Update: I have a small correction to my review. The Dragonfly Multicart does indeed work with this. Since it works differently than other multicarts, it does indeed work. I got some misinformation and stand corrected. I ended up testing this myself to confirm this.
@@Rabbitlord108 I saw another review on the 2600+ where the person was doing exactly that. Although I've heard the 2600+ needs a 1A output rated power supply and I think many TV's USB ports only provide about half of that, but you would need to check the specs on your TV to verify this.
Wow! Your unboxing took me back to 1981 when I found a 2600 under the Christmas tree. To date, its the best Christmas I ever received, and i still get chills whenever I take out my console and fire her up!
I have an original Heavy Sixer which I purchased off of Ebay earlier this year and with the 80’s being my generation I absolutely adore it!! I have honestly wanted one for years, have a couple different version’s of the flashback’s but the original Heavy Sixer I cherish!!! ❤️
Not having a power brick is like buying a pair of shoes without shoe laces. What if Nike said you have laces laying around and we don't need to provide them .
That's a little dramatic, but understand the point. If these companies are saving that $1-$5 per clean-power brick, and saying that it's all in the name of the environment and to save on fuel, then pass it on to us. Don't just keep the money. (Thanks Apple)
The major upside is that they designed the plug and play console with updates in mind so they can address emulation issues with games at an eventual point in time. Aside from that, the only minor issue is that the console is smaller than the original, though that isn't enough to put me off from buying one next year. I own original 2600 controllers and cartridges and plan to buy a few homebrew titles. I'm also amazed that they're allowing, and possibly in-house developing after-market games for the 2600 system. Very impressed because they have ironed out most of the issues so far.
It has no USB connectors only DB9 connectors so how would you update it? It only has the USB for power, you would have to have a OTG cable to do it from that connector, if so then it would of come with one, I am guessing the power connector is the OTG connector, cause they need away of flashing the firmware on to its nand on its pcb board so will always have a way in to it, on THEC64 the OTG connector is the USB port on the back of it next to its HDMI port. Unless its can download updates via the internet and connect it to your WIFI, Koch Media's Capcom Home Arcade could do that and the Atari 2600 Plus was made by Koch Media too. RM made the hardware and Atari made its firmware that runs on Linux, like THEC64, RM made the hardware and RGL made its firmware, its the same logic, Atari do not make hardware, they never have, ATGames made the other Atari Flashback consoles with Atari IP, Atari were mainly a publisher for games, well they were when they were Infogrames and Atari Interactive was GT interactive, remember them, I know everything about Atari and its history and where they come from, because its important where companies come from and what happened to them, like Commodore, the old Atari company dies in 1998, Atari now has no connection to it or to Jack Tramiel's Atari, its a completely different company, it all on Wikipedia.... :)
I think a rule when it comes to compatibility right now is if it uses any non standard chips such as CBS's Ram plus, the additional memory on the supercharger or the music and mapper on Pitfall 2. Should be considered incompatible for now. Since it's just dumping the rom image
Glad they sent this to you for review. Its odd that there is such a long loading screen being the games are so small. Its great that some of those homebrew are loading too. Overall it seems with a few improvements it could be worth it for the right people.
Probably loading the kernel and emulator before dumping the game. It uses an off the shelf rockchip chipset so probably some stripped down Linux variant.
Last year, I've got myself the Atari 2600+ and at first Breakout worked completely fine, but as months past, the controls went bad for some reason. The paddle twitches each time I steer the paddle controller left or right. It might be either the game's fault or the console's fault. One thing's for sure, there's nothing wrong with the paddle controllers as I tested them on my Atari Flashback 8 Gold. The other games seem to be working fine so far. So, if you want to experience some Atari classic games, I would check the Atari 50 game for Nintendo Switch and multiple other consoles.
It’s good to see that Atari have updated their compatibility list - a number of games that were previously untested are now listed at “pass” - including a number of the multicart titles such as Activision Super Hit Pak & Rad Action Pak - which I did not think would be possible with the 2600+
Thanks for the review. I'm impressed by what I see already, and the fact that future updates will offer more support is a big plus. I have a rather large 2600 collection, and only a dozen or so 7800 cartridges. I've never owned a 7800, so the only way I've played its games are through emulation on my PC, so I look forward to dusting off the cartridges and actually playing them.
Some of the emulation glitches can occur depending on how the calculations for things getting displayed were done with the old CRT TVs. We appreciate all of your work! Having 7800 support is great.
I'm an old geezer of 66, as long as I can play Space Invaders, Galaxian, Asteroids, Pacman, Demon and Phoenix I'll be a happy bunny! (Wife's bought me this for Chrimbo so no play till then!) 😢
Nice, well balanced video review. Let's hope the update arrives swiftly and addresses the major issues. Still, I'm looking forward to receiving my unit this week.
I almost bought this three times already and every time I stop myself because in reality am I gonna play these games I may try them but the reality is just something that’s going to sit on the shelf like everything else. I’m finally using good self-control.
9/10 for me. Only disappointing thing is no power brick. I don’t really care at all about the homebrew stuff so not bothered by it. Would it have been nice to have it at launch? I guess. But if 99% of 2600 & 7800 games are working, just how many games can you play and still be disappointed?
Great, honest review! Agreed homebrew support needs to be there. I'm glad to see the compatibility for old and new paddles. The fact that track balls works is excellent! This is on my radar for sure as I like to have options!
