How Old Is the Super Nintendo (SNES)? Launch Dates & Age in 2024

The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) launched on different dates worldwide:

• Japan (Super Famicom): November 21, 1990
• North America: August 23, 1991
• Europe / PAL: April 11, 1992
• South Korea (Super Comboy): 1992 (Hyundai)
• Brazil (Playtronic): 1993

As of 2024, the SNES is 33–34 years old depending on region:

• Japan: 33 years (turning 34 Nov 2024)
• North America: 32 years (turning 33 Aug 2024)
• Europe: 32 years (turning 33 Apr 2024)

Key Context

• 16-bit era flagship. 49M units sold worldwide.
• Discontinued: 1999 (NA), 2003 (Japan), 1998 (Europe).
• Legacy: Super Mario World, Zelda: LTTP, Super Metroid, Chrono Trigger, FFVI, DKC, SMK, F-Zero, Star Fox, EarthBound.
• Modern play: Nintendo Switch Online (SNES library), Analogue Super Nt (FPGA), RetroArch, SNES Classic Edition (2017).

A true icon entering its fourth decade.