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All Atari Consoles ever released - Collector's Guide

Updated: 4 days ago

Identifying Valuable Editions and Variants



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Collector's Guides: Identifying Valuable Editions and Variants



Pacman retro video game from Atari on a screen

Dive into the captivating world of Atari consoles, where pixels and nostalgia intertwine to create a timeless gaming experience.


From the iconic Atari 2600 to the lesser-known gems of the collection, each console tells a story of innovation, challenges, and the evolution of video gaming.


Whether you're a dedicated Atari enthusiast or a curious explorer of gaming history, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through the labyrinth of Atari's legacy, shedding light on valuable editions and sought-after variants that have shaped the gaming landscape.




Evolution of Atari consoles - Editions and releases:




1. Atari 2600 (1977):


Atari 2600 (1977)
  • Model: Atari 2600

  • Manufacturer: Atari

  • Release Year: 1977 → Released worldwide

  • Release Countries: Worldwide release

  • Launch Price: $

  • Released Colors: Multiple

  • Best-selling Game: Various

  • Notable Features: Pioneering joystick and paddle controllers

  • Notable Games: Numerous classics

  • Notable Accessories: Various peripherals

Technical Specifications:

  • Audio: -

  • Controllers: Joystick and paddle controllers

  • Network: None

  • Optical Drive: Cartridge-based





2. Atari 5200 (1982):


Atari 5200 (1982)
  • Model: Atari 5200

  • Manufacturer: Atari

  • Release Year: 1982 → Released in North America

  • Release Countries: (US)

  • Launch Price: $

  • Released Colors: Black

  • Best-selling Game: Various

  • Notable Features: Enhanced graphics, non-centering joystick

  • Notable Games: A library of titles

  • Notable Accessories: Various controllers and peripherals

Technical Specifications:

  • Audio: -

  • Controllers: Non-centering joystick

  • Network: None

  • Optical Drive: Cartridge-based




3. Atari 7800 (1986):


Atari 7800 (1986) North American release
Atari 7800 North American release

Atari 7800 (1986) European release
Atari 7800 European release
  • Model: Atari 7800

  • Manufacturer: Atari

  • Release Year: 1986 → Released in North America

  • Release Countries: (US)

  • Launch Price: $

  • Released Colors: Black

  • Best-selling Game: Various

  • Notable Features: Backward compatibility with 2600 games, improved graphics

  • Notable Games: Atari classics

  • Notable Accessories: Controllers and light gun

Technical Specifications:

  • Audio: -

  • Controllers: Joystick and light gun

  • Network: None

  • Optical Drive: Cartridge-based




4. Atari XEGS (1987):


Atari XEGS (1987)
  • Model: Atari XEGS

  • Manufacturer: Atari

  • Release Year: 1987 → Released in North America

  • Release Countries: (US)

  • Launch Price: $

  • Released Colors: Black

  • Best-selling Game: Various

  • Notable Features: Hybrid gaming console and computer, detachable keyboard

  • Notable Games: Atari software library

  • Notable Accessories: Joysticks and keyboards

Technical Specifications:

  • Controllers: Joystick and keyboard

  • Network: None

  • Optical Drive: Cartridge-based




5. Atari Lynx (1989):


Atari Lynx (1989)
  • Model: Atari Lynx

  • Manufacturer: Atari

  • Release Year: 1989 → Released in North America, Europe

  • Release Countries: (US, Europe)

  • Launch Price: $

  • Released Colors: Multiple

  • Best-selling Game: Various

  • Notable Features: First color handheld console, forward-thinking design

  • Notable Games: Exclusive handheld titles

  • Notable Accessories: Comlynx cable for multiplayer

Technical Specifications:

  • Audio: Stereo sound

  • Controllers: Handheld with built-in controls

  • Network: Comlynx cable for multiplayer

  • Optical Drive: Cartridge-based




6. Atari Jaguar (1993):


Atari Jaguar (1993)
  • Model: Atari Jaguar

  • Manufacturer: Atari

  • Release Year: 1993 → Released in North America, Europe

  • Release Countries: (US, Europe)

  • Launch Price: $

  • Released Colors: Black

  • Best-selling Game: Various

  • Notable Features: 64-bit powerhouse, introduced CD add-on

  • Notable Games: Jaguar exclusives

  • Notable Accessories: Various controllers and the Jaguar CD

Technical Specifications:

  • Audio: Stereo sound

  • Controllers: Unique controller with numeric keypad

  • Network: None

  • Optical Drive: CD and cartridge







Conclusion: A Voyage Through Atari's Timeless Tapestry


Our journey through the realms of Atari consoles has unveiled an array of iconic and lesser-known treasures, each contributing to the rich tapestry of gaming history.

Atari's legacy echoes through the pixels of classic titles, the innovation of controllers, and the unique design of its consoles. From the humble beginnings of the Atari 2600 to the forward-thinking Lynx and the powerful Jaguar, every console bears witness to Atari's indelible mark on the gaming world.


As you venture forth, remember that "Retro Quest Collect" is your portal to a world of gaming wonders. Explore further, engage with our captivating articles, and allow the legacy of Atari to inspire your own gaming odyssey. The pixels await your touch, and the adventure continues as we celebrate the timeless allure of Atari.


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