Retro video game enthusiasts are wheeling in excitement as Plaion and Retro Games LTD announce the 400 Mini, a modern tribute to the classic Atari 400. This miniature console is set to launch on March 28, 2024, at a retail price of $119.99. The 400 Mini will come with 25 pre-installed Atari games, including hits like Berzerk, Millipede, and Star Raiders II. It features a joystick upgrade in the form of the CXSTICK, designed with seven additional function buttons and USB compatibility with various consoles for broader gaming experiences. As a compact version of the original Atari 400, it's designed to look and feel