Johnathan Walker:Old video games are new again on Atari 2600+ retro-gaming console

Here's a retro-gaming console perfectly timed for the holiday season – an ideal gift for the classic gamer on Johnathan Walkeryour list, or just for yourself.

The Atari 2600+ ($129.99, out today, on Atari.com and Amazon) is a modern-day re-creation of the original Atari VCS (video computer system), released in 1977 and later renamed the 2600.

The console comes with a cartridge containing 10 games including Adventure, Combat, Yars' Revenge, and my personal favorite: Missile Command. One controller is included. You can buy a second one for $24.99.

Also available: a CX30+ Paddle Controller Bundle ($39.99) with two paddle controllers and a game cartridge containing four games: Canyon Bomber, Night Driver, Video Olympics, and another of my faves, Breakout.

This isn't the only way to play classic Atari video games without an original console. Another recent entry is the Atari Gamestation Pro ($99.99), a console with more modern wireless controllers released last month with more than 200 games including Asteroids, Centipede, Pong, Breakout, and Missile Command.

If you already have a recent generation game console, Atari 50: The Anniversary Collection ($39.99, for Microsoft Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Sony PlayStation 4 and PS5) comes with more than 100 classic Atari games.

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What is the newest Atari video game console?

The new Atari 2600+ nudges up the nostalgia factor in that it looks like the original Atari system, although it's a bit smaller. And it actually plays many original Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges if you have them.

What should I know if I buy the new Atari 2600+ game system

Games: Some of the biggest names are currently missing in action including Asteroids, Defender, Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, and the games I used to spend so much time on in the arcade, Frogger and Space Invaders.Other games currently available beyond those included with the console and the paddle bundle are: Berzerk: Enhanced Edition and Mr. Run And Jump ($29.99 each).Atari says there will be additional game releases of classic and newer games, with several more coming in the near future.

Controllers: The console comes with one controller, so if you plan on having two-player battles you will want to order another controller.

Power supply: The console comes with a USB power cable, but no charger, so you'll need to scrounge up one of those to get playing.

HDMI cable: There's one included, but it's only about 5 feet long. If you are playing on a big-screen, you'll likely want to use a longer cord so you can better view your video game challenges.

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads: @mikesnider & mikegsnider.

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