The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (also known as the SNES) launched first in Japan in 1990. It was known as the Super Famicom in that region. The North American version would release a year later in 1991. This made 1992 the third or second year in its lifespan, respectively. The Super Nintendo had one of the longest lifespans in video game console history, and a huge impact on gaming globally. In fact, games were still being released for the system as late as the year 2000 in Japan.