Retro consoles: which one is better to buy? Tips and Recommendations
Retro consoles: which one is better to buy? Tips and Recommendations
The retro is very current. Almost as much as the current one. And it’s something that we quickly realize if we take a look at the market; Reviews of mythical consoles continue to proliferate , 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 games for the latest generation consoles, it never hurts to revisit those titles that have been accompanying us during our gamer journey.
What were we playing in 1991? These are the 32 best classic video games of that year
So, whether for casual gamers or for hardened nostalgics, manufacturers put at our fingertips an interesting catalog of retro consoles with which to relive other times. Next, we are going to see what to consider before getting one, and then we will review some of the most interesting models that we find on the market.
What should we take into account when buying a retro console?: Retro consoles: which one is better to buy? Tips and Recommendations
The catalog
The first, and probably most important thing that we must take into account when it comes to 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 the past) we will feel a greater affinity for some than for others .
In addition, these consoles generally come with a closed catalog of games, which limits us for the future. That is, if years ago we could use different cartridges with them to change the game, 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 , as well as their quality.
The size
While the original vintage consoles were large, their 21st century versions are characterized by being quite small and portable ; hardware has come a long way over the 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 one of 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: Retro consoles: which one is better to buy? Tips and Recommendations
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 which to plug the retro console . In these years the connection standards have changed a lot, so manufacturers have had to adapt their revisions to modern times.
The Lost Art of Memory Cards: The Mythical Save Game Icons on PlayStation and PS2
For this reason, it is common 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 find 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 when buying a retro console (and any other device, really) is the price. Generally, these consoles are relatively cheap for what they cost in their time. And they are also much cheaper than the latest generation . But not all pockets can afford the same, so that is another aspect to consider.
So, as always happens when facing any type of purchase, we must assess how much we are willing to spend, what does 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.
A PlayStation inside TV: the craze for TVs with integrated consoles that lasted 30 years and disappeared never to return
The best retro consoles: recommended models: Retro consoles: which one is better to buy? Tips and Recommendations
Now, we are going to see a selection of some of the best retro consoles that we currently find on the market. Depending on the platform they belong to, 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 retro cheaper consoles that are 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, the Zelda Game & Watch is now available to pre-purchase .
Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros.
Sony PlayStation Classic: Retro consoles: which one is better to buy? Tips and Recommendations
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. 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. This mini version is easy to transport, includes two controllers, connects via HDMI and incorporates a host of legendary titles , including: Tekken 3, Grand Theft Auto, Final Fantasy VII, Metal Gear Solid and Rayman.
Sony PlayStation – Classic Console + 2 controllers
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 30 of Nintendo’s most successful titles : Dr. Mario, Bubble Bobble, Castlevania, PAC-MAN, The Legend of Zelda, Metroid and many more. .
Nintendo NES – Classic Mini Console
Sega Megadrive Mini
Former owners of the Sega Megadrive also have its current revision available in a mini version , how could it be otherwise. With a price of 79.98 euros , this miniature replica of the famous Sega console connects via HDMI and comes with two controllers that are connected via USB. And it gives us the opportunity to enjoy no less than 40 mythical games such as Sonic, Street Fighter or Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle.
Sega Megadrive Mini
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. It connects via HDMI, like the rest of these consoles, and incorporates no less than 21 pre-installed games . Among which are several Super Mario, some Kirby and Donkey Kong Country.
Nintendo Classic Mini Super Nes
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 mythical titles such as Space Invaders or River Raid.
Import – Retro Atari Flashback 8 Wireless HD Console (120 Games)
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 a price of 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.