Originally, Missile Command didn't have trackball support, it just worked like a joystick: move in direction it goes that way at a constant speed. I heard they set up the game on the computers so it would work when it eventually came out. That is, move the ball fast, your cursor goes in the direction quickly; move it slow it goes slowly. I'm guessing Millipede lets it work as a trackball?
I appreciate the review! I'm seriously considering getting one of these! I should also get my Atari 5200 out and see if it still works. I know the controllers were having issues with the side buttons.
Thank you for the excellent review John. I have to say that I've not been this excited for a "mini" console since they announced the original NES Mini. Shane about some of the support, especially Rampage, but hoping an update or 2 will sort it out.
On HD TV's most of them have a USB slot on the back, which is enough power to plug the console straight into, bypassing an extra outlet and a usb adapter plug.
I will decide that myself, i was still young when i first played Atari back in the 90's. It always depends on the price and if the one who you will give it to will appreciate it
Been waiting for this review and just as usual, Mr Hancock delivers!! My prediction is that they might have a heavy sixer in the future as a special edition. I will probably get myself one. The pros really outweigh the cons for me. But I agree, that they should push out an update soon and fix these issues. Thank you John for all you do. God bless you and your family ❤❤
I think its cool to be able to find a new console (albeit emulation) that can play Atari cartridges off the shelf. I hope it can play PAL (with the correct colours) and NTSC games. And although its a shame it doesn't come with a power supply, it is good news that the controller is pretty solid. Which might be a good replacement for original controllers if it works with original hardware as well!
Hmmm sticking with my Retron 77 until they clean up the 7800 side. The good thing about the retron 77 is that you can side load roms so if a cart won't dump correctly you can still play the game via rom. So Galagon and Draconian can at least be played some way. The Atari 2600+ is probably in a better staring point than the retron 77 was but at that price point they need to clean things up before I buy one.
@@johnhancockretro I am sure eventually there will be a way. Honestly, that is probably the best way to get 100% compatibility. My understanding is that it is running Stella 6.7 so it should run pretty much everything via rom. The 7800 compatibility will also improve somewhat with side loading. It is using the same emulator as Retroarch and that plays Rampage fine. It also does Bentley Bear's albeit without sound. There is a way to make this thing really kick ass if Atari follows through
I have to agree that the Retron 77 with the community firmware still looks like the way to go currently for cartridge-based 2600 gaming with HDMI output. Both can read physical Atari 2600 cartridges, but the Retron system has some of the creature comforts (such as playing games from files that the dumper itself can't read from cartridge) that even retrogamers expect from modern hardware. So while I've got the 2600+ ordered, I'll probably be playing the games on the Retron instead of on the 2600+. What I really wish this 2600+ would do is to save the rom dumps of the cartridges you put into it and populate a menu that would let you select a cartridge you've already played without having to put the cartridge back in again. That'd make it a game, to some extent, to "collect 'em all" ... and would make it less clumsy to actually play your game collection - especially if a lot of it is sitting on original cartridges from the 70s and 80s.
The cart dumper is better on the 2600+. However, Retron 77--especially with the updated firmware--is great for side-loading. If an update, or the community, adds side-loading to the 2600+, it'll easily have the edge. Wait, they need to get Rampage (7800) working! lol
Wow! If I didn't have an Xbox I would take the trip back to the 80s and get one! A time when a console didn't have to be connected to the internet. I would spend hours on this console. I know it came out in 1977 when I was 16, but I was able to afford it when I was 20, in 1981.
Its a nice device for what it is... I like that you can play 7800 games! I do agree about the power brick though. Be interesting to see how updates go on it.
I'm an Atarian, and this is a great review. I have a heavy sixer and atari flashback 3 and 7800. But my heart is in the 800 series. I've got the atari game station and 400 mini. Very impressed. got original 800/800XL and 65XE. You do make this very tempting. Its a shame it not FPGA.
Thank you for this update. This has been very helpful for navigating this new device. I am a little put off the 2600 isn’t coming in until the 24th but that is more a complaint of Amazon.
Majority of the population has multiple power bricks, especially avid gamers and retro console collectors. Also, most modern power strips and multi outlet adapters have built in USB charging on them.
I’m so excited for this thing. Atari was before my time but I’m ecstatic a company has finally released a continuing official way to play their legacy games. Wonder what new games we will see on here. Yars 2?
don't get me wrong, I also hate the lack of power brick. But the justification for that is so they can sell the exact same unit in NA, EU, Japan, etc. Usually only printed parts will be different (boxes, manuals). Again, at that price point it's annoying. But it's becoming more common for this reason.
You are correct. Nearly all of these new retro consoles have no power brick included so that it can be sold worldwide, as is. Even the other new Atari branded console, the GameStation Pro, has no power brick included.
I am disappointed that it can't play Champ Games. The majority of games I play today are modern homebrews. Nostalgia is fine but the new stuff is what keeps the system alive for me.
Defender, Pinball, Space Invaders, Asteroids, Ms PacMan, Demon Attack, Battlezone, Atlantis, Pitfall, Frogger, pole Position, Joust, River Attack, Dig Dug, and Centipede. Thats my top 15.
