It’s not often that I get to write about a console that’s as old as I am, but here we are. Atari has just announced a renewed version of its 7800 home console from 1986. Dubbed the 7800 Plus, the new console will launch later this winter but is already available to pre-order from Atari for $129.99. The 7800 Plus is a scaled-down version of the original hardware equipped with an HDMI connection and has the ability to play first and third-party cartridges for the Atari 2600 and 7800. Additionally, you’ll have the option to play your games in their original 4:3 aspect ration, or upscale them to widescreen format.
While emulators and other options for playing retro Atari games exist, playing the games on their original hardware remains the definitive way to experience many of these classic titles.
Along with its new console, Atari also announced a pair of new wireless controllers. The CX40 Plus wireless Joystick and CX78 Plus Wireless gamepad are loving recreations of the original hardware as they shipped with the Atari 2600 and 7800. Both of the new controllers are compatible with either the Atari 2600 Plus (released last year) or the new 7800 Plus consoles but can also be hooked up to your PC by using the included USB-C adapter — they’re even compatible with an original 2600 or 7800 if you have one lying around. Both peripherals are available from Atari now and cost $34.99.
In addition to all of this new hardware, Atari is also producing a bunch of new game cartridges to use with your new consoles. The new games will be available for $29.99 each, and will launch alongside the 7800 Plus later this year. Each cartridge provides an original take on a classic title for Atari consoles and comes packaged with printed manual. We’ve provided a full list of the new titles below along with their compatible consoles.
New cartridges for Atari 2600 Plus or 7800 Plus
- Caverns of Mars
- Epyx Game Collection (Summer Games, Winter Games, California Games)
- M Network Collection (Armor Ambush, Astroblast, Frogs and Flies, Star Strike)
- RealSports Collection (Realsports Baseball, Football, Volleyball, Soccer, Tennis, and Basketball)
New cartridges for Atari 7800 Plus
- Asteroids Deluxe
- Bounty Bob Strikes Back
- Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest (homebrewed sequel to Crystal Castles and comes included with the Atari 7800 Plus)
- Bezerk 7800
- Frenzy
- Space Duel
