If you are a fan of retro gaming and have fond memories of Atari products, the Atari 2600+ may be worth taking a closer look at. This modern reinvention brings the original hardware up to current standards with HDMI support, new cartridges, and even compatibility with the original cartridges from the 1980s.
Despite the somewhat crude visuals, the console’s games hold up surprisingly well, with simple controls and responsive inputs that make for enjoyable gaming experiences. Titles such as Video Pinball and Breakout remain a blast to play and are reminiscent of earlier gaming days.
However, the Atari 2600+ does have its flaws. The joystick controller that comes with the console is stiff and uncomfortable, and there are limited options for alternate controllers as the console does not have a USB port. Furthermore, the placement of the controller ports on the rear of the console can be somewhat awkward and inconvenient.
The Atari 2600+ is available for purchase and can be pre-ordered for $129.99 / £99.99. The base package includes the console, a CX40+ joystick, and a 10-in-1 game cartridge. Additional supported cartridges are also available for $29.99 / £24.99 each. The console and accessories can be purchased from the official Atari 2600+ store page or from retailers like Amazon.
Visually, the Atari 2600+ closely resembles the original model, with a front-facing wood grain panel and a rugged black plastic exterior. The console features four dip switches on the front, enabling power activation, color and monochrome display options, and game resets and mode selections. At the rear of the console, there are ports for the included joystick and paddle controllers, a HDMI port, a USB-C port for power, and difficulty switches.
Despite its design issues, the Atari 2600+ presents an appealing retro gaming experience. The games run natively via cartridges and are compatible with existing 2600 cartridges. However, the visuals are simple and may not look particularly impressive on modern displays, and stretching the imagery across a HDMI-capable display may not be ideal.
While some frustrations may arise from the controller issues, playing classic titles like Berzerk and Breakout using the CX30 paddles is enjoyable. These titles provide a responsive and immersive experience, complete with charming sound effects. The overall design of the Atari 2600+ allows for an authentic and nostalgic gaming experience.
In conclusion, the Atari 2600+ offers a modern way to play classic titles, despite some challenges with the controller and limited visual appeal. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience cozy classic games within a more up-to-date gaming setup, making it a worthwhile investment for fans of retro gaming.