Impressive that they thought to include a cartridge port at last. Now I can finally play my original Atari games in HD! By the way, the no power brick thing is a cost cutting measure in two way. The brick itself, but most importantly, you get ONE unit to sell for the whole world. The differences in electric standards are irrelevant.
Excited to get a system that can finally play 7800 carts, although not having homebrew compatibility yet is disappointing. One homebrew I really wanted to try was Crystal Quest.
@@R3TR0R4V3 - Agreed! I always go with the original console hardware (and on a CRT TV!) when it comes to playing these old systems, nothing else comes close! Still on the hunt for a 7800 myself, it's one of the few consoles I'm still missing from my collection and only the real thing will do.
I have received yesterday 2600+ and tested, and i find why some games (not the games officially didn't work) seems don't work, you have to take firm the cart with your hand when you switch the On Button and load works, at start Pitfall 1 give failed but when i take firm with my hand it load and work, same on Road Runner and even sometimes on new Berzerk, i understand the place of the cart doesnt fit correctly and you have to try the not loading with stand firm with your hand. Thanks for the video and i try live these days on my channel if you want to see. Hope the suggestion help those who think games don't work😉
Im really tempted to try this out and start collecting 2600 and 7800 games. I've played atari games on many alternatives but it'd be nice to get something more official. I always had an itch to learn how to make games for the 7800 and honestly (if I had the time) id love to see if I could make something like Zelda 2 with FEZ camera rotation to make 3d towns and dungeons. Maybe in time. But I hope this gets the updates needed to run those homebrew games.
@@darkridearts Lots of patience will be needed, but im sure theres plenty of support online to learn its functions and quirks.. And thr few hiccups from me having brain farts no doubt haha.
Dissappointing that this 2600+ does not allow one to use a Harmony Cart. I enjoy my Harmony Cart on the Heavy Sixer I own so weird they would not make or allow that cart to work.
Great review John, I was hoping to see a review from you on this console! I’m suspect that the 7800 Game Drive may not work either on the Atari 2600+ but, would love to know
Atari 2600 was my first console around 88 if I recall correctly. The fun we had together. I was all alone but at least I had Pitfall, Pac-Man (where I saw/did my first bug) River Raid and Hero. I was happy and I had no idea.
Hey John, I know you mentioned that there was no power brick packed in. Is there one for the console that is sold separately? By the way, thanks for testing all of those games and peripherals and letting us know which ones work. Your efforts are appreciated. 🙂
Being so incompatible with some carts makes it less appealing over the retron 77, what I love about the Retron77 is the possibility to save the game, I use that a lot!
chatted with the developer at PRGE nice lad thanks for the review hmmm 2600 was my first console i do like the 7800 compatibilty but as some do they kinda cheap out which never feels satisfying..
Sounds like overall, it's a pretty solid system! I'm enjoying listening to Howard Scott Warshaw's audiobook called Once Apon Atari. What a life indeed!
I pre-ordered mine in August. I can't wait to get mine. I only have 2 games that are untested. They are Fun With Numbers and Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi: Death Star Battle. I'm glad I don't have Realsports Boxing. I hope that gets fixed in a later firmware update so I can buy it. I hope a firmware update fixes those games that don't work. Everything else I have will work. I have a big collection of Atari 2600 games in my house and I've been using my original Atari system and been wanting to mod it to RCA, but I can just forget that now.
Nice to see all the TH-camrs got their pre-orders. Even though I pre-ordered, they are not shipping mine until "early December." If I didn't pre-order, I could go on Amazon and get it tomorrow for the same price as Atari and NOT be charged shipping. Great job Atari. This is what I would exspect from KickScammers.
My preorder did not come until today, and I suspect many TH-camrs got media kits or review units early so that they could work on reviews for their channels. That’s how it has worked for a long time and even before TH-cam when magazines did reviews. Atari probably received an overwhelmingly large amount of preorders so they to do them in batches. Agree the communication could have been better.
Tunnel Runner not working is a huge bummer. By far one of the most intense atari games. Hopefully it will eventually get to work with a firmware update down the road? Just ordered one as a Christmas gift for my girlfriend. At least she will be happy Tunnel Runner doesn't work, she hates that game lol.
Would have been better if the switches where all on the front like the original, surprised it only has one controller, unlike the flash back that did but can use them any way. Would love to see the trakball released again and have any 2600 and 7800 versions of the same game on the one cartridge where you can select either version to play, using switches on the cartridge or in game select awesome.
I am considering the 2600+. I have about 40 carts (2600 and 7800) I wouldn't mind playing again. The biggest plus is it plays my 7800 games unlike other options. The only thing I wish they offered was a 2 button controller option for the 7800 games (either a 7800 controller reproduction or a version of the 2600 controller with 2 buttons)
John, thanks for testing everything, I appreciate the update about the Hyperkin Ranger and Trooper. and the Genesis controller workaround. I myself enjoy the ranger so I'm glad it works. The homebrew compatibility is to be expected but I'm sure either Atari or third party enthusiasts will help us hack/mod the console, they did with every other device, this should a challenge for them. So I'm hopeful, although I don't expect that melody/harmony board games or games with risc processors will ever work. However, I think there's a great opportunity by Atari to make 2600+ games that can target a few of these and the fact they own AtariAge means I'm hopeful about that happening. This thing is just too cool of a package for me to pass up, given that most of the games I care about (except Klax, damn I want 7800 klax and 7800 pac man collection (non-40th)) work. I would have raged if Defender II / Stargate didn't work, that's a killer game for 2600. Rampage 7800 wasn't that good anyway, the NES version is far better.
