Hey guys I apologize the discord link didn't work, it's fixed now so either click the one in the description or the one here! discord.com/invite/JqeMAhH6ca
We play our VCS probably 10 times as much as we do our switch or xbox. The games are a fraction of the cost and we find ourselves enjoying them just as much as AAA titles. If we need a AAA title we can always add Xbox live to our VCS.
Thanks. I also have a VCS. I haven't had as much time as I'd like to play with it, but I do love having it and I hope that Atari will come out with an upgraded model!
Great video! After holding out, I bought the VCS almost a year ago during the Memorial Day sale last year. I always wanted one for display purposes because I just love the way it looks. I had heard about the setup issues and researched it ahead of time so it wasn't a problem. However, it is sad that you had to have a USB stick with the proper build package and all that to get it to work. Besides that, I've had no issues, and I never encountered the infamous zip code bug. I absolutely love the Recharged games. I bought all of them, but so far, I've only played Asteroids, Berzerk, and Caverns of Mars. To be honest, I didn't expect to use the VCS very much, and I have played games on it more than I expected. In addition to the Recharged games, I've played both home brew and old official games. I am very happy that homebrews are available in the VCS store as it gives me another way to play them (I have the physical releases for the original consoles). All in all, I have been very happy with the purchase of the VCS. Your views and videos like this have helped to amplify the excitement and personal joy :) I bought Neo Sprint because of your take on it, and I happen to love the original B/W coin-ops.
I hope you enjoyed Neo Sprint because a lot of people didn't. I think it was fine. The VCS is definitely a nice little surprise to me and it's great hearing all the stories like yours of other people enjoying it!
I love this honest and fair take on the VCS. Great stuff! One thing that I'd add is that cloud gaming and PC-Mode makes it much more flexible than traditional consoles. So when support dries up, the VCS will still be useful. I've been spending a lot of time in ChimeraOS, which turns the VCS into a capable Steam machine.
Oh I definitely don't get the most out of my console. I hope people read comments like this so they better understand that this thing does more than I said. I'm just a dummy who plays Atari games lol
Hugo is the only person I trust to mod my consoles. He's reasonable, thorough and communicates the entire time he has your stuff. In my experience. Glad you enjoy his stuff too!
That's great to hear! I've been hearing a lot about this system and have debated buying one. I never had a "2600" VCS. I got an Atari 800 on closeout after the 1200XL came out. I was taking computer classes at the local tech school (because the university didn't offer any undergrad computer classes) and my wife came to resent the amount of time I spent on my Atari computer, but I would drift to sleep designing custom display lists in my head. I learned everything I ever needed to know about computer science on that Atari 800. I got games only as graphics demos to figure out how the did what they did on the screen. I never cared about Nintendo or Sega. I've been making do with the Atari800MacX emulator on my MacBooks. I saw a video here about the Atari 50th Anniversary Collection and I wanted it, but what could I play it on? X-Box, Playstation, Switch… Atari VCS??!! Whaitaminnit, WHAT?? I never cared for those other guys. I was never convinced they had anything I wanted. I watched a LOT of vides about it and was pretty convinced to get one. I had bought a 7800 mini a few years ago and was disappointed. The videos talked about nothing but grief from this new VCS, but those arcade games it has looked GREAT! I'd get it just for those. I used to shove rolls of quarters into those arcade games back in the day. That's the best looking Asteroids I've seem in a LONG time. But then my sister said she was going to clean out her basement and I might be able to get back ALL my Atari computer stuff that my brother in law took after I moved to California thirty years ago. I now have most of it. The 1200XL I bought used is wonky, but my old Atari 800 and the 400 I bought used for $19 because 'I thought it looked cute, both still work, except not the keyboard on the 800. The keyboard on the 400 is bulletproof and that machine still works as well as the day I bought it - the cassette interface never worked for me. I had/have ALL the accessories, a bunch of cartridges and even more cassettes and floppy disks. The disk drives aren't working now and rewind and advance on the cassette drive don't work but otherwise it seems fine. My Atari stuff still fared better than my comic books and Beta videotapes which he also took. Oh, and I picked up a 7800 that he was collecting games for. To match my mini, I guess. I'm getting The 400 Mini just for completeness, though the resurrection go my 400 almost makes that unnecessary. I'm still debating that new VCS, but as you say, "It's SO Atari." I still want to run that 50th Anniversary Collection. I had debated installing an Atari800 emulator on "the computer side." Now I don't need to. I've been a Linux geek for a long time so this looks like yet another reason to shell out money for a PC.
That's great that you were able to get that stuff back. Given your history with Atari I think you might get a kick out of the VCS. I bought it almost exclusively to play the Atari 50th Collection but I was surprised at all the other stuff they had. If you do take the plunge wait for a sale. But it sounds like you have quite the collection as it is and maybe that's enough?
