The NES Satellite is a multiplayer adaptor (multitap) accessory for the Nintendo Entertainment System designed by Rare Coin-It and produced by Nintendo.[1] It was released in North America in December 1989 at an MSRP of US$39.95;[2][3] it was also featured in the NES Sports Set console bundle, which retailed for $150.[4] The adapter was released in Sweden in February 1991 for 525 kr.[5]
Nintendo initially revealed the NES Satellite to journalists in June 1989;[6] it was mentioned in the July–August 1989 issue of Nintendo Power and previewed in the following September–October issue.[7][8] With select supporting games, the Satellite allows up to four controllers to input simultaneously on the NES.[9] It also acts as an infrared wireless range extender adaptor for all wired controllers, extending the usable range from 3 feet (for a standard controller) to 15 feet.[4] A small infrared receiver plugs into the two controller ports on the front of the NES. The main Satellite unit is powered by six C-cell batteries and must have a line of sight to the receiver. The unit has four controller ports which accommodate any type of wired NES controllers. The unit provides "Turbo" selectors for both the A and B buttons.[10]
A similar four-player adaptor called the NES Four Score was released a few months later in March 1990, although it does not allow wireless play.[3][11]
Games
These licensed games are compatible with the NES Satellite's four-player abilities.