The cost of playing games on your TV in the 1990s was a multifaceted issue, depending on several factors. It wasn't simply a yes or no answer. Let's break down the expenses involved:
The Initial Investment: Consoles and Accessories
The biggest upfront cost was the game console itself. Prices varied considerably depending on the system. The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), by the late 80s and early 90s, was becoming more affordable, often available for under $100. However, newer systems like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and Sega Genesis commanded higher prices, frequently in the $150-$200 range. This cost didn't include controllers, which could add another $20-$40 or more. Additional accessories like memory cards, light guns, and specialized controllers added even more to the initial outlay.
The Ongoing Expense: Game Cartridges
Unlike today's digital downloads, 1990s gaming relied heavily on physical game cartridges. These ranged in price, typically from $30 to $70, depending on the title's popularity and release date. Popular titles or new releases often sat at the higher end of that spectrum. Building a decent game library could, therefore, become a substantial ongoing expense. Budget-conscious gamers might have to carefully select which titles to purchase, possibly relying on rentals or borrowing games from friends.
The Rental Option: A Cheaper Alternative?
Game rentals were a popular way to try out games before committing to a purchase. Video rental stores often carried a selection of games alongside movies, offering a lower-cost option for a limited time. However, rental fees added up, and the convenience of ownership was often preferred. Late fees were another factor to consider, potentially negating any cost savings.
Were there any free games?
No, there weren't any free games available in the way we understand it today. While some magazines might include small demos or trial versions on floppy disks, full games always required purchase or rental. The concept of free-to-play games with in-app purchases was decades away.
What about other TV-based gaming options?
Beyond dedicated consoles, there were other options with varying costs:
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Arcade Games: Playing arcade games was significantly more expensive, requiring inserting coins for each play. This made them a treat rather than a regular source of home entertainment.
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Computer Games: While some home computers could display games on a TV, these systems themselves represented a considerable upfront investment. The games themselves were also purchased individually.
In Conclusion: A Variable Cost
Playing games on your TV in the 1990s did cost money. The overall expense ranged from a moderate initial investment for a console and a few games to a substantially larger sum for those who wanted a wide selection of titles. The cost-effectiveness depended heavily on individual choices about purchasing versus renting and the number of games one wanted to play.
