Category Archives: Atari (Hidden Gems)

Atari Games & Hidden Gems

Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro – Which is BETTER?

I’m comparing the new Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro. Two very different systems but yet both are pretty cool in their own right!
Atari 2600+: https://atari.com
Atari GameStation Pro: https://amzn.to/3NsqUz2 (affiliate link)

Atari holds an iconic status in gaming history, particularly due to its foundational role in popularizing home gaming consoles. The release of the Atari 2600 in 1977 marked a monumental shift, bringing gaming from arcade halls into households worldwide. This console introduced a range of games, from the simple yet addictive “Pong” to the diverse library that included “Space Invaders,” “Pac-Man,” and “Asteroids.” Its accessible design and innovative use of interchangeable cartridges revolutionized how people engaged with games, laying the groundwork for the modern gaming industry.

Moreover, the Atari era cultivated an entire generation’s love for gaming, shaping the very essence of what we now understand as gaming culture. It wasn’t merely about entertainment; it was a transformative social experience. Friends and families gathered around TVs, engrossed in these pixelated worlds, fostering a communal bond through shared gaming experiences. The success and impact of Atari transcended its time, serving as a cornerstone that paved the way for subsequent gaming consoles and influencing game design, technology, and the burgeoning gaming community that continues to thrive today.

** DISCLAIMER: Both of these Atari consoles were sent to me for review, but nobody reviewed the video and all of the opinions are my own **

My Atari 2600 Game Collection (161 Games: Uncommon, $$$ & Hidden Gems)

Here is my entire Atari 2600 / VCS game collection. So many great games including popular, uncommon and expensive games plus hidden gems and more! The good news is most Atari games are dirt cheap under $10 and still a ton of fun to play! What are some of your best original Atari memories? Do you still have one?

The Atari 2600 holds a timeless appeal that transcends its original release in 1977. Its charm lies in its pioneering role in the home video game industry, fundamentally shaping the way we interacted with electronic entertainment. At the heart of its allure is its simplicity and accessibility. The console featured a joystick and a single-button controller, making it intuitive for players of all ages to pick up and enjoy. Its library of games, while limited by modern standards, offered a diverse range of experiences, from classic arcade adaptations like Space Invaders to imaginative titles like Adventure. This variety ensured that there was something for everyone, catering to different tastes and skill levels.

Furthermore, the Atari 2600 was a gateway to boundless imagination. Its pixelated graphics and bleeping sound effects ignited a sense of wonder and creativity, allowing players to envision grand adventures within the confines of their television screens. The concept of interchangeable cartridges was revolutionary, offering a level of customization and expansion that was previously unheard of in home entertainment. This not only extended the lifespan of the console but also fostered a sense of ownership and agency for players. Nostalgia also plays a significant role in its enduring appeal, as it evokes fond memories of a simpler time in gaming history, acting as a cherished relic for both seasoned enthusiasts and new generations curious about the roots of video game culture.

Sponsor: CLZ GAMES for cataloging your new and retro games. Check out Google or Apple app stores or https://www.collectorz.com for more info!

Complete 2600 Activision Collection – In the Box!

After years of slowly collecting for the 2600, I am happy to announce that I have finally completed a boxed Activision subset for the 2600. Many game vendors, fans, and people have helped me throughout the years complete this collection. Activision provided some of the best games for the 2600. What are your favorites? In a future video, I will show my favorites on the console with game play.

*NEW* ATARI LYNX Buying Guide + Screen Mod+ Favorite 12 Games

My buying guide for the Atari Lynx including the two models, my favorite 12 games and the updated screen mod that improves graphics and gameplay significantly.

BUY ATARI LYNX: http://goo.gl/nWSMKr (Affiliate)

GAMES SHOWN:
Scrapyard Dog
Blue Lightning
Xybots
Chip’s Challenge
Rygar
BattleWheels
California Games
S.T.U.N. Runner
Warbirds
Ms. Pac-man
Zarlor Mercenary
Todd’s Adventure in Slime World

ATARI LYNX SCREEN MOD INFO:
Email: order-lynx-lcd@online.de
Kits: https://console5.com/store/kits/lcd-kits.html

Atari Walkman Prototype – Ultimate 1980s Mashup!

This is the ultimate mashup of the Atari 2600 and Sony Walkman Professional! It’s a custom programmed FPGA circuit board enclosed in a 3D printed walkman-like device with working buttons, HDMI output and 100% compatibility with accessories and cartridges.

FEATURES:
HDMI video and audio output
Analog audio output
Perfect Atari 2600 core hardware implementation
Compact enclosure that resembles a Walkman
Uses standard size Atari 2600 game cartridges
Works with all Atari 2600 peripherals
Support for odd size Atari 2600 cartridges

Chris Brenner (creator): http://thehippiecampus.com/blog/
Andrew (graphic designer): http://rockhartclothing.com

Atari Walkman circuit board

Atari 2600 Walkman sticker

Thoughts on ATARIAGE HOMEBREW GAMES with Immortal John Hancock

William Morrow asks: Do you play any AtariAge homebrews, hacks, and or games reproductions? What is your opinion of these games? The Immortal John Hancock helps me answer this question by showing you some of his amazing boxed AtariAge 2600 and 7800 games!

https://www.atariage.com/store/

Games shown:
Atari 2600

Space Rocks
Halo 2600
Boulder Dash
Princess Rescue
Zippy the Porcupine
Starcastle
IXION
Turbo

Atari 7800

Dungeon Stalker
K.C. Munchkin!
Frenzy / Berzerk
Armor Attack II