Quick answer
The NES Works 1987 hardcover is a strong pick if you want a deep, year-by-year look at the NES library during its breakout year, but it's not a general history of the console.
What makes this book different
Unlike broad console histories, NES Works 1987 focuses on a single pivotal year. It covers the games released in North America during 1987, when the NES went from a risky novelty to a retail powerhouse. Each game gets a detailed entry with development context, release data, and critical analysis.
Trade-offs to consider
The single-year focus is the book's strength and its limitation. If you want coverage of 1985-1986 or later years, you'll need separate volumes. The hardcover format and full-color presentation make it a quality shelf piece, but the price reflects that production value.
Decision rules for NES Works 1987
- You want a game-by-game reference: If you enjoy reading about individual NES titles with historical notes, screenshots, and developer stories, this book delivers that format for every 1987 release.
- You already own the 1985-86 volume: This is a natural next purchase to continue the series chronologically. The two books share the same format and design language. Check your collection for NES Works 1985-86 before ordering.
- You want a broad NES history: A single-year deep dive won't cover the console's full lifespan. Consider a general NES encyclopedia or retrospective instead. This book is specialized, not comprehensive.
- Budget is a concern: The hardcover is priced at $23.99 (catalog comparison price $39.99), offering a discount off the suggested retail. It's a reasonable price for a premium-bound reference book.
Product facts
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NES Works 1987 (Hardcover): When the Nintendo Entertainment System made its American debut in late 1985, the very notion of console games had become anathema to buyers and managers. Two years later, those naysayers had been silenced as the NES became a dominant force. This context sets up why 1987 is the year the NES library exploded in quality and quantity, making a dedicated volume worthwhile for serious collectors.
NES Works 1987 (Hardcover)
Who should buy this
Best for
- Collectors who want a detailed, year-specific reference for the NES library
- Fans of the NES Works series who already own the 1985-86 volume
Not for
- Readers seeking a general overview of the NES or its entire game library
- Budget-conscious shoppers who prefer a single book covering multiple years
