You’re not alone if you’ve ever found yourself humming along to 8-bit tunes or reminiscing about the thrill of popping quarters into arcade machines. The charm of retro gaming has a magnetic pull that invites players of all ages to relive the joy of classic video games. Whether you spent your childhood conquering levels on home consoles or mastering arcade classics, there’s a resurgence of retro consoles designed to rekindle those nostalgic feelings. Here is a roundup of some of the best retro gaming consoles available, complete with reviews and recommendations tailored for every type of gamer.
Best Overall: Evercade VS
For anyone looking to immerse themselves in classic gaming, the Evercade VS is a standout choice. This console, with its sleek, minimalist design reminiscent of the 1980s, offers an impressive library of over 260 officially licensed games from legendary publishers like Atari and Data East. What’s more, the games are neatly organized into collections sold on $20 cartridges, making it a breeze to curate your gaming library.
While the controllers evoke fond memories of the NES design, they might not be the most comfortable for extended play sessions. Luckily, the Evercade VS supports third-party controllers and accommodates up to four players, making it ideal for multiplayer gaming. With smooth performance, save options, and display settings that mimic the original look of the games, this console is an excellent pick for anyone wanting to revisit the classics. The latest iteration, the VS-R, comes with the first three Tomb Raider games, adding even more value to an already impressive package.
For Cartridge Collectors: Polymega
If you have a collection of old cartridges, the Polymega could be the perfect solution for you. This modular console is designed to handle cartridges from various classic systems, including the NES, SNES, and Genesis. Its standout feature is the ability to play original games, providing an authentic experience for collectors.
While it comes with a handful of preinstalled titles, the PPolymega’strue appeal lies in its compatibility with your existing game library. Its excellent emulation capabilities and save options make it an attractive choice for enthusiasts looking to preserve their collections. However, keep in mind that it comes at a premium price, and shipping times can be longer than expected.
Best Handheld: Evercade EXP
For gamers on the go, the Evercade EXP is a fantastic handheld option. This upgraded device, building on the success of its predecessor, features a sharp 4.3-inch IPS screen and supports a diverse range of classic games. With USB-C charging and a TATE mode for vertical shooters, it caters to a wide range of gaming preferences. However, some users have noted that the build quality could be better.
The Evercade EXP also connects to your TV, offering smooth gameplay and save functionality. Cartridges cost around $20 and are accompanied by informative booklets, making this handheld console perfect for both casual and dedicated gamers.
For Atari Fans: Atari 2600+
The Atari 2600+ serves as a delightful homage to one of the most iconic consoles in gaming history. This mini version retains the retro aesthetic, featuring 10 built-in games that will transport you back to simpler times. It also allows you to play your original Atari cartridges, though some may not be compatible.
While the nostalgia factor is high, newer players might find the games dated and less engaging than modern titles. For collectors and Atari enthusiasts, this console is a charming way to experience the legacy of early gaming, but it might not captivate everyone.
For Game Boy Fans: Analogue Pocket
If you still have your Game Boy cartridges tucked away, the Analogue Pocket is the handheld console you’ve been waiting for. This beautifully designed device plays Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games, all while offering a stunning 3.5-inch high-resolution display that far exceeds the original’s capabilities.
With over seven hours of battery life and a user-friendly interface, the Analogue Pocket is perfect for long gaming sessions. However, due to high demand, be prepared for potential delays when ordering.
For Sega Fans: Sega Genesis Mini
The Sega Genesis Mini is a remarkable mini console that delivers a true-to-life experience for Sega fans. It offers an authentic blast from the past with a design that mirrors the original console and a library of 42 classic games—including favorites like Sonic the Hedgehog and Golden Axe.
Its compact size and comfortable wireless controller option make it a must-have for any gaming enthusiast. The special edition Sega Genesis Mini 2 expands the library further, providing even more reasons to dive back into this nostalgic world.
For Arcade Lovers: Neo Geo Mini
For those who appreciate the arcade experience, the Neo Geo Mini offers a unique take on retro gaming. Emulating an arcade cabinet, this console comes equipped with a 3.4-inch screen and a joystick setup. It features 40 games, including beloved titles like Metal Slug and King of Fighters.
While the design may not be ideal for everyone, especially for extended play, the Neo Geo Mini makes for an excellent addition to any retro collection. It also allows for TV connectivity, making it a versatile option for arcade enthusiasts.
For Sony Fans: Sony PlayStation Classic
The Sony PlayStation Classic aims to capture the spirit of the original PlayStation, though it falls short in some areas. While it includes 20 classic titles like Final Fantasy VII and Tekken 3, the lack of wireless controllers and issues with emulation quality can detract from the experience.
Despite its shortcomings, the PlayStation Classic is a nostalgic reminder of the console’s impactful legacy, making it a worthy conversation piece for any gaming collection.
Honorable Mentions
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Among other notable retro consoles, the NES Classic Mini and SNES Classic Mini are both beloved but discontinued, often fetching inflated prices in resale markets. For Sega fans, the Analogue Mega SG allows for authentic gameplay with original cartridges. However, it comes at a higher price.
For PC gamers, emulation software like RetroArch provides a wealth of options for revisiting classic titles across multiple systems. Though not strictly a retro console, the Panic Playdate offers quirky, creative gameplay that channels a nostalgic feel, complete with a hand-crank feature for added fun. What’s even cooler is it includes a season of 24 original games that are constantly changing.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a nostalgic gamer, or someone new to the world of retro gaming, there’s a console perfectly suited for your needs. From the versatile Evercade VS to the sleek Analogue Pocket, these systems allow you to rediscover the magic of classic games. So, dust off those old cartridges or embrace the updated versions of your favorites, and prepare to embark on a nostalgic journey back to gaming’s golden age!