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NES Classic and SNES Classic back in stores on June 29

The second half of 2018 is a new chance to grab a piece of Nintendo history.

Mark Serrels Editorial Director
Mark Serrels is an award-winning Senior Editorial Director focused on all things culture. He covers TV, movies, anime, video games and whatever weird things are happening on the internet. He especially likes to write about the hardships of being a parent in the age of memes, Minecraft and Fortnite. Definitely don't follow him on Twitter.
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Mark Serrels
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The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Classic was a huge hit because it looked like the original NES and had some of its most popular games.

 Josh Miller/CNET

We've known since last year that Nintendo was planning to bring back the  NES Classic Edition  -- and now we have a date. The delightful retro console will return to US store shelves on June 29, according to a tweet from Nintendo of America. 

The NES Classic and its 2017 sequel the SNES Classic are both "expected to be available through the end of the year," according to the message from Nintendo's official account. 

The NES Classic was initially released in November 2016 and was a dramatic success. It comes with classic games like Metroid, Super Mario Bros. 3 and The Legend of Zelda. Later, Nintendo launched the SNES Classic, its 16-bit equivalent. Both have been in demand since their release and Nintendo has struggled to keep up. Other manufacturers like Neo Geo have jumped on the trend in the interim. A Sega Genesis Mini is set for release later this year.

The big question, of course, is whether or not there will be enough inventory on both Nintendo retro consoles to fill demand. 

Nintendo NES Classic Edition is like Marty McFly: 80s and adorable

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A Nintendo spokesperson didn't provide specific numbers, but went on to say: "Our goal in bringing back the Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition system is for everybody who wants one to have an opportunity to purchase one. Similarly, production of the Super NES Classic Edition system was extended beyond the end of 2017 to give consumers ample opportunities to get one."

So: fingers crossed that there will be enough to go around.

The same spokesperson confirmed that both mini consoles will retain their original retail price: The NES Classic still costs $60, while the SNES Classic is still $80.

Watch this: SNES Classic Edition is as awesome as you remember

Originally published May 13 at 6:46 p.m. PT
Update, May 14 at 1:58 p.m. PT: Added information from Nintendo. The price of the NES Classic has also been corrected: It's still $60, while the SNES Classic is $80.

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