8-bit consoles are video game systems that use an 8-bit microprocessor to process data. This technology allows for a limited range of colors and sound, resulting in simple graphics and audio. Popular examples include the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the Sega Master System, which were widely used in the 1980s and early 1990s. These consoles played a significant role in the gaming industry, introducing iconic games like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda. Their simplicity and charm have led to a lasting legacy, influencing modern gaming and inspiring retro-themed games and consoles today.