I have a bunch of CX-40's in various states of disrepair laying around the house. That dang plastic ring on the stick kept breaking. Grabbed a slik stik controller... problem solved :D
Just received the Atari VCS. Absolutely love it! We installed Kodi on it and stream as well. Highly recommend! Please do a review showing KODI on it.. Having a great time with kids playing in this and streaming.
thanks for your honest review. thats really interesting. i think some of the things you talked about are known as things that have to be fixed and to be improved. i read a report from atari from december that they raised around 6 million in additional capital to invest in the ongoing development of the VCS. so i would expect improvements over time. so far they invested a bunch of millions in this thing. its impressive how much money such developments can cost. but i am optimistic - over time - this will getting better and better :) have a nice week !
Oh i didn't know about this! This is right up my alley. I've been playing old LOTR PS2 games lately but I started on Atari 2600 in the 80's so this is a must have. I tease my teenage son all the time that me and my husband are first generation gamers haha After 30 years of marriage this June I tease my husband that I only started dating him back in the day because he had a Sega Genesis and a wicked game collection that I loved to play. hehe
@@ShwappaJ Women that date a guy because of his game collection? Here I thought I was the only one. Pssst I was kidding, though I did enjoy his games when I was at his house (which was his parents house since we were young when we started dating). It was a joke.
You can just imagine it when the idea was pitched... Exec: We got this cool idea that we can sell to our die hard fanbase Board: What does it offer for today's generation in creating new fans? Exec: What?
I wanted to purchase this, but I think I'll wait until they address some of the things pointed out in this review. To be honest, I only wanted it for emulation gaming. I am capable of getting the device there. I'll wait a year and see what they do and how more people feel about it after some real time spent with it. Thank you for the review because it really did help.
I 100% agree with this review. Its a neat box but you need technical skills to expand it..ultimatly ill install some retro gaming structure on the OS side and use that
There are lots of videos about expanding it, but it's not necessary to expand it to use it with Windows 10 or Linux. Lots of laptops are sold right now with 4GB RAM, and the VCS has 8GB. All you need to use it in PC-Mode is a USB disk drive (USB 3.1, SSD recommended) which just plugs in. Then you install your O/S on that disk from a USB stick, which plugs one-time only into another USB slot. Wireless keyboard and mouse are the best choice, via a dongle. Windows runs very well on this little machine, and there's no need to reach for a screwdriver or a fat credit card. :-) For retro-gaming, there are ready-to-go emulation systems, which you can use, which you run from a USB stick! :-O
Thanks, CBN. And Just Claws makes a fair point, but I often have to remind myself that the vast majority of the public will look at you with glazed eyes if you suggest installing Windows from scratch on anything. What's trivial to techies & hobbyists is black magic to most. However you look at it, it does require some technical know-how in order to go beyond the base OS.
I like it for what it is and am finding many different kinds of uses for it, whether it's Atari games, running Windows Steam games, watching Hulu. I don't think there's anything wrong with the boot screen. The lack of AAA games is the main problem right now. It needs that big AAA title to sell the system. I have downloaded Windows and have been playing some of my steam collection on it and have found that the system actually has more power and capabilities than people realize. I have heard people have had trouble getting certain games to boot up and run smoothly on the system, and that is because the AMD Radeon graphics drivers simply need updated. Now my games run smooth like butter after i updated the drivers. And the RAM and SSD upgrades really do help as well. The system is great for tinkerers who want something a little more than your average game console with it's expandability. I like the fact that it's the convenience of a game console but still has PC capabilities. And by the way, I typed this comment on the Atari VCS which you can't even do on the PS5. The PS5 doesn't even have a web browser in the year 2021. I also don't have to pay whatever crazy prices Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo are trying to charge for their online services. So yeah, you could complain about the price but really when you take that into account the system actually pays for itself. It's just a misunderstood system. Yes there's things to bitch about but there's also a lot of good things that people won't acknowledge for whatever reason.
I totally get you, MicklovinFilms. The hardware is overkill for the apps you can run within the VCS OS, but really shines when you're willing to tinker. That's likely what I'll be doing with mine because who can't use a mini PC for any number of purposes.
@@GenXGrownUp Yeah seriously try it. Games run a lot smoother with the RAM, SSD upgrades, and with the updated AMD Radeon graphics drivers. It makes the games run better on the Atari OS side too.
Jon, you mentioned the classic controller is Bluetooth functional. Is it a good option to use playing emulated games on PC with Stella? I would totally get it for that. Wish it worked on Switch too.
I hope it makes it to retail at least. It definitely isn't worth the money though. I'd love to get one as a collector's toy once prices drop to $150 or lower.
Atari here is what I think you need to put out in order to get gamers interested. Atari Jaguar and Jaguar CD games but obviously in 4K. If you can do this I’m sure more people would buy this console. That Aliens game for the Jaguar always caught my attention. Also try making new versions of all those old games. Like E.T. You can correct the past.
You're on the right track, Mahi. This thing is missing any sort of killer app that I just can't do without it. Re-releases of years-old indie titles and emulation compilations just aren't going to drive users to the hardware.
I don't mind the atari vcs doesn't have no killer app and it doesn't have alot of games at the moment i'm ok with ir only has a little bit of games at the moment and i'm banana about atari because i'm a new atari fan now i love everything about atari vcs so far and i don't listen to most people that say on what we should or shouldn't support because i rather listen to myself follow my heart instincts some people don't respect that i don't care how things turns out if it does well or not i respect everyone's difference honest opinions on atari vcs and everything else thanks for sharing your thoughts review about the atari vcs and i know that atari said they will make improvements soon the atari team are listening to feedback and i do think it's worth it i also don't mind the price at all because i really like the $400 price either that's not a bad price at all i'm not disappointed with the price like everyone else is i thought it's a good price to me that's just my honest opinion i know that they will bring down the price in the future too so i already ask my mother to preorder the atari vcs woodgrain walnut $400 last year july 2020 i'm a retailer i can't wait to get my atari vcs in spring so i do think it's worth the wait to me in my book and atari did say the reason why they bring this out for backers first before they bring it out for us spring 2021 this year because atari said for backers is beta tester to give your guys opinion feedback on what you guys like or dislikes about it well for me i'm a very patient i think good things happen when we are patient and i just want it to also share my honest opinion how i feel about atari vcs that's all.
@@GenXGrownUp thanks for sharing i just think that things take time that's all of course it's not gonna happen over night they are a small company for now they are not big huge company like nintendo, sony and microsoft and i'm ok with them taking there time because i'mm very patient i think good things happen when we are patient but i know that some people are impatient and some people are patient that's ok with me too i hope you have a good day take care.
0:01 Indiegogo. 1:30 An stick with controls like Roku; exactly something about I was thinking before watching this video, but after watching other(s) (one in this channel, I think) showing what Atari VCS is. 8:45 Paddle cintrol integrated in the joystick. 12:00 Woth it?. Short answer: No. Me: what about its collectible worth in the future?.
@@GenXGrownUp you may be an Atari fan. Nothing wrong with that. But you were fair and honest on your assessment of what this product is and what the expectations should be. With being truthful it keeps people from getting angry about a product who this may not be for. You did a good job stating just what to expect. Good video. Keeping It real.
