TechGamingGaming ConsolesI played Atari 2600 plus and just 10 seconds proved it’s not a games console, it’s a time machineThe Atari 2600+ reissue took me back to my childhood instantlyWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
TechGamingGaming ConsolesI played Atari 2600 plus and just 10 seconds proved it’s not a games console, it’s a time machineThe Atari 2600+ reissue took me back to my childhood instantlyWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
The Atari 2600+ reissue took me back to my childhood instantly
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Rik Henderson / Future)
(Image credit: Rik Henderson / Future)
One of the best products to be unveiled atGamescom 2023isn’t actually a game at all – it’s a reimagined console. However, my first impressions of it were possibly as impactful as if I’d seenGrand Theft Auto 6running on a Steam Deck 2
(Image credit: Rik Henderson / Future)
(Image credit: Rik Henderson / Future)
The new model evokes fond memories, therefore, and more so than most “mini” games console re-releases of recent times. That’s because, while it is 80% smaller than the original, the forthcoming Atari 2600+ is no locked device running pre-installed, emulated games. It plays the exact same cartridges I coveted as a kid.
There are a few updates for the modern world, of course (hence the “plus” in the name). It outputs video via HDMI for connection to today’s TVs. And, there is a USB-C output for good measure. However, the controllers are identical to the original (you get one included in the box), even to the extent that they can be plugged into the port on an original machine. You can also add authentically recreated paddle controllers that are sold separately.
Alternatively, you can even play using original 70s and 80s joysticks, if you can find some where the rubber exterior hasn’t perished. And almost all second-hand Atari VCS / 2600 games will work too – there’s only a small handful that aren’t yet compatible.
(Image credit: Rik Henderson / Future)
(Image credit: Rik Henderson / Future)
To get you started, the Atari 2600+ comes with a new cartridge of 10 games, although even that is authentically designed. You choose each game through dip switches in the rear of the cartridge rather than an on screen menu.
You’ll soon find yourself hunting down further games, even newly-created ones like Mr Run and Jump (the game I played in my Gamescom demo).
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Either way, the new Atari 2600+ is a slice of nostalgia that is so close to the original that it will hopefully bring you as much joy as it did me. I advise also popping Showaddywaddy on the record player and a Fray Bentos steak and kidney pie in the oven, just to get the full effect.
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