The 13 best atari 2600 brands in 2026
Atari, Nintendo and AtGames lead our ranking of 13 atari 2600 brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Atari 2600 brands, ranked
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1
Atari
Atari develops products and services for mobile, console, and PC platforms that enable interactive experiences. It creates and distributes video game products that are both original IP and adaptations of existing IP. Joysticks, controllers, steering wheels, headphones, and gaming machines are among the company's other products. Asteroids, Centipede, Defender, Gauntlet, Missile Command, and Pong are several good arcade and home console games. They also act as a licensor for items such as personal computers and video game consoles.
Website: atari.com |Brands like Atari
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Nintendo
Nintendo is the top video game developer in the world and has been appreciated by gamers across the globe. Gaming consoles from this Japanese company have excellent compatibility! The most recent video game, Monster Hunter Rise and Sunbreak is said to have the most intriguing graphics and user interface. Have you owned your Nintendo Switch yet? You can shop for games digitally on its website and directly download them on your Switch. Experience the best virtual reality here!
Website: nintendo.com |Brands like Nintendo
Popularity 2.4/10
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3
AtGames
Renowned for their Legends Ultimate Arcade, AtGames manufactures video games and video games consoles. It is known for its interactive and entertaining games distributed worldwide. They aim to provide a fantastic classic video game experience to casual gamers, families, and retro gamers. Some of its games are video pinball series, 3-D Tic-Tac-Toe, super breakout, 64th Street- A detective story, etc.
Website: atgames.net |Brands like AtGames
Popularity 2.1/10
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4
Activision
Activision is an electronic website that provides digital interactive enjoyment. It is a website that showcases well-known games that significantly influence gamers. It delivers and creates internet-based games, services, and content to 450 million users worldwide; popular games include the call of duty, focused on games set in World War II, crash bandicoot, and tony hawk's pro Skaters. One can play virtual games such as action, family, horror, fantasy, etc.
Website: blog.activision.com |Brands like Activision
Popularity 2.0/10
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5
Hyperkin
Hyperkin is a company that specializes in retro-style video game equipment, including controllers and adapters. Their objective is to give their devoted clients the most pleasing gaming experience possible through new and retro-inspired innovations. Their items are constructed of the finest materials and have been meticulously developed. They are dependable, long-lasting, and, most importantly, comfortable. They also sell PC gaming accessories such as the Hyper Clack Tactile Action Switch, which works with Cherry MX and Buckling Spring keyboards.
Website: hyperkin.com |Brands like Hyperkin
Popularity 0.9/10
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6
JAKKS Pacific
JAKKS Pacific is the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of licensed plush, action figures, and collectibles, as well as the world's leading developer of electronic learning toys and a top producer of consumer products for significant licensors in categories such as sports, entertainment, fashion, and lifestyle. Its goods include collector toys like action figures, diecast cars and trucks, dolls, and plush animals; lifestyle toys such as activity play sets, ride-on, games, and puzzles; water blasters; books/novels like activity books/calendars/holiday gift guides and more. They are also one of the world's largest makers of writing implements.
Website: jakks.com |Brands like JAKKS Pacific
Popularity 0.9/10
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7
Sears
Want to shop for your house and don’t have much time? Then shop at Sears. It is a one-stop place to buy appliances, gadgets, homeware, and pretty much everything you need. They offer many different brands and collections for all the products. You can choose whatever you want according to your requirements. They also have clothing, jewelry, shoes, and other essential accessories. Sears make your life easy and saves your time and struggle.
Website: sears.com |Brands like Sears
Popularity 0.9/10
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8
Coleco
All you water babies, Coleco is the brand for you. With its 52 years of experience, Coleco has installed almost 2,500 swimming pools. It offers the installation of a variety of swimming pools and hot tubs. To enable the customers to see their sample work, Coleco's showroom has an above-ground pool, in-ground pool, and hot tubs. Apart from this, the brand also offers its accessories and services.
Website: colecopools.com |Brands like Coleco
Popularity 0.6/10
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9
SEGA
Sega Retro is the same people who are behind the Sonic Retro. The company aims to cover the information about everything possible under the sun with the main focus on the games. They have 29,533 articles that they have worked...
Website: segaretro.org |Brands like SEGA
Popularity 0.5/10
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10
My Arcade
If you love gaming and are on the lookout for some of the best gaming equipment, My Arcade has the solution. It is a significant gaming devices manufacturing company. The brand is created by people passionate about gaming, which can...
Website: myarcadegaming.com |Brands like My Arcade
Popularity 0.4/10
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11
SNK
SNK Official is a company that deals with graphic games. They have a rich gaming history, and they keep moving forward with innovative designs and interesting gameplay. SNK has created many game franchises in the past and gained a lot...
Website: snk-corp.co.jp |Brands like SNK
Popularity 0.4/10
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12
Lexibook
Lexibook is a French startup that uses technology to create solutions for children. Their goods are informative, colorful, and entertaining for children to utilize. They have created an interactive learning environment in which children may learn about phonetics and mathematics,...