I'm very intrigued by this. I've wanted Atari to make a comeback for years. I've heard a lot of negative reviews on this...I'm not an avid gamer anymore, and just looking for something that I can have in the living room and have some fun when friends/family are over. Was originally going to get a Switch, but when I heard that Atari made a new console, this became my focus. Is this worth it, or should I go with the Switch, given my situation? Thanks
Hey, Daniel. I hesitate to make a recommendation for either a VCS or a Switch based on so little information. I suspect there are even better choices depending on your level of comfort with technology and interest in classic vs. modern titles. If you'd like to get into a longer form chat, maybe considering stopping by our Discord server and engaging the friendly folks there. genxgrownup.com/discord
i know i'm not him, but as a player of all generations (minus the current one, too broke for it lol), It really depends if you like modern games (some gamecube, ps2 to current systems like the switch) or retro games (odyssey to dreamcast). of course, handhelds sort of are in the middle due to lesser hardware, though they have their merit in terms of games. switch has nintendo exclusives and major indie support, casual and hardcore alike, while vcs is more powerful and has a big library of older games and some new(er) ones as well. it's up to you, but it really depends on taste.
@@DonutTPOTer I feel like it's even more complex than that. The VCS is capable as a mid-level PC, but only if you do a little tinkering and expanding. If you're not comfortable doing that, then it's quite limiting in what titles are available. If you are comfortable with that, then maybe there are better options than a VCS. So many variables based on experience, aptitude, and library preference.
You probably should have mentioned that the thing is not even released to the general public yet. There is still time to iron out the kinks and get more and better games. You should tell Atari some of your issues so they can address them. That’s one reason they gave you one, so you can help them out.
Atari VCS is subscribed to the channel, and they did not give me one. If you had seen the video, I state that I paid the full backer price on IndieGoGo.
@@GenXGrownUp I meant they sent you one before it was released not that you got one for free. They didn’t give any away. You are a beta tester. You are to help them improve the device. This is not the final product. You failed to mention that. Also you say it’s not really a steaming device. What do you think Antstream Arcade is? It’s a native app you can get for the device.
@@rburnsiv I'm not a beta tester, I'm a customer. And inbound streaming? Yes, that's "streaming" in the strictest sense, but then so too is any device with a web browser.
@@GenXGrownUp then you are no help for Atari. This is why they gave backers early units. Um. This is streaming. When I think of streaming this is what I think of. And 99% of other people.
@@GenXGrownUp and you still didn’t address why you didn’t mention the unit isn’t the final product. Your review is full of holes. Seen much better. Some things are not complete because ITS NOT RELEASED. Atari is constantly working to improve it. But they are getting no help from you because you decide just to give it a mediocre review and not tell them about it.
For me, that vector graphics Asteroids flyby is everything. The look of the arcade games on this machine is amazing! They look almost exactly like the games I spent so many hours feeding quarters into back in the day. That alone is really all I'm looking for. The rest is gravy. I stumbled across this when I was looking for what I could play the Atari 50th Anniversary Collection on that wasn't a PlayStation, an X-Box or a Switch. I'm REALLY not interested in first-person shooters. I just hope there's a way to install an Atari800 emulator on the computer side. My favorite one of these only runs on macOS. Discord overlay on video? I've never seen that. And your complaints about streaming just don't register with me. What is the difference between watching through a streaming app on your TV or through a streaming app in a browser? They look the same to me. It sounds like you're looking for things to complain about. I have other USB controllers I can use. I can find USB paddle controllers. I'll also be looking for a trackball controller. It's still comparable to the price of a Switch. I'm mostly looking for Breakout, Super Breakout, Missile Command, Battlezone, and Star Raiders.
Tbh the design of the console was fantastic and the controllers were pure nostalgic but everything else falls flat. The games are just indies or mobile games, the apps are just your ordinary streaming apps you see on multiple other devices and there's no killer app game to be seen here. It's like Atari is providing you to pay premium price to own their device so you could play some side games. That's like if you go to McDonalds or Burger King and you pay premium meal price just to have fries, onion rings, chicken strips, and hash browns but had no burgers. The main gourmet were not offer and the main gourmet of any console are their killer app title, games that you have to buy the console for. The older Atari consoles weren't successful but at least they had killer app titles that define the system, this new Atari VCS feels like you're paying more and getting crumps out of it. Atari really need to start going out and getting license games again cause by not doing that this console could end up being a dusk collector. Unless you plan to use this as a low end PC, a Steam Machine, a Linux box, or an Android device I don't see you getting your money worth just for the vanilla features.
Well, it was made by Atari, who was not only out of business before the XBOX even came out, but they're also owned by Nintendo. Nintendo's losing its battle against Sony and Microsoft, you think they're gonna spend more money on this system when it's not even all it was suspended out to be? They're probably just gonna give up on it soon.
Atari deserves to develope a Great system after all they were the Pioneers in the Gaming business. I heard rumors gamers can play pc Titles.. and many other options.
Hey, pelon7. You can definitely play some PC games today once you boot into Windows via the PC Mode. The hardware is surprisingly capable, I'm finding!
7:28 The "killer app"? Initial marketing buzz suggested that every Atari arcade game, plus every Atari console game from the 80s and 90s, would probably be included for free in this system. If it had that "dream" library built into it, plus everything it actually does on top of it, I'd be ordering the system today. Sadly, it doesn't, so I'm not.
Sad but true. We speak more about the VCS at length in episode 89 of our audio pod. Have a listen if you're interested in hearing more: genxgrownup.com/gxg-89/
Hey Jon are you George and Mo are you guys going to do anymore live stream’s there’s a video game 🎮 called Marvel vs Capcom for the Xbox one console I got the game last year for Christmas I love the game it’s sweet try it out!
850 Australian dollars for something that isn't even worth 200 in America? Either Australian dollars are much smaller than US dollars, or Atari just hates Aussies...
I’ll admit, my expectations for the VCS were low thanks to all the controversies that surrounded it, but I decided to wait and see. I may consider getting one now. It’s seems to keep improving so that’s a good sign. Good review.
That boot up animation.. loved it until the chord. They could (and probably should) have done something like Atari Jaguar does with the "Have you played Atari today?" jingle.
@@ShwappaJ I am strange, to be certain, but what I didn't like was that the sample cuts off abruptly with no decay. It's unpolished, just like the rest of the package.
Is kaboom in either of the vcs vaults? would love to hear back, it was my favorite game. And also can you use the classic controller via the wire it comes it? my computer doesnt have bluetooth so this would be a shame and another *plays atari intro* lol Thanks!
No, no Kaboom. No Activision at all. Every title in the VCS Vaults is an Atari original/licensed game. And yes, I just tested it and the Classic Controller can connect and work perfectly via a micro USB cable.
What do you think about the potential block chain implementation and nfts? I think if they truly are successful with this type of thing the system will have a more successful future
I think it's well outside the scope of Atari's expertise. Perhaps if they focused on the gaming legacy rather than how to milk the name for clout in other arenas, the VCS would be all the better for it.
And once again the execs force developers into an early (half-baked) release. The behavior is becoming so entrenched in the industry that I'm done pre-purchasing and even buying on launch. I wait for a couple of major patches or even for a following release before buying nowadays.
@@GenXGrownUp Yeah, streaming games really should be high end. Mostly streaming a game professionally should be done on separate systems at the moment. It can be done on one PC, but if you crash, stream is over. Nevertheless, I enjoyed your video and subscribed. We appreciate that you actually take the time to review later instead of reviewing NOW, then retracting statement when new release goes bad. :)
I'm definitely interested in this. My first console was the Atari 5200 but played many 2600 games on my 7800. Just not sure if its worth it to get this when you can order a Super Console X or Raspberry Pi to play these games.