Thanks for this review. I have the CX-22 trak-ball instead of the CX-80 you have at 10:55 but I believe both have a switch you set to work with stock Missle Command, Millipede, etc (JS mode for joystick emulation). I was wondering if you have the true trak-ball third-party homebrew cartridges from Atariage and were able to make your CX-80 plugged and work in true TB mode on the Atari 2600+. Thanks again. Keep the great reviews coming.
A tiny nitpick, the lack of a scanline filter option. But hats off, Atari made this product. I'm not a cartridge collector myself, more a Commodore fan :) But I do have the Atari 2600 jr, the XEGS, 7800, and the Flashback X. I'm highly positive about any product releases, that helps extend the lifespan of retro gaming legacies. Thanks for a great review John, I was really looking forward to an Atari fan having a look :)
Better yet, why not provide a composite port that does 240p output in addition to the HDMI? If I had one of these, I'd want to hook it up to my CRT TV and get true scanlines! THAT little feature would make it feel like a real 2600! Even my Atari Flashback offers composite output in 240p.
Would like this in my collection. However $130 for a modern 2600 is crazy imo. Thanks for the review John. You going to do that Recharged ranking video?
I am getting this, should get it tomorrow, I have a 1977 VCS model with 30 cards, a Atari Flashback 9 and Atari50 Flashback consoles too, I have a lot of retro computers and consoles, I got them in the 90s when they were cheap and the companies wanted too sell them as quick as possible to get rid of them, a lot came from Car Boot Sells, now everything is on eBay and expensive, a game costs between £30 to £60 now even more... :( sellers do not make it easy to buy original games.
For a machine that costs over $100, I find it extremely disappointing that they settled for that very imperfect software-level emulation. The old Atari Flashback 2 from a couple of decades ago was actually a proper hardware clone of the 2600, guaranteeing accuracy and compatibility. The main problem with that one is you have to add a cartridge slot if you want to run cartridges on it... I really did want this new 2600+, until I saw that compatibility list.
This was great, John. I'm so happy you tested the compatibility list, homebrew games, and other features. You might have pushed me to pull the trigger on this 👍
Update: I have a small correction to my review. The Dragonfly Multicart does indeed work with this. Since it works differently than other multicarts, it does indeed work. I got some misinformation and stand corrected. I ended up testing this myself to confirm this.
Sadly Harmony multicart won’t work.
Wonder if Boulder Dash cartridge works or Plus WiFi cartridge.
@@thomashughes4326maybe it’s for Movember? Either way, I think it looks pretty badass.
Now can you check and see if this will take power from a USB port on a TV?
@@Rabbitlord108 I saw another review on the 2600+ where the person was doing exactly that. Although I've heard the 2600+ needs a 1A output rated power supply and I think many TV's USB ports only provide about half of that, but you would need to check the specs on your TV to verify this.
@@IvoryTowerCollections Okay. Thanks for letting me know.
Wow! Your unboxing took me back to 1981 when I found a 2600 under the Christmas tree. To date, its the best Christmas I ever received, and i still get chills whenever I take out my console and fire her up!
I have an original Heavy Sixer which I purchased off of Ebay earlier this year and with the 80’s being my generation I absolutely adore it!! I have honestly wanted one for years, have a couple different version’s of the flashback’s but the original Heavy Sixer I cherish!!! ❤️
Not having a power brick is like buying a pair of shoes without shoe laces. What if Nike said you have laces laying around and we don't need to provide them .
Don't give them any ideas.
@Rabbitlord108 yeah don't give them ideas!🤔
That's false equivalence.
That's a little dramatic, but understand the point. If these companies are saving that $1-$5 per clean-power brick, and saying that it's all in the name of the environment and to save on fuel, then pass it on to us. Don't just keep the money. (Thanks Apple)
@@mattb9664 tbh it's not even about saving money, it's about saving E-Waste. I've got drawers full of the things.
6:46 I'm heartened to see that not only was Custer's Revenge tested, but that it was given a pass. You're doing god's work, testers.
🤣🤣🤣
I actually used to have that when I was in Jr High. I hid it because I thought I'd get arrested. 😂
I got a 2600+ for Christmas, and I've started collecting atari now
The major upside is that they designed the plug and play console with updates in mind so they can address emulation issues with games at an eventual point in time. Aside from that, the only minor issue is that the console is smaller than the original, though that isn't enough to put me off from buying one next year. I own original 2600 controllers and cartridges and plan to buy a few homebrew titles. I'm also amazed that they're allowing, and possibly in-house developing after-market games for the 2600 system. Very impressed because they have ironed out most of the issues so far.
It has no USB connectors only DB9 connectors so how would you update it?
It only has the USB for power, you would have to have a OTG cable to do it from that connector, if so then it would of come with one, I am guessing the power connector is the OTG connector, cause they need away of flashing the firmware on to its nand on its pcb board so will always have a way in to it, on THEC64 the OTG connector is the USB port on the back of it next to its HDMI port.
Unless its can download updates via the internet and connect it to your WIFI, Koch Media's Capcom Home Arcade could do that and the Atari 2600 Plus was made by Koch Media too.
