What retro system should I get?

Post by **Betamax001** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:18 pm

I can't decide....In about 2 weeks I will be going to a video game store in Chicago when I visit my cousin and I am thinking about getting a new system...because...I can ^_^ I narrowed it down to three that I want (I wanted a Sega CD, but they wanted WAAAAAAAAY too much for it >.<) The seminal Atari 2600, Colecovision (which according to their commercials, is the only system I will ever need) or a Turbo Grafx 16. I am slightly leaning towards the Atari, because its pretty easy to find games for it, while Coleco and Turbo games would pretty much need to be bought there or online. All systems are around 40-50 bucks at the store which is a fair price I think for any of them. (Granted I could probably get an Atari cheaper, but I almost NEVER win auctions on eBay and there aren't flea markets around me and no thrift stores ever have systems I want or for a good price)

So any input would be greatly appreciated and any advice for a newcomer about any of the systems.

Post by **GSZX1337** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:20 pm

You can't go wrong with any of those, but I'd have to say the TG-16 for those kick ass Shmups.

As for the Atari 2600, I think you should probably get a 7800 so that you access to a larger library.

Post by **Hateshinai** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:28 pm

Atari 2600 as long as it's one of those with the "wooden" finish. I have one. It doesn't work but it looks totally hardcore.

Post by **Betamax001** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:29 pm

I asked if they had a 7800 because of that same reason. They didn't have when I called, but I know that I have seen games there. In fact I have seen more 7800 games than systems. Also online the 7800 seems to go for a bit more money.

"And it doesn't have that kick ass wood grain look to it"

Post by **Dakinggamer87** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:38 pm

GSZX1337 wrote:You can't go wrong with any of those, but I'd have to say the TG-16 for those kick ass Shmups.

As for the Atari 2600, I think you should probably get a 7800 so that you access to a larger library.

I totally agree. The Sega CD is a good choice but library is limited unfortunately. I do like the wood grain look of the Atari 2600!!

Post by **puke_face** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:46 pm

Get a Ferrari. I mean a Neo-Geo.

Post by **Betamax001** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:58 pm

puke_face wrote:Get a Ferrari. I mean a Neo-Geo.

I would...but I don't have near enough money for a Neo...I guess i will have to stick with the wood grained station wagon or a Hyundai hatchback for now.

Post by **GSZX1337** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 5:59 pm

Betamax001 wrote:
puke_face wrote:Get a Ferrari. I mean a Neo-Geo.
I would...but I don't have near enough money for a Neo...I guess i will have to stick with the wood grained station wagon or a Hyundai hatchback for now.

Get a Ferrari Hot Wheels. By that I mean a Neo Geo Pocket.

Post by **Hatta** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 6:01 pm

Go for the TG-16. I'd say $40 is a bit too much for either an Atari 2600 or Colecovision unless you're getting a good stack of games with them. Games of that era tend to be more like "mini-games" of today. They are great fun, but simplistic. For someone who grew up in the 8/16 bit era, the TG-16 will grab and hold your attention much better.

I do still recommend getting an Atari. Just wait for a better deal. Keep an eye on Craigslist, or go over to AtariAge and post in the marketplace forum. Everyone should have an Atari 2600, if only for the paddle controllers. Breakout is timeless.

Post by **CRTGAMER** » Fri Apr 16, 2010 6:05 pm

All three are great systems. If you go by graphics then in order of worst to best Atari, Coleco then TurboGraFX.
But I would look for games you like, then choose the system.

The Atari is by far the most common, every swap meet has an abundance of Atari. Yar's Revenge, Slot Racers, Maze Craze, Demon Attack, Indy 500 (driving paddle needed) and the classic Combat are a few good titles.

Coleco has near Arcade perfect translations of bygone Arcades. Their flagship game is Donkey Kong.

TurboGraFX as GSZX1337 pointed out has ton of shumps. Bomberman 94 is one of the best versions along with the Bonk series and Galaga 90.

Atari factory joysticks are crappy, they have "bubble pop" switches.
If you can find it, get a leaf switch Wico joystick and go home happy.