Hi, jasper4420. You can play PC games on the VCS, but it requires you to boot into an alternate OS. You can visit & log into steampowered.com through the browser, but in order install & play games, an OS like Windows is required. Thanks for watching! 😊
The Atari VCS is doing more then anything out there / except for PC / the Atari VCS does a little of everything & will grow over time / well let’s hope so 🙏 / who needs Google stadia when you got a ATARI VCS 🕹 / lol 😆 / the Atari VCS has a lot of potential 👀 / for me it’s 4 tokens out of 5
It's not a work in progress, this is the finished unit. Now as a platform there's certainly room to grow, but this isn't a beta release or anything like that.
Does nothing proprietary. Same problem with the Evercade. But I’m gonna throw it a massive potential bone here. Real talk. Countermeasure. Have u played it yet? On the 3rd volume of Atari Classics for PS4/XB1/Switch, when you play Countermeasure, on your first life, it pulls your tank all the way to the right and you’re stuck. On life 2, its fine. Does THAT happen on the VCS when you play Countermeasure?
All these years and the stick is still basically for right handers? Grrr. Would it have killed them to put a red button on the right side or even a button on top of the stick? Everytime I went to my neighbors house I'd pack over my c64 boss or 500xj due to the classic stick and me bring LEFT HANDED. I suppose the VCS and Amico intellivision both require internet? Kind of sucks for those of us that are in bad rural areas with non to nearly none. Yeah... even in the USA there are dead and gray zones.
Bah. I forgot to mention that it seems annoying that they're weren't larger libraries available of 5200, 7800, falcon/st, atari computer games, and cabinet games. I'll have to look at the site again. First and foremost this should have been virtually an ultimate all-in-one abailability atari console. I'm waiting to see someone mod around with this machine in a few years.
Oh, no! That didn't even occur to me, Bane! The good news is you could absolutely rotate the classic stick 90 degrees and remap the controls in-game. That won't make it behave properly in the menu system, but within a game it would be oriented properly for lefties.
It is annoying, and that's partly why we're doing the series on that Atari Raspberry Pi -- not enough Atari classics for my taste in the VCS as it ships. It should contain, at bare minimum, every Atari arcade & console game they could get their fingers on. And not working out a deal with Activision (THE Atari developer of fans) was a miss.
Jeezuss Kreiste, why did they even make controllers with "handedness" to begin with, they could have literally just *LEFT* it alone. They already had plenty of games that had control settings in the options menus, so wtf Also, sorry for the handedness pun 🤣🤣🤣
@@GenXGrownUp AGREED! TBH, every 2600, 5200, & 7800. The ST, Falcon & 400/800 maybe later. I could look at the rom size of every 2600-7800 game and I bet it isn't terribly large by todays standards. Well, they probably wouldn't port those horrible porn 2600 games. Lol
Next time I'm in front of it I'll give it a try. I am going to guess yes based on my other PC peripheral experiences, but no guarantee since the bluetooth sync has been a little less than perfect. Of course, in Windows 10 PC Mode, absolutely.
i saw this video in a ATARI VCS, upgraded to 32 GB RAM, 8GB for GPU, and a M2 SATA 1TB. i put windows in M2 drive. Works great and i' can play all of my games in my steam library. It is worth if you want to play with the bios and other stuff.
I've heard that comparison more than a couple times. I understand the sentiment, but it's a bit unfair. The VCS has pretty remarkable potential as a modbox, whereas the Ouya (which I have sitting in a box in my closet) was what it was.
Well, an interesting review, but I'm a bit puzzled by some things you say, perceptions differ I agree. I'm GenX. I have the VCS, and I'm very happy with it. Right now, it's not released to retail, and as of today, we're waiting for the first major update to the system, to fix bugs and improve performance. Thus, I expected it's not 100%. I think our definitions of streaming differ - it streams FROM all major services, and can unify them for the TV. It seems you didn't download the new games so far - e.g. Gunstar, Danger Scavenger, Boulder Dash Deluxe. I like having an Indie game focus, and expect that to only grow, with the partnerships and new re-imaginings. To me, the VCS USP is that it's NOT a closed-system console, but good-quality hybrid mini-PC and console. Unlike other systems, it need never reach a dead-end, software wise. The ways to use it in future will grow. Sony and Microsoft subsidise their consoles, but get the money back through closed system game sales. I shared a link to your video on the AtariAge VCS forum - atariage.com/forums/forum/356-atari-vcs/
@@lbruington The SNES Classic has no decay in its startup, yet people liked to play it Why do people make such a big deal over something so stupid, I don't get it. If it plays games, fine. If it doesn't need 24/7 internet access to do anything, good. If it HAS updates, but you don't NEED them, even better. So wtf are you complaining about the bootup for, hell the Windows NT startup was creepy af, yet it was popular enought to be an official WinOS...
So basically buy Tennis World Tour Roland-Garros Edition Tempest 4000 the Hunter: Call of the Wild Rollercoaster Tycoon:Joyride Atari Flashback Classics Vol. 1,2,3 Pac-Man Championship SEGA Genesis Classics for your PS4 and forget the Atari VCS.
@@mikedemopoulos7096 Do you like to tinker with computers? If not, then there are much better ways (like the Xbox bundles you mentioned) to relive those great old titles.
The of Atari vcs or mostly known as the Atari 2600 is filled with emagnatoin and Atari let’s you run other things on the pd mode is the gimmick so what you’re doing is like saying RUclips but can’t see the videos and can only see adds
@@GenXGrownUp When I heard things like "modern console" and "atari's version of the XBOX", I expected better, there is very little about this system that is modern or XBOX-like, apart from the shape of the console. They couldn't even get rid of those long-ass joysticks and make a new controller... tsk tsk tsk All in all, not worth $200 to me.
I feel this console was an awful idea. It was playing on people's nostalga, it was paid for by the public and went WAY over what they needed or even asked for, and to top it all off, it was late. I love your videos, dude, but i really think that the public was played on the VCS v2.0 as i call it.
@@GenXGrownUp Absolutely. That is the game I miss the most. Nothing has come close, due to the lack of a paddle controller. Was excited that the joystick comes somewhat close. My damn Mother sold my Atari behind my back several decades ago! Been dying to scratch that itch without having to rebuy a 2600 on eBay.
I didn't encounter any online multiplayer or matchmaking in any of the games I sampled, but if you are using something like Stadia to stream games, then you'd be able to take advantage of matchmaking in those environments.
@@GenXGrownUp thank you I was wondering about that atari said fortnite is comeing to the console so I just thought maybe other games will have online as well
@@GenXGrownUp Oh damn it I didn't reference it. :D I was referring to the boot up chime that was suddenly cutting off. After the update the sound would continue.
$300 is not cheap, that was the price of the Nintendo Switch and PS2 when they came out $50 to $100 on the other hand, is cheap. $50 was the price of the Gamecube, and most Nintendo consoles before the Wii were at or near hundred bucks because they wanted more buyers
You're not the first to make that comparison. The parallel isn't unfair, but it does sell the VCS a little short. It really is a nice hobby PC if you're willing to put in the work & money. Whereas the Ouya... 😝
@@GenXGrownUp I would go back and read the literature thoroughly that they provided. They may not use the exact term beta tester but when they offer a direct line to them for your feedback and input on how to improve the device that is essentially a beta tester. You may have paid full price but being a beta tester doesn't mean you get a discount you will still have all the access to the updates and the improvements that will come out with the final product. You have the benefit of being part of that and having it first.