RM made the hardware and Atari made its firmware that runs on Linux, like THEC64, RM made the hardware and RGL made its firmware, its the same logic, Atari do not make hardware, they never have, ATGames made the other Atari Flashback consoles with Atari IP, Atari were mainly a publisher for games, well they were when they were Infogrames and Atari Interactive was GT interactive, remember them, I know everything about Atari and its history and where they come from, because its important where companies come from and what happened to them, like Commodore, the old Atari company dies in 1998, Atari now has no connection to it or to Jack Tramiel's Atari, its a completely different company, it all on Wikipedia.... :)
I think a rule when it comes to compatibility right now is if it uses any non standard chips such as CBS's Ram plus, the additional memory on the supercharger or the music and mapper on Pitfall 2. Should be considered incompatible for now. Since it's just dumping the rom image
Glad they sent this to you for review. Its odd that there is such a long loading screen being the games are so small. Its great that some of those homebrew are loading too. Overall it seems with a few improvements it could be worth it for the right people.
Booting up I guess
Probably loading the kernel and emulator before dumping the game. It uses an off the shelf rockchip chipset so probably some stripped down Linux variant.
Last year, I've got myself the Atari 2600+ and at first Breakout worked completely fine, but as months past, the controls went bad for some reason. The paddle twitches each time I steer the paddle controller left or right. It might be either the game's fault or the console's fault. One thing's for sure, there's nothing wrong with the paddle controllers as I tested them on my Atari Flashback 8 Gold. The other games seem to be working fine so far. So, if you want to experience some Atari classic games, I would check the Atari 50 game for Nintendo Switch and multiple other consoles.
I agree about the manual, but I actually kind of like the dip-switches! That really takes me back
My 2600+ has shipped. Had my Pitfall 2 cartridge ready to play, oh well. All the others I have are listed as working at least.
Almost a deal breaker for me. I was so ready to play Pitfall 2: the best Atari game EVER.
It’s good to see that Atari have updated their compatibility list - a number of games that were previously untested are now listed at “pass” - including a number of the multicart titles such as Activision Super Hit Pak & Rad Action Pak - which I did not think would be possible with the 2600+
I'm overjoyed to hear that the new controllers are well made. I definitely plan to grab a couple sticks and a paddle set.
Thanks for the review. I'm impressed by what I see already, and the fact that future updates will offer more support is a big plus.
I have a rather large 2600 collection, and only a dozen or so 7800 cartridges. I've never owned a 7800, so the only way I've played its games are through emulation on my PC, so I look forward to dusting off the cartridges and actually playing them.
Some of the emulation glitches can occur depending on how the calculations for things getting displayed were done with the old CRT TVs. We appreciate all of your work! Having 7800 support is great.
I'm an old geezer of 66, as long as I can play Space Invaders, Galaxian, Asteroids, Pacman, Demon and Phoenix I'll be a happy bunny! (Wife's bought me this for Chrimbo so no play till then!) 😢
Nice, well balanced video review. Let's hope the update arrives swiftly and addresses the major issues. Still, I'm looking forward to receiving my unit this week.
I always liked the Atari 7800 version of Asteroids. At the time when it came out I thought the graphics were such an improvement to the original.
Great vídeo! Im a big Atari fan! Greetings from Brazil 🇧🇷
I almost bought this three times already and every time I stop myself because in reality am I gonna play these games I may try them but the reality is just something that’s going to sit on the shelf like everything else. I’m finally using good self-control.
9/10 for me. Only disappointing thing is no power brick. I don’t really care at all about the homebrew stuff so not bothered by it. Would it have been nice to have it at launch? I guess. But if 99% of 2600 & 7800 games are working, just how many games can you play and still be disappointed?
I remember that it wasn't even called the 2600 at first; it was just the VCS
Great, honest review! Agreed homebrew support needs to be there. I'm glad to see the compatibility for old and new paddles. The fact that track balls works is excellent! This is on my radar for sure as I like to have options!
Especially since Atari bought Atari age which is one of the biggest sites for Atari homebrews
Idk about honest. The museum was a fucking lie.
Originally, Missile Command didn't have trackball support, it just worked like a joystick: move in direction it goes that way at a constant speed. I heard they set up the game on the computers so it would work when it eventually came out. That is, move the ball fast, your cursor goes in the direction quickly; move it slow it goes slowly. I'm guessing Millipede lets it work as a trackball?
Great thurough review my man! I just received mine, along with the paddle pack and Berzerk. Loving all the Atari products coming out as of late!
Thanks for the review John! Looking forward to getting mine in the mail. All the best to you and your family.
I appreciate the review! I'm seriously considering getting one of these! I should also get my Atari 5200 out and see if it still works. I know the controllers were having issues with the side buttons.
This should have been an FPGA to get 100% compatibility .
The “IMMORTAL” John Hancock just loooooves Atari!
Thank you for the excellent review John. I have to say that I've not been this excited for a "mini" console since they announced the original NES Mini. Shane about some of the support, especially Rampage, but hoping an update or 2 will sort it out.
On HD TV's most of them have a USB slot on the back, which is enough power to plug the console straight into, bypassing an extra outlet and a usb adapter plug.
Woohoo!!! I preordered. Can't wait to get mine!