@@TheAtariNetwork I'll definitely wait for a good sale on the All-In bundle. It's actually looking good now. Yeah, once I get the Atari VCS, that should be plenty for the foreseeable future. After this I'll just have to figure out how to fix up what I already have. Independent and third-party publishers have always been Atari's greatest strength, even though they have often been reluctant to admit it.
I need to buy Food Fight: Culinary Combat, I would probably like it. I still think Antstream Arcade is amazing and VCS 800 owners get the best deal on it. Or at least used to.
Interesting video on the VCS, it's sad that the VCS is not sold internationally, but I'm happy that you have fun with it, How many VCS that have been sold far approximatively ? On steam I have bought almost all Atari recharged games, I bought this week the Atari 50 th anniversary, there,s some good Atari Jaguar games , 7800 and 5200, lynx and 8 bit games too, I played the Atari Kart yesterday maybe this game is not as a complete as the mario kart games but I do like it and I prefer the characters in Atari Kart than in Mario Kart
Atari Karts was a fun little game for what it was. We have an interview on tomorrow's podcast that sheds a little light on that game. Atari hasn't released numbers on how many VCS units have sold. The indiegogo campaign showed about roughly 10,000 but anything after that is a complete guess. If I had to be realistic probably under 20,000 but it's all a shot in the dark.
Love my VCS because it is unique and different. They should include a usb drive in every shipment with the os fix and upgrade their customer service. I had a Chromebook and couldn’t get a usb drive created without going to the store at night and purchasing a windows laptop just to get os updated. Luckily didn’t have zip code issue but will say that their customer service is lacking at best. Need to hire someone and give them a telephone. Really hope they get all this figured out soon and keep the VCS going.
Yeah the customer service isn't great. The community has tried to pick up the slack but it's sad that they even had to. Putting a USB drive in every box is a brilliant fix. Hey Atari listen to this person!
I am a little more interested in the VCS for the reasonable priced homebrews and early access exclusive NeoSprint and Food Fight. All those other titles exist on the console you already have and probably run better. After early access I would expect those 2 as well. You have built up a little community and that is priceless. Still not ready to jump in, but appreciate your thoughts. I am happy going the unplugged route with the 2600+ and restoring these old carts in the wild. It is surprising the VCS still has life. I would not believe it a year ago.
I don't have a console with those other games. I'm sure most people do if that's what you meant but the only "modern" day console I have is the VCS. Outside of that I have nothing newer than an original Xbox because I find most of this modern stuff frustrating.
I almost pre-ordered the VCS before it was released. Wasn't sure it was worth the initial retail price of $300 or somewhere close to that at launch. To me, at launch, it wasn't worth it imo. The controllers are just average to me, cool looking for sure, but not the best. The unit itself at the time, didn't do much as far as a gaming console. Today, it's much different and has improved ten fold. It's versatile with the PC Mode and expandable memory, the ability to use many 3rd party controllers, to use various OS systems with it, along with lots of apps, including gaming and streaming services. Plus, it now has lots of games to offer than ever before. I got lucky and bought my VCS Onyx bundle from Best Buy over three years ago for $99. That is more than worth it.
I’ve now got my Atari 400 mini yesterday and I’ve spent more time with it than my VCS since I’ve had it. Just so much fun. It just works. Snap to use. Doesn’t sound like a jet taking off and it doesn’t care what my zip code is. 😂
Either is a unique experience. I have a Switch and don't regret it. But this would be fun to once the hurdles are overcome. I have contemplated getting one being a staunch Atari fan. Now that there is enough to play on it for some quick arcade like fun, I might look into this again. It can also be a low end pc I guess but I'm not savy at that stuff but if one wanted to, they could truly expand the vcs in ways you can't as a switch. Kinda full circle as Atari always wanted a console/computer type all in one. At least that was the trend in the day but I think with Atari, the gaming and computer sections were separate? Idk. Its late at night and my memory fades. Lol but great video and thanks for sharing.
Very fair review. I've owned one since 2021 and I enjoy it very much. I never had the store zip code problem but I've had some brief store problems here and there, but rare and Atari support fixed them in a day or two. One thing that doesn't get mentioned enough is the PC mode. I play VCS and PC modes about 50/50. I also appreciate the living room PC concept where it's always plugged into my big TV and I can conveniently do home computing on my big screen while sitting on my sofa. Atari has had hybid PC/gaming machines since their 400 model back in the day and the VCS continues it. I have expanded RAM and memory running Window 10. I'll soon be upgrading to Win 11 and adding Batocera. In PC mode, it can run Switch-like games. It can even run many PS4/Xbox One games once you adjust the graphics settings and it usually doesnt make a huge visual difference. I've played games like Wreckfest, Ace Combat 7, Assetto Corsa, Halo Infinite/Master Chief Collection, Hotwheels Unleashed, Pinball FX3, latest Pinball FX, and many others. It's a lot more capable than people think. Is it as completely as powerful as a PS4 or 5, no. However, it still can play a ton of PC games, even the more modern ones. It's a flexible, customizable, hybrid machine. It may not be for everybody, but it depends on what you want to use it for. If you want to run the latest, high demand AAA games, you can stream them as an option thru several services if you have a good connection.
