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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe Atari 7800+ plays Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges through HDMI, using emulation rather than original 1980s hardware. It is a compact, straightforward way to revisit those game libraries, with a wireless controller in the box—but Atari describes cartridge compatibility as “near-perfect,” not universal.
Will this play Atari game cartridges?
Yes. Atari says the 7800+ plays Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges, including new Atari XP cartridges. Its official product page lists the feature as “Plays both Atari 2600 and 7800 game cartridges” (Atari 7800+ product page). Atari’s support FAQ calls compatibility “near-perfect,” so buyers should not assume every cartridge will work. Check the specific game’s compatibility before buying.
The console uses emulation technology to play cartridges, according to Atari’s 7800+ FAQ. The cartridges are physical, but the modern console is not a re-creation of the original 1980s electronics.
What comes in the box, and what do you need to set it up?
Atari lists the console, one CX78+ wireless gamepad, a Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest cartridge, an HDMI cable and a USB-C power cable in the package. A USB-C wall plug is not included, so you will need a compatible power source if you do not already have one.
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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.
Connect the console to a screen over HDMI. Atari says the system offers widescreen and 4:3 viewing modes. Its listed connections also include USB-C and DB9 controller ports. One wireless controller is supplied; other controllers are optional accessories, not a prerequisite for getting started.
How is the Atari 7800+ different from the original Atari 7800?
| Feature | Atari 7800+ | Original Atari 7800 |
|---|---|---|
| Display connection | HDMI output, with widescreen or 4:3 viewing, according to Atari’s product page and FAQ. | HDMI is a feature of the modern system; the historical source cited here does not specify the original’s connection details. |
| Size | Atari says it is 80% of the original console’s size. | Serves as the size reference for Atari’s 80% comparison. |
| Cartridge play | Plays Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges through emulation; Atari describes compatibility as near-perfect. | Designed with backward compatibility for Atari 2600 cartridges, according to the Atari Museum’s historical account. |
| Cartridge opening | An enlarged socket is intended to reduce cartridges sticking, Atari says. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Controller | Includes one wireless CX78+ gamepad. | The CX78+ is a modern wireless recreation of a controller Atari released with the 7800 in Europe in the 1980s, according to Atari. |
Atari’s stated changes focus on easier connections and convenience: HDMI, selectable screen formats, a smaller enclosure and an enlarged cartridge socket. The 7800+ keeps the original system’s cartridge-era appeal, but its emulation-based operation is an important distinction from playing games on the original hardware.
What era of Atari does it revisit?
The original 7800 was designed to play Atari 2600 cartridges as well as its own games. The Atari Museum’s historical account of the 7800 describes backward compatibility as a design goal and notes that legal and ownership negotiations came before the system’s 1986 release.
Atari identifies Dig Dug, Galaga and Xevious as official 7800 launch titles in 1986 on its Galaga product page. That handful of arcade conversions offers a concrete snapshot of the library the modern console evokes; it does not establish how commercially successful or influential the 7800 was overall.
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.
What do reviewers say about the 7800+?
TechRadar’s 2026 roundup of retro consoles describes broader game compatibility than the Atari 2600+ as a strength of the 7800+, while criticizing the build quality and included controller (TechRadar roundup). That is one reviewer’s assessment, not a consensus or a hands-on finding presented here. It is useful context if controller feel or construction matters as much to you as playing the cartridge library.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the Atari 7800+ the right fit?
- Consider it if you want to play Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges on an HDMI-equipped display and value a smaller, self-contained setup.
- Check first if you have a particular cartridge in mind: Atari’s “near-perfect” compatibility wording is not a guarantee for every game.
- Look elsewhere or weigh the trade-off if your priority is original console hardware rather than emulation, or if you are especially particular about the bundled controller.
Atari listed the 7800+ at $129.99 on its product page when accessed on October 8, 2026. Price, availability and shipping can change, and retailer availability varies by region; check the listing for your market before ordering.
Quick Recap
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.
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.
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.
