Atari 2600 Plus review: a modern throwback

 The Atari 2600, the cult game console from the 1970s, is back in a modernized version. Now called Atari 2600 Plus (€120), it is more compact and connects to modern televisions via the HDMI port. Notice to fans of retro games, this console will bring back good memories!

The Atari 2600 was released in 1977 with many titles that became video game classics: Breakout, Space Invaders, Asteroids and Pac-Man . Nearly 50 years later, the Atari 2600 Plus brings the essential touch of modernity to be able to enjoy it on today's televisions.

photo credit: CNET.comThe new Atari 2600 Plus next to the original model (right)

Indeed, you should know that it is very difficult to connect an original Atari 2600 to a modern television. Not only do you need to use a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, but you also need an adapter so that the RCA video cable can attach to the coaxial port.

The Atari 2600 Plus still uses cartridges

That's where the 2600 Plus comes in with its HDMI output for connecting to flat-screen high-definition TVs. Aesthetically identical to the original model, it is 20% smaller.

Unlike other retro gaming consoles, the Atari 2600 Plus still uses cartridges. And the very good news is that it can read the original Atari 2600 cartridges, for those who still have them.

In addition, the 2600 Plus can play Atari 7800 games, which expands the game library. Atari claims that this console can run 99% of titles from both platforms which are detailed in this list .

photo credit: CNET.com

The CX40 joystick has not changed

The 2600 Plus uses the same CX40 controllers as before and, just like the games, it is possible to plug in those from the old console. It comes with a controller and Atari sells additional CX40+s for €25.

The 2600 Plus comes with a cartridge containing ten games including Adventure, Dodge 'Em, Maze Craze, Missile Command and Video Pinball . The console has the same connectivity as the original, with some updates to the video output and power supply. On the front panel, we find the switches for power, TV type, game selection and reset, as well as the cartridge slot. New to the 2600 Plus are HDMI output, a USB-C port for power, and a switch to change the screen ratio between 4:3 and 16:9. The console comes with a USB cable for power but without an AC adapter.

The joystick cables are a little longer than the original ones but are still a little short. It adds a touch of nostalgia, but it requires standing just a few feet from a big-screen TV. A wireless version would not offend the original spirit and would provide appreciable comfort of use.

photo credit: CNET.comOn the left, the CX40+ joystick which accompanies the new Atari 2600 Plus

Conclusion: our opinion on the Atari 2600 Plus

Fans of classic Atari games who are sad to see their console gathering dust because they cannot connect it to modern televisions will find the Atari 2600 Plus the ideal alternative. Novices, or those who were not born at the time, will be able to perfect their knowledge of the history of video games by discovering some of its emblematic titles.