Step into the nostalgic realm of retro gaming with two unique products that pay homage to the iconic Atari 2600 – the LEGO Atari 2600 Building Set and the Atari 2600+. In this review, we'll not only delve into the rich history of Atari 2600 games but also explore the features and appeal of these two exciting products that cater to the cravings of both gaming enthusiasts and LEGO aficionados.
Table of Contents
1. Atari 2600 Games and Their Timeless Charm:
Before we dive into the reviews, let's take a moment to appreciate the enduring charm of Atari 2600 games. These classics, including Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede, have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. From their pixelated graphics to simple yet addictive gameplay, these games hold a special place in the hearts of gaming enthusiasts.
2. LEGO Atari 2600 Building Set
LEGO Icons Atari 2600 Building Set
Key Features:
- Retro Gaming Experience: Immerse yourself in the 1980s with this LEGO set, featuring nostalgic elements like a classic TV, boom box, posters, retro phone, and roller skates.
- Working Joystick: The set boasts vintage control levers, a functional joystick, and a slot for inserting the three classic game cartridges.
- Atari Game Scenes: Build three iconic game scenes, each capturing the essence of Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede.
1. Retro Gaming Experience:
- Relive the 1980s with this LEGO Icons Atari 2600 video game console replica set, capturing the nostalgic essence of the Atari 2600 era.
2. Classic Game Cartridges:
- The set includes 3 classic video game cartridge replicas: Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede, allowing users to reminisce about iconic gaming moments.
3. Hidden 1980s Scene:
- Recreate a hidden 1980s scene, complete with a classic TV, boom box, posters, retro phone, and roller skates, enhancing the overall nostalgic experience.
4. Working Joystick Feature:
- The retro LEGO set features vintage control levers with connectors, a fully functional joystick, and a slot where users can insert the 3 included game cartridges.
5. Atari Game Scenes:
- Create 3 scenes that vividly recreate famous Atari video games: a spaceship shooting at asteroids, a castle, and a centipede with mushroom builds.
6. Perfect Gift for Gamers:
- Designed for retro gaming fans and enthusiasts, it is an ideal gift for gamers looking to expand their collection of vintage consoles.
7. Adventure Easter Egg:
- Discover the Easter egg hidden in the Adventure video game, paying tribute to this iconic vintage collectible set with an additional element of surprise.
8. Detailed Design:
- The LEGO set allows users to recreate all the design details of the original Atari 2600 console and cartridges, providing an immersive building experience.
9. Popular Atari Games:
- Rediscover 3 of the most popular Atari games: Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede, with a replica 'cartridge' for each, capturing the essence of these classic titles.
10. Large Piece Count:
- The set contains a substantial 2,532 pieces, offering a challenging and rewarding building project for adults who enjoy detailed and intricate LEGO creations.
3. Atari 2600+
Atari 2600+
Overview:
The Atari 2600+ combines the nostalgia of the original machine with modern quality-of-life features. It features HDMI output, USB power, multiple screen resolutions, and an exact replica of the original CX40+ Joystick. Additionally, it includes a '10 Games in 1' cartridge with classics like Adventure, Combat, and Missile Command.
1. Modern Quality of Life Upgrades:
- The Atari 2600+ builds on the legacy of the original machine by incorporating modern features for enhanced user experience.
- HDMI output ensures compatibility with modern TVs, providing a crisp and clear display.
- USB power allows convenient and flexible powering options.
2. Backwards Compatibility:
- The cartridge slot is compatible with hundreds of original Atari 2600 and 7800 games, allowing users to revisit classic titles seamlessly.
- The '10 Games in 1' cartridge includes iconic games such as Adventure, Combat, Missile Command, and more.
3. Authentic Design and Feel:
- Crafted with attention to detail, the Atari 2600+ maintains the look and feel of the 4-switch Atari 2600 that launched in 1980.
- The authentic woodgrain outer shell finish adds a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of the original console.
4. CX40+ Joystick Controller:
- The package includes the CX40+ Joystick Controller, an exact replica of the original 2600 Joystick Controller.
- Recreated with the same size and layout, the joystick allows users to relive the gameplay experiences from the early days of home console gaming.
5. Wide Screen Mode:
- The Atari 2600+ features a widescreen mode, adapting to different screen resolutions for a versatile gaming experience.
- Users can enjoy their favorite games in various formats, catering to personal preferences and display setups.
6. Inclusion of 10 Classic Games:
- The '10 Games in 1' cartridge includes a diverse selection of classic Atari titles, offering a variety of gaming experiences in a single package.
- Games such as Adventure, Combat, Haunted House, and Yars' Revenge are part of the included collection.
7. Enhanced Editions and Accessories:
- Additional offerings like the "Berzerk - Enhanced Edition" with new features such as diagonal firing and voice sampling provide a fresh take on classic titles.
- Accessories like the 4-in-1 Game Cartridge with Paddle Pack expand the gaming possibilities with classic retro collections.
8. User-Friendly Connectivity:
- Easily connects to modern TVs through HDMI, ensuring a hassle-free setup for users.
- USB power adds convenience, allowing users to power the console using common USB power sources.
9. Availability of Additional Accessories:
- The availability of accessories like the CX40+ Joystick Controller and 4-in-1 Game Cartridge with Paddle Pack offers users the opportunity to enhance their gaming setup.
4. Comparison Table of LEGO Atari 2600 Building Set and the Atari 2600+ gaming system
| Feature | LEGO Icons Atari 2600 Building Set | Atari 2600+ Gaming System |
|---|---|---|
| Retro Gaming Experience | Relive the 1980s with a LEGO replica of the Atari 2600 console. | Blends the legacy of the original Atari 2600 with modern features. |
| Classic Game Cartridges | Includes LEGO replicas of Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede cartridges. | '10 Games in 1' cartridge with iconic titles like Adventure and Combat. |
| Hidden 1980s Scene | Recreate a scene with classic TV, boom box, posters, and retro phone. | N/A |
| Working Joystick Feature | Features a working joystick, vintage control levers, and cartridge slot. | Authentic CX40+ Joystick Controller with original layout. |
| Atari Game Scenes | Recreate scenes from famous Atari games within the LEGO set. | Backwards compatible with hundreds of original Atari games. |
| Perfect Gift for Gamers | Designed for retro gaming fans; a great gift for expanding collections. | Merges retro aesthetics with modern features; ideal for gaming fans. |
| Adventure Easter Egg | Includes a hidden Easter egg in the Adventure video game. | N/A |
| Product Dimensions & Weight | 22.91 x 18.9 x 4.88 inches, 7.85 pounds | 13.75 x 4.6 x 10.25 inches, 3.23 pounds |
| Release Date | January 1, 2023 | November 17, 2023 |
| Manufacturer | LEGO | Plaion |
| Price |
As we conclude our review of these Atari 2600-inspired products, it's evident that both the LEGO Atari 2600 Building Set and the Atari 2600+ pay homage to the golden age of gaming in distinct ways. Whether relishing the tactile joy of building a LEGO masterpiece or embracing the marriage of retro aesthetics with modern technology in the Atari 2600+, both products offer valuable experiences for gamers seeking a connection to the past.
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