Forget PS5 and Xbox Series X – new £390 Atari console lets you play loads of new and retro games
A NEW Atari console loaded with hundreds of games is aiming to rival the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
The long-awaited console was announced way back in 2017 – but is finally launching next month.
It’s an official Atari product, and doubles up as both a console and desktop PC.
The idea is that it can play modern games, as well loads of retro classics too.
Its physical design is based on the iconic Atari 2600, which came out in 1977.
The new console is called Atari VCS, borrowing its name from the 1977 Video Computer System.
Inside the console, we’re expecting a custom AMD processor and Radeon graphics.
It also features several ports, including USB, Ethernet for an internet connection, an SD card slot, and a HDMI port to plug in to your TV.
Based on reports, the console should run a host of modern games – but will probably struggle with top-tier graphically intense games.
However, it will be loaded with classic Atari games too, which will be familiar to long-time fans.
Look out for legendary titles like Pong, Asteroids and Centipede.
The console will come with a Classic Joystick controller, as well as a more modern joypad.
And you can even use it as a desktop PC with a mouse and keyboard.
Atari consoles – a timeline
Here are the blockbuster Atari consoles you may have once loved...
- Atari 2600 – 1977
- Atari 800 – 1979
- Atari 400 – 1979
- Atari 5200 – 1982
- Atari 7800 ProSystem – 1984
- Atari 65 XE & 130X – 1987
- Atari Lynx – 1989
- Atari Jaguar – 1993
- Atari VCS – 2020
It comes out on November 27 and will cost $390 – which is similarly priced to the cheaper versions of the new Xbox and PS5.
The console will land just a few weeks after its Sony and Microsoft rivals, and could be high on many Christmas lists.
But it’s unlikely to sell anywhere near as many units as the new PlayStation and Xbox.
It could be a great trip down memory lane for many, though –pre-orders available here.
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