I have a Switch and a VCS. For me there Is so much I love about the VCS. Maybe it’s because it has a Fuji on the front and it’s illuminated. Ultimately it’s just plain fun.
Like someone else wrote, I use my VCS in Windows mode. I have the Linux PC mode USB and that's good as well and I would use it more if Windows wasn't an option. I'm not sure when the last time was, I booted into Atari os on purpose. I wish Atari leaned into the computer part more. Had the pc mode desktop packed in instead of sold as a separate USB. Maybe even offered an official Atari branded wireless keyboard and mouse. The mini PC market is booming and the VCS could have been an early entry. Even today, when Atari has a VCS on sale, it's still more powerful than most of the mini PCs in its price range. And it looks a lot cooler than just a square mini pc. Plus Steam games are more focusing on lower end hardware thanks to the Steam deck. There are 1000's of games on Steam (and GOG and Epic) that run perfect on the VCS. The push to make it a console limited it audience and success.
Nice video! I almost bought one of these a few years ago; aesthetically it was very nicely designed. I was keeping my budget focused on collecting for/repairing the 5200, which is a part-time job. I'm really impressed with the Recharge titles, they have that crisp, vector-style presentation; I'm also really impressed with that Atari 50 collection with the articles for each title. If they continue to improve the legacy-title library, I'm definitely going to get one; these old consoles... they're just becoming a pain to fool with... there's always something going wrong with them... plus, I don't like dealing with all the nostalgia-grift associated with the yesteryear video game market.
I've been a VCS owner for about a year and a half. I've really enjoyed the unit but also it's hard to ignore the problems. Luckily the zip code issue never effected me. But I have had other strange issues with controllers and updates. Nothing game breaking but still strange nonetheless. I like the library! Homebrews always keep me coming back. And the retro style indie support is nice. I love atari and I want the VCS to grow even bigger
8:15 I don't think that there is no appeal in online shooter, FFCC has got great appeal its just the execution. I have played the same FPS for 10 years off and on and many others that played an FPS online can see the issue with the game matches that end once done. Its a poor design. FFCC needs constant lobbies that do not dump you back into the search menu. It needs to show active lobbies for different modes. I have seen people searching trying to join others and the ridiculous 30 second window is incredibly unrealistic. Best thing you can do to save that game is to go complain about it. Especially since you are a known Atari youtuber you have more sway than the rest of us.
I originally bought my VCS for Windows stuff and Atari ST and 800 emulation. But I've also enjoyed tons of VCS games library. Guntech has been my favourite for a long time along with Recharged series and Atari50 by Digital Eclipse. Now I'm obsessed with NeoSprint. Also put my XBox away as I can stream everything I need from their game library. VCS is a very versatile machine. And hey, what other old brand besides Apple makes computers these days. It's so cool to be able to use a modern Atari computer even today :)
Only problem I see is the standard 8gb of ram. It holds back. If it had 32bf of ram then game devs could make games that look more modern with Unity of Unreal engine. 8gb of ram is why most games look old and pixelated Newer games would run on it with 32gb of ram. I thought about making a game for it, but limitations.
I can hugely respect the VCS for what it is (especially when previous new consoles from retro names turned out to be pre-order scams such as the Intellivision Amico and Coleco Chameleon) However, my lifestyle had me already owning a Switch from late 2017, and by the time I started considering a VCS in 2022, Valve had announced the Steam Deck, a handheld that only costs $400 and just like the VCS routinely drops to the price of a Switch OLED. Having all 115+ games I on on Steam automatically downloadable on the new handheld at no extra cost is what won me over on the Deck, and also just like the VCS, it runs Linux which allows for immense freedom to run basically whatever I want. The optional dock also allows for a home console experience. If the stars aligned differently and the Steam Deck hadn’t happened in 2022, I really could have seen myself putting a VCS in the living room because I’m sure me & my dad would’ve enjoyed the local multiplayer games on the console (which isn’t as common for us on Switch/PC since we both only own mostly single player games)
Any tips on how to get Windows on the M.2 Sata? We just opened an 800 Onyx system, upgraded to 32 g ram and a 2tb M.2 Sata. Went through the setup and updates but when trying to add windows to the Sata, we have been having issues and haven’t been able to. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
My console came with a broken controller atari refused to replace or refund. If you buy Atari Vcs buy it from the store not online so you can get your money back if something goes wrong.
What type of drive is the Jaguar CD unit? IDE or ? I want to kit bash my jaguar and CD unit into a all in one type case and was thinking maybe there is a more modern CD drive I could hook up to the original control board if thats possible?
