Get ready to journey back in time – to the 1970s and 1980s! This was the era of classic video games and computer systems. A time when video games were just starting to become popular. People were amazed by the graphics and gameplay. These vintage video game consoles were simple, but were so much fun. And still are.
A few classic vintage video game consoles
There were a surprising number of different systems available back in the day. Collectors now focus on one special system, and try to get everything they can for it. Other buyers just want a little of everything, so there are different approaches. Here are just some of the most notable vintage video game consoles:
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Fairchild Channel F: 1976
The Fairchild Channel F, released in 1976, was one of the first home video game systems. It used cartridges, which allowed gamers to switch between games easily. The Channel F was known for its unique design and was the first video game system to have a microprocessor. Its library of games was limited, but the Channel F paved the way for future video game systems. It’s admired as a classic piece of gaming history.
Atari 2600: 1977
The Atari 2600, released in 1977, was one of the first home video game systems. It had a library of games like “Pac-Man,” “Space Invaders,” and “Asteroids.” The 2600 used cartridges, which allowed gamers to switch between games easily. This system was a game-changer, and so is a must-have for any classic gamer.
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Intellivision: 1979
The Intellivision was a direct competitor to the Atari 2600. Its fans say it had better graphics and sound than the 2600 (though it was more expensive). The Intellivision also had a unique controller with a small keypad and buttons. It had popular games like “Major League Baseball,” “Las Vegas Poker & Blackjack,” and “Space Armada.”
ColecoVision: 1982
The ColecoVision was a home video game console that (arguably) was an upgrade from the 2600 and Intellivision. It had better graphics and sound. Interestingly, with an adaptor, it was even compatible with Atari 2600 games. The ColecoVision had a library of games, including “Donkey Kong” (which it came with), “Zaxxon,” and “Burgertime.”
Commodore 64: 1982
The Commodore 64, released in 1982, was a home computer that was popular for its low price and advanced capabilities. It was one of the first computers to have color graphics and sound capabilities. The Commodore 64 could be used for gaming, programming, and office work. It competed with computers like the Atari 8-bit line and the TRS-80 CoCo, and was superseded by the Commodore 128.
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Vectrex: 1982
The remarkable Vectrex was a home video game console far ahead of its time. It was one of the first systems to use vector graphics, which gave its games a unique, arcade-style look. The Vectrex came with a built-in monitor, which made it a standalone system. It used unique overlays to make up for the simple one-color graphics.
Nintendo Entertainment System: 1985
The Nintendo Entertainment System, also known as the NES, was released in 1985 in North America. It revolutionized the video game industry and became the best-selling video game console of its time. The NES had a huge library of games, including classics such as “Super Mario Bros.,” “The Legend of Zelda,” and “Metroid.” The NES set the standard for home video game consoles and remains an unironic fan favorite to this day.
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Sega Master System: 1986
The Sega Master System was Sega’s answer to the NES. It had a similar design to the NES and was, some say, more powerful. The Master System had a library of games, including “Alex Kidd in Miracle World” and “Sonic the Hedgehog.” The SMS was not as successful as the NES, but it still had a dedicated following.
Getting vintage video game consoles today
The late 1970s to early 1980s was an exciting time for video games and computers. These systems were simple yet so much fun. They paved the way for the video game systems of today. The classic era will always be remembered as the start of the video game revolution. Online sellers are always at the ready, with thousands of consoles, games, accessories, booklets, and other stuff for the discerning collector. It’s always a great time to be in the world of retro tech gaming!
