Why You Can Rely on TechRadar
We dedicate significant time to thoroughly testing every product and service we evaluate, ensuring that you receive the best possible recommendations. Learn more about our testing methodologies.
Atari 7800+: Overview
The Atari 7800+ marks the latest effort by the legendary gaming company to tap into the nostalgia of retro consoles. I approached this release with optimism, having enjoyed the Atari 2600+ which earned a four-star rating in my previous review. However, my experience with the Atari 7800+ has been disappointing, as it seems to lack essential quality-of-life enhancements and features a notably poor bundled controller.
Controller Concerns
While I had criticism for the stiffness of the joystick included with the 2600+, the CX78+ controller that comes with the 7800+ is even less appealing. It offers wireless connectivity, but the absence of a pause or reset button—available only on the console itself—combined with its awkward D-pad and analog stick hybrid, results in a frustrating gaming experience. Additionally, the console is devoid of USB ports, preventing the use of third-party controllers.
Game Experience
On a brighter note, the VIP Boxset I received for review included several Atari 7800 games, all of which provide an enjoyable experience. The classic Atari charm shines through despite the limitations of its graphics and audio capabilities, creating a unique gaming atmosphere. While the loading times for each game can be lengthy, the gameplay itself proves to be entertaining.
Target Audience for the Atari 7800+
Ultimately, the Atari 7800+ is primarily suited for die-hard Atari fans. Its reliance on physical cartridges—which must be purchased separately—and the absence of modern features or support for third-party controllers make it an authentic but potentially frustrating choice. While this may appeal to some, others seeking a more budget-friendly and user-friendly retro gaming option might be better off looking at alternatives like the Evercade VS or the Super Pocket.
Atari 7800+: Pricing and Availability
Retailing at $129.99 / £99.99, the Atari 7800+ is available for purchase starting November 2024. This price includes the console, a CX78+ gamepad, and a physical cartridge of Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest. While this pricing is consistent with the launch cost of the Atari 2600+, the 7800+’s compatibility with 2600 game cartridges and controllers makes it a more favorable choice if you’re torn between the two options, even though I find the 2600+ to have a more appealing design.
Investment Considerations
The Atari 7800+ represents a significant investment, especially given that it comes with only one controller and a basic game. Similar to other devices like the Evercade EXP, many will likely purchase it with the intention of expanding their game collection. Individual Atari 7800 and 2600 cartridges can be acquired for $29.99 / £24.99 each from Atari’s website, complete with authentic cardboard packaging, enhancing their perceived value.
Atari 7800+: Specifications
- Price: $129.99 / £99.99
- Dimensions: 9 x 6.5 x 2.3 inches / 228.6 x 165.1 x 58.4 mm
- Weight: 1.1 lbs / 0.5 kg
- Controller Connectivity: 2x DB9 ports
- Compatibility: Atari 7800 and 2600 cartridges
Atari 7800+: Design and Features
The console feels lightweight and somewhat hollow right out of the box, and the CX78+ controller leaves much to be desired. However, setting up the Atari 7800+ is a breeze, allowing for quick gameplay shortly after unpacking. The package includes the console, a CX78+ wireless controller, and a single game cartridge for Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, a title developed by Robert DeCrescenzo that supports the homebrew community—an initiative worth highlighting.
Included Accessories
The box comes equipped with everything necessary for connecting the Atari 7800+ to your TV or monitor, including an HDMI cable, a DB9 wireless dongle for the controller, and a USB-C power cable. While you can power the console via USB, you’ll need to provide your own USB plug if you wish to connect it to a wall outlet. Atari’s choice to exclude this accessory is aimed at reducing electronic waste, which is a responsible approach.
Layout and Authenticity
The console features minimal buttons and ports, with two DB9 controller ports on the front, a single HDMI port, a USB-C port, and a switch for toggling between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios on the back. The top of the console houses a large cartridge slot without a dust cover, as well as buttons for power, pause, select, and reset. While the inclusion of an HDMI port is a nice modern touch, I wish Atari had incorporated USB ports to allow compatibility with contemporary controllers, which would enhance the gaming experience.
Controller Performance
Unfortunately, the CX78+ wireless controller fails to deliver a satisfactory gaming experience. Although it resembles the original 7800 controller, its design does not feel comfortable for extended periods of play. The D-pad and analog stick combination proves to be particularly challenging, though the two face buttons function adequately, and pairing with the console is straightforward.
Cartridge Slot Issues
Another drawback is the cartridge slot, which often leaves cartridges feeling insecure. Additionally, removing cartridges can be a cumbersome task, as they require significant effort to dislodge, producing an uncomfortable sound in the process.
Atari 7800+: Game Performance
The game library, while simple, offers a delightful experience. Emulation quality is generally excellent, though there can be delays in booting games, with some titles taking over 10 seconds to load. The built-in game, Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, is particularly enjoyable, presenting a charming platformer experience reminiscent of Adventure Island.
Variety in Game Selection
I also enjoyed Ninja Golf, a unique combination of golfing and action gameplay, and found the combat racing game Fatal Run intriguing. Other titles like Frenzy and Asteroids Deluxe round out the selection, providing a good range of experiences for those looking to expand their game library with additional cartridges from the Atari website. The 7800+ claims to have near-perfect compatibility with original and third-party Atari games, which is a positive aspect.
Boot Times and Controller Limitations
It’s worth noting that boot times for games can be frustratingly long, and the omission of a pause button on the CX78+ controller means players must rely on the console’s controls for this function.
Should You Purchase the Atari 7800+?
Consider buying it if you are an avid Atari fan and appreciate retro gaming. However, if you seek modern conveniences or a more user-friendly experience, you may want to explore other retro console options.
Alternative Retro Consoles
If the Atari 7800+ doesn’t meet your expectations, you might want to look into other retro console offerings.
Testing Methodology for the Atari 7800+
My evaluation of the Atari 7800+ took place over a week, during which I connected it to a 24-inch AOC Gaming 24G2SP monitor. I tested a variety of games including Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, Fatal Run, Frenzy, Asteroids Deluxe, and Ninja Golf, all played via HDMI at 1080p resolution. I also experimented with both 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios to assess performance. The testing was conducted using the included CX78+ controller, as third-party options were not available.
