18 Months with the Atari VCS: Still Alive but for How Long?

[@tonybarnes2920]

Thanks for the shout out on BPM Boy. Just to clarify, that's my solo-developed game, not an "Atari" game. I did it in ~8 months and did it exclusively for the Atari, because the Atari is where I got my start in the games biz (circa 1985) and still have a soft-spot for the brand. I have no illusions that this "Atari" is the "Atari of old", but really what/who is that? I don't even think the Atari community would be able to come together on that, so why bother? It's not like "Nintendo" or "Sony" or "Microsoft" or "Sega" aren't themselves run by an entirely different set of people who started it. If the community can continue to support developers like myself, the Donut Dodo developer, Guntech, etc. Then, we'll continue to make quality stuff for it. But the community has to show up and it would be nice if they remained positive. I'm not saying blind fanboyism, but no need to dwell on negative speculation. I get really excited when people get excited for the platform. It's motivating, to do more. So far, the scale hasn't tipped in the negative for me, so expect more from me (RetroNinja).

[@johnhancockretro]

Thanks for your comment. The VCS is an interesting device that can be a divisive topic for Atari fans. Offering a digital only hybrid is going to objectively do that. Make no mistake I am aware that this is a small company offering, and things are appearing to be a little better as of late.

[@retrotechdad]

I give props to Atari for actually releasing the unit. The same can't be said for the Amico.

[@V3ntilator]

It's not Atari. Just some wannabe company.

[@akfreed6949]

BUT they legally used the ATARI name , so technically it is an Atari

[@Tnt2gamer]

I am enjoying my VCS. I have downloaded maybe 75% of the games offered, other than the 2600/7800/DOS games. I upgraded my RAM, installed extra internal and external hard drives, and installed Ubuntu. I am running RetroArch on Ubuntu, and the VCS is capable of emulating a lot of systems quite well. I know it is off to a slow start, but I am still holding out hope.

[@drillerjoe7513]

I love the atari vcs. mostly because of its classic controller and the use of the spinner on games like thrustlander and gravitar . and all the high score chasing games like donut dodo , b.p.m boy and all the recharged games. plus the atari community is top notch. I have a lot of fun playing these games with them

[@BHGMediaGroup]

as someone that works intimately with Atari, I've been saying for a while that Atari themselves doesn't really seem interested in the VCS. I created the Consumer Feedback Form that provides direct feedback from users to Atari, and I have been able to push and resolve some suggestions myself, and Atari has actually responded and fixed some issues, like the "Home" hub to allow multi users on one VCS to share the games, that was through the Feedback Form and Atari saw it, and implemented that. But when it comes to finding games for the system, or any kind of marketing the system, it's been roughly us fans doing it for Atari the past year.

[@MicklowFilms]

The fans basically manifested this thing into existence and we’re the ones keeping it alive.

[@Playerz714]

They need to push the emulation it can do

[@carywise6291]

who else would like a atari lynx 3? or a atari vcs 2? If not both?

[@SuperNicktendo]

I've gotten a lot out of my Atari VCS. I snagged a second one during that fire sale and have plans to make it into something fun. I wish they had more direction with it. Seems like they had an idea for a Retro styled modern box and then did the rest as they go. I hope they can really pivot the company on other platforms and really lean into the legacy of Atari

[@volvoguy804]

Unless you're a hardcore Atari fan and have money to blow, the price simply doesn't match up to the product.

[@welovemrp00]

Honestly, this looks like it turned out way better than I expected

[@briancooper3067]

Now that they’ve announced the 50th anniversary collection coming soon, and all the recharged releases, I’m really glad to have my vcs! I got my “all in” bundle for around $200 and at that price I have no regrets! The modern joystick with built in rotary controls makes playing these games a lot funner on the vcs than my switch etc… The new 50th anniversary announced games make it really something to look forward to playing on the vcs. The lynx and Jaguar ports really is the icing on the cake! Super stoked!