Why is not a *VCS?* *VCS* stands for *Video Computer System* and this thing is a *Video Computer System.* It got *video* to show, it could boot into PC mode like a *computer,* and is its own console *system.*
@@Josh-ce9sv - Then the 5200 should be the VCS and the Jaguar should be the VCS and the 400 and 800 computers should both be called the VCS, but they aren’t. That’s because the 2600 was THE VCS. It’s not a classification, it’s a trademarked name for a well known product.
That's exactly the opposite of honest. It is not a Windows computer at all. It is a computer, but if a user wants to run anything other than AtariOS, they will need to provide more software and equipment than is provided in the box.
This video is disingenuous. This is pre-retail. Only the early backers got theirs. A lot of software, games, partners will push out over the next few months when retail release happens.
It’s like reviewing the PS5 months before it’s released. It was released to early backers so they could help find out some of the issues and let them know about it. Not trash it with lousy reviews before it’s released.
Disingenuous? This is a review of the hardware as it is today. I didn't enroll to be a beta tester, I'm a customer who paid for a product and this is a review as it arrived to me.
That is just stupid thing to say. Are you expecting a review that happens after returning from some sort of time travel to a time where Atari has finally done their job? Or did you just feel the need to type squirty-bitch stuff on the internet today?
Didn’t Jon step out of a DeLorean before making the review? In all fairness he said it has room to grow, will watch what happens over coming months and be happy to revisit it in future so what’s the problem 🤷♂️ I’m sure it will be looked at again when it hits retail but you can only review what’s in front of you. One amazing software/store update may fix loads and if so am sure he’ll be happy to increase the tokens...
Sorry but this is not an honest review. The Atari VCS is not released yet, you are reviewing an unfinished product as if it was finished. You should have stated how Atari is specifically using the early adopters as 'beta testers'. The potential is great and the PC Mode puts this console on another level. There are people who have already made this console into an arcade machine playing games from most all the retro consoles, which is pretty cool. I can't wait to see what's to come.
No need to be sorry. I understand your opinion. The Atari VCS is not released _to retail_ but it is released to consumers who pre-ordered. If it's "not finished" that's on the manufacturer. I was delivered a product I purchased with no agreement to participate in a pre-release or beta. I expect there to be improvements, but this is my honest experience with the console that was delivered to me. Several commenters have thrown around that "beta" label but releasing an unfinished product to unsuspecting consumers and using them as guinea pigs is not equivalent to a beta release.
@@GenXGrownUp People on other pages have been saying it long before you. Don’t pat yourself on the back. But most don’t use it as the main theme as to why it’s not worth buying like you did. I told you weeks ago it’s not released yet and it’s not even finished.
@SlugsandSnails The system is gorgeous too. The best looking console on the market and the UI is nicer than Xbox’s and PS5’s in my opinion. It’s not obnoxiously big, just understated elegance and it looks great with your entertainment center.
I played Atari so much back in the day that the top rubber piece on my joystick came off exposing the white plastic underneath.
Same! I had a box of CX-40 parts. I could build you one from scratch with all the spare guts from broken sticks.
I have a bunch of CX-40's in various states of disrepair laying around the house. That dang plastic ring on the stick kept breaking. Grabbed a slik stik controller... problem solved :D
The Atari VCS would look great on my office desk, I would want it for that purpose.
Just received the Atari VCS. Absolutely love it! We installed Kodi on it and stream as well. Highly recommend! Please do a review showing KODI on it.. Having a great time with kids playing in this and streaming.
Good to hear!
thanks for your honest review. thats really interesting. i think some of the things you talked about are known as things that have to be fixed and to be improved.
i read a report from atari from december that they raised around 6 million in additional capital to invest in the ongoing development of the VCS.
so i would expect improvements over time. so far they invested a bunch of millions in this thing. its impressive how much money such developments can cost. but i am optimistic - over time - this will getting better and better :)
have a nice week !
$6 million is Nintendo’s budget for Red Bull. How much are they putting into game development?
This is a great purchase for $199.
Videos like this is WHY I'm glad I subscribed to THIS channel. BADASS job, My Dude. #ExcellentWork
Thanks for the kind words, Dave. I appreciate your viewership!
Love your honest opinions and the waiting to be honest
Thanks, Scuba. I appreciate you.
I'm Gen X also...I absolutely love the VCS opening animation! I think it's perfect. I am thoroughly enjoying my Antstream subscription presently.
It's perfect now that it's fixed - agreed! 😉 What does the Antstream subscription provide that free doesn't?
Oh i didn't know about this! This is right up my alley. I've been playing old LOTR PS2 games lately but I started on Atari 2600 in the 80's so this is a must have. I tease my teenage son all the time that me and my husband are first generation gamers haha After 30 years of marriage this June I tease my husband that I only started dating him back in the day because he had a Sega Genesis and a wicked game collection that I loved to play. hehe
not funny, there are women that actually have done that
@@ShwappaJ Women that date a guy because of his game collection? Here I thought I was the only one. Pssst I was kidding, though I did enjoy his games when I was at his house (which was his parents house since we were young when we started dating). It was a joke.
first and I am liking because that is what you should expect from Gen x Grown up great content.
Thanks for the kindness, Phoenix!
agreed. well deserved (and earned!).
I think "Streaming" means you can play streaming Games, e.g. Project XCloud, Steam in-home streaming, or Stadia.
I agree with you. The viewer was asking about outbound streaming in his question, so I took that approach in my answer.
Super Honest Review from an Atari Fan.. "It is cool but not a must have" .. I love true Reviewers.
Thank you for the kind words, Hotpack.
@@GenXGrownUp Your Channel got 1 Subscriber more :)
@@Hotpack7279 Honored to have you here. Thanks.
Does it play Basic Math? Because that's a deal-breaker for me.
It does! It's on Atari Vault.
Is Basic Math on there? I must've missed it! Ha!
You can just imagine it when the idea was pitched...
Exec: We got this cool idea that we can sell to our die hard fanbase
Board: What does it offer for today's generation in creating new fans?
Exec: What?
Not too far off, I fear.
I wanted to purchase this, but I think I'll wait until they address some of the things pointed out in this review. To be honest, I only wanted it for emulation gaming. I am capable of getting the device there. I'll wait a year and see what they do and how more people feel about it after some real time spent with it. Thank you for the review because it really did help.
Glad to have been of service, JT. And thank you for watching.
I 100% agree with this review. Its a neat box but you need technical skills to expand it..ultimatly ill install some retro gaming structure on the OS side and use that
There are lots of videos about expanding it, but it's not necessary to expand it to use it with Windows 10 or Linux.
Lots of laptops are sold right now with 4GB RAM, and the VCS has 8GB. All you need to use it in PC-Mode is a USB
disk drive (USB 3.1, SSD recommended) which just plugs in. Then you install your O/S on that disk from a USB stick,
which plugs one-time only into another USB slot. Wireless keyboard and mouse are the best choice, via a dongle.
Windows runs very well on this little machine, and there's no need to reach for a screwdriver or a fat credit card. :-)
For retro-gaming, there are ready-to-go emulation systems, which you can use, which you run from a USB stick! :-O
Thanks, CBN. And Just Claws makes a fair point, but I often have to remind myself that the vast majority of the public will look at you with glazed eyes if you suggest installing Windows from scratch on anything. What's trivial to techies & hobbyists is black magic to most. However you look at it, it does require some technical know-how in order to go beyond the base OS.
