In recent years we’ve seen a proliferation of “clone” NES systems which replicate the performance of vintage hardware. The Retron 5 and Retro Freak are perhaps the two most notable examples, but it would seem that Nintendo itself has finally woken up to the potential of reselling its classic systems in new guises.

Today it has shocked the retro gaming community by announcing the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition (Nintendo Classic Mini: Nintendo Entertainment System in Europe), a “new” version of its legendary NES hardware which will cost $59.99 in the US.

It connects to your TV via HDMI and even comes with that classic NES pad, which can also be used with your Wii or Wii U. You can also use a Classic Controller or Classic Controller Pro on the system for two-player action, but the new NES pad will be sold separately for $9.99 as well – just in case you like consistency.

Sadly you can’t use your original NES carts with the console – something even the most basic “Famiclone” offers – and there doesn’t seem to be any means of getting new games onto it. Also, according to the official PR, there’s no power supply in the box with the European version – you get the USB cable but you’ll need to source a USB power block, which shouldn’t be an issue as most mobile phones come with them.

Here’s what Nintendo of America President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime had to say:

We wanted to give fans of all ages the opportunity to revisit Nintendo’s original system and rediscover why they fell in love with Nintendo in the first place. The Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition is ideal for anyone who remembers playing the NES, or who wants to pass on those nostalgic memories to the next generation of gamers.

The console arrives on the 11th November and will come with 30 pre-loaded titles:

Are you excited about this ‘new retro’ addition to the Nintendo hardware family?

H/T nintendolife.com

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