Website: lexibook.com |Brands like Lexibook
Popularity 0.3/10
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13
Intellivision
Intellivision is a video game manufacturer founded by Tommy Tallarico, the video game industry icon. They offer family-friendly games that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike and also facilitate family bonding while having a good time. Their star...
Website: intellivision.com |Brands like Intellivision
Popularity 0.3/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atari | atari.com | /atari | atari | @atari | – |
| Nintendo | nintendo.com | /nintendo | nintendo | @NintendoAmerica | – |
| AtGames | atgames.net | – | – | – | – |
| Activision | blog.activision.com | /activision | activision | @activision | – |
| Hyperkin | hyperkin.com | /HyperkinGames | hyperkin | @HyperKin | – |
| JAKKS Pacific | jakks.com | /jakkspacifictoys | jakkstoys | @jakkstoys | jakkspr2 |
| Sears | sears.com | – | – | – | – |
| Coleco | colecopools.com | – | – | – | – |
| SEGA | segaretro.org | – | – | – | – |
| My Arcade | myarcadegaming.com | /MyArcadeRetro | – | @MyArcadeRetro | – |
Atari 2600 Buying Guide
The Atari 2600, also known as the Atari VCS, was one of the most popular consoles of the 1970s and early 1980s. It was the first home console to achieve widespread success and had a huge library of games. If you're interested in buying one, this guide will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Original vs. Reproduction
The first thing you need to decide is whether you want an original Atari 2600 or a reproduction.
An original Atari 2600 will give you an authentic gaming experience. It will be in its original casing and will have the original hardware. However, as the Atari 2600 is a vintage console, it's unlikely that you will find a pristine one. The console’s durability was not considered for long-term use so a lot of the original consoles on the market today may have cosmetic issues like scratches and dents. Additionally, because the Atari 2600 is a vintage console, there's always a chance that something could go wrong with it.
If you decide that an original Atari 2600 is what you want, make sure to buy from a reputable seller. There are many listing online for original Atari 2600s but not all of them are good buys. Always research the seller and the item carefully before making a purchase.
A reproduction Atari 2600 will be a new console that replicates the original. They typically don't have any cosmetic issues and are usually made with modern-day materials to make them more durable. A reproduction console will come with new hardware, controllers, and will support both older and more modern televisions.
If you decide that a reproduction Atari 2600 is what you want, make sure to buy from a reputable seller. There are many companies that make reproduction consoles and some of them are better than others. Always research the seller and the item carefully before making a purchase.
Types of Controllers
The Atari 2600 came with a joystick and a single button. However, there are many different types of controllers that you can use with the console. Some controllers come with more buttons and features than the original joystick.
- Joystick: The original controller that came with the console. It has one button and a joystick for movement.
- Paddle: The paddle can be rotated left and right to control games that require spinning or knob turning action. Classic examples of games that require a paddle include "Breakout" and "Night Driver".
- Driving wheel: driving wheels are used for Atari racing simulations, such as "Indy 500" and "Pole Position".
- Trackball: The trackball controller is used for games that require fast movements and precise control of the cursor or game character. Examples would be "Centipede" and "Missile Command".
- Arcade-style joystick: A larger joystick with a larger base and more substantial button. Thanks to the larger size and the player's hand resting on the joystick, this type of controller is typically more ergonomic for long gaming sessions.
When choosing a controller, you should consider what type of games you'll be playing. If you're going to be playing a lot of racing games, a driving wheel or arcade-style joystick may be a better choice. If you'll be playing a lot of games that require precise movement, like "Centipede", a trackball or a paddle controller may be the best option.
Condition of the Console and Games
When buying an Atari 2600, you should always consider the condition of the console and the games.
When it comes to the condition of the console, you'll want to look at things like the casing, buttons, and joysticks. Check for cracks, scratches, and other cosmetic damage. Also, consider if the console comes with any original packaging. Some collectors may want an original box or manuals included with their Atari 2600.
When it comes to the condition of the games, you'll want to check for scratches and any signs of wear and tear. Some cartridges may be more prone to wear and tear than others, and it's important to check before buying. Additionally, make sure that the games you're interested in playing are compatible with the controller that you've chosen.
Cost of the Atari 2600
Atari 2600s range in price from around $30 for a basic console with a joystick and a single game to several hundred dollars for a rare console with multiple games and original packaging.
The cost of a reproduction Atari 2600 will vary depending on the features and quality of the console. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a reproduction console.
When purchasing an Atari 2600, consider what you'll be using it for. If you're looking to relive the nostalgia of the games you played when you were younger, a basic console with a joystick and a few games may be all you need. If you're looking to add to your collection, a rare console with original packaging may be worth the extra investment.
In Conclusion
An Atari 2600 can be a great addition to any retro gaming collection. Whether you're looking for an original console or a reproduction, there are many options available. Consider the type of controller you want, the condition of the console and games, and the cost before making your purchase.