I'm super-shocked that anything became of the VCS other than a cash-grab on the old Atari name. But, I'm super happy that it got some new updates for these great games into action and that people can now enjoy it. I backed the much more promoted, Amico... since I was an Intellivision kid. Funny how something that seemed to have a much more developed business plan, more unique hardware, and a lot more developer/user interaction.... could turn out to be so much smoke. C'est la vie.
I think both are proof that we shouldn't bank on our nostalgia or allow it to guide our decisions or cloud our judgement. It's unfortunate what happened with the amico and the VCS has had nothing but issues for a long time. And let's be real if Nintendo or Sony had the issues of the VCS for as long as Atari did, it would be a PR nightmare and all over the gaming media. The VCS is lucky it's small and relatively unknown. At the end of the day the VCS is a console for Atari fans who want something with the Atari brand on it. You can use it as a streaming device, a dedicated Ataribox or some form of Windows computer. It's nice to have but isn't for everybody. Also I should note I know very little about the amico or it's business plan but I'm sure it seemed pretty promising.
i think the new atari vcs 800 is a great underrated pc/console hybird it's my favorite hardware i was never bad disappointing hardware to me at all it doesn't matter to me if video game hardware has alot of games or don't have alot of games only have little bit of games even sells don't matter to me either i did follow my heart gut instincts i don't listen to most that say don't get this or that anymore the atari vcs 800 made me a new atari fan it was always a blast to me i love the atari vcs unpopular hardware better than the popular video game hardware xbox, playstation and nintendo switch that's just me my unpopular preference
Just off the top of my head, Former Activision dev John Van Ryzen has an exclusive new 2600 game on the VCS called Alien abduction. Toney Barnes, another historic dev has PolyGunR as an exclusive preview on the VCS. Neo-Sprint and Food Fight Culinary Combat are still exclusive. Several small titles are still VCS only. This doesn't include former exclusives from Metgan games, etc.
No official track ball controller and a few Jag and Lynx games in Atari 50, but anything is possible in pc mode with third-party usb track balls and emulators.
I have one and have a decent library. It's okish. I def overpaid as I got it with the speaker hat when it wasn't on sale. At the sale price it's a much better bargain. I use a 256GB USB to store all of my games as I didnt want to open the case on mine.
I say this as someone who wasted a ton of money on the Neo Geo arcade sticks and mini... dude... there is absolutely no way the sheer cost of the hardware can be justified... and the quality of the joystick and/or controller... just baleful.
Considering the cost of generic Ryzin 3 mini-pcs, I'd say it's worth it up to about $225 with controllers. Modern controller is great, but if you're used to a PS5 controller, you'll only like that. The joystick is a bit of a radical redesign so lacks polish but I was able to do a quick mod to get rid of the slop, so now it's perfect.
I do think the controllers are a huge percentage of the value for any retro product: this is why I'm "soft" on the Evercade VS, even though so much is wrong with it. @@redleader7988
The solution is that Atari builds micro pc´s real with what you can work like any PC; Just add the peripherals, keyboard, mouse, and voila: SSD; 16 RAM; Windows
Hey guys I apologize the discord link didn't work, it's fixed now so either click the one in the description or the one here!
discord.com/invite/JqeMAhH6ca
We play our VCS probably 10 times as much as we do our switch or xbox. The games are a fraction of the cost and we find ourselves enjoying them just as much as AAA titles. If we need a AAA title we can always add Xbox live to our VCS.
Love this!
Thanks. I also have a VCS. I haven't had as much time as I'd like to play with it, but I do love having it and I hope that Atari will come out with an upgraded model!
Say what you will about the VCS, but at least it came out.
Great Vid!! Love my VCS too, have not touched my switch in months. You really nailed it about the games you covered!
Thanks C_Money. I'm glad I chose it over the Switch even if it hasn't been smooth sailing!
Great video! After holding out, I bought the VCS almost a year ago during the Memorial Day sale last year. I always wanted one for display purposes because I just love the way it looks.
I had heard about the setup issues and researched it ahead of time so it wasn't a problem. However, it is sad that you had to have a USB stick with the proper build package and all that to get it to work. Besides that, I've had no issues, and I never encountered the infamous zip code bug.
I absolutely love the Recharged games. I bought all of them, but so far, I've only played Asteroids, Berzerk, and Caverns of Mars.
To be honest, I didn't expect to use the VCS very much, and I have played games on it more than I expected. In addition to the Recharged games, I've played both home brew and old official games. I am very happy that homebrews are available in the VCS store as it gives me another way to play them (I have the physical releases for the original consoles).
All in all, I have been very happy with the purchase of the VCS. Your views and videos like this have helped to amplify the excitement and personal joy :) I bought Neo Sprint because of your take on it, and I happen to love the original B/W coin-ops.
