The retro is very current, almost as much as the current one. And it is something that we quickly realize if we take a look at the market; Reviews of mythical consoles continue to increase, the kind that in many cases marked our childhood and adolescence.
In addition, there are many ROMs and emulators through which we can install and play old games on current consoles and PCs. And it is that although we do not stop receiving authentic fun for the latest generation consoles, it hurts never to revisit those titles that have been accompanying us during our gamer journey.
So, whether for casual gamers or hardened nostalgics, manufacturers put at our fingertips an exciting catalog of retro consoles with which to relive other times. Next, we will see what to consider before getting one, and then we will review some of the most exciting models that we find on the market.
What should we take into account when buying a retro console?
The catalog
The first and most important thing that we must consider when getting one of these retro consoles is its catalog. Depending on the company to which the console in question belongs, it will have some games or others. Then, according to our tastes ( the sagas that we liked the most in the past, titles that marked us in history), we will feel more affinity for some than others.
In addition, these consoles generally come with a closed catalog of games, which limits us for the future. That is if we could use different cartridges to change the game years ago; in retro reviews, the catalog is what it is. So we will have to take into account the number of titles that each one incorporates and their quality.
The size
While the original vintage consoles were large, their 21st-century versions are characterized by being relatively small and portable; hardware has come a long way in recent years, and the components needed to move older games are much smaller.
So manufacturers have opted for these famous ‘mini’ versions of retro consoles, which have portability as their main assets. Thus, this can be a differential factor for many users since these small sizes allow a lot of play when taking the consoles with us when we go on a trip.
Connectivity
A console is of no use to us without a means through which to use it. In other words: we must have a television to plug in the retro console. The connection standards have changed a lot in these years, so manufacturers have had to adapt their revisions to modern times.
For this reason, it is standard for the retro models that we find in the market to be compatible with HDMI-type connections, which is one of the most widespread today and that we see in all types of equipment: computers, laptops, game consoles, graphic cards, devices. Multimedia… So we must make sure that the console that we are going to buy has it. Although, as we say, manufacturers take it into account and have adapted them to these standards.
The price
Finally, a fundamental factor is a price when buying a retro console (and any other device, really). Generally, these consoles are relatively cheap for what they cost in their time. And they are also much more affordable than the latest generation. But not all pockets can afford the same, so that is another aspect to consider.
So, when facing any purchase, we must assess how much we are willing to spend, what that console that we have looked at offers us, and if it has a good value for money. Retro is usually expensive, and although these consoles are not collectors’ items (with their consequent overpricing), it does not hurt to obtain the highest profit for each euro we invest.
The best retro consoles: recommended models.
Now, we will see a selection of some of the best retro consoles that we currently find on the market. Depending on the platform to which they belong, they include one or other mythical games. But, in any case, they are sure to delight retro lovers. Let’s go there!
Game&Watch: Super Mario Bros.
One of the cheaper retro consoles in the market is the Game & Watch Super Mario Bros. It costs only 42.16 euros and is a must-have for fans of this legendary Nintendo saga. It is portable, easy to transport, has an autonomy that promises up to 8 hours of use, and incorporates a USB Type C port. In addition, it is now available to the Zelda Game & Watch pre-purchase .
Sony PlayStation Classic
There is little to say about this review in mini format of one of the most famous consoles in the history of video games: the PlayStation. , This mini version is easy to transport, includes two controllers, connects via HDMI, and incorporates many legendary titles, among which are: Tekken 3, Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid, and Rayman. Without a doubt, at 55.99 euros, it is an excellent acquisition for fans of this Sony family, which continues to offer us tons of hours of fun generation after generation.
Nintendo NES Classic Mini
At a price quite similar to the previous one ( 59.98 euros ), we find this Nintendo alternative: the NES Classic, also in mini format. It also connects to our monitor or television via HDMI and includes a remote from the legendary NES. And the section that interests us the most, videogames, is made up of no less than the 30 most successful titles of Nintendo’s: Dr. Mario, Bubble Bobble, Castlevania, PAC-MAN, The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and many more.
Sega Megadrive Mini
Former owners of the Sega Megadrive also have its current revision in the mini version available; how could it be otherwise. With 79.98 euros, this miniature replica of the famous Sega console connects via HDMI and comes with two controllers connected via USB. And it allows us to enjoy no less than 40 make-believe games such as Sonic, Street Fighter, or Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle.
Nintendo Classic Mini Super NES
At practically the same price as the previous one, 79.99 euros, we find the Nintendo Super NES in that mini version that manufacturers (and users) like so much. Like the rest of these consoles, it connects via HDMI and incorporates no less than 21 pre-installed games. Among which are several Super Mario, some Kirby, and Donkey Kong Country.
Atari Retro Flashback 8 Wireless HD
The classic Atari also has its current version, which we can buy for a price of 99 euros. It also connects via HDMI, and one of its main strengths is that we can use its controls wirelessly through the 2.4 GHz channel. It does not incorporate as many games as some of the consoles we have just seen, but among which it does count are legendary titles such as Space Invaders or River Raid.
TAPDRA Classic Arcade Video Game
Finally, fans of retro arcade machines can also unleash their nostalgia at the hands of consoles like this one from TAPDRA. For 159.95 euros, and available in several colors, this retro console for two players includes no less than 2,700 classic games, can be connected via HDMI and VGA, and supports up to 4 simultaneous players.
Sharlene Meriel is an avid gamer with a knack for technology. He has been writing about the latest technologies for the past 5 years. His contribution in technology journalism has been noteworthy. He is also a day trader with interest in the Forex market.
