5 Retro Gaming Systems Reincarnated as Mini Devices

Before complex games like Fortnite and Call of Duty, there was simplicity. Think joystick controllers, 2D graphics, and basic plotlines, like saving the princess from the monstrous antagonist. From achieving a line clear in Tetris to sliding down each flagpole in Super Mario Bros., today’s gamers will never understand the joy of retro gaming - until now.  

Retro gaming is back and it’s smaller and simpler than ever. From Nintendo and Sony to Atari and Genesis, companies are redesigning classic consoles to be smaller and more compatible with new technology. What does this mean for gamers? Plug and play solutions to enjoy their favorite, old-time games.  

Here are five retro gaming systems making a comeback this year. 

NES Classic 

The original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)  is one of the most recognized gaming consoles in history. Not to mention, it housed some of the most classic games - think strategically stacking multi-shaped blocks in Tetris and helping Mario save Princess Toadstool from Bowser in Super Mario Bros. Prior to the system’s release, gamers were suffering from the Video Game Crash of 1983. At the time, the market was oversaturated with consoles and low-quality games. After promising to buy back any unsold systems, Nintendo quickly ended up on store shelves (and in gamer’s homes). 1983 was just the beginning of the Nintendo empire. With their new NES Classic system, Nintendo continues to meet consumer needs by providing an updated version of their widely-loved console, games, and characters. 

Sega Genesis 

Blue-bodied with bright red feet, Sonic the Hedgehog was as iconic for Genesis as Mario was for Nintendo. Released in 1989, the Sega Genesis was the first true competitor for the NES. In fact, it was Nintendo’s rigid business attitude that helped the Sega Genesis rise to fame. Genesis offered more flexible pricing for game stores making it a more appealing business for sellers. Along with Sonic, the Sega Genesis housed Gunstar Heroes - the trying quest of the Gunstar family as they attempted to defeat Golden Silver. Ever wanted to take another shot at Golden Silver? You might be able to with the reincarnation of the Sega Genesis Mini. With an expected release of 2019, the Sega Genesis Mini will allow Sonic and Gunstar fans to experience their favorite gaming adventures once again. 

Super NES Classic 

Mario and Luigi will always be household names. But, lest we forget Link from Legends of Zelda. Donning a green tunic and pointed cap, Link was the “Hero of the Time”. As the protagonist, Link was responsible for saving Princess Zelda from the monstrous Ganon. The Super NES was Link’s rise to fame. Seven years after the release of the original NES, the Super NES took the market by storm to compete with the Sage Genesis. Thus, the Super NES was born in 1990. After almost 30 years, the Super NES is making a comeback with the mini, high-tech version - the Super NES Classic. So, strap on your pointed hat and slip into your green tunic because you may have another chance to jump into Link’s shoes. 

PlayStation 1 Classic 

Just as with any sequel movie, the first is arguably always the best. The same goes for the PlayStation. While each PlayStation console has become more high-tech, there’s something about the PlayStation 1 that keeps gamers returning. So much so that the creators have released the PlayStation Classic - a remodeled, smaller version of the beloved of the 1994 PlayStation. The new console will include 20 pre-programmed games including fan favorites like Jumping Flash and Final Fantasy 7. So far, only 5 titles have been unveiled. That said, Sony is expected to release other top-tier games like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Metal Gear Solid. With its December release quickly approaching, gamers everywhere are teaming up for some old-fashioned local multiplayer action. 

Atari Flashback 8 Gold Deluxe 

2004 may feel like just yesterday, but the Atari Flashback 8 Gold proves otherwise. This console screams retro with its joystick controllers, large console buttons, and dated gold varnish. Besides its old-school design, the Atari Flashback 8 Gold housed some of the most addictive games. We’re talking Centipede, Breakout, and Space Invaders. The concepts were simple - point-and-shoot, arcade-esque games that required basic, lateral movements to score points and progress. While today’s games are much more complex, Atari is giving gamer’s a chance to relish in simplicity once again. The Atari Flashback 8 Gold Deluxe system is a smaller, yet more encompassing version of the old favorite. Think 120 games and start-and-stop functionality for more convenient play. 

Gaming systems aren’t the only technologies getting an upgrade. Cable TV can now be viewed on mobile devices and computers are available in the form of a watch. As more retro gaming consoles resurface, keep a lookout for other popular products getting a technological makeover.