I hope you enjoyed Neo Sprint because a lot of people didn't. I think it was fine. The VCS is definitely a nice little surprise to me and it's great hearing all the stories like yours of other people enjoying it!
I love this honest and fair take on the VCS. Great stuff! One thing that I'd add is that cloud gaming and PC-Mode makes it much more flexible than traditional consoles. So when support dries up, the VCS will still be useful. I've been spending a lot of time in ChimeraOS, which turns the VCS into a capable Steam machine.
Oh I definitely don't get the most out of my console. I hope people read comments like this so they better understand that this thing does more than I said.
I'm just a dummy who plays Atari games lol
Thanks for showing Super Star Shooter 16 in this video!
Super Star Shooter 16 is going to get its own video eventually. I have a long list of games to cover but this one is definitely on it!
Also woah OGHUGO is one of your supporters!!! That guy sold me some damn cool products!
Hugo is the only person I trust to mod my consoles. He's reasonable, thorough and communicates the entire time he has your stuff. In my experience. Glad you enjoy his stuff too!
That's great to hear!
I've been hearing a lot about this system and have debated buying one.
I never had a "2600" VCS. I got an Atari 800 on closeout after the 1200XL came out.
I was taking computer classes at the local tech school (because the university didn't offer any undergrad computer classes) and my wife came to resent the amount of time I spent on my Atari computer, but I would drift to sleep designing custom display lists in my head.
I learned everything I ever needed to know about computer science on that Atari 800. I got games only as graphics demos to figure out how the did what they did on the screen.
I never cared about Nintendo or Sega.
I've been making do with the Atari800MacX emulator on my MacBooks.
I saw a video here about the Atari 50th Anniversary Collection and I wanted it, but what could I play it on?
X-Box, Playstation, Switch… Atari VCS??!! Whaitaminnit, WHAT??
I never cared for those other guys. I was never convinced they had anything I wanted.
I watched a LOT of vides about it and was pretty convinced to get one.
I had bought a 7800 mini a few years ago and was disappointed.
The videos talked about nothing but grief from this new VCS, but those arcade games it has looked GREAT!
I'd get it just for those. I used to shove rolls of quarters into those arcade games back in the day.
That's the best looking Asteroids I've seem in a LONG time.
But then my sister said she was going to clean out her basement and I might be able to get back ALL my Atari computer stuff that my brother in law took after I moved to California thirty years ago.
I now have most of it. The 1200XL I bought used is wonky, but my old Atari 800 and the 400 I bought used for $19 because 'I thought it looked cute, both still work, except not the keyboard on the 800. The keyboard on the 400 is bulletproof and that machine still works as well as the day I bought it - the cassette interface never worked for me.
I had/have ALL the accessories, a bunch of cartridges and even more cassettes and floppy disks. The disk drives aren't working now and rewind and advance on the cassette drive don't work but otherwise it seems fine.
My Atari stuff still fared better than my comic books and Beta videotapes which he also took.
Oh, and I picked up a 7800 that he was collecting games for. To match my mini, I guess.
I'm getting The 400 Mini just for completeness, though the resurrection go my 400 almost makes that unnecessary.
I'm still debating that new VCS, but as you say, "It's SO Atari." I still want to run that 50th Anniversary Collection.
I had debated installing an Atari800 emulator on "the computer side." Now I don't need to. I've been a Linux geek for a long time so this looks like yet another reason to shell out money for a PC.
That's great that you were able to get that stuff back. Given your history with Atari I think you might get a kick out of the VCS. I bought it almost exclusively to play the Atari 50th Collection but I was surprised at all the other stuff they had.
If you do take the plunge wait for a sale. But it sounds like you have quite the collection as it is and maybe that's enough?
@@TheAtariNetwork I'll definitely wait for a good sale on the All-In bundle. It's actually looking good now.
Yeah, once I get the Atari VCS, that should be plenty for the foreseeable future. After this I'll just have to figure out how to fix up what I already have.
Independent and third-party publishers have always been Atari's greatest strength, even though they have often been reluctant to admit it.
Very Atari is such a good way to describe the modern VCS. Great video, man. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching man!
I need to buy Food Fight: Culinary Combat, I would probably like it. I still think Antstream Arcade is amazing and VCS 800 owners get the best deal on it. Or at least used to.
I messed with the antstream and it looks amazing but I never subscribed...
Interesting video on the VCS, it's sad that the VCS is not sold internationally, but I'm happy that you have fun with it, How many VCS that have been sold far approximatively ? On steam I have bought almost all Atari recharged games, I bought this week the Atari 50 th anniversary, there,s some good Atari Jaguar games , 7800 and 5200, lynx and 8 bit games too, I played the Atari Kart yesterday maybe this game is not as a complete as the mario kart games but I do like it and I prefer the characters in Atari Kart than in Mario Kart
Atari Karts was a fun little game for what it was. We have an interview on tomorrow's podcast that sheds a little light on that game. Atari hasn't released numbers on how many VCS units have sold. The indiegogo campaign showed about roughly 10,000 but anything after that is a complete guess. If I had to be realistic probably under 20,000 but it's all a shot in the dark.