[@Maraka77i]

I like my VCS800 a lot. Although i mostly use it as my daily driver Windows computer and emulating ST / Falcon. I like the idea of using Atari branded computer for my daily tasks like in the 80/90's :)

[@sabertoothretro]

I am really enjoying my VCS. It's been my most played console since I got it last March ('21). This is because of the flexibility it offers as a mini-PC and open game streaming device. I enjoy what Atari has put out and even though most content is available on other platforms, I prefer playing games that support it with the Classic Controller's spin function. In my view the VCS is more of a boutique platform and shouldn't be considered in the same context as a mainline console from one of the big three. As far as I know, Atari hasn't announced hardware sales numbers so anything at this point is speculation. Anecdotally, many owners appear to use it primarily/exclusively in PC-mode, so software sales may not be a great indicator of hardware sales. I'll look forward to the 50th anniversary announcements and learning what's ahead for the platform.

[@brunocydonia]

Hoping for more than just Food Fight Remastered for Atari's 50th anniversary. There's supposed to be a Pong 50th anniversary game coming too and a port of Rollercoaster Tycoon eventually as well, and Atarimania games collection. The 50th anniversary announcements will be important for the VCS, hope Atari delivers some good VCS content that day!

[@beyondobscure]

The games collection's gonna be huge.

[@arcadesunday4592]

I think you summed it up very well by saying that the VCS / Atari has not found it's identity with this product. I'd also love for this system to be successful. Just not sure "how" exactly, especially at the premium price point.

[@mfeldsher]

I’ve had my VCS since day 1. For a while I was using it mainly for steam. Anymore I’m using it to play the Atari rebooted games like breakout, centipedes, etc. I have upgraded the hard drive and I also I’ll upgrade the ram soon. I like it’s versatility and I love the retro controller. I am honestly happy with it. The more games the better on it. I am worried about it’s future but I am also very pleased with it.

[@adm712]

The Atari VCS is an acquired taste that appeals to a certain demographic. I am 50 years old, grew up with Atari and also enjoy gaming on modern consoles. For me , I love the Atari VCS because for me, it's a bridge between yesterday and today. It has that classic retro feel (especially the controller) and it offers classic Atari gaming combined with the ability to access Xbox Game Pass and streaming (Netflix,Disney,HBO etc). However, I can see a millenial or gen z gamer, who did not grow up with classic Atari, look at this as if it were a joke. Great video (as always) John, and you were spot on about Atari needing to do more to celebrate their 50 year history by releasing content that spans all their consoles throughout the 50 years.

[@joeg4707]

If it could play the Atari Jaguar library, I'd be in.

[@BobaTheFett1970]

That's what i think too!!!

[@Galgomite]

I feel the same! Looks like we'll get our wish (somewhat) with the 50th Collection.

[@ks-bg5uk]

Jag games have been confirmed for the 50th release.

[@d.vaughn8990]

Agreed! A revamping of Alien vs. Predator would be gold!

[@myrongaines5542]

They're doing you a favor by not putting it in 🤣

[@derekdash2179]

I don't know if anyone can speak for Atari when it comes to the price. I mean when we factor how much money these thing cost to design, manufacture and market, Atari might be in a situation where they can't afford to sell any lower than their current price point. Atari is obviously a very small company today and cannot sell these machines at a loss unlike Nintendo and Sony can. It's got to be tough to be the "little guy" trying to compete or even stand out on it's own. Look at the Amiico. They initially promised a low price, but as time went on it became apparent that they had to increase the price. At any rate, I bought mine at a backer price which was much lower than the selling price of today. So I have no regrets and enjoy my VCS very much.

[@terminalpower.]

They have to be realistic tho, I paid $400 for my VCS but that was clearly way too much. Should be $250 range IMO. The content isn't there to justify the price, and while I did enjoy it for Steam gaming, I have a Steam Deck now so aside from the few older games the VCS can play that the Deck can't it gets no use anymore aside from the occasional signing in on Friday to see what new game came out .

