Nintendo Entertainment System · Simulation
Elite
| System | Nintendo Entertainment System |
|---|---|
| Released | 1988 (originally 1984) |
| Genre | Simulation |
| Developer | Braben & Bell |
| Publisher | Imagineer |
| Players | 1 player |
| Commitment | Weekend project (Roughly 6–20 hours) |
| Series | Elite |
| Legacy | Well-known · legacy score 6 |
Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1988, Elite is a simulation game developed by Braben & Bell and published by Imagineer. This NES release is a port or adaptation of a game that first appeared in 1984.
It landed about 3 years into the NES's life. Other notable NES releases from 1988 include Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario Bros. 2 and Final Fantasy II. Among the 13 NES simulation games in our database, it ranks #1 by legacy score.
It is part of the Elite series. The series also appears on other systems with Elite (C64).
This is a solo experience: one player, no waiting on anyone else.
Pick it if…
- you want to think and plan
- you have time for a weekend project (roughly 6–20 hours)
Maybe skip it if…
- you want clear goals and a defined ending
- you are looking for something to play with friends
What playing Elite is like
Simulation games model a system and let you play inside it, whether that means building a city, flying a plane, raising a pet or running a business.
Tip for newcomers: Simulations are often open-ended. Set yourself small goals and enjoy experimenting with the systems.
Elite cheats & codes
15 codes on file (Other codes). Here are a few Other codes codes to start with:
| Disable Storage Limit | AEUXPALY |
|---|---|
| Infinite FS | SZVXVXSE |
| Infinite Missiles | SZOPYXVK |
| Infinite Energy | SXEXKXSE |
| Infinite Laser | SXVOAUSE |
| Infinite Shields | SXEZEXSE |
Elite walkthroughs & guides
Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for Elite.
If you like Elite, the Matrix also picks…
Stealth ATF Deep cut
Flight of the Intruder Deep cut
Silent Service Deep cut
Top Gun Deep cut
Star Trek: The Next Generation Deep cut
F-117A Stealth Fighter Deep cut
Playing NES games today
NES games are short on paper but often famously tough, so expect to replay levels and learn patterns. Many first-party titles are available through Nintendo Switch Online, original cartridges remain easy to find, and you can play backups of games you own in an emulator such as Rec0m88.
Elite FAQ
When did Elite come out on the NES?
Elite was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1988; the original game dates back to 1984.
Who made Elite?
It was developed by Braben & Bell and published by Imagineer.
Is Elite multiplayer?
No. Elite is a single-player game.
How long does Elite take to play?
As a simulation game, Elite typically falls into the "Weekend project" category: roughly 6–20 hours. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.
Read more about Elite on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.