@@TheAtariNetwork I will watch that podcast to learn more on that game, thanks sir !
Love my VCS because it is unique and different. They should include a usb drive in every shipment with the os fix and upgrade their customer service. I had a Chromebook and couldn’t get a usb drive created without going to the store at night and purchasing a windows laptop just to get os updated. Luckily didn’t have zip code issue but will say that their customer service is lacking at best. Need to hire someone and give them a telephone. Really hope they get all this figured out soon and keep the VCS going.
Yeah the customer service isn't great. The community has tried to pick up the slack but it's sad that they even had to. Putting a USB drive in every box is a brilliant fix. Hey Atari listen to this person!
I am a little more interested in the VCS for the reasonable priced homebrews and early access exclusive NeoSprint and Food Fight. All those other titles exist on the console you already have and probably run better. After early access I would expect those 2 as well. You have built up a little community and that is priceless. Still not ready to jump in, but appreciate your thoughts. I am happy going the unplugged route with the 2600+ and restoring these old carts in the wild. It is surprising the VCS still has life. I would not believe it a year ago.
I don't have a console with those other games. I'm sure most people do if that's what you meant but the only "modern" day console I have is the VCS. Outside of that I have nothing newer than an original Xbox because I find most of this modern stuff frustrating.
And honestly the VCS is frustrating too at times I just put up with it because I'm an Atari guy. Otherwise I probably would've skipped that too
I almost pre-ordered the VCS before it was released. Wasn't sure it was worth the initial retail price of $300 or somewhere close to that at launch. To me, at launch, it wasn't worth it imo. The controllers are just average to me, cool looking for sure, but not the best. The unit itself at the time, didn't do much as far as a gaming console. Today, it's much different and has improved ten fold. It's versatile with the PC Mode and expandable memory, the ability to use many 3rd party controllers, to use various OS systems with it, along with lots of apps, including gaming and streaming services. Plus, it now has lots of games to offer than ever before. I got lucky and bought my VCS Onyx bundle from Best Buy over three years ago for $99. That is more than worth it.
That's an awesome price! I think waiting was a smart idea honestly.
I’ve now got my Atari 400 mini yesterday and I’ve spent more time with it than my VCS since I’ve had it. Just so much fun. It just works. Snap to use. Doesn’t sound like a jet taking off and it doesn’t care what my zip code is. 😂
Great vid. I can relate with the best of times and the worst of times of the VCS. Keep up the great work.
Thank you and here's hoping that it's all good times from here on out!
Awesome video! Subbed, and look forward to what you make in the future!
You're really making me want to obtain a VCS and play games with some of the prominent Atari folks out there.
Great video🎉🎉🎉
Thank you kind sir!
Either is a unique experience. I have a Switch and don't regret it. But this would be fun to once the hurdles are overcome. I have contemplated getting one being a staunch Atari fan. Now that there is enough to play on it for some quick arcade like fun, I might look into this again. It can also be a low end pc I guess but I'm not savy at that stuff but if one wanted to, they could truly expand the vcs in ways you can't as a switch. Kinda full circle as Atari always wanted a console/computer type all in one. At least that was the trend in the day but I think with Atari, the gaming and computer sections were separate? Idk. Its late at night and my memory fades. Lol but great video and thanks for sharing.
Great review man! I love my VCS's too!
I know you do obsidian! You're the VCS man!
@@TheAtariNetwork oh pashaw 🥴🫳
Very fair review. I've owned one since 2021 and I enjoy it very much. I never had the store zip code problem but I've had some brief store problems here and there, but rare and Atari support fixed them in a day or two. One thing that doesn't get mentioned enough is the PC mode. I play VCS and PC modes about 50/50. I also appreciate the living room PC concept where it's always plugged into my big TV and I can conveniently do home computing on my big screen while sitting on my sofa. Atari has had hybid PC/gaming machines since their 400 model back in the day and the VCS continues it. I have expanded RAM and memory running Window 10. I'll soon be upgrading to Win 11 and adding Batocera. In PC mode, it can run Switch-like games. It can even run many PS4/Xbox One games once you adjust the graphics settings and it usually doesnt make a huge visual difference. I've played games like Wreckfest, Ace Combat 7, Assetto Corsa, Halo Infinite/Master Chief Collection, Hotwheels Unleashed, Pinball FX3, latest Pinball FX, and many others. It's a lot more capable than people think. Is it as completely as powerful as a PS4 or 5, no. However, it still can play a ton of PC games, even the more modern ones. It's a flexible, customizable, hybrid machine. It may not be for everybody, but it depends on what you want to use it for. If you want to run the latest, high demand AAA games, you can stream them as an option thru several services if you have a good connection.