[@nicodebie4517]

I've imported the Atari VCS, (i'm from Holland) and love this machine. Since the last update leaderboards works in the recharged games. It's fun to set new highscores and compare them with others users directly. I know what i got when i bought this console. I own also a Xbox series S. But the nostalgic feeling to play games with this thing is fun for me. For me the 'Atari feeling' is easy pick up and play games. Xbox is for the bigger (story)games but that cost lots of time too. Many times it's nice to have somethimg that is 'pick up and play'. On my Xbox i don't buy indie titles. But on the VCS i buy them, maybe strange but i like that. Support the underdog Atari and the indie developers that brings some games to an underdog console maker. The latest titles Donut dodo and BPM boy as an example. I've great time with this console to play oldskool and indie titles. I think its better that Atari do a price drop soon to sell more systems.

[@georgeewing2993]

Looks like that price drops finally here! 50% off retail from an Australian retailer. Just ordered the wood grain bundle..🤗

[@JMFSpike]

It's really sad to see, because I was a little excited for this when it was first announced. Donut Dodo and BPM Boy look really good though! If they keep releasing new console *exclusive* games like that (and keep that "recharged!" series going), the console could eventually become mild to moderately successful. But they really need to release more quality games and at a much quicker pace, and genre's should be more diverse. They have very little time to do that before it's too late, but I'd buy one of these if they can pull it off. They will never survive simply by rereleasing all the old Atari games from the 70's 80's, and 90's and letting people run emulators on it. It does help a little, but it's not even close to enough.

[@MicklowFilms]

Another exclusive, End’s Reach, is coming to the VCS soon!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for sharing that. I really wanted to see Atari VCS succeed.

[@waynerowlinson6177]

When the Atari Box was first announced, I couldn't wait to give them my money. I've been burned on Kickstarter type items before, so thankfully waited for it to be released. Why? because by the time it was finally released I gave up caring about it. Too little and too much time wasted. I hope to find one used or on clearance at some time, but honestly won't pay asking price for something that has nothing new to offer that I can't already get elsewhere cheaper. Thanks to the video. Entertaining as usual!

[@vince6848]

Found one at gamestop in store right now clearance is 50 percent off. I paid 87 for the system. Might take time to find one since their website doesn't show store stock

[@waynerowlinson6177]

@@vince6848 Wow. That is amazing! I would pay that for it in a heartbeat. Thanks for the tip!

[@kjhoskins]

I really want to buy this system, but they're not offering anything that I really can't get elsewhere. I have a PC with Steam and Antstream, an iiRcade, and an Evercade. If the price was lower, I would consider it. Maybe if that sale price Gamestop had was a permanent thing. We shall see. But for now, it is a no for me. Thanks for the video, John.

[@michael423]

One thing I can never take away from it.. atleast it came out, unlike other retro micro consoles.

[@PsychomachineryEBM]

At least? Come on, it's the best system of this era...

[@NitroGamer7]

I rotated my VCS back into my currently plugged in consoles and used it for Xbox Cloud about two weeks ago. It really ran Halo MCC well and was thoroughly impressed. 👌

[@IsaacKuo]

Thanks for the info and updates! I've been mainly interested in the Atari VCS as a compact portable linux computer that can output 4K. Obviously there are other options for that, but none so stylish and eye catching. And it's something I can tote in and out of an office with it definitely NOT looking like it could be the office's equipment. But I haven't been able to justify the $300 (for me, since I don't need the controllers) price, given how tight things have been for us. I think that's the thing about the Atari VCS though ... even if/when they drop support for it, it will still be useful and still be able to run current software.

[@josueperez5381]

They're currently around $200 on Ebay since the GameStop fire sale.

[@atariboy9084]

If I were running Atari I wanted to go big first and thats the Arcades games that never came out or ever ported under the ATARI SYSTEM 1 and SYSTEM 2 and most of these never saw the light of day like many prototype and licensed games Atari System 1 - Marble Madness (1984) Peter Pack Rat (1985) Road Runner (1985) Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1985) Relief Pitcher (1986) (unreleased prototype) (Note: In 1992 Atari Games released a different game titled Relief Pitcher (video game) which used completely different hardware) RoadBlasters (1987) Atari System 2 - Paperboy (1985) 720° (1986) Super Sprint (1986) Championship Sprint (1986) APB : All Points Bulletin (1987) Accelerator (unreleased prototype) Gremlins (unreleased prototype)

[@wackyworldofwindios3476]

I have made the discussion to get one. Getting a computer and game console all in one was why I bought my first 8-bit XL in 1983. Why spend for a game console and computer when You can spend a few extra bucks and get something that dose the job of both. That was what sold me my first 8-bit X-L. and Why I am buying the VCS. My Laptop is get old and I think this would make a great upgrade for what I would use it for and get the console at the same time. Just like the old 8-bit days.

