Atari 7800+ Review: Hardware, Compatibility, and Game Lineup for Modern Retro Gaming

Atari 7800+ Review: Hardware, Compatibility, and Game Lineup for Modern Retro Gaming Atari continues to capitalize on its storied past with the release of the Atari 7800+, a retro-inspired console designed to bring classic gaming into the modern living room.

Following up on the relaunch of the Atari 2600+—which debuted in 2023 with HDMI-out and full 2600 and 7800 cartridge compatibility—Atari is targeting nostalgia enthusiasts and collectors with this new hardware.

The original Atari 7800 ProSystem, released in 1986, aimed to follow up the success of the VCS/2600 but struggled for consumer attention in a market quickly dominated by Nintendo’s NES.

While the 7800 enjoyed moderate popularity in Europe, its overall impact was muted, and the game lineup remained relatively small, with fewer than 60 titles produced for the platform. Design and Features The Atari 7800+ maintains the look and feel of the original European model of the console, including the distinctive rainbow stripe across the metal front panel, but is slightly smaller and more compatible with current entertainment setups.

The unit offers HDMI and USB-C ports for modern displays and a toggle switch for 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratios—a handy, if somewhat niche, feature for retro enthusiasts.

The hardware remains true to its roots, with familiar power, pause, select, and reset buttons in their traditional positions, requiring physical interaction much like the classic original. Cartridge compatibility remains at the forefront; the slot accepts both original and new 7800/2600 cartridges, ensuring loyalists can revisit a broad library of titles.

Notably, the 7800+ is powered by the Rockchip RK3128 (Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A7M, 256K L2 cache, Mali400 MP2 GPU), with 256MB DDR3 RAM and 256MB eMMC storage, identical to the tech inside the Atari 2600+. Controller Improvements and Options Bundled with the machine is the CX78+ wireless pad, modeled after the European original and inspired by the NES controller.

While the ergonomic, rounded edges are a comfort upgrade, some design choices—such as the stubby stick on the D-pad and widely spaced buttons—may hinder precise play.

Wireless connectivity is a major advantage, facilitated by an included dongle that works not only on the console but also on PC via USB-C.

The standard 9-pin connector expands controller options, offering compatibility with a range of vintage pads. Performance and Emulation Accuracy For gameplay, the Atari 7800+ uses the mature Stella emulator for 2600 titles and ProSystem for 7800 games, ensuring high compatibility and reliable performance.

While the system refrains from offering modern emulation features like save states or rewind, Atari emphasizes authenticity, delivering a gameplay experience faithful to the original consoles.

Customization is available through optional display filters—bilinear filtering for 7800 games, and a "phosphor" CRT effect for 2600 titles.

Firmware updates are supported, and legacy issues such as PAL color accuracy, previously present in the 2600+, have been addressed in this revision. Game Library and New Releases Staying true to its legacy, the Atari 7800+ is compatible with both 2600 and 7800 cartridges.

Atari has gone a step further, releasing new cartridges compatible with both vintage and modern hardware.

These releases include enhanced editions like Asteroids Deluxe and long-awaited ports such as Bounty Bob Strikes Back!, now featuring new levels from developer Robert DeCrescenzo.

Additional highlights include the official debut of Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, an expanded sequel to the arcade classic Crystal Castles.

Each new title comes in physical packaging, complete with full-color manuals, heightening the appeal for collectors. Conclusion: Who Should Consider the 7800+? The Atari 7800+ delivers a well-crafted homage to classic gaming, boasting HDMI output, wireless control, and continued support from Atari with new and enhanced cartridge releases.

While functionally similar to the Atari 2600+, which already supports nearly all of its features, the 7800+ stands out for those seeking a refined take on a less celebrated but historic console. For dedicated Atari collectors and newcomers who missed last year’s 2600+ launch, this system represents an accessible entry point into authentic retro play.

Yet, for those already equipped with the 2600+, the practical need for the 7800+ is limited, unless completion or brand loyalty drives the decision.

Despite the lack of advanced emulation options, the 7800+ succeeds in preserving the classic Atari experience for modern audiences.

Atari Atari 7800 Atari 7800+ Atari 2600+ 2600 7800 ProSystem Atari eShop Stella ProSystem Bounty Bob Strikes Back! Asteroids Deluxe Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest Rockchip RK3128 CX78 CX78+