Atari 2600+: A Mini Console That Plays Games from 2600 and 7800 Series
Atari has partnered with Plaion to develop a new retro home console, following their previous unsuccessful attempt. The upcoming Atari 2600+ console pays tribute to the original Atari 2600, which brought joy to children during the disco era in 1977. However, this updated version is based on the four-switch model from 1980 and is capable of playing both Atari 2600 and 7800 games. It is important to note that buyers may need to search for physical cartridges, as the console only comes with a collection of 10 titles that do not include popular games like Pac-Man, Frogger, Space Invaders, and Pitfall!
The throwback console has been “lovingly recreated to the same specifications as the original,” although it’s only 80 percent the size. The “plus” features of the console are in the form of HDMI output and widescreen support. The company says that the system has an enlarged cartridge base, which reduces cartridge sticking. The Atari logo also lights up when the power is turned on.
The system includes a modern remake of the classic Atari CX40 joystick, the CX40+. Although it supports two players, only one stick is included. (You can order an extra one for $25.) The company says a CX-30 Paddle Controller remake is also on the way.
The system’s free games are bundled on a “10 Games in 1” cartridge, including Adventure, Combat, Dodge ‘Em, Haunted House, Maze Craze, Missile Command, RealSports Volleyball, Surround, Video Pinball and Yars’ Revenge. Atari published a complete list of compatible cartridges. Potential buyers may want to consider hunting down physical games (and possibly paying a premium for some) as part of the journey.
If the whole affair sounds familiar, it’s because the classic video game maker released the long-delayed Atari VCS just over two years ago. However, consumer interest in this model seemed to fall off a cliff after the initial excitement, and the company discontinued the retro console and reorganized its hardware business while looking at a “new commercial strategy”. We can only assume we’ll see the fruit of that today when it partners with Plaion.
The Atari 2600+ will be released worldwide on November 17 for $130. (An optional second joystick adds another $25 to that.) Starting today, the latest mini-retro system is available for pre-order on Atari’s website.
