With gaming tech developing so quickly, its easy to get caught up in the fads, but there is something uniquely magical about the simplicity of retro gaming that’s hard to deny. From the pixelated charm of 8-bit adventures to the iconic melodies of 16-bit soundtracks, classic gaming consoles hold a special place in the hearts of players everywhere.
If you feel like you’ve been missing those games long enough, keep reading at the top retro gaming consoles you need to add to your system.
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Top gaming systems
Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Classic Edition
This miniature version of the original NES comes pre-loaded with 30 classic games, including Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda. Its plug-and-play setup and authentic controller design make it a favorite among retro gamers. It’s compatible with HDMI, and it has a Save State feature that lets you pick up games where you leave off.
Sega Genesis Mini
This compact version of the Sega Genesis includes 42 classic titles, such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Street Fighter II. It also features faithful reproductions of the original controllers and a user-friendly interface. Although the console is smaller, it still retains all the appeal and nostalgia of the original.
PlayStation Classic
The PlayStation Classic is Sony’s homage to the console that revolutionized gaming in the mid-1990s. This console first came out in 2018, allowing fans to revisit 20 classic titles, including Final Fantasy VII, Tekken 3, Metal Gear Solid, Resident Evil Director’s Cut, and Twisted Metal.
Atari Flashback Series
The Atari Flashback Series is a modern take on the classic Atari gaming experience, offering players a chance to relive the golden age of arcade-style gaming in the 1970s and 1980s. Since its debut in 2004, the Flashback Series has undergone several iterations, with each new version introducing more features and an expanded library of games.
Depending on the version, you’ll find anywhere from 20 to over 100 built-in games, offering a comprehensive library of nostalgia-packed fun. Certain models, like the Atari Flashback X or Atari Flashback Gold, include advanced features such as save states, rewind options, and even SD card slots for adding more games.
C64 Mini
The C64 Mini is a modern revival of the legendary Commodore 64, one of the most popular home computers of the 1980s. It offers a preloaded collection of 64 classic games that defined an era of home computing and gaming. With titles like California Games, Impossible Mission, Paradroid, and Speedball II, the C64 Mini is a treasure trove of retro fun that highlights the groundbreaking creativity of its time. It can also load additional games via USB, giving users the freedom to expand beyond the included library.
Evercade Handheld Console
The Evercade Handheld Console is a unique entry in the retro gaming world, offering a modern twist on the classic gaming experience. Unlike other retro consoles that come with preloaded games, the Evercade uses physical cartridges, each containing multiple officially licensed games. It currently supports a library of over 300 games spread across more than 40 cartridges.
The handheld console itself features a 4.3-inch screen, reminiscent of the PSP, with a comfortable and ergonomic design for extended play sessions. It offers HDMI output, allowing players to connect the Evercade to a TV for a big-screen gaming experience.
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