I will decide that myself, i was still young when i first played Atari back in the 90's. It always depends on the price and if the one who you will give it to will appreciate it
Been waiting for this review and just as usual, Mr Hancock delivers!! My prediction is that they might have a heavy sixer in the future as a special edition. I will probably get myself one. The pros really outweigh the cons for me. But I agree, that they should push out an update soon and fix these issues. Thank you John for all you do. God bless you and your family ❤❤
That would be cool!
All that I wanna know is if whether or not the 10-in-1 cartridge that comes with the 2600+ will work on the original 2600.
Yes
Sweet!
I think its cool to be able to find a new console (albeit emulation) that can play Atari cartridges off the shelf. I hope it can play PAL (with the correct colours) and NTSC games. And although its a shame it doesn't come with a power supply, it is good news that the controller is pretty solid. Which might be a good replacement for original controllers if it works with original hardware as well!
Hmmm sticking with my Retron 77 until they clean up the 7800 side. The good thing about the retron 77 is that you can side load roms so if a cart won't dump correctly you can still play the game via rom. So Galagon and Draconian can at least be played some way. The Atari 2600+ is probably in a better staring point than the retron 77 was but at that price point they need to clean things up before I buy one.
And I wonder if games can be sideloaded to this? Maybe with update?
@@johnhancockretro I am sure eventually there will be a way. Honestly, that is probably the best way to get 100% compatibility. My understanding is that it is running Stella 6.7 so it should run pretty much everything via rom. The 7800 compatibility will also improve somewhat with side loading. It is using the same emulator as Retroarch and that plays Rampage fine. It also does Bentley Bear's albeit without sound. There is a way to make this thing really kick ass if Atari follows through
I have to agree that the Retron 77 with the community firmware still looks like the way to go currently for cartridge-based 2600 gaming with HDMI output. Both can read physical Atari 2600 cartridges, but the Retron system has some of the creature comforts (such as playing games from files that the dumper itself can't read from cartridge) that even retrogamers expect from modern hardware. So while I've got the 2600+ ordered, I'll probably be playing the games on the Retron instead of on the 2600+.
What I really wish this 2600+ would do is to save the rom dumps of the cartridges you put into it and populate a menu that would let you select a cartridge you've already played without having to put the cartridge back in again. That'd make it a game, to some extent, to "collect 'em all" ... and would make it less clumsy to actually play your game collection - especially if a lot of it is sitting on original cartridges from the 70s and 80s.
@@johnhancockretro If the console can receive an update via the USB C cable, then surely it can be exploited and sideloaded with roms
The cart dumper is better on the 2600+. However, Retron 77--especially with the updated firmware--is great for side-loading. If an update, or the community, adds side-loading to the 2600+, it'll easily have the edge. Wait, they need to get Rampage (7800) working! lol
Idk why people are complaining about lack of a power brick. Does no one have a usb-c phone charger? And you can buy a power brick for cheap nowadays.
Wow! If I didn't have an Xbox I would take the trip back to the 80s and get one! A time when a console didn't have to be connected to the internet. I would spend hours on this console. I know it came out in 1977 when I was 16, but I was able to afford it when I was 20, in 1981.
My father paid $201.00 for my Atari back in the early 80’s but mine came with 2 joysticks and a game!
Its a nice device for what it is... I like that you can play 7800 games! I do agree about the power brick though. Be interesting to see how updates go on it.
John Hancock taking it back Atari the beginnings of gaming blessed to see all from 1980-Now
Looks great. Can't wait to get ahold of mine. Thanks for the video, John.
Thank you for the review. Seems like the positives outweigh the negatives here - glad to hear it!
I'm an Atarian, and this is a great review. I have a heavy sixer and atari flashback 3 and 7800. But my heart is in the 800 series. I've got the atari game station and 400 mini.
Very impressed.
got original 800/800XL and 65XE.
You do make this very tempting.
Its a shame it not FPGA.
Thank you for this update. This has been very helpful for navigating this new device. I am a little put off the 2600 isn’t coming in until the 24th but that is more a complaint of Amazon.
digging that hat!
This is exciting, I've had mine on preorder for awhile now!
Another game that doesnt work is the mnetwork bump n jump. It is a bankswitching issue apparently but the telegames version does work
I kind of like the cart with the dip switches. It makes it feel retro.
Majority of the population has multiple power bricks, especially avid gamers and retro console collectors. Also, most modern power strips and multi outlet adapters have built in USB charging on them.
Lack of power brick is so puzzling. The dip-switches are a fun throwback that will certainly puzzle some people
Fcc or gov reg I think no phones come with them
I have at least 10 in my room due all the devices I've bought over the years that came with one.
@@legendsflashbackI don't think there's an FCC or government rule/regulation against providing one with your phone/device.
@@madmax2069 in the past 6 months?
@@madmax2069 then why don't any companies pack them in anymore like Samsung etc
I’m so excited for this thing. Atari was before my time but I’m ecstatic a company has finally released a continuing official way to play their legacy games.
Wonder what new games we will see on here. Yars 2?
don't get me wrong, I also hate the lack of power brick. But the justification for that is so they can sell the exact same unit in NA, EU, Japan, etc. Usually only printed parts will be different (boxes, manuals). Again, at that price point it's annoying. But it's becoming more common for this reason.
You are correct. Nearly all of these new retro consoles have no power brick included so that it can be sold worldwide, as is. Even the other new Atari branded console, the GameStation Pro, has no power brick included.