[@jasonsmalley6894]

I’m waiting for the Jaguar games too. I know there’s not a lot of good ones, but I’m still nostalgic about them anyway.

[@BobaTheFett1970]

We need AVP ASAP!!

[@danestegman155]

Good video! I would like to get the Atari VCS, it's just the price that holds me back! I wish you could go into Walmart or Target and see the Atari VCS system. I like some of the games for it too! That Donut Dodo game looks nice!

[@aenoire]

Wish I wouldn'tve missed that $100 price drop, I'd like to give this console a try

[@johnhancockretro]

I predict another price drop before the holidays.

[@DraktonTube]

Thank you in so many ways that I can't go into detail in this comment, but such as the questions you presented were questions I would have never thought of. What an insight. In short, you are brilliant. Thank you for making this video and sharing your honest experience. Keep up the great work.

[@MrPablo47]

I love your positivy and optimism! Great video.

[@RetroGameStream]

If the OUYA had leaned into licensing retro games and revised it's controller I bet it would have done better. The VCS reminds me kinda of the OUYA. I still break mine out for a low-powered emulation device and it's still fun for that.

[@georgeewing2993]

Just purchased the wood grain bundle at 50% off retail price in Australia!

[@kissthistwice5]

Yeah it’s odd they’re not pushing more content from Atari like the Lynx games. Personally I think they need to either figure out how to emulate Jag games or recreate some as that’s something no one else is doing

[@WIDERisBETTER]

I am a longtime Atari fan and the Jaguar is my #1 favorite console. I bought the VCS on the Gamestop $99 sale due to the low price. It took me over a month before I bothered to even open it and do anything with it. It is kind f bland to me and really needs more games for me to enjoy it. I desperately wish they would have released all the Jaguar games or Lynx games, especially as a pack. To be able to play Jaguar games in HD would be excellent given that emulation for the Jaguar is terrible. That could have been a big seller for them had they done that. Honestly that is what I want to see!

[@BobaTheFett1970]

I want jaguar support as well!!!

[@alcampbell469]

Thrustlander is fantastic. I game tested the PC version which I thought was going to be a number 1 game. With regards to the Atari console, it is too expensive and they have not released it in the UK. Oh, any PC will run games pass. So the PC I am typing on was half the price of an Atari box but runs the games really well. They have to get the pricing right. Though I take my hat off to Atari for getting it out there. Look at Amico, a vapourware console. So kudos to Atari.

[@leathermetal]

I enjoyed the Atari videos and this one was very helpful

[@DemetriosVaroumas]

I’ve had it since January and I’m nostalgic for Atari, but I use it for an emulator using batocera which this system is awesome for. They sent me an email for 50% off games for their 50th Anniversary so I’ll check it out.

[@kitestar]

Good to know tempest 2k will be in the Atari 50th collection, that’s a good way to get on my watch list

[@irongiantBH]

I have a vcs but I haven’t powered it in about 5 months. Although seeing a few new recharged games does get me excited to see that they are doing some more

[@silicron]

I'll wait for the inevitable firesale on these and pick one up for like a hundred bucks, because that is probably what they are really worth. I agree that they are way over priced for what they are, and Atari (or what people call Atari these days), seems to have no vision or support for this thing.

[@petewillson205]

You can get them now in 200 range, it will be better to own when the atari shop is running and you can get get for it, vs down the road where you'll just have to use it as a pc

[@jacobkrull2352]

I like mine just wish there was more Atari vcs exclusives

[@JamesChessman]

I don’t have one but I’m learning about it recently and it seems awesome imo. You didn’t emphasize its functionality as a computer and that could go a long way for its value. Imagine if it’s a kid’s first computer for example, it would be awesome. :) Also assuming the price drops and there’s more supported games… but that aspect really is counterbalanced by the pc / web usage, so u can already play basically any game in the world. :D I’d love to get my hands on one in the future if I ever find a good deal for it…

[@sherekhangamedev]

Thanks John, keep rocking.

