For younger gamers today, the console market seems dominated by just three major contenders. This consolidation has often resulted in one standout console from each brand, with little external competition aside from the occasional handheld devices. However, looking back, the landscape was rich with various companies vying to create the next big thing in gaming, leading to a fascinating array of both noteworthy and forgettable hardware.
This article highlights some of the consoles that, despite their lack of commercial success or modern recognition, were remarkable machines offering unique experiences worth celebrating.
10 GameCube
Boxy But Brilliant
Let’s start with the GameCube. Although it made minimal waves during its release, many gamers have since rediscovered its charm. This console earned a place on the underrated list primarily because it was eclipsed by the overwhelming popularity of the PlayStation during that era, particularly the PS2.
While the GameCube is often criticized for its awkward controller design, its library features remarkable titles such as Billy Hatcher and Super Mario Sunshine. If you haven’t yet embraced this nostalgic gem, consider tracking one down—it’s a relic of gaming history.
9 PlayStation Classic
A Collector’s Item
On the surface, the PlayStation Classic appears to be a brilliant concept: a miniature recreation of the original PlayStation. Unfortunately, the execution left much to be desired, particularly regarding the pre-loaded library and emulation quality.
While it features some beloved classics, it suffers from an uneven selection that feels lacking. The high price point reinforced the notion that it was merely a cash grab during the holiday season. For those who are willing to explore its potential by jailbreaking it, the Classic can transform into a robust PS1 emulator, redeeming its initial shortcomings.
8 Game Boy Micro
Small But Mighty
The Game Boy Micro was an often-overlooked device in the handheld gaming sector. Designed as a more portable and visually appealing variant of the Game Boy Advance SP, its commercial performance failed to reflect its impressive features.
With a vibrant backlit display and a sturdy metal casing reminiscent of a Nokia phone, the Micro was both durable and portable enough to fit in any pocket. While it faced criticism as a gimmick, true enthusiasts recognize its potential. Though battery life was a concern, its compact design made it a fascinating handheld option.
7 Google Stadia
A Streaming Stumble From Google
Google Stadia invites a strange mix of nostalgia and disappointment, as it promised a revolutionary streaming experience but ultimately faltered. With great stream quality, it seemed poised for success. However, it struggled due to a lack of incentives for its user base.
Stadia suffered from an insufficient library and reluctance from developers to invest, resulting in minimal support for the platform. Despite delivering affordable access to gaming, it was undercut by Google’s tendency to abandon projects abruptly.
6 Playdate
An Indie Darling
The Playdate is a standout among modern handhelds, created by James Moore and the team at Panic. This console targets the indie game community, boasting a library of games designed uniquely for its quirky features, including a whimsical crank for controls.
While it may not appeal to everyone, the Playdate represents a refreshing experiment in gaming hardware aimed at indie developers. For fans of unique gaming experiences, this device is worth considering.
5 Dreamcast
Dreams Became Nightmares For SEGA
The Dreamcast often represents SEGA’s final foray into the console market, embodying both potential and misfortune. While it struggled against competitors like the PlayStation, it introduced iconic titles like Jet Set Radio and laid the groundwork for online gaming long before it became standard.
This console featured exclusives that have since become lost relics of gaming history, showcasing SEGA’s creativity during a challenging era. Its legacy remains a bittersweet reminder of what could have been.
4 SEGA Saturn
A Fall From Grace
The SEGA Saturn is often pointed to as a significant misstep for SEGA, but it deserves recognition for its strengths. Although it was technically a more powerful system than the PSX, its complexity hindered developers, leading to lost exclusives and canceled titles.
As an arcade powerhouse for 2D gaming, the Saturn offered remarkable classics that have not been adequately revitalized in modern gaming, solidifying its status as an underappreciated gem while competing against the rising dominance of 3D graphics with the PSX and N64.
3 Wanderswan
A Handheld Hidden Gem
The Wanderswan struggled due to poor marketing and competition from Nintendo’s Game Boy brand. However, it boasted impressive hardware and an impressive library of games, showcasing the creativity of its developers.
Despite limited marketing efforts by Bandai, the Wanderswan offered noteworthy titles, including Final Fantasy remakes, proving that its potential was substantial, even if it ultimately remained a niche product.
2 Wii U
The ‘U’ Stands For Underachiever
The Wii U remains one of Nintendo’s most notorious missteps. Despite introducing innovative concepts and gameplay features, it fell short in securing a robust library of first and third-party titles.
Marketing missteps failed to accurately portray the potential of its unique gamepad. This unfulfilled promise left the console feeling half-hearted, merely a placeholder for what would eventually come next: the highly successful Nintendo Switch.
1 PS Vita
PS. I Love You
At the pinnacle of this list is the PS Vita. This handheld console, despite its exceptional design and performance, was unfortunately neglected by Sony soon after its release. It featured a library of titles with seamless PS3 and PS4 cross-play capabilities and offered stunning graphics and battery life.
While the memory cards were costly, the PS Vita’s overall execution remains commendable, offering experiences that even the popular Switch would later emulate. For its many fans, the PS Vita continues to represent the pinnacle of portable gaming, with its legacy still echoing in today’s gaming community.
And now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to retrieve mine from storage and indulge in some Persona 4 Golden.
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