When the Nintendo 64 launched in 1996, public reactions were a mix of frenzied excitement and awe over its revolutionary true-3D graphics and immersive gameplay. This console and its launch title, Super Mario 64, were immediately recognized as groundbreaking innovations that set a new standard for the entire gaming industry. Credit: @kcci8 | History In Pictures

The Nintendo GameCube launched in 2001 with a unique, compact purple chassis and introduced the public to its proprietary, small optical discs instead of standard CD-ROMs. While not a commercial success like its rivals, it is famous today for its strong library of first-party games, such as Super Smash Bros. Melee, and its status as a beloved retro console. Credit: My Retro Life | History In Pictures