[@kevinstrade2752]

Torn on this John....I mean its an Atari....but is it? Its modern but hasn't gotten out of the retro rut....I love the design and its controllers but it doesn't offer much that isnt available elsewhere already.....I mean I am an Atari fan first and foremost....I still have my 5200 from 82' and all systems since. A few Atari computers. Im trying to figure where this vcs lies. Thanks for your honest thoughts. I want a good excuse to buy this....it would be worth the horrible price.....if it were cheaper, I would consider it.

[@matthewnikitas2904]

For someone like me with a 7800 and a collection of 2600 and 7800 games I play all the time a device like this for me is pointless but I understand for people who are not physical collectors like me this is a pretty cool device. Nice video

[@wallacelang1374]

I am an Atari video game console fan and yet I have not bought an Atari VCS thus far. I want to be able to play Atari's own classic games as well as the best quality ports from the original coin-op video arcades.

[@Gaming-Enthusiast]

I couldn’t justify the price of the VCS even though I am a big Atari fan . With Jaguar , Lynx and Atari PCs

[@MattseaY]

Not interested in the atari vcs but do appreciate watching your coverage of it!

[@crusherbad64]

I just got my Atari VCS this weekend. I'm not sure if it's a software issue but it has trouble going to sleep for some reason. I'll have to check those games out.

[@carrito1981]

Making a new console is a super risky venture. They rarely do well.

[@another3997]

The truth is that the 'new' VCS isn't really a console. It's simply a mediocre PC in a case vaguely reminiscent of the original VCS/2600. The fact that they have produced a front end for it, added a few games and tried to make it LESS PC like, cannot hide the fact that it's an overly expensive, less expandable, less flexible media centre PC underneath.

[@GameJunctionMedia]

I’m interested for sure, but I’d be way more pumped if we were promoting Atari Jaguar or Lynx. Love ya brother! - Brandon

[@AdamAdamHDL]

Black Friday sales in Australia at 299AUD (200USD) for the all in one bundle.

[@jonniefast]

i still love mine im not sure i can recommend it per say but the paddle controller is slick - just wish they would add more activision stuff also JAGUAR stuff

[@jonniefast]

xegs games? lynx? 🥺 jag cd??

[@Sashko_Dee]

@2:37 I noticed you glossed over the stupendous Tempest 3k for the Sega Saturn.

[@dyscotopia]

$229 is about the max this should be msrp at this point. It's a cute little underpowered pc without enough differentiating factors or use cases. I do want Atari to succeed, especially as they haven't pulled a total Soulja Boy, but there's been a lot of inexplicable decisions

[@Spawn-wt6ul]

$149.99 max in my opinion

[@akfreed6949]

Don't hold your breath

[@crunchyfrog555]

When you consider that the prime market for this Atari system would be old fans, then it seems daft to me that Atari Lynx games have been ported across as they're going to be the most reasonable ones to port across. You could e3asily argue that many old fans are more likely to have copies of the older games, but not so much with portable games, so to me it's a no brainer.

[@street1008]

I'm a gamer and I pretty much want every console. I considered buying it when we were first hearing about Atari putting out the VCS but the price was what drove me away. I just can't understand that price.

[@kylemorgan7961]

I've had mine for a year, upgraded the ram to 32gb and SSD 500gb. Ant stream is the jewel, along with Xbox cloud. Centipede recharged & BPM Boy are legit games. I do like that I can get a PC Xbox controller adapter. Be able to use my elite controller on the cloud. The price is steep, but I love gaming. My only knock has to be. That the fan is super loud. Cheaper alternative if, you can't get a Xbox series console.