I am disappointed that it can't play Champ Games. The majority of games I play today are modern homebrews. Nostalgia is fine but the new stuff is what keeps the system alive for me.
I don't think the missing power brick is a big issue, as mosttly you'll just power it from the TV it is connected to.
Defender, Pinball, Space Invaders, Asteroids, Ms PacMan, Demon Attack, Battlezone, Atlantis, Pitfall, Frogger, pole Position, Joust, River Attack, Dig Dug, and Centipede. Thats my top 15.
Impressive that they thought to include a cartridge port at last. Now I can finally play my original Atari games in HD!
By the way, the no power brick thing is a cost cutting measure in two way. The brick itself, but most importantly, you get ONE unit to sell for the whole world. The differences in electric standards are irrelevant.
Been waiting for this review! Thanks for testing all those carts and controllers… much appreciated!
Excited to get a system that can finally play 7800 carts, although not having homebrew compatibility yet is disappointing. One homebrew I really wanted to try was Crystal Quest.
Just get a real 7800 and a 7800GD.. It'll cost a little more, but it's well worth it and you'll be set! ;)
@@R3TR0R4V3 - Agreed! I always go with the original console hardware (and on a CRT TV!) when it comes to playing these old systems, nothing else comes close! Still on the hunt for a 7800 myself, it's one of the few consoles I'm still missing from my collection and only the real thing will do.
I have received yesterday 2600+ and tested, and i find why some games (not the games officially didn't work) seems don't work, you have to take firm the cart with your hand when you switch the On Button and load works, at start Pitfall 1 give failed but when i take firm with my hand it load and work, same on Road Runner and even sometimes on new Berzerk, i understand the place of the cart doesnt fit correctly and you have to try the not loading with stand firm with your hand. Thanks for the video and i try live these days on my channel if you want to see. Hope the suggestion help those who think games don't work😉
and of course if seem's not work cleaning the contact with isopropyl alcohol is another solution, worked with a Tutankham cartdrige very full of dust.
Thanks for the great coverage, John. That's a real fascinating console.
Awesome honest review. I really hope they get some compatibility issues taken care of.
I hope so too
When $1200 cell phones don't ship with power bricks, we shouldn't be too surprised when cheaper devices likewise skimp.
Im really tempted to try this out and start collecting 2600 and 7800 games. I've played atari games on many alternatives but it'd be nice to get something more official. I always had an itch to learn how to make games for the 7800 and honestly (if I had the time) id love to see if I could make something like Zelda 2 with FEZ camera rotation to make 3d towns and dungeons. Maybe in time. But I hope this gets the updates needed to run those homebrew games.
Dude. Please make that game. It sounds incredible!!!
@@darkridearts Lots of patience will be needed, but im sure theres plenty of support online to learn its functions and quirks.. And thr few hiccups from me having brain farts no doubt haha.
Dissappointing that this 2600+ does not allow one to use a Harmony Cart. I enjoy my Harmony Cart on the Heavy Sixer I own so weird they would not make or allow that cart to work.
Awesome!! I hope to get my hands on one of these soon! Thanks for the video!
Many years ago, I bought a multi games cartridges that uses switches to select the game. I need to try it with this new unit.
Great review John, I was hoping to see a review from you on this console!
I’m suspect that the 7800 Game Drive may not work either on the Atari 2600+ but, would love to know
Gives me a reason to collect for the 2600 and 7800 again. At one time i had 150 2600 games and about 40 7800 games.
Atari 2600 was my first console around 88 if I recall correctly. The fun we had together. I was all alone but at least I had Pitfall, Pac-Man (where I saw/did my first bug) River Raid and Hero. I was happy and I had no idea.
Normally the handle bar mustache is just a miss but man it works on ya. It just fits.
Hey John, I know you mentioned that there was no power brick packed in. Is there one for the console that is sold separately? By the way, thanks for testing all of those games and peripherals and letting us know which ones work. Your efforts are appreciated. 🙂
Being so incompatible with some carts makes it less appealing over the retron 77, what I love about the Retron77 is the possibility to save the game, I use that a lot!
No 7800 support though
@johnhancockretro well you are right, there's that. 😁
Do the paddles work on the Retron 77?
@@toomanycables996 yep they work fine
chatted with the developer at PRGE nice lad thanks for the review hmmm 2600 was my first console i do like the 7800 compatibilty but as some do they kinda cheap out which never feels satisfying..
Sounds like overall, it's a pretty solid system! I'm enjoying listening to Howard Scott Warshaw's audiobook called Once Apon Atari. What a life indeed!
I pre-ordered mine in August. I can't wait to get mine. I only have 2 games that are untested. They are Fun With Numbers and Star Wars: Return Of The Jedi: Death Star Battle. I'm glad I don't have Realsports Boxing. I hope that gets fixed in a later firmware update so I can buy it. I hope a firmware update fixes those games that don't work. Everything else I have will work. I have a big collection of Atari 2600 games in my house and I've been using my original Atari system and been wanting to mod it to RCA, but I can just forget that now.
Hail from France ! Thank for the review ! I'm impatient to have this new 2600 ! Keep up the good work !
Nice to see all the TH-camrs got their pre-orders. Even though I pre-ordered, they are not shipping mine until "early December." If I didn't pre-order, I could go on Amazon and get it tomorrow for the same price as Atari and NOT be charged shipping. Great job Atari. This is what I would exspect from KickScammers.
