From trying to move your paddles along the screen in Pong to now seeing an entirely new world using VR headsets, the leap video games have taken in the last 50 years has been astronomical.
While playing the newer games on the high-tech consoles is a lot of fun, there’s just something special about the originals.
That’s where the Atari 2600+ comes in as the throwback we didn’t know we needed.
Developed as the modern-day equivalent of the original Atari gaming console, this is the retro, nostalgia-loving gaming device every player will want to get their hands on and the good news is it’s currently on sale for $149.95.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
Atari 2600+
What is the Atari 2600+?
The Atari 2600+ is the updated version of the 4-switch Atari 2600. It was released in 2023 with all the modern updates needed to work with current technology while retaining its classic design.
This version is 20 per cent smaller than the original but has a larger cartridge socket to prevent sticking – an issue all old-school gamers can remember.
The biggest update comes with the addition of an HDMI port with widescreen mode. This will let you use your Atari 2600+ on more modern TVs and utilise their improved graphics and high resolution. It also has a light-up Atari logo to add an extra bit of pizzaz.
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How can I play with the Atari 2600+?
You can play the Atari 2600+ just as you would the original console. It comes with the CX40+ Joystick with the same build and controls including the red fire button and directional ring. This controller is also compatible with original Atari console if you still have it stored away.
After setting up, you can get straight into play with a 10-in-1 game cartridge included with the console. It comes with some of the most classic games retro players will love:
- Video Pinball
- RealSports Volleyball
- Yars’ Revenge
- Adventure
- Haunted House
- Maze Craze
- Missle Command
- Dodge ‘Em
- Combat
- Surround
You can also purchase Bezerk which has been enhanced from the original with new diagonal firing. Atari has also released a new game for the 2600+ called Mr Run and Jump where the namesake character enters The Dark Realm to find his lost dog Leap.
For an even more nostalgic feeling, you can buy a four-game bundle pack with a twin paddle controller set included. This pack comes with Breakout, Video Olympics, Night Driver and Canyon Bomber to play on a single cartridge.
The CX78+ Gamepad Controller originally released with the Atari 7800 in 1987 has also been reimagined and can be purchased separately to complete the retro gaming setup.
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Can I play my original cartridge Atari games on it?
If you’re an old-school gamer who has hoarded your favourite cartridge games over the years or a nostalgia lover who has started collecting these old favourites – you’re in luck!
The Atari 2600+ has backwards compatibility for both the Atari 2600 and Atari 7800 games. This includes Pac-Man, Marios Bros, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, Asteroids, Q*Bert and more.
You can buy your Atari 2600+ console on sale on Amazon for 21 per cent off
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