Forget HD and multi-core CPU's, back then it was all about the bits in the CPU, the Nintendo 64 was the first ever game console with a 64 bit CPU. It was also 'next-gen' in terms of the maximum screen resolution it supported, it could run games at a whopping 640*480 (*gasps*). Back then 640*480 was the 1080p holy grail of today only it wasn't nearly as hyped and the difference in image quality was far more spectacular over 320*240, unlike todays 1080p advantage over 720p.
The Nintendo 64 was the most powerful game console ever with the most potential when it was released. Popular franchises such as Final Fantasy and The Legend of Zelda wowed people with the amazing graphics made only possible with the power of the Nintendo 64, other tech demos and crazy propaganda also did their part.
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