My preorder did not come until today, and I suspect many TH-camrs got media kits or review units early so that they could work on reviews for their channels. That’s how it has worked for a long time and even before TH-cam when magazines did reviews. Atari probably received an overwhelmingly large amount of preorders so they to do them in batches. Agree the communication could have been better.
Tunnel Runner not working is a huge bummer. By far one of the most intense atari games. Hopefully it will eventually get to work with a firmware update down the road? Just ordered one as a Christmas gift for my girlfriend. At least she will be happy Tunnel Runner doesn't work, she hates that game lol.
Would have been better if the switches where all on the front like the original, surprised it only has one controller, unlike the flash back that did but can use them any way. Would love to see the trakball released again and have any 2600 and 7800 versions of the same game on the one cartridge where you can select either version to play, using switches on the cartridge or in game select awesome.
They should have worked with John in the development of this console ahead of launch!
I am considering the 2600+. I have about 40 carts (2600 and 7800) I wouldn't mind playing again. The biggest plus is it plays my 7800 games unlike other options. The only thing I wish they offered was a 2 button controller option for the 7800 games (either a 7800 controller reproduction or a version of the 2600 controller with 2 buttons)
Pretty sure I read on AtariAge they're planning to reproduce the 7800 Gamepads.
John, thanks for testing everything, I appreciate the update about the Hyperkin Ranger and Trooper. and the Genesis controller workaround. I myself enjoy the ranger so I'm glad it works. The homebrew compatibility is to be expected but I'm sure either Atari or third party enthusiasts will help us hack/mod the console, they did with every other device, this should a challenge for them. So I'm hopeful, although I don't expect that melody/harmony board games or games with risc processors will ever work. However, I think there's a great opportunity by Atari to make 2600+ games that can target a few of these and the fact they own AtariAge means I'm hopeful about that happening. This thing is just too cool of a package for me to pass up, given that most of the games I care about (except Klax, damn I want 7800 klax and 7800 pac man collection (non-40th)) work. I would have raged if Defender II / Stargate didn't work, that's a killer game for 2600. Rampage 7800 wasn't that good anyway, the NES version is far better.
Thanks for this review. I have the CX-22 trak-ball instead of the CX-80 you have at 10:55 but I believe both have a switch you set to work with stock Missle Command, Millipede, etc (JS mode for joystick emulation). I was wondering if you have the true trak-ball third-party homebrew cartridges from Atariage and were able to make your CX-80 plugged and work in true TB mode on the Atari 2600+. Thanks again. Keep the great reviews coming.
A tiny nitpick, the lack of a scanline filter option. But hats off, Atari made this product. I'm not a cartridge collector myself, more a Commodore fan :) But I do have the Atari 2600 jr, the XEGS, 7800, and the Flashback X.
I'm highly positive about any product releases, that helps extend the lifespan of retro gaming legacies.
Thanks for a great review John, I was really looking forward to an Atari fan having a look :)
Better yet, why not provide a composite port that does 240p output in addition to the HDMI? If I had one of these, I'd want to hook it up to my CRT TV and get true scanlines! THAT little feature would make it feel like a real 2600! Even my Atari Flashback offers composite output in 240p.
Cool! Thank you for the video! Does the new joystick work with the original 2600?
Yes
Hello John - Could I please ask you to try your Atgames Atari Flashback Paddles on this unit, to see if they work in any fashion ?? With Thanks !!!
PItfall 2 is my all time fav and you're saying it doesnt work?? Good thing I watched your review. I'm gonna wait on this..
Just ordered mine can't wait. Great video.
Hope you enjoy it!
Would like this in my collection. However $130 for a modern 2600 is crazy imo. Thanks for the review John. You going to do that Recharged ranking video?
Eventually
Excellent review John. Yes, it's kind of stupid that they didn't include a "official" power brick. Thanks for the video. Have a great day!
That's a bummer Pit Fall 2 doesn't work. Probably my favorite 2600 game.
Hopefully, the Pitfall 2 compatibility issues will be worked out in a future firmware update.
The Tiny Boxes are AWESOME! We need the hackers to get to "community" builds so it can play more games and possibly multi-carts.
I picked up a few old 7800 carts (not homebrews) off eBay in anticipation of getting my 2600+.
I am getting this, should get it tomorrow, I have a 1977 VCS model with 30 cards, a Atari Flashback 9 and Atari50 Flashback consoles too, I have a lot of retro computers and consoles, I got them in the 90s when they were cheap and the companies wanted too sell them as quick as possible to get rid of them, a lot came from Car Boot Sells, now everything is on eBay and expensive, a game costs between £30 to £60 now even more... :( sellers do not make it easy to buy original games.
I had the atari 2600 jr model when I was a kid, I don't know anyone who had the original woodgrain version.
Handlebar moustaches look like fun! 😁
For a machine that costs over $100, I find it extremely disappointing that they settled for that very imperfect software-level emulation. The old Atari Flashback 2 from a couple of decades ago was actually a proper hardware clone of the 2600, guaranteeing accuracy and compatibility. The main problem with that one is you have to add a cartridge slot if you want to run cartridges on it... I really did want this new 2600+, until I saw that compatibility list.
This was great, John. I'm so happy you tested the compatibility list, homebrew games, and other features. You might have pushed me to pull the trigger on this 👍
It's cute, but wish they would have made it full size.