The Atari 2600, initially known as the Atari VCS, represents a foundational element in the history of video game consoles. Released in 1977, it facilitated the growth of a multi-billion dollar industry and sold over thirty million units. The system’s longevity is notable, with cartridges produced for three decades and new games still being created by hobbyists today. This article details the console’s origins, its evolution, available emulation options, and ongoing support from the retro gaming community, based on available documentation.
Origins and Market Impact
In the early 1970s, arcade video games such as Pong and Tank gained commercial success. This led to a demand for home versions, and Atari released Home Pong in 1975, achieving significant sales. Other companies, including Magnavox and Coleco, followed with dedicated console games. The introduction of the Fairchild Channel F in 1976 marked the first cartridge-based home video game system. Recognizing the potential of cartridge systems, other companies began development in that direction.
Atari released the Atari VCS in September 1977, initially offering nine games. Despite the release of the RCA Studio II in January 1977, which projected only in black and white, the Atari VCS gained prominence due to its game library and price point. Even in 1985, the Atari 2600 continued to sell over a million consoles.
The Rise of Third-Party Developers and Market Saturation
Following the success of Activision, Atari initially resisted allowing third-party companies to produce cartridges, fearing a loss of profits. However, this stance eventually changed, and Atari agreed to permit third-party manufacturing in exchange for a royalty. This led to a proliferation of software companies in 1982, including Venturevision, Spectravision, Telesys, CBS, 20th Century Fox, US Games, M Network, Tigervision, Data Age, Imagic, and Coleco. Even a company specializing in X-Rated games, Mystique, released titles for the system.
The year 1983 saw further expansion, with companies like Zimag, Ultravision, and Amiga joining the market. However, this rapid growth resulted in market saturation and a glut of software. Many companies experienced poor sales and subsequently closed their doors by the end of 1983, including US Games, Data Age, Games by Apollo, and Telesys.
The Video Game Crash and Subsequent Revival
By 1986, the home video game market appeared to be in decline. However, Nintendo’s successful release of the NES in the United States demonstrated continued consumer interest in video games. In response, Atari released previously stored 7800 units and continued to produce new 2600 games. The 7800 was initially released with only three games but maintained compatibility with the entire 2600 library. Atari also redesigned the 2600 as the 2600 Jr., offering the same functionality with a new aesthetic and a lower price point of under $50.
The video game market experienced a resurgence in 1987, with Atari releasing new titles like Jr. Pac-Man and licensing games such as Donkey Kong and QBert. Third-party companies like Epyx, Froggo, and Exus also re-entered the market. In 1988, Atari rehired Nolan Bushnell and announced new titles, including *Secret Quest. Atari continued manufacturing games until 1989, although production shifted outside of the U.S. thereafter.
Emulation Options for the Atari 2600
For those seeking to experience Atari 2600 games on modern platforms, emulation provides a viable option. Several emulators are available for various operating systems. The documentation highlights the following:
- DOS/Windows Emulators: A range of emulators are available for these operating systems.
- Macintosh Emulators: Specific emulators are designed for Macintosh systems.
- Linux Emulators: Emulators are also available for Linux distributions.
- GP32 Emulators: Emulation options exist for the GP32 handheld console.
The documentation recommends Stella and z26 as frequently updated and reliable emulators. To utilize these emulators, users require both the emulator software and the game ROMs, which are binary versions of the original game cartridges. An extensive searchable ROM archive is available online.
Utilities and Tools for Emulation
Several utilities can enhance the emulation experience. These include graphic front-ends for command-line emulators (z26 and Stella) and “Good 2600,” a utility for identifying and properly naming 2600 binaries. The “Stella.pro” file is particularly useful for Stella emulator users, enabling compatibility with the vast majority of ROMs.
Preservation Efforts and Unreleased Games
AtariAge is actively involved in preserving Atari 2600 games in binary format to mitigate the risk of bit rot on original cartridges. The organization is specifically seeking ROM files for unreleased games, including prototypes. They possess the capability to extract ROMs from cartridges and EPROM chips. Additionally, they are interested in acquiring international ROMs that are not currently included in their database.
The Atari 7800+ Console
Atari recently announced the Atari 7800+ console, a new platform for enjoying Atari 2600 and 7800 games on modern televisions. The 7800+ features a design similar to the original 7800, with a silver stripe on the front. It includes an HDMI port, a USB-C connector for power, and two DB9 controller ports. The console is bundled with the CX-78+ Wireless Controller and a copy of Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest.
The 7800+ features include compatibility with both 2600 and 7800 games. Atari has also released the CX-40+ Wireless Joystick, compatible with classic consoles, computers, and modern systems via a USB-A wireless dongle. New 2600 and 7800 titles are also being released alongside the 7800+, including Bounty Bob Strikes Back, a port of the classic platform game originally released for the Atari 5200 and Atari 8-bit computers.
Conclusion
The Atari 2600 holds a significant place in video game history, pioneering the cartridge-based system and fostering a thriving industry. Despite periods of market decline, the console has maintained a dedicated following and continues to receive support through emulation, preservation efforts, and the release of new hardware and software. The recent launch of the Atari 7800+ demonstrates a renewed interest in classic Atari gaming, ensuring the legacy of the 2600 endures.