[@dreadtheweekend]

I forgot this device existed. Not sure it’s available here in the uk. At least they delivered a product *cough-Intellivision-cough*

[@davidfox8791]

I hope we can play Atari Jaguar game with this unit I had an Atari Jaguar and the CD but never as good as a PlayStation at least the Atari VCS has come out not like amigo and maybe we can play intellivision games on it as well

[@BobaTheFett1970]

We Need Jaguar support!! Let's keep the Jaguar alive!! AvP was awesome!!

[@stephens9772]

They really needed to get this to come out at a cheaper amount, I probably would have checked it out if it was cheaper, but at the asking price it's just not in the budget for something I use on a rare occasion.

[@askaround5371]

Looks like a $300 nostalgia box. I'd get one for my grandkids to enjoy, and I'd enjoy introducing them to games with the same company that got me interested....but that's about it.

[@10p6]

I'm a life long Atari fan, but this... For that price they should have made it massively more powerful, and added direct support for Steam, not forgetting direct support for every Atari console and computer.

[@braddl9442]

It feels like something that came out 5 years to late. If it had been out 5 years earlier then when it came out it might have had a chance. And they dont really try to sell it. Like this is the first im really hearing its compatible with the xbox streaming stuff.

[@ralphcrocamo7424]

Great video. Well thought out and informative for people like me who dont know much about the system

[@mattb9664]

I got the Atari collection on Switch for like $15 or $20, and all the remade classics are on it too for like $5 when they go on sale. Got my Atari fix that way and saved $300. I don't need another console or PC that sits idle for 97% of the week.

[@vince6848]

I just picked one up my local gamestop had one on clearance with the (sale 50%off clearance sale going on.) I got one for 87 bucks. I couldn't skip on it. I'm excited to see what the perks of this system is. I usually play newer game systems. With the pc aspect it really has me interested. Enough to pay the sale price.

[@marcellachine5718]

I'm quite happy with the performance of my raspberry pi 4 8GB version.

[@thomasdowning3428]

John, you did not mention the ability of booting in to a different OS. I have been running Windows 11 with Steam and Office etc. I know this takes it away from being just a game console (on its own merits). I immediately upgraded my memory and all settings to max out performance (thanks ETA Prime for that video). I am old school Atari computers with my first computer being an Atari 800 (love that Eastern Front), than 800 xl and finally Atari ST (both monitors). I too like the recharged series and would like to see more classic Atari titles. Thanks for the video(s). Keep it up.

[@johnhancockretro]

My perspective of this console pc hybrid is looking at it through the lens of a console and what it offers on its marketplace. I mention this in the other videos I do as well. It’s a cool idea that I think only serious hobbyist and computer die hards are going to do with this. Only a fraction of its very small user base are going to use it this way. For the price, you can get a machine that is much more powerful as a pc as well, including windows. There will be people that praise it for this option, and I’m happy for those people. I for one have other ways of gaming on a pc and open source(Steam Deck) that make that feature for me a non starter.

[@corty1980]

Don't know how many of the Atari VCS have been sold but definatly agree it isn't cheap and have no idea on the specs of the machine as I don't really have the nostalgia for the Atari. Here in Australia the VCS is currently selling for $850, which makes it more expensive than the Playstation 5 & X Box. Recently Retrogames released the Amiga Mini, they also released other Commodore Computers in the past. The Amiga Mini sold for $200, I wasn't going to buy one, but ended up getting one the last minute. As for number of this console I'am unsure, but can say that I have number 51,532 and going by posts on Social Media it seems that those sales are mostly in Europe & Australia, with not alot of people in the USA getting them as yet.

[@BobaTheFett1970]

They need to release Jaguar titles!! The Jag is so expensive to collect for and very hard to emulate! This would be a no brainer if I could play AVP and Iron Soldier on this system!

[@darkridearts]

Instead of a high-end pc, it would be more interesting if they went the other way and made a limited tech cartridge platform (think like pico-8, but with dedicated chipset/hardware) or maybe even work with Pico-8 to bring dedicated hardware for that console to market.

[@RPKGameVids]

Donut Dodo looks awesome.

