Atari VCS Console Is Now Available For Retro Gaming Goodness, But Its Price Tag Stings

The Atari VCS is finally available to buy four years after it was first announced, but it's not cheap for a retro console.

[Knightofelemia]

It might appeal to a die hard Atari collector who has everything Atari from the consoles to the various pc's they pumped out. As for me the price just turns me away from it I'd rather use the cash on a PS5 myself.

[uth11]

I think that's exactly it. It also makes a great gift for the GenX dad who has everything and grew up with Atari. The VCS isn't the only console like this.. there's the Intellivision Amico too that seems aimed at the same demographic

[Vits]

The Intellivision Amico is a more family friendly product that focus on being simple and inclusive while having new games or revisions of the older classics. So for someone that is not really into gaming I would say that it is a very good choice of a gift.

The VCS on the other hand is a rather bizarre product. Because while you can use it as a retro gaming console. That is really only using a fraction of its potential. And to actually use it to it fully the user need some knowledge of computers. That include how to disassemble the device, install a different OS, unlock and change the bios, etc.

So for a gift to a GenX dad I would say that is better to stick with a Atari Flashback console. They are cheaper, easier to use and if you find a 8 series Deluxe they even come with paddle controllers.

[lonewolf10]

So a weak PC in a box with a couple of user upgrade options (more storage/ram) for just shy of the cost (400 if you want controllers) of a new gen console, pass.

[Dwarrior]

I would pay $99 for this. At the MOST.