I have a Switch and a VCS. For me there Is so much I love about the VCS. Maybe it’s because it has a Fuji on the front and it’s illuminated. Ultimately it’s just plain fun.
Same here, I love my VCS. I bought a spare back when they were on sale for $29.00 lol
If i couldnt buy games for the console i bought for months at a time i would have returned it.
Like someone else wrote, I use my VCS in Windows mode. I have the Linux PC mode USB and that's good as well and I would use it more if Windows wasn't an option. I'm not sure when the last time was, I booted into Atari os on purpose. I wish Atari leaned into the computer part more. Had the pc mode desktop packed in instead of sold as a separate USB. Maybe even offered an official Atari branded wireless keyboard and mouse. The mini PC market is booming and the VCS could have been an early entry. Even today, when Atari has a VCS on sale, it's still more powerful than most of the mini PCs in its price range. And it looks a lot cooler than just a square mini pc. Plus Steam games are more focusing on lower end hardware thanks to the Steam deck. There are 1000's of games on Steam (and GOG and Epic) that run perfect on the VCS. The push to make it a console limited it audience and success.
Nice video! I almost bought one of these a few years ago; aesthetically it was very nicely designed. I was keeping my budget focused on collecting for/repairing the 5200, which is a part-time job.
I'm really impressed with the Recharge titles, they have that crisp, vector-style presentation; I'm also really impressed with that Atari 50 collection with the articles for each title.
If they continue to improve the legacy-title library, I'm definitely going to get one; these old consoles... they're just becoming a pain to fool with... there's always something going wrong with them... plus, I don't like dealing with all the nostalgia-grift associated with the yesteryear video game market.
I've been a VCS owner for about a year and a half. I've really enjoyed the unit but also it's hard to ignore the problems. Luckily the zip code issue never effected me. But I have had other strange issues with controllers and updates. Nothing game breaking but still strange nonetheless. I like the library! Homebrews always keep me coming back. And the retro style indie support is nice. I love atari and I want the VCS to grow even bigger
8:15 I don't think that there is no appeal in online shooter, FFCC has got great appeal its just the execution. I have played the same FPS for 10 years off and on and many others that played an FPS online can see the issue with the game matches that end once done. Its a poor design. FFCC needs constant lobbies that do not dump you back into the search menu. It needs to show active lobbies for different modes. I have seen people searching trying to join others and the ridiculous 30 second window is incredibly unrealistic. Best thing you can do to save that game is to go complain about it. Especially since you are a known Atari youtuber you have more sway than the rest of us.
Ready for Culinary Combat. Another meet up for matches would be fun.
The games are looking batter than I expected.
Rough start in beginning but getting better. They should add paddle controllers as accessory.
Forth, grab a shaurma with garnet and dill and a big blackcurrant-feijoa cappuccino and some zefirs with it
On it
I originally bought my VCS for Windows stuff and Atari ST and 800 emulation. But I've also enjoyed tons of VCS games library. Guntech has been my favourite for a long time along with Recharged series and Atari50 by Digital Eclipse. Now I'm obsessed with NeoSprint. Also put my XBox away as I can stream everything I need from their game library. VCS is a very versatile machine.
And hey, what other old brand besides Apple makes computers these days. It's so cool to be able to use a modern Atari computer even today :)
Somebody suggested I do editing from my VCS. Then I could put at the bottom of each video "Edited on an Atari"
Now that would look super cool 😊
Only problem I see is the standard 8gb of ram. It holds back. If it had 32bf of ram then game devs could make games that look more modern with Unity of Unreal engine. 8gb of ram is why most games look old and pixelated Newer games would run on it with 32gb of ram. I thought about making a game for it, but limitations.
I am thinking to buy one it looks great
Home boobs ! my VCS is still in the box.. I will get to it one of these days.. Great Video !
Idk why I have a tendency to say that. It happened in my 7800 Buyers guide video too. I hope it doesn't happen live anytime...
I can hugely respect the VCS for what it is (especially when previous new consoles from retro names turned out to be pre-order scams such as the Intellivision Amico and Coleco Chameleon)
However, my lifestyle had me already owning a Switch from late 2017, and by the time I started considering a VCS in 2022, Valve had announced the Steam Deck, a handheld that only costs $400 and just like the VCS routinely drops to the price of a Switch OLED. Having all 115+ games I on on Steam automatically downloadable on the new handheld at no extra cost is what won me over on the Deck, and also just like the VCS, it runs Linux which allows for immense freedom to run basically whatever I want. The optional dock also allows for a home console experience.
