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- Glossary of frequently used terms
Listed below you will see the definitions of frequently used terminology used in our industry. We have tried to explain everything the easiest we can. Most of the terms are industry standard; however, we have listed some of our own terminology and definitions to better help when browsing our website.
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8-bit
The 8-bit era of video gaming commenced in the mid-1970s and continued until the late 1980s. This period was marked by rudimentary graphics and audio, a restricted color palette, and straightforward gameplay mechanics. The most prominent console from this time was the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), which launched legendary titles like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda.
16-bit
The 16-bit era of video gaming commenced in the late 1980s and continued until the mid-1990s. This period was marked by advancements in graphics and audio, a broader color palette, and more intricate gameplay mechanics. A standout console from this time was the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), which brought forth iconic titles like Super Mario World and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.
32-Bit
The 32-bit era of video games started in the mid-1990s and lasted until the early 2000s. It was characterized by even better graphics and sound, more colors, and more complex gameplay mechanics. The most notable console of this era was the Sony PlayStation, which introduced revolutionary games such as Final Fantasy VII and Metal Gear Solid.
64-Bit
The 64-bit era in video gaming commenced in the mid-1990s and continued until the mid-2000s. This period was marked by sophisticated 3D graphics, realistic audio, and intricate gameplay mechanics. The most prominent console from this era was the Nintendo 64, which launched innovative titles such as Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
Another notable console from the 64-bit era was the Atari Jaguar, which was introduced to the market in 1993. Although it was promoted as the first 64-bit console, its actual performance and capabilities were often questioned by both gamers and industry experts at the time.
128-Bit
The 128-bit gaming era, which commenced in the late 1990s and extended into the early 2000s, represented a remarkable advancement in both graphical fidelity and processing capabilities. This period signified a pivotal shift from 2D to 3D gaming, alongside the emergence of more intricate and immersive game environments.
Three primary consoles dominated this era: the Sega Dreamcast, Sony PlayStation 2, and Nintendo GameCube. The Dreamcast was the first to be released during this period, and although its market presence was brief, it was groundbreaking in several respects. It pioneered online gaming, which gained widespread acceptance at the time, and delivered graphics and sound quality comparable to arcade standards.
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Chinese
Refers to the game or manuals either being in Chinese or translated into Chinese. Also referred to as Traditional Chinese.
Co-OP
Any game mode where players work together towards a common goal, can be against other players or non-player enemies. Usually played at the same time.
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English
Refers to the game either being in English or translated into English.
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LAN
LAN means Local Area Network and is a party where players gather and bring their consoles or computers to a certain area and connect to the internet to play. This type of gathering is designed for playing multiplayer games while being together in person. The consoles or computers are connected to one another through a router/hub/switch. Sometimes depending on the size of the LAN party, there can be thousands of consoles or computers connected.
Local
A game mode where multiple players can play together, either working together or against each other, but specifically on the same system. Usually played at the same time.
M
Multiplayer
Any game mode where multiple players can play together, either working together or against each other. Usually played at the same time. (See also Multiplayer – Turn Based)
Multiplayer - Turn Based
Refers to a multiplayer game, but requires the players to take turns playing. Not played at the same time.
N
Nintendo Entertainment System
O
Online
This term pertains to being connected to the internet, either via a wireless connection or through an Ethernet cable. It is important to note that the Retro Game Box (RGB) models we offer does not require an online connection. Our flagship model is equipped with Microsoft Windows 11, allowing users to browse the internet, check emails, and engage in online gaming. However, for optimal use of the included game library, it is strongly recommended to avoid internet connectivity during gaming sessions. This precaution is advised to prevent any potential updates or misconfigurations. Users should proceed with caution, as encountering such issues may require returning the unit to us for proper reconfiguration.
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Information and Source(s):
Information provided by: Retro Games Box (RGB). The information presented above is provided for your reference; however, Retro Game Box (RGB) takes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content on this website.
Should any of the information provided above be incorrect, we kindly ask you to contact us with the accurate details and the corresponding source(s). The information presented was deemed correct at the time of publishing or updating this page, which is indicated below.
We aim to include all retail versions of each image, although there are times when the artwork has been reconstructed. If anyone has higher quality or additional images, manuals, or music than what is provided above, please feel free to contact us with the information and source(s).
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Original: March 8, 2025 6:57 PM Mountain Standard Time (MST)(UTC-7)
Revised: June 27, 2025 7:34 PM Mountain Standard Time (MST)(UTC-7)
Author:
Wrecks
Founder | Admin | Contributor | Gamer