I like it for what it is and am finding many different kinds of uses for it, whether it's Atari games, running Windows Steam games, watching Hulu. I don't think there's anything wrong with the boot screen. The lack of AAA games is the main problem right now. It needs that big AAA title to sell the system. I have downloaded Windows and have been playing some of my steam collection on it and have found that the system actually has more power and capabilities than people realize. I have heard people have had trouble getting certain games to boot up and run smoothly on the system, and that is because the AMD Radeon graphics drivers simply need updated. Now my games run smooth like butter after i updated the drivers. And the RAM and SSD upgrades really do help as well. The system is great for tinkerers who want something a little more than your average game console with it's expandability. I like the fact that it's the convenience of a game console but still has PC capabilities.
And by the way, I typed this comment on the Atari VCS which you can't even do on the PS5. The PS5 doesn't even have a web browser in the year 2021. I also don't have to pay whatever crazy prices Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo are trying to charge for their online services. So yeah, you could complain about the price but really when you take that into account the system actually pays for itself. It's just a misunderstood system. Yes there's things to bitch about but there's also a lot of good things that people won't acknowledge for whatever reason.
I totally get you, MicklovinFilms. The hardware is overkill for the apps you can run within the VCS OS, but really shines when you're willing to tinker. That's likely what I'll be doing with mine because who can't use a mini PC for any number of purposes.
@@GenXGrownUp Yeah seriously try it. Games run a lot smoother with the RAM, SSD upgrades, and with the updated AMD Radeon graphics drivers. It makes the games run better on the Atari OS side too.
Jon, you mentioned the classic controller is Bluetooth functional. Is it a good option to use playing emulated games on PC with Stella? I would totally get it for that. Wish it worked on Switch too.
imagine playing Atari Mania with it.
I hope it makes it to retail at least. It definitely isn't worth the money though. I'd love to get one as a collector's toy once prices drop to $150 or lower.
Agreed. Worth having, just not quite enough bang for the buck yet.
Atari here is what I think you need to put out in order to get gamers interested. Atari Jaguar and Jaguar CD games but obviously in 4K. If you can do this I’m sure more people would buy this console. That Aliens game for the Jaguar always caught my attention. Also try making new versions of all those old games. Like E.T. You can correct the past.
You're on the right track, Mahi. This thing is missing any sort of killer app that I just can't do without it. Re-releases of years-old indie titles and emulation compilations just aren't going to drive users to the hardware.
I'm looking forward to this type of review when Amico comes out.
I don't mind the atari vcs doesn't have no killer app and it doesn't have alot of games at the moment i'm ok with ir only has a little bit of games at the moment and i'm banana about atari because i'm a new atari fan now i love everything about atari vcs so far and i don't listen to most people that say on what we should or shouldn't support because i rather listen to myself follow my heart instincts some people don't respect that i don't care how things turns out if it does well or not i respect everyone's difference honest opinions on atari vcs and everything else thanks for sharing your thoughts review about the atari vcs and i know that atari said they will make improvements soon the atari team are listening to feedback and i do think it's worth it i also don't mind the price at all because i really like the $400 price either that's not a bad price at all i'm not disappointed with the price like everyone else is i thought it's a good price to me that's just my honest opinion i know that they will bring down the price in the future too so i already ask my mother to preorder the atari vcs woodgrain walnut $400 last year july 2020 i'm a retailer i can't wait to get my atari vcs in spring so i do think it's worth the wait to me in my book and atari did say the reason why they bring this out for backers first before they bring it out for us spring 2021 this year because atari said for backers is beta tester to give your guys opinion feedback on what you guys like or dislikes about it well for me i'm a very patient i think good things happen when we are patient and i just want it to also share my honest opinion how i feel about atari vcs that's all.
I hope you're right, Shawndell.
@@GenXGrownUp thanks for sharing i just think that things take time that's all of course it's not gonna happen over night they are a small company for now they are not big huge company like nintendo, sony and microsoft and i'm ok with them taking there time because i'mm very patient i think good things happen when we are patient but i know that some people are impatient and some people are patient that's ok with me too i hope you have a good day take care.
0:01 Indiegogo.
1:30 An stick with controls like Roku; exactly something about I was thinking before watching this video, but after watching other(s) (one in this channel, I think) showing what Atari VCS is.
8:45 Paddle cintrol integrated in the joystick.
12:00 Woth it?. Short answer: No. Me: what about its collectible worth in the future?.
🔤
I want to love this. If it was $150, I would buy it. I think your review is spot on. Of course, I am routing for the box, but it seems incomplete.
I wanna love it too, Apple. I think we're on the same page.
Thx for the unbiased review.
Thank you for watching, Joe. I do have a bias (being an Atari fan), but I was sure to state that up front and tried to set that aside for this review.
@@GenXGrownUp you may be an Atari fan. Nothing wrong with that. But you were fair and honest on your assessment of what this product is and what the expectations should be. With being truthful it keeps people from getting angry about a product who this may not be for. You did a good job stating just what to expect. Good video. Keeping It real.
I'm very intrigued by this. I've wanted Atari to make a comeback for years. I've heard a lot of negative reviews on this...I'm not an avid gamer anymore, and just looking for something that I can have in the living room and have some fun when friends/family are over. Was originally going to get a Switch, but when I heard that Atari made a new console, this became my focus. Is this worth it, or should I go with the Switch, given my situation? Thanks
Hey, Daniel. I hesitate to make a recommendation for either a VCS or a Switch based on so little information. I suspect there are even better choices depending on your level of comfort with technology and interest in classic vs. modern titles. If you'd like to get into a longer form chat, maybe considering stopping by our Discord server and engaging the friendly folks there. genxgrownup.com/discord
i know i'm not him, but as a player of all generations (minus the current one, too broke for it lol), It really depends if you like modern games (some gamecube, ps2 to current systems like the switch) or retro games (odyssey to dreamcast). of course, handhelds sort of are in the middle due to lesser hardware, though they have their merit in terms of games. switch has nintendo exclusives and major indie support, casual and hardcore alike, while vcs is more powerful and has a big library of older games and some new(er) ones as well. it's up to you, but it really depends on taste.
@@DonutTPOTer I feel like it's even more complex than that. The VCS is capable as a mid-level PC, but only if you do a little tinkering and expanding. If you're not comfortable doing that, then it's quite limiting in what titles are available. If you are comfortable with that, then maybe there are better options than a VCS. So many variables based on experience, aptitude, and library preference.
@@GenXGrownUp true
@@GenXGrownUp like your stuff btw
You probably should have mentioned that the thing is not even released to the general public yet. There is still time to iron out the kinks and get more and better games. You should tell Atari some of your issues so they can address them. That’s one reason they gave you one, so you can help them out.
Atari VCS is subscribed to the channel, and they did not give me one. If you had seen the video, I state that I paid the full backer price on IndieGoGo.
@@GenXGrownUp I meant they sent you one before it was released not that you got one for free. They didn’t give any away. You are a beta tester. You are to help them improve the device. This is not the final product. You failed to mention that. Also you say it’s not really a steaming device. What do you think Antstream Arcade is? It’s a native app you can get for the device.
@@rburnsiv I'm not a beta tester, I'm a customer. And inbound streaming? Yes, that's "streaming" in the strictest sense, but then so too is any device with a web browser.
@@GenXGrownUp then you are no help for Atari. This is why they gave backers early units. Um. This is streaming. When I think of streaming this is what I think of. And 99% of other people.
@@GenXGrownUp and you still didn’t address why you didn’t mention the unit isn’t the final product. Your review is full of holes. Seen much better. Some things are not complete because ITS NOT RELEASED. Atari is constantly working to improve it. But they are getting no help from you because you decide just to give it a mediocre review and not tell them about it.
