In 2021, Atari introduced the Atari VCS, a unique blend of a gaming console and a PC, designed to play both classic Atari titles and contemporary games. This versatile device also supports game and video streaming, internet browsing, and other typical PC functions, all thanks to its Linux-based operating system. The Atari VCS stands out with its open M.2 SSD slot, upgradable RAM, and compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows. While it remains a niche product, it offers a nostalgic yet flexible experience for Atari fans and hardware tinkerers alike.
If you're intrigued by this console, you can now get the Atari VCS All-In Bundle at Amazon for just $200, marking a 50% discount from its original $400 price. This is the lowest price ever recorded on Amazon, where the VCS usually sells for around $300. The bundle includes the console, a classic joystick wireless controller, and a modern-style wireless controller. Out of the box, the Atari VCS runs on the Linux-based Atari OS, which comes with 100 pre-installed Atari games and supports the Antstream retro gaming cloud streaming service. Additionally, it can stream games from Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, Luna, and other services. The Atari OS also supports video streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, Plex, Twitch, and YouTube, along with the Chrome web browser.
The Atari VCS is powered by an AMD chipset capable of handling decent game performance, particularly for retro games and indie titles. For those looking to enhance its functionality, the console can run Windows, Linux Debian, and other custom operating systems via a thumb drive. Atari offers a preconfigured Linux flash drive for $30. Users can expand the console's 32GB flash storage using external USB drives or the open M.2 SSD slot. The VCS comes with 8GB of RAM (two 4GB sticks), which can be upgraded up to 32GB. The All-In bundle includes a wireless joystick controller modeled after the classic Atari paddles, and a standard wireless controller resembling an Xbox controller. For multiplayer gaming, additional controllers can be purchased for $40 each from Amazon.
In addition to the Atari VCS, Atari has released other official hardware recently. The Super Pocket Atari Edition from Evercade, featuring 50 pre-loaded Atari games and a GameBoy-like design, is another notable release. It supports Evercade game cartridges and was initially priced at $60, though it is currently sold out on the US Amazon site, with import options available for $65. For budget-conscious Atari enthusiasts, the Atari Game Station Pro from My Arcade offers 200 pre-installed Atari games from the 2600, 5200, and 7800 libraries, along with two wireless joysticks. It is available for $70 at Amazon, down from $100, or as a renewed model for $43 (normally $69).
For those seeking a more traditional Atari experience with modern conveniences, the Atari 2600+ and the upcoming Atari 7800+ offer HDMI support, USB charging, and the ability to play original 2600 and 7800 games. Both consoles come with unique bonus carts: the 2600+ includes a 10-in-1 cart, while the 7800+ features an all-new game, Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest. Additionally, several classic Atari 2600 and 7800 games are being reissued alongside new cartridge-based Atari games.
Source link: https://www.gamespot.com
