The retro gaming scene has seen a major revival in recent years. Whether you’re into consoles, handhelds or retro computers, there’s something out there for everyone.
If you’re interested in playing classic video games, there’s a great selection of safe ROM sites for you to download from. These are safe to use and feature games for a wide range of systems.
Atari Flashback 8 Gold Deluxe
The Atari Flashback 8 Gold Deluxe is a loving remake of the classic Atari 2600 console. It crams in two wireless joystick controllers and 120 built-in games to deliver a retro gaming experience like never before.
It supports 720p HDMI output and scan line filtering, allowing you to rewind, fast-forward and save your favourite games. It also has two ports to hook up wired joysticks and paddles, bringing the total number of game controllers to four.
While it doesn’t play old ROM cartridges, the unit does support an SD card slot for downloading more games. The system can also rewind and replay the last six seconds in certain ps4 roms games – nothing like watching Frogger die over and over again!
Commodore 64 Flashback
The Commodore 64 is a classic that’s been around for a while and continues to live on today. It’s an 8-bit system that is often credited with popularizing home computers and video game consoles.
With Nintendo, Sega and Atari rereleasing their iconic retro systems, it’s no wonder that the classic gaming world has become a hotbed of nostalgia. That’s why a C64 mini from a company called Retro Games is coming out in 2018.
This plug-and-play retro gaming system is half the size of the original and comes with 64 preinstalled games. The system runs on an ARM CPU A20 SoC, and connects via HDMI to any ordinary TV.
Sega Genesis/MegaDrive Mini
Sega has re-ignited the flame of retro gaming with this follow-up to the original Mega Drive Mini, and it’s looking very promising indeed. The new system boasts top-notch emulation from the experts at M2, as well as 60 games to enjoy – including a number of Mega CD / Sega CD titles which are being re-released for the first time ever!
The system works just like it did in the 1990s, with power delivered via a standard micro USB port and HDMI connectivity. It comes with two classic wired controllers and all the cables you’ll need.
Aside from that, the Sega Genesis Mini 2 is also capable of running on a variety of third-party controllers. It can even be hacked to run a variety of emulators.
SNK Neo Geo Mini
The Neo Geo Mini has all the hallmarks of a retro gaming classic; it’s a beautifully designed little box that oozes 90s nostalgia. It’s based on the arcade cabinets SNK made in the 90s, and comes in two flavors – the more colourful Asian version and the simpler Western one.
The Mini works as a standalone device, with games on its 3.5-inch LCD screen, or you can plug it into your television using the HDMI cable. Its emulation is top-notch, and there are plenty of titles on offer; SNK didn’t skimp on this list.
Despite the shortcomings of the Mini’s image quality and scaling, it remains a compelling retro console that offers an impressive collection of classics for under $140. It also has a great range of controller support and a variety of settings, making it an easy choice for anyone who loves the Neo Geo series.
Evercade EXP
Evercade EXP is a fantastic retro games console that combines solid hardware with a great selection of games. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the 8bit and 16bit era in a more modern setting.
The Evercade EXP features an 800 x 480 IPS display that offers more clarity and detail than the original handheld’s 480 x 272 screen. This means you can play many arcade titles at an angle without losing a lot of clarity from ‘window glare’.
The EXP also features ‘TATE’ mode that rotates the screen to allow vertical shooters like Commando and 1942 to be played as intended. This makes them feel much more authentic than they would on a handheld of this era, and should appeal to those who love playing these genres.