For me, that vector graphics Asteroids flyby is everything.
The look of the arcade games on this machine is amazing! They look almost exactly like the games I spent so many hours feeding quarters into back in the day.
That alone is really all I'm looking for. The rest is gravy.
I stumbled across this when I was looking for what I could play the Atari 50th Anniversary Collection on that wasn't a PlayStation, an X-Box or a Switch. I'm REALLY not interested in first-person shooters.
I just hope there's a way to install an Atari800 emulator on the computer side. My favorite one of these only runs on macOS.
Discord overlay on video? I've never seen that. And your complaints about streaming just don't register with me. What is the difference between watching through a streaming app on your TV or through a streaming app in a browser? They look the same to me.
It sounds like you're looking for things to complain about. I have other USB controllers I can use. I can find USB paddle controllers. I'll also be looking for a trackball controller.
It's still comparable to the price of a Switch.
I'm mostly looking for Breakout, Super Breakout, Missile Command, Battlezone, and Star Raiders.
Tbh the design of the console was fantastic and the controllers were pure nostalgic but everything else falls flat. The games are just indies or mobile games, the apps are just your ordinary streaming apps you see on multiple other devices and there's no killer app game to be seen here. It's like Atari is providing you to pay premium price to own their device so you could play some side games. That's like if you go to McDonalds or Burger King and you pay premium meal price just to have fries, onion rings, chicken strips, and hash browns but had no burgers. The main gourmet were not offer and the main gourmet of any console are their killer app title, games that you have to buy the console for. The older Atari consoles weren't successful but at least they had killer app titles that define the system, this new Atari VCS feels like you're paying more and getting crumps out of it. Atari really need to start going out and getting license games again cause by not doing that this console could end up being a dusk collector. Unless you plan to use this as a low end PC, a Steam Machine, a Linux box, or an Android device I don't see you getting your money worth just for the vanilla features.
Well, it was made by Atari, who was not only out of business before the XBOX even came out, but they're also owned by Nintendo. Nintendo's losing its battle against Sony and Microsoft, you think they're gonna spend more money on this system when it's not even all it was suspended out to be? They're probably just gonna give up on it soon.
Atari deserves to develope a Great system after all they were the Pioneers in the Gaming business. I heard rumors gamers can play pc Titles.. and many other options.
Hey, pelon7. You can definitely play some PC games today once you boot into Windows via the PC Mode. The hardware is surprisingly capable, I'm finding!
7:28 The "killer app"? Initial marketing buzz suggested that every Atari arcade game, plus every Atari console game from the 80s and 90s, would probably be included for free in this system. If it had that "dream" library built into it, plus everything it actually does on top of it, I'd be ordering the system today. Sadly, it doesn't, so I'm not.
Sad but true. We speak more about the VCS at length in episode 89 of our audio pod. Have a listen if you're interested in hearing more: genxgrownup.com/gxg-89/
@@GenXGrownUp Thanks, I will!
Hey Jon are you George and Mo are you guys going to do anymore live stream’s there’s a video game 🎮 called Marvel vs Capcom for the Xbox one console I got the game last year for Christmas I love the game it’s sweet try it out!
We will have more future live streams. Our schedules are just so packed between YT, podcasting, and real life that it can be difficult to schedule.
In Australia pre-order (bundle with controllers) is AUD 849.95 definitely it's not worth it. Great video though!
Holy moley! That's quite a markup on import, Five!
850 Australian dollars for something that isn't even worth 200 in America? Either Australian dollars are much smaller than US dollars, or Atari just hates Aussies...
@@ShwappaJ I think both may be true. 😉
Atari’s bigger focus is online gaming/gambling with crypto currency. PONGF and ATRI.
Yeah, I know. Sigh.
I’ll admit, my expectations for the VCS were low thanks to all the controversies that surrounded it, but I decided to wait and see. I may consider getting one now. It’s seems to keep improving so that’s a good sign. Good review.
I'm finally going to pull the trigger with he decreased price
That boot up animation.. loved it until the chord. They could (and probably should) have done something like Atari Jaguar does with the "Have you played Atari today?" jingle.
Would've been a nice throwback, for sure, Aaron.
You didn't like the boot up... because of the awesome sound?
You're strange, dude.
@@ShwappaJ I am strange, to be certain, but what I didn't like was that the sample cuts off abruptly with no decay. It's unpolished, just like the rest of the package.
Thanks so much for your excellent review. That being said, I'm so happy I bought the XBOX Series S as opposed to this.
Thanks for watching. I'm still optimistic about the future for this little unit.
Is kaboom in either of the vcs vaults? would love to hear back, it was my favorite game. And also can you use the classic controller via the wire it comes it? my computer doesnt have bluetooth so this would be a shame and another *plays atari intro* lol Thanks!
No, no Kaboom. No Activision at all. Every title in the VCS Vaults is an Atari original/licensed game. And yes, I just tested it and the Classic Controller can connect and work perfectly via a micro USB cable.
@@GenXGrownUp thank you so much! gonna order a controller!
still picking one up lol
but we're hardcore atari fans over here
Me too!
the onyx will look slick next to the xegs 😎
This is cool.I’m getting this!
Go for it!
What do you think about the potential block chain implementation and nfts? I think if they truly are successful with this type of thing the system will have a more successful future
I think it's well outside the scope of Atari's expertise. Perhaps if they focused on the gaming legacy rather than how to milk the name for clout in other arenas, the VCS would be all the better for it.
And once again the execs force developers into an early (half-baked) release. The behavior is becoming so entrenched in the industry that I'm done pre-purchasing and even buying on launch. I wait for a couple of major patches or even for a following release before buying nowadays.
I don't think anyone could blame you, either!
I think they used the word “stream” as in Plex movies to your TV. Same as Firestick streams HBOMAX or Disney+ to your TV.
I think you're right, White Wolf. I understood the viewer's question to be a different type of streaming.
@@GenXGrownUp Yeah, streaming games really should be high end. Mostly streaming a game professionally should be done on separate systems at the moment. It can be done on one PC, but if you crash, stream is over. Nevertheless, I enjoyed your video and subscribed. We appreciate that you actually take the time to review later instead of reviewing NOW, then retracting statement when new release goes bad. :)
I'm definitely interested in this. My first console was the Atari 5200 but played many 2600 games on my 7800. Just not sure if its worth it to get this when you can order a Super Console X or Raspberry Pi to play these games.
I read that you can play pc games on the vcs. Can you run steam thru the browser?
Hi, jasper4420. You can play PC games on the VCS, but it requires you to boot into an alternate OS. You can visit & log into steampowered.com through the browser, but in order install & play games, an OS like Windows is required. Thanks for watching! 😊
The Atari VCS is doing more then anything out there / except for PC / the Atari VCS does a little of everything & will grow over time / well let’s hope so 🙏 / who needs Google stadia when you got a ATARI VCS 🕹 / lol 😆 / the Atari VCS has a lot of potential 👀 / for me it’s 4 tokens out of 5
I applaud your enthusiasm, but I can't justify inflating the value based on only its potential. Also, I hope you're right!
Have they announced what is going on the console in the future, or is it all a 'work in progress' at the moment?
It's not a work in progress, this is the finished unit. Now as a platform there's certainly room to grow, but this isn't a beta release or anything like that.
@@GenXGrownUp - It isn't finished. It has only been released to backers. The finished product will be released this Spring to the general public.
