The Nintendo Famicom Console Buying Guide: 3 Keys To 8-Bit Gaming Heaven
The Nintendo Famicom console, or Family Computer, was released in Japan in 1983. Over 1500 games were created for the Famicom during its 20 or so year run. If you are looking to buy a Famicom, keep in mind that this gaming console is nearly 30 years old. Even though it is fairly bullet-proof, there are a few things to keep in mind when buying.
1. Power supply: the Nintendo Famicom draws a scant 4KW of power, but requires 100v input. If you are in the US, Europe or not in Japan, then using a step-down transformer is always a good idea. You can easily fry the motherboard if you plug your console into a socket without a step down transformer. Now, FCs will play if you plug them directly into an outlet in the US, but you’ll be stressing 30 year old components. Use a step-down transformer!
2. Make sure the console works before purchasing. Buying untested retro gaming hardware is a recipe for 8-bit disaster. Have the seller connect the unit to a TV and power it up. Will it play a game? Often, old FCs will simply display a solid colored screen or a matrix-like jumble of letters. To avoid this issue, make sure the seller has tested the unit (and a good cleaning would always be appreciated, too) with a game cart. You want a unit that will play most games right from the start. Family Computer games should load instantly.
If you do receive a Famicom that doesn’t work, don’t despair. Try cleaning the contacts on the game cartridge with a q-tip dipped in ammonia. If the q-tip gets dirty and black, keep cleaning until the contacts are shiny and a fresh q-tip doesn’t come out black, then after drying, try the game again.
3. The infamous yellowing issue. Make sure you aren’t buying a unit that is super yellow (unless you really like yellow!). The older Nintendo consoles will range from super white to yellowish green in color. The plastic on some consoles yellow a little bit more than others. Usually boxed units that have been protected from the sun and air will stand the test of time a little better.
When buying online, it’s a bit difficult to tell exactly what shad of white the unit really is. Ask the seller to place a white sheet of paper next to the console so you can tell exactly how white, or yellow, it is. A unit that is sitting alone can sometimes look a lot whiter than it actually is. Be careful.