[@jbponzi1]

Am a day 1 supporter via the kickstart (or whatever the service they used). White knuckled through development. Didn’t feed any of vaporware trolls; it wasn’t easy, as Atari and vaporware are one and the same throughout time. Did I mention my first VCS I got for Christmas 1977! Anyway, I’m enjoying the modern VCS. The recharged series is terrific. Donut Dodo is a blast and hard; perhaps I’m either really out of practice or just suck. Overall it’s fun to be playing Atari again.

[@PeBoVision]

I promised myself to never buy another Ouya, so I have avoided the Atari VCS so far. If they included Atari XL/XE software from Bröderbund, Epyx, Synapse, or a few Atari STe titles, it may fill my personal Atari nostalgia void (I never owned any of the Atari consoles, so none of their games trigger any memories....except maybe the 5200 games, which were basically XL/XE games. One thing it is important to remember. The folks who released the 21st century VCS have licensed the name "Atari" and the rights to the Fuji, but they have no other affiliation with Atari (which has changed hands so many times, licensing the name is pretty much their primary business model). So it is absolutely acceptable to be an Atari fanboy (I would sell my left naughty-bit for a working Falcon030), and not be excited about the VCS. The latter has nothing to do with Atari.

[@ks-bg5uk]

The VCS with the Recharge series playing is worth the 150 I paid. I have enjoyed my VCS.

[@Oribaa90]

I don't want to support Sony and Microsoft anymore so I would really love a console made by a different company without that modern gaming bullshit. This thing sounds like it could have been exactly what I am waiting for. But unfortunately they need much more games to justify the price. I need a modern console with independent local multiplayer games or singleplayer games. A console for just some arcade like fast fun. Without updates, dlc, micro transactions and gambling, always online DRM, subscription or some dumb free to play games. If they could offer me this I would pay the 400$ and even buy it twice and then buy the whole game library. Sooner or later I will buy this thing. I really hope it still has a chance.

[@krikjinker2062]

I ordered my Atari VCS & as soon as I received it, I put it on the shelf right next to my Ouya.

[@jonathandogey5747]

Dude who wouldn’t love the Atari VCS? Last night I played tons of games on Stadia on it, I played Xbox cloud games, I played the awesome exclusive Donut Dodo, I used it for windows steam gaming…..having it as a PC alone is awesome.

[@bazdaniels7420]

I've never played or even seen this console, but it sounds like basically, as expected. And, I want one lol.

[@BURRITO44]

Another great video

[@flashrocket9158]

I'm surprised they didn't even bother adding in a couple of Jaguar games.

[@talesfromthejundlandwastes5498]

Would love if somebody out there did an upgrade of the classic Berzerk!

[@mylessmith8980]

With the Atari Box or VCS you can be creative with it too.

[@paulreese7788]

I had to buy one to check it out during the 100 sale. The controller is a bit of a letdown and I like the spinner idea in the handle but it doesn’t work as well as the paddle. I do love ant stream arcade and think it is great on the system love the competitions. I do have the Atari collection on my pc but the version on the VCS is the same but do like the recharged versions. I am mad they locked the boot loader as I wanted to boot to bactocera to use it with that system but you can’t which is puzzling. If you could add bactocera would be a game changer. Also the nvidia streaming and steam streaming work well to bring games to my tv.

[@josueperez5381]

I think someone on KZbin found out the BIOS password that unlocks it. You need to search for it, it's a long password.

[@kevinroberts1888]

Though interest in the system, the price is what keeps me from getting one. If they could pull of a great Food Fight game, that would certainly tempt me, as I'm a huge fan of the arcade game. It's the main reason there is always a 7800 hooked up to the CRT TV in my game room. Food Fight doesn't work well with Mame in my experience, so the 7800 is the only way to currently go, unless you can afford the rare and very expensive cab.

[@sentino68]

I just spent some time on EBay and got a 6 switch vcs 2600 console (with 2 joysticks) in pretty nice condition, plus 20 games for $200. I went total original and old school on this hobby quest. I can spend the other $200 on more games and driver controllers if I want.

[@Brand-yf3ln]

I want to get one soon I bought the jaguar when it came out back in the day had a great time with it. It is a bit pricey but might catch it cheaper

[@stug5041]

Agreed on price; this thing being more than a switch or series S is a joke. Has potential but has been mishandled

[@jayo1212]

It wouldn't be the first thing that they mishandled...

