The Atari 7800+ is a modern reimagining of the classic Atari 7800 ProSystem, designed to bring retro gaming into the present day. Its history is rooted in the mid-1980s, when the original Atari 7800 was intended to succeed both the Atari 2600 and the Atari 5200. The “plus” version retains the iconic aesthetic of the original, but with modern enhancements. A key feature is its backward compatibility, allowing users to play a vast library of both Atari 2600 and 7800 game cartridges. This focus on preserving and celebrating classic games is a central part of the 7800+’s appeal. Technologically, the Atari 7800+ incorporates modern advancements while staying true to its retro roots. It features an HDMI output, enabling easy connection to modern televisions, and offers widescreen and 4:3 display options. It also utilizes emulation software to ensure near-perfect compatibility with original games. Furthermore, it comes with a new wireless CX78+ gamepad, providing a contemporary gaming experience. The inclusion of a new game, “Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest,” demonstrates a blend of classic and contemporary design. Overall, the Atari 7800+ bridges the gap between nostalgic gameplay and modern technology.
Complete
Name/Variant
Atari 7800+
Accessories
CX78+ Wireless Gamepad, Power Cable, HDMI Cable
Price
£0 – Gift
Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest – Atari 7800 (2024)
Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest for the Atari 7800 is a homebrew game and an unofficial sequel to Crystal Castles. The game is a 2D platformer that sees Bentley Bear on a quest to recover the stolen “Five Crystals of Life” from the evil witch Berthilda. The game builds upon the character of Bentley Bear from the classic “Crystal Castles” arcade game. 1 Gameplay involves navigating various platforming levels, defeating enemies, and overcoming obstacles, with gameplay that has been compared to games like Wonder Boy. The game was produced by the Atari homebrew community, and has now been given an official release by Atari. Reception has been positive, with praise for its graphics, sound, and gameplay, especially in the context of the Atari 7800’s library. Some have noted that the control scheme can take some getting used to, but overall, it’s considered a strong addition to the console’s lineup, filling a void of quality platformers.