of Nintendo’s NES Classic Edition! The new micro console was built to resemble the original Nintendo Entertainment System that launched all the way back in 1985. There are 30 NES games pre-installed on the system, including massive hits like Super Mario Bros., Mega Man 2 and The Legend of Zelda. You can even play these games on an authentic NES controller, which includes the famous d-pad, A and B buttons.

Below, we answer questions about the NES Mini. We’ll tell you which games come with the console, when you can buy it and for how much. If you think of another question, please ask in the comments section and we will answer it asap!

When does the NES Classic Edition come out?

Nintendo will release the NES Classic Edition on November 11, 2016 worldwide. Although you cannot pre-order the system, it will be available at Amazon, GameStop, Best Buy and other locations. 

Additionally, Nintendo will host a launch event at the flagship Nintendo NY Store in Rockefeller Plaza in NYC. On the evening of November 10, and beginning at 9PM ET, there will be an 80s-themed party. The first 250 people can play NES Classic Edition games, take part in a Nintendo game show and a costume contest where they can dress up as 80s characters. 

How much does the NES Classic Edition cost? 

You can buy the NES Classic Edition for $59.99. Additional controllers will sell for $9.99 each.

What’s inside of the box? 

You get the system with 30 games, one NES Classic Controller, one HDMI cable, an AC Adapter and a cool poster featuring the NES, ROB the robot and two game cartridges, Duck Hunt and Gyromite. Sadly, neither game made the list of 30. 

What games come with the NES Classic Edition? 

Uh, great ones!? The complete list includes Balloon Fight, Bubble Bobble, Castlevania, Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest, Donkey Kong, Donkey Kong Jr., Double Dragon II: The Revenge, Dr. Mario, Excitebike, Final Fantasy, Galaga, Ghosts’N Goblins, Gradius, Ice Climber, Kid Icarus, Kirby’s Adventure, Mario Bros., Mega Man 2, Metroid, Ninja Gaiden, Pac-Man, Punch-Out!! Featuring Mr. Dream, StarTropics, Super C, Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, Tecmo Bowl, The Legend of Zelda and Zelda II: The Adventure of Link.

Given the hundreds of games released for the NES in the 80s and 90s, there’s a chance some of your favorites didn’t make the list, but we’re sure you’ll agree that there’s something for everyone.

How long is the NES controller cord?

The NES Classic Controller cord is roughly three feet long, which is quite short compared to the original. Thankfully, you can make the cord longer with the My Arcade Extender Cable.

Can you play two player games? 

Absolutely! Plug in a second NES Classic Controller to enjoy games like Tecmo Bowl, Double Dragon II, Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super C with a friend. In fact, our friends at Topgolf picked out cool two-player NES games to enjoy with friends and family. 

Do cheat codes work? 

Yup, you can still enter cheat codes on NES Classic Edition games. So go ahead and use Justin Bailey on Metroid, enter passwords on Mega Man 2 and get 10 extra lives in Super C. In fact, we made a video where we test out some of the most well-known NES cheats. 

How do I beat these NES games?

We have a book for that! Prima will publish hardcover and softcover versions of Playing With Power: Nintendo NES Classics. This gorgeous book spotlights 17 of the 30 NES games, such as Dr. Mario, Super Mario Bros. 2 and Kirby’s Adventure. In addition to strategies for each game, we also have quotes from Nintendo visionaries and cool artwork. It comes out on November 11, the same day as the console. 

Will Nintendo add more games? 

No. It will always have the current list of 30 games. That is, unless Nintendo announces another product we don’t know about.

Can you save your game progress? 

Definitely. While playing one of your favorite games, press the system’s Resent button to return to the HOME Menu, then select one Suspend Point to save your game. Keep in mind that each game has a total of four Suspend Points.

Does it come with in-game manuals? 

You can view each game’s manual by scanning a QR Code with your smart device at the Home Menu. 

What about those display modes?

OK, so the NES Classic Edition comes with three unique display modes. CRT Filter adds scan lines to the screen for a cool retro vibe. Then, 4:3 displays the NES games in their original aspect ratio. Finally, Pixel Perfect mode displays each pixel as a perfect square. 

How small is the NES Classic Edition? 

It’s so tiny that you can fit the console in the palm of your hand. We posted a feature with images of the NES Classic Edition next to everyday items, like an Xbox One controller, a can of soda and other things you have lying around the house.

If you love math… figure out how many NES Classic Edition systems can fit inside of an original NES console. Sounds like a worthy SAT question. 

The controller cord is a bit short. What now? 

If you don’t want to sit close to the TV, you can buy the ExtendLink Extension Cable for $9.99. This extends the controller cord by six feet, which gives you a better chance to relax on the couch.  

What are the best games? 

It’s too difficult for us to make a list because we love them all. 

Will there be a SNES Classic Edition? 

Whoa! That sounds rad! Unfortunately, we cannot predict the future.

For more on the system, head to our NES Classic Edition guide, where you’ll learn cheats for some of the coolest games.