If the stars aligned differently and the Steam Deck hadn’t happened in 2022, I really could have seen myself putting a VCS in the living room because I’m sure me & my dad would’ve enjoyed the local multiplayer games on the console (which isn’t as common for us on Switch/PC since we both only own mostly single player games)
Thanks for the shout out..I never got my movie😢😂
Yeah I got on Vinnie about that he said he sent everything out Monday. Sorry for the delay let me know when you get it
@TheAtariNetwork no worries..I'm looking forward to the next tournament
Any tips on how to get Windows on the M.2 Sata? We just opened an 800 Onyx system, upgraded to 32 g ram and a 2tb M.2 Sata. Went through the setup and updates but when trying to add windows to the Sata, we have been having issues and haven’t been able to. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Check out "Atari VCS Alternative OSes (multi-boot)" by Retro Tech Corner here on CZcams.
My console came with a broken controller atari refused to replace or refund. If you buy Atari Vcs buy it from the store not online so you can get your money back if something goes wrong.
What type of drive is the Jaguar CD unit? IDE or ? I want to kit bash my jaguar and CD unit into a all in one type case and was thinking maybe there is a more modern CD drive I could hook up to the original control board if thats possible?
I'm super-shocked that anything became of the VCS other than a cash-grab on the old Atari name. But, I'm super happy that it got some new updates for these great games into action and that people can now enjoy it. I backed the much more promoted, Amico... since I was an Intellivision kid. Funny how something that seemed to have a much more developed business plan, more unique hardware, and a lot more developer/user interaction.... could turn out to be so much smoke. C'est la vie.
I think both are proof that we shouldn't bank on our nostalgia or allow it to guide our decisions or cloud our judgement. It's unfortunate what happened with the amico and the VCS has had nothing but issues for a long time. And let's be real if Nintendo or Sony had the issues of the VCS for as long as Atari did, it would be a PR nightmare and all over the gaming media. The VCS is lucky it's small and relatively unknown.
At the end of the day the VCS is a console for Atari fans who want something with the Atari brand on it. You can use it as a streaming device, a dedicated Ataribox or some form of Windows computer. It's nice to have but isn't for everybody.
Also I should note I know very little about the amico or it's business plan but I'm sure it seemed pretty promising.
It could be useful for a emulation device in my opinion.
I have to agree I got the Xbox ps4 and switch and I end up playing my Atari VCS more then any of them
Food Fight looks like Splatoon
i think the new atari vcs 800 is a great underrated pc/console hybird it's my favorite hardware i was never bad disappointing hardware to me at all it doesn't matter to me if video game hardware has alot of games or don't have alot of games only have little bit of games even sells don't matter to me either i did follow my heart gut instincts i don't listen to most that say don't get this or that anymore the atari vcs 800 made me a new atari fan it was always a blast to me i love the atari vcs unpopular hardware better than the popular video game hardware xbox, playstation and nintendo switch that's just me my unpopular preference
The question is, are any of these games ONLY available for the VCS?
Just off the top of my head, Former Activision dev John Van Ryzen has an exclusive new 2600 game on the VCS called Alien abduction. Toney Barnes, another historic dev has PolyGunR as an exclusive preview on the VCS. Neo-Sprint and Food Fight Culinary Combat are still exclusive. Several small titles are still VCS only. This doesn't include former exclusives from Metgan games, etc.
Does VCS have track ball controller? Are there any Jaguar/Lynx games on the console?
No official track ball controller and a few Jag and Lynx games in Atari 50, but anything is possible in pc mode with third-party usb track balls and emulators.
I have one and have a decent library. It's okish. I def overpaid as I got it with the speaker hat when it wasn't on sale. At the sale price it's a much better bargain. I use a 256GB USB to store all of my games as I didnt want to open the case on mine.
Ojala remonte esta consola y de algún modo se reavive.
Do you have to join Patreon to join the Discord server? When I clicked the Discord link, it said it was invalid or expired.
Oh man I thought I had the forever link I'll fix it now!
No you don't have to join Patreon for the discord it should be fixed real soon!
I say this as someone who wasted a ton of money on the Neo Geo arcade sticks and mini... dude... there is absolutely no way the sheer cost of the hardware can be justified... and the quality of the joystick and/or controller... just baleful.
To each their own my friend
Considering the cost of generic Ryzin 3 mini-pcs, I'd say it's worth it up to about $225 with controllers. Modern controller is great, but if you're used to a PS5 controller, you'll only like that. The joystick is a bit of a radical redesign so lacks polish but I was able to do a quick mod to get rid of the slop, so now it's perfect.
I do think the controllers are a huge percentage of the value for any retro product: this is why I'm "soft" on the Evercade VS, even though so much is wrong with it. @@redleader7988
First here, grab a beer!
Let me see some ID
Second, grab a Chicken
Mmmm..... Chicken ......
The solution is that Atari builds micro pc´s
real with what you can work like any PC; Just add the peripherals, keyboard, mouse, and voila: SSD; 16 RAM; Windows