The Atari 7800+ is a compact, HDMI-connected console for playing Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges on a modern TV. Its strongest case is practical: it supports both cartridge families, includes a wireless controller and a new 7800 game, and gives the revived system a few new releases to play. It is still a physical-cartridge machine with a modest lineup, so its appeal depends on whether you want that format and already own—or plan to buy—compatible games.
What the Atari 7800+ is
Atari and PLAION announced the 7800+ on August 20, 2024, as a scaled-down recreation of the 1980s Atari 7800. It connects to a television or monitor over HDMI and offers 4:3 and widescreen viewing modes. Atari says it is 80% of the original console’s size; its FAQ also says the enlarged cartridge socket is intended to make cartridges less likely to stick. The system uses emulation technology to run cartridges, according to Atari’s FAQ.
It is not a new console with a large built-in catalog: games are supplied on cartridges, and the standard package includes one. The 7800+ is best understood as a way to play physical Atari 2600 and 7800 games through a modern display connection.
Which cartridges it plays
The 7800+ supports Atari 2600 and Atari 7800 cartridges, including newer Atari XP cartridges. Atari describes compatibility as “near-perfect,” but that is the company’s claim, not a guarantee that every cartridge will work. If a particular game matters to your purchase, confirm its compatibility with Atari or the seller rather than assuming it is covered.
#1 Best Overall
- 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 two cartridge families are distinct. Atari’s August 2024 announcement also listed new 2600+ cartridges, but those are not 7800 games simply because the 7800+ can play 2600 cartridges.
What comes in the box
Atari’s current product page lists these standard inclusions:
- Atari 7800+ console
- One wireless CX78+ gamepad
- Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest cartridge
- HDMI cable
- USB-C power cable
A USB-C wall adapter is not included. Atari says power requirements differ between markets and that omitting plugs helps reduce unnecessary waste. The sources cited here do not specify an adapter’s electrical rating, so check the console documentation for your region before choosing one. Package details are listed on Atari’s product page.
What games are available—and why the lineup matters
The included game
Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest is the bundled cartridge. Atari describes it as a new sequel to Crystal Castles, giving buyers a game made for the revived hardware rather than only a way to revisit older releases.
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New 7800 cartridges announced
Atari’s August 2024 announcement named these new 7800 cartridge releases:
- Asteroids Deluxe
- Bounty Bob Strikes Back
- Berzerk
- Frenzy
- Space Duel
The announcement said the 7800 cartridge version of Bounty Bob Strikes Back adds 10 caves. These are titles announced at launch, not a guarantee that every cartridge remains in stock or available in every region; check current listings before buying.
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 the games feel like to play
TechRadar’s February 2025 review says its reviewer played Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, Fatal Run, Frenzy, Asteroids Deluxe, and Ninja Golf. The reviewer described the games as simple but charming and enjoyable. That makes the title’s promise plausible for players who like arcade-era design and physical media, but it does not mean the 7800+ has a broad modern library.
How the 7800+ differs from the original
The main changes are convenience and display compatibility: the 7800+ is smaller, connects over HDMI, and provides 4:3 and widescreen modes. Atari says it measures 80% of the original’s size. The console uses emulation to play cartridges, rather than being the original 1980s hardware.
In TechRadar’s February 2025 review, the listed dimensions were 9 × 6.5 × 2.3 inches (228.6 × 165.1 × 58.4 mm), with a listed weight of 1.1 lb (0.5 kg). Those are the publication’s specifications, not independent measurements for every unit.
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.
What one hands-on review found
TechRadar says it tested the 7800+ for about a week using a 24-inch AOC Gaming 24G2SP monitor over HDMI at 1080p, checked both 16:9 and 4:3 modes, and played five named games with the included CX78+ controller. Its reviewer found setup easy and praised the games’ appeal, but described the console as lightweight and hollow-feeling and criticized the pack-in controller. The review also reports that some visually detailed games, including Ninja Golf and Fatal Run, took more than 10 seconds to boot. These are that reviewer’s impressions and observations, not universal performance results or a broad comparative test. The review says it could not play with a third-party controller.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How it compares with other retro systems
These distinctions summarize TechRadar’s February 2025 comparison; check current product specifications before buying.
| System | Cartridge support or media | Controller connections and support |
|---|---|---|
| Atari 7800+ | Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges | Two DB9 ports; the review says it could not use a third-party controller |
| Atari 2600+ | Atari 2600 cartridges | One DB9 port |
| Evercade VS | Evercade game library, rather than Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridge support | Four USB ports and third-party gamepad support highlighted in the review |
The 7800+ makes the most sense if support for both Atari cartridge families is the priority. The alternatives may be a better fit if their controller options or game libraries matter more. If you already own Atari cartridges, that existing collection is a meaningful part of the value calculation.
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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.
Price and availability
Atari and PLAION announced preorder prices of $129.99, €119.99, and £99.99 in 2024. TechRadar listed a review price of $129.99 and £99.99 in February 2025. These are dated figures, not current quotes. Atari’s product page lists regional retail links, but stock and pricing can change by country; check local retailers for current availability.
Who should consider buying it
- Good fit: players who want a straightforward HDMI route to Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges, particularly if they already own games or want to collect physical releases.
- Also appealing: fans of arcade-era games who are interested in the included Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest and the newer 7800 cartridges, subject to current availability.
- Less compelling: buyers seeking a large ready-to-play library, extensive controller flexibility, or a modern game system rather than cartridge-based retro play.
Atari chairman and CEO Wade Rosen described the system and related releases as “a perfect follow-up” to the Atari 2600+ in the company’s August 2024 announcement. That is Atari’s promotional view; the practical case for the 7800+ rests on its cartridge support, included accessories, and whether its games suit your tastes.
Quick Recap
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.