@@GenXGrownUp Thats a complete lie.
I agree, this is the finished product. Potential? Of course. But, don't let Atari make you think this is Beta.
@@TheMilesFamilyAdventures - I own one. It's beta. Atari is pushing out nearly weekly updates.
Yes, yes, very good. But can it play Crysis? 😉
Does nothing proprietary. Same problem with the Evercade. But I’m gonna throw it a massive potential bone here. Real talk. Countermeasure. Have u played it yet? On the 3rd volume of Atari Classics for PS4/XB1/Switch, when you play Countermeasure, on your first life, it pulls your tank all the way to the right and you’re stuck. On life 2, its fine. Does THAT happen on the VCS when you play Countermeasure?
All these years and the stick is still basically for right handers? Grrr. Would it have killed them to put a red button on the right side or even a button on top of the stick? Everytime I went to my neighbors house I'd pack over my c64 boss or 500xj due to the classic stick and me bring LEFT HANDED. I suppose the VCS and Amico intellivision both require internet? Kind of sucks for those of us that are in bad rural areas with non to nearly none. Yeah... even in the USA there are dead and gray zones.
Bah. I forgot to mention that it seems annoying that they're weren't larger libraries available of 5200, 7800, falcon/st, atari computer games, and cabinet games. I'll have to look at the site again. First and foremost this should have been virtually an ultimate all-in-one abailability atari console. I'm waiting to see someone mod around with this machine in a few years.
Oh, no! That didn't even occur to me, Bane! The good news is you could absolutely rotate the classic stick 90 degrees and remap the controls in-game. That won't make it behave properly in the menu system, but within a game it would be oriented properly for lefties.
It is annoying, and that's partly why we're doing the series on that Atari Raspberry Pi -- not enough Atari classics for my taste in the VCS as it ships. It should contain, at bare minimum, every Atari arcade & console game they could get their fingers on. And not working out a deal with Activision (THE Atari developer of fans) was a miss.
Jeezuss Kreiste, why did they even make controllers with "handedness" to begin with, they could have literally just *LEFT* it alone. They already had plenty of games that had control settings in the options menus, so wtf
Also, sorry for the handedness pun 🤣🤣🤣
@@GenXGrownUp AGREED! TBH, every 2600, 5200, & 7800. The ST, Falcon & 400/800 maybe later. I could look at the rom size of every 2600-7800 game and I bet it isn't terribly large by todays standards. Well, they probably wouldn't port those horrible porn 2600 games. Lol
Can the new atari vcs play playstation plus?
When booted in PC mode, I'm sure it could run the application. And since PS+ is a streaming service (I think), then it should be do-able.
Can you listen to game audio on Bluetooth headphones?
Next time I'm in front of it I'll give it a try. I am going to guess yes based on my other PC peripheral experiences, but no guarantee since the bluetooth sync has been a little less than perfect. Of course, in Windows 10 PC Mode, absolutely.
i saw this video in a ATARI VCS, upgraded to 32 GB RAM, 8GB for GPU, and a M2 SATA 1TB. i put windows in M2 drive. Works great and i' can play all of my games in my steam library. It is worth if you want to play with the bios and other stuff.
Wow. So how much would you estimate you spent in order to do all the upgrades?
@@GenXGrownUp i spent 225 dolars for the upgrade here in Chile.
Oh, they do have Breakout.
Yep. Arcade and 2600.
I wonder if Atari VCS is the new OUYA.
I've heard that comparison more than a couple times. I understand the sentiment, but it's a bit unfair. The VCS has pretty remarkable potential as a modbox, whereas the Ouya (which I have sitting in a box in my closet) was what it was.
@@GenXGrownUp OK, thank you.
Well, an interesting review, but I'm a bit puzzled by some things you say, perceptions differ I agree. I'm GenX.
I have the VCS, and I'm very happy with it. Right now, it's not released to retail, and as of today, we're waiting
for the first major update to the system, to fix bugs and improve performance. Thus, I expected it's not 100%.
I think our definitions of streaming differ - it streams FROM all major services, and can unify them for the TV.
It seems you didn't download the new games so far - e.g. Gunstar, Danger Scavenger, Boulder Dash Deluxe.
I like having an Indie game focus, and expect that to only grow, with the partnerships and new re-imaginings.
To me, the VCS USP is that it's NOT a closed-system console, but good-quality hybrid mini-PC and console.
Unlike other systems, it need never reach a dead-end, software wise. The ways to use it in future will grow.
Sony and Microsoft subsidise their consoles, but get the money back through closed system game sales.
I shared a link to your video on the AtariAge VCS forum - atariage.com/forums/forum/356-atari-vcs/
LMMFAO!!!
The update is here, and very little has changed.
Yeah, that opening sequence makes me cringe every time. They need to fix it.
I've heard other commenters say there's nothing wrong with it. But it clearly cuts off with no audio decay, right?
Yes, it sounds like it just cuts off...very beta feeling.
@@lbruington The SNES Classic has no decay in its startup, yet people liked to play it
Why do people make such a big deal over something so stupid, I don't get it. If it plays games, fine. If it doesn't need 24/7 internet access to do anything, good. If it HAS updates, but you don't NEED them, even better. So wtf are you complaining about the bootup for, hell the Windows NT startup was creepy af, yet it was popular enought to be an official WinOS...
Very great review. Interesting that you've paired the classic controller in Windows. I wasn't thinking about this.
Thanks, timoatari. It's great for playing emulated games in Stella. 😊
So basically buy Tennis World Tour Roland-Garros Edition Tempest 4000 the Hunter: Call of the Wild Rollercoaster Tycoon:Joyride Atari Flashback Classics Vol. 1,2,3 Pac-Man Championship SEGA Genesis Classics for your PS4 and forget the Atari VCS.
If that works for you, then go for it. 😊
I would pay max 150 Euro for that device.
Maybe at a rummage sale
LOL!
Got one for Christmas and it doesn’t work☹️😳
Oh, no!
I thought the streaming was going to be like stadia or geforce now.
Pretty much just video streaming for now.
Tgey did a terrible job marketing this.
Did they market it? 😜
800 bucks in Australia.... total JOKE ! no way is this going to be good !
Don't blame you one bit, Normandy.
They should include Atari's Arcade tittles.
There are quite a few in the included VCS Vault. Check my First Look video to see a bit more of that.
I have a really important question now...
Does it run Doom?
Yes.
@@productions4452 Oh boi
In PC Mode? Sure. Or if you can stream it via a Stadia-esque platform through Chrome.
@@GenXGrownUp Cool!
TLDR If I care about classic atari games should I buy this or just buy the Xbox Atari collections?
No reading required. 😊 It's not that black-and-white and depends largely on your own expertise and interests.
@@GenXGrownUp I did watch the whole video but still not sure if I should cancel my pre-order. Lol
@@mikedemopoulos7096 Do you like to tinker with computers? If not, then there are much better ways (like the Xbox bundles you mentioned) to relive those great old titles.
Is the joystick digital or analog?
The stick itself is digital and actually reports to the system as the POV Hat, while the spinner (rotating the stick), is analog, of course.
Is it a worse purchase then the Wii? Haha this thing is nothing but a paperweight or decoration (topic piece)
Yeah, I'd say it is a worse investment than the Wii. The Wii is a platform with dozens of exclusive titles, at least. 😊
The of Atari vcs or mostly known as the Atari 2600 is filled with emagnatoin and Atari let’s you run other things on the pd mode is the gimmick so what you’re doing is like saying RUclips but can’t see the videos and can only see adds
Hmm.
oh my god i totally forgot about the vcs
It has some potential.
