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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The Atari 7800+ makes sense if you already own Atari cartridges—or want to build a physical collection—and value playing them on a modern TV. It supports Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges over HDMI, with 4:3 and widescreen display options. Its appeal is less clear if you expect a large built-in game library, modern convenience features, or a controller that suits everyone. The package includes one game, Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, and a wireless gamepad; you supply the USB-C wall adapter.
What is the Atari 7800+?
The Atari 7800+ is a compact, cartridge-based console designed to play Atari 2600 and Atari 7800 games on a current television. Atari says it is 80% of the original 7800’s size and uses emulation technology to run cartridges. That makes it a modern way to use compatible physical games, rather than a recreation of the original hardware.
Atari describes compatibility as “near-perfect,” but neither a measured compatibility rate nor independent cartridge-by-cartridge testing is established here. Treat that wording as the manufacturer’s claim, not a guarantee that every cartridge or accessory will work. Atari’s product page lists support for both cartridge generations.
What comes in the box—and what does not?
The package includes the 7800+ console, one CX78+ wireless gamepad, the 7800 cartridge Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, an HDMI cable, and a USB-C power cable. It does not include a wall charging adapter, so you will need a suitable USB-C power source. Atari says the adapter was left out because power requirements differ by region and to avoid unnecessary waste; its 7800+ FAQ explains the omission.
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- TIMELESS ‘80s DESIGN. The 7800 console takes its place among other ‘80s design icons like shoulder pads, crop tops, and aviator sunglasses.
- ATARI+ PLATFORM. Atari+ Platform games and accessories are backward and forward compatible. Consoles, accessories, and games work together and are also compatible with most original accessories and cartridges.
- ARE YOU POWER-READY? Includes a USB-C power cable but does not come with a wall charging plug for your outlet. You’ll need to pick up a 1A USB power adapter if you don’t have an extra one at home.
- Includes Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest Cartridge - In this brand-new sequel to Crystal Castles, you’ll find power-ups, hidden paths, a challenging variety of enemies…and one adorable bear. Everything a platforming fan could possibly want.
- 2 Systems in 1 - Plays both Atari 2600 and 7800 game cartridges. HDMI-Ready - Connect to any screen via HDMI so you can enjoy every last pixel.
The included cartridge gives you one game to start with, not a bundled library. To play other titles, you need compatible Atari cartridges. Atari and PLAION announced new physical 7800+ releases in 2024, including Asteroids Deluxe, Bounty Bob Strikes Back, Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, Berzerk, Frenzy, and Space Duel, as well as new 2600+ cartridges. That announcement described launch-era plans and pricing; it does not establish current availability or stock. The August 20, 2024 announcement is useful as a record of those plans, not a current store listing.
How does it connect to a TV?
The 7800+ connects by HDMI and offers 4:3 and widescreen viewing options. These choices let you decide whether to preserve the older games’ squarer presentation or use more of a modern television’s screen. The listed features establish the options, but not how every individual game looks under each setting. Atari lists the HDMI output and display options.
TechRadar lists two DB9 controller ports, along with dimensions of 9 × 6.5 × 2.3 inches (228.6 × 165.1 × 58.4 mm) and a weight of 1.1 lb (0.5 kg). These are specifications reported in that review, rather than measurements made for this article. TechRadar’s review also describes setup as very easy.
What is the controller like?
The box’s CX78+ is a wireless gamepad, but controller preference is a significant part of the buying decision. TechRadar enjoyed the games and praised the quick setup, while criticizing the CX78+ as “pretty terrible” in its review summary. That is the reviewer’s judgment, not a universal verdict; if you know you dislike this style of controller, factor that into the cost and convenience of owning the system.
Rank #3
- Officially licensed Atari titles. Titles include Asteroids, Centipede, Millipede, Breakout, Missile Command, Crystal Castles and many more. Game save options.
- Packed with over 200 built-in Atari games + bonus titles. Pac-Man & Galaga not included. Full Game list listed below.
- Includes Atari console, games instructions, 2 wireless joysticks, USB power cable, HDMI cable, and user manual. System connects directly to TV.
- Includes two 2.4 GHz wireless joysticks, inspired by the original Atari joysticks, include paddles for paddle games like Breakout, Warlords and many more.
- User Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, Dutch, Japanese and Arabic. Dynamic RGB LED lights.
Atari sells the CX78+ Wireless Gamepad separately. Its product page describes a directional D-pad, a removable thumbstick, DB9 and USB-A adapters, and compatibility with the 7800+, 2600+, and original Atari systems. Those listed features may matter if you want another control option or a spare, but check the current listing for price and availability. Atari’s CX78+ page has the product details.
Is the Atari 7800+ worth it?
It is easiest to recommend to people who specifically want physical Atari cartridges on a modern TV. Its value depends on whether the games you want are already in your collection or obtainable, whether you like the supplied controller, and whether HDMI plus selectable aspect ratios meet your needs. If you are starting without cartridges, the console alone does not provide a broad library to explore.
Rank #4
- Atari 2600+ PAC-MAN Edition: The iconic console, now in PAC-MAN yellow with illuminated character icons across the front.
- Backward and Forward Compatible: Play retro games just like you remember them on a system upgraded for today. Play both Atari 2600 and 7800 games on this 2600+ console. Compatible with everything in the Plus Platform, as well as with most original accessories and cartridges.
- New Arcade-Style PAC-MAN Game: Includes PAC-MAN: Double Feature 2-in-1 game cartridge. Featuring an all-new, arcade-style version, PAC-MAN 7800 and the very first home version of the game, PAC-MAN 2600.
- Wireless Joystick: Also includes a PAC-MAN Edition of the Atari CX-40+ Wireless Joystick.
- HDMI Output: Connect instantly to modern TVs with HDMI output and widescreen mode.
TechRadar reached a similar enthusiast-focused conclusion: it found the included games enjoyable but considered the limited modern conveniences and controller drawbacks reasons the system mainly suits serious Atari fans. That is an independent reviewer’s assessment, not a hands-on test for this article. The 7800+ is a niche hardware choice, not the obvious pick for someone seeking a plug-and-play catalogue or a universally comfortable controller.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should buy it?
- Good fit: Atari collectors who want to play 2600 and 7800 cartridges through HDMI, and who are comfortable sourcing additional games.
- Possible fit: Curious newcomers who have a particular interest in Atari and are happy to begin with the single included cartridge.
- Less suitable: Buyers who want a large built-in game selection, place a high priority on modern convenience features, or strongly dislike the included controller.
Atari’s product page lists Amazon availability in several territories, including the UK, Canada, Germany, France, and Italy, but retailer stock and listings can change. Confirm the seller, local compatibility details, and current price for your country before ordering. Check Atari’s current product listing.
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Best Value
- Together Again: Experience the original video game romance that began in 1982, when Atari brought PAC-MAN to home consoles for the first time. These icons are together again to celebrate their legacy.
- Two Games in One: PAC-MAN Double Feature includes two PAC-MAN games in one. PAC-MAN 7800 is an all-new, arcade-style version of the game. PAC-MAN 2600 is the very first home version of the game, released in 1982.
- Exclusive Content For Collectors: The original artist for PAC-MAN 2600, Hiro Kimura, returned to create new art for the box, manual, cartridge sleeve, and cartridge labels. The manual also includes exclusive interviews, history, and more.
- Atari Plus Platform: All Atari+ Platform games and accessories are backward and forward compatible. Consoles, accessories, and games work together and are also compatible with most original accessories and cartridges.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