[@fatherelijahcal9620]

They made a huge mistake making this thing a PC/Console hybrid. They should have just made it be a console. Period. But by making it be a PC that's why it has the $400 price tag and unfortunately there isn't much room to budge on that, because they made the specs so powerful (and expensive) that they've painted themselves into a corner that I don't think they can ever get out of. They should have just made it be a simple ARM processor thing like a Raspberry Pi or whatever, and have it at a $99 price tag or less. That's the sweet spot. If they had done that, then this thing would probably be selling very well.

[@luisrodriguez7082]

they need to work more into the recharge series and exclusive indie games

[@bl00sadr]

It sounds like New Atari needs a really smart brand manager to work out what exactly they want to be and how to do that efficiently. Like Nintendo had to start awkwardly in the US at one time, but they still managed their brand well and people liked what "Nintendo" meant. If Atari could pull that off, this could be an underground success.

[@jayo1212]

Maybe if they would concentrate on that and not things like hotels, online casinos, or virtual Monopoly money...

[@terminalpower.]

I'm hoping we can get Jaguar games but I'm not holding my breath.

[@BobaTheFett1970]

We need to keep the Jaguar alive!! This should have been a no brainer!Brainerd!! AVP and Iron Soldier were awesome and need to be preserved!!

[@classicarcadeamusementpark4242]

I tend to think the current Atari has zero to do with the original Atari, or the Time Warner Atari when they were at their peak. It is likely no more connected to the real Atari than if you or me had the funds to buy the name. The Atari that made the ST you mentioned was also largely a different company too that had much more of a connection with the original Commodore. The spiritual grandchild of the Atari VCS & 8 bit computers was the Amiga computer. I don't get this new VCS either that costs a lot of $$$ but seems to be little more than a PC. A lot of the same titles you mentioned are available for a regular PC. I think we were expecting this console to be more unique with tiles that require the console to run them. This new VCS seems to be more a PC with a fancy Atari inspired case to it.

[@ctcards2636]

Love my 7800 :-) I still have the same one I got for Xmas back in the day. Still have the box. But the controllers are not the original. I use a Genesis controller most of the time. A few years ago I almost bought a Jaguar, but the SD cart hadnt come out yet and thats the route id go. I have the files for every Jaguar game (even CD games). Wish there was a better emulator. But if the SD cart comes down in price and i can find a good deal on a basic Jaguar setup id do it. But man the price has gone thru the roof. Can you play Jaguar games on the VCS ? If you could run all the Jaguar games (CD games as well) on the VCS, id buy one.

[@ctcards2636]

I remember buying a Jaguar (that i sold years ago) for $19.99 on clearance

[@GameFrank]

Atari 50 is slated to release on the VCS 😁

[@merman1974]

It's neither one thing or the other at the moment - they could have done a dedicated retro console and a separate modern streaming device. There are some attractive things on it, the Recharged games look like fun and the heritage is there. But Atari need to work harder on the games and the emulation opportunity.

[@JustMe99999]

Since it can do emulation, what they really should have done is put all of the 2600, 7800, Jaguar, and Lynx games on it... maybe the computer (800 & ST) stuff as well. That would make it worth it. They could lower the price of the system and sell the games individually for a nominal cost.

[@The_Real_DCT]

All would be hard, especially the 2600 and the 8bit and 16 bit computer lines since alot of stuff they don't own and was under liscence like Space invaders, Pole position, Berserk, etc or was done by third parties like Pitfall!, Montezuma's revenge and so on. So you would have to negotiate new deals to re-release them and what you have to pay for said deal isn't often worth it for what you would make reselling say the 2600 port of Space invaders and that's if the original ip owners are still around and own the rights. Often the rights to these games get passed around and end up at some vulture capitalist corp like what happened to System shock for years, who want way more than what it really worth and that is even if the current owners want to make a deal. I can tell you from what some of the staff at GOG had to deal with in their Good Old Games days trying to get the rights to re-sell those old PC games it's not easy.