@@GenXGrownUp When I heard things like "modern console" and "atari's version of the XBOX", I expected better, there is very little about this system that is modern or XBOX-like, apart from the shape of the console. They couldn't even get rid of those long-ass joysticks and make a new controller... tsk tsk tsk
All in all, not worth $200 to me.
i'm an atari ninja. i command you to be a beta tester!
must...resist...
Does it have Atari Jaguar games?
Nope. Not a one, unfortunately. No Lynx either.
I feel this console was an awful idea. It was playing on people's nostalga, it was paid for by the public and went WAY over what they needed or even asked for, and to top it all off, it was late. I love your videos, dude, but i really think that the public was played on the VCS v2.0 as i call it.
So no official Kaboom?
Unfortunately not. I think not making an arrangement for any Activision titles for release was a missed opportunity.
@@GenXGrownUp Absolutely. That is the game I miss the most. Nothing has come close, due to the lack of a paddle controller. Was excited that the joystick comes somewhat close.
My damn Mother sold my Atari behind my back several decades ago! Been dying to scratch that itch without having to rebuy a 2600 on eBay.
I wonder if it has online multiplayer
I didn't encounter any online multiplayer or matchmaking in any of the games I sampled, but if you are using something like Stadia to stream games, then you'd be able to take advantage of matchmaking in those environments.
@@GenXGrownUp thank you I was wondering about that atari said fortnite is comeing to the console so I just thought maybe other games will have online as well
@@smokeyriverbluehounds8483 Yeah, I expect Fortnite would be a great fit here.
It’s a PC, so yes you have online multiplayer with other PC players.
With the new updates it looks like they may have fixed it.
To which "it" do you refer, Aaron?
@@GenXGrownUp Oh damn it I didn't reference it. :D I was referring to the boot up chime that was suddenly cutting off. After the update the sound would continue.
@@cxk7127 I'm glad they addressed it. It kind of supports my argument that it wasn't right or finished since they corrected it. 😊
Good looking sff case.
It is cheap (290$)
It is X86 & Vega3
I`ll buy it.
I like your decision-making process!
$300 is not cheap, that was the price of the Nintendo Switch and PS2 when they came out
$50 to $100 on the other hand, is cheap. $50 was the price of the Gamecube, and most Nintendo consoles before the Wii were at or near hundred bucks because they wanted more buyers
I can't think of a single reason for getting a vcs.
The Amico looks far more interesting.
It's pretty. 😊
Like if you were one of those guy that scored zillions in Megamania and your sister flipped the reset button.
What a disaster
I'm Gen X but not into Atari 🙂
Not a game player at all, or did you grow up with another console?
@@GenXGrownUp Nintendo and Turbo Graphix 16 with a little time with the original Sega
@@metatronblack You must be a bit younger or started a bit later. Either way, love what you love!
@@GenXGrownUp 🙂💟
I don't get why people say it looks good; I think it looks like an ugly ass modem.
What's an "ass modem?" 😜
This sounds like the second coming of the ouya
You're not the first to make that comparison. The parallel isn't unfair, but it does sell the VCS a little short. It really is a nice hobby PC if you're willing to put in the work & money. Whereas the Ouya... 😝
I think this might end up being really cool
You are aware that all of you indie gogo backers are beta testers correct? This isnt available to the general public yet.
Not yet available to the general public is not equivalent to being a "beta tester." I'm a consumer who paid full price for a product.
@@GenXGrownUp I would go back and read the literature thoroughly that they provided. They may not use the exact term beta tester but when they offer a direct line to them for your feedback and input on how to improve the device that is essentially a beta tester. You may have paid full price but being a beta tester doesn't mean you get a discount you will still have all the access to the updates and the improvements that will come out with the final product. You have the benefit of being part of that and having it first.
@@Boswd No literature included in the box. See my First Look.
Will stick with real systems!!
Pisses me off every time I hear people say “VCS”. The 2600 was the VCS, this abomination is not the VCS.
Ataribox made so much more sense, right?
It is indeed a Video Computer System. And a damn good one at that.
Why is not a *VCS?* *VCS* stands for *Video Computer System* and this thing is a *Video Computer System.* It got *video* to show, it could boot into PC mode like a *computer,* and is its own console *system.*
@@Josh-ce9sv - Then the 5200 should be the VCS and the Jaguar should be the VCS and the 400 and 800 computers should both be called the VCS, but they aren’t. That’s because the 2600 was THE VCS. It’s not a classification, it’s a trademarked name for a well known product.
@@Josh-ce9sv - Try Googling “video computer system” and see what you get.
be honest - its another windows computer. its no way an atari computer.
That's exactly the opposite of honest. It is not a Windows computer at all. It is a computer, but if a user wants to run anything other than AtariOS, they will need to provide more software and equipment than is provided in the box.
This video is disingenuous. This is pre-retail. Only the early backers got theirs. A lot of software, games, partners will push out over the next few months when retail release happens.
Exactly
It’s like reviewing the PS5 months before it’s released. It was released to early backers so they could help find out some of the issues and let them know about it. Not trash it with lousy reviews before it’s released.
Disingenuous? This is a review of the hardware as it is today. I didn't enroll to be a beta tester, I'm a customer who paid for a product and this is a review as it arrived to me.
That is just stupid thing to say. Are you expecting a review that happens after returning from some sort of time travel to a time where Atari has finally done their job? Or did you just feel the need to type squirty-bitch stuff on the internet today?
Didn’t Jon step out of a DeLorean before making the review? In all fairness he said it has room to grow, will watch what happens over coming months and be happy to revisit it in future so what’s the problem 🤷♂️ I’m sure it will be looked at again when it hits retail but you can only review what’s in front of you. One amazing software/store update may fix loads and if so am sure he’ll be happy to increase the tokens...
Sorry but this is not an honest review. The Atari VCS is not released yet, you are reviewing an unfinished product as if it was finished. You should have stated how Atari is specifically using the early adopters as 'beta testers'. The potential is great and the PC Mode puts this console on another level. There are people who have already made this console into an arcade machine playing games from most all the retro consoles, which is pretty cool. I can't wait to see what's to come.
No need to be sorry. I understand your opinion. The Atari VCS is not released _to retail_ but it is released to consumers who pre-ordered. If it's "not finished" that's on the manufacturer. I was delivered a product I purchased with no agreement to participate in a pre-release or beta. I expect there to be improvements, but this is my honest experience with the console that was delivered to me. Several commenters have thrown around that "beta" label but releasing an unfinished product to unsuspecting consumers and using them as guinea pigs is not equivalent to a beta release.
They updated the boot up screen. So your whole video now is obsolete 😂😂😂
Sounds to me like it was productive in pointing out a problem that got fixed.
@@GenXGrownUp People on other pages have been saying it long before you. Don’t pat yourself on the back. But most don’t use it as the main theme as to why it’s not worth buying like you did. I told you weeks ago it’s not released yet and it’s not even finished.
@@rburnsiv Your opinion is duly noted.
33rd like
Dude just say it in the end it’s a piece of monkey doo doo!
Believe me, if that was how I honestly felt this would've been a 10-second review! It's just not that cut-and-dried.
@SlugsandSnails That's gonna be a tough sell!
@SlugsandSnails The system is gorgeous too. The best looking console on the market and the UI is nicer than Xbox’s and PS5’s in my opinion. It’s not obnoxiously big, just understated elegance and it looks great with your entertainment center.