Why everyone is obsessed with NES Classic

Nintendo of America executive Reggie Fils-Aime has often discussed how "software sells hardware." The right mix of games or content will help sell any device, including Wii Sports for Nintendo's Wii or Halo for the original Xbox.

In the case of NES Classic, which has become a hot holiday gift (and very difficult to find), it might be more about the hardware.

The concept of a "plug-and-play" console leveraging nostalgia isn't new, as Atari and Sega have shown nor have video game players struggled to access classic games on their consoles — or even their personal computers and mobile devices.

NES Classic is different. There's something special about seeing that console — regardless of its smaller size — sitting in front of your TV again, as if you've been transported to 1985. Plus, having all these games in one package for $60 seems like a steal, especially when you consider buying all these individually for newer platforms would probably cost much more.

The device is much smaller than the original Nintendo Entertainment System but features modern touches such as an HDMI port and USB adapter. You still get the old-school NES controller. No, you can't open the front of the console as you would the original to insert cartridges.

Once the NES Classic is set up, players get 30 pre-installed games to choose from, including the first three Super Mario Bros. games, Donkey Kong, Galaga, Pac-Man, The Legend of Zelda and Tecmo Bowl.

The games look gorgeous using a HD display. Games are playable in three modes: 4:3 that gives games their original look on a more horizontal screen; CRT filter so you can play as if you're on an older set; or Pixel Perfect, which displays games as they were designed.

NES Classic appeals to players in the same way the original console did: a remarkable selection of simple-to-play games with straightforward controls. There are some drawbacks to the Classic, such as the super short cable for the controller. Another modern touch that would have been nice is the option to add more games to the device, whether it's from an online store or other platform.

The mini-console has been tough to purchase, since they seem to sell out quickly in stores and online, unless you want to spend much more than the $60 price tag on eBay. Once you get one in your hands, NES Classic is a wonderful trip back through the good old days of video games.

Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.