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Many generations before the arrival of the Switch, Nintendo made a delightful set of handheld consoles known as the Game & Watch. Originally released between 1980 and 1991, these dinky handheld consoles offered just one game each, ranging from Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong Jr. to Mario's Cement Factory and titles featuring the now-famous character of Mr. Game & Watch himself.
In fact, the original designer of Game & Watch, Gunpei Yokoi, was inspired to make these games after watching a bored businessman on a Japanese train idly fiddling with the buttons on his calculator. But regardless of their humble origins, it's hard to underestimate how much these devices revolutionised the gaming industry, sparking the idea that handheld gaming was within the realms of possibility.
It seems funny now when you look at the capabilities of the Switch, and all the Nintendo handheld devices of previous generations, but really, it all started with Game & Watch. And now it's making a comeback with the Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. edition.
To celebrate Mario's 35th birthday, Nintendo has released this special Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. edition, which comes pre-installed with three iconic Game & Watch titles: Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros: The Lost Levels, and Balls.
Retailing for £44.99 / $49.99, this is a slick new edition of one of the original Game & Watch console designs, complete with stunning gold and burgundy colour scheme, and a modern LCD colour screen for that 21st-century spin. Small enough to fit in your pocket, it also features a rechargeable battery, and USB-C charging - just like the Switch - meaning you can take this limited edition Game & Watch wherever you go.
Another nice touch for this modern twist on Nintendo's classic console is its snazzy new digital clock, letting your special edition Game & Watch further earn pride of place on your desk or bedside table. Keep a close eye on it though, as you'll notice there are some guest appearances from Mario, and other iconic characters. In fact, there are 35 Easter eggs to discover if you watch closely enough.
However, if you want to bag yourself one, you'll need to be quick. This is a Limited Edition Game & Watch released specifically to celebrate Mario's big 35th birthday, so make sure to get your order in now while stock lasts!
The Limited Edition Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. edition is available from October 13th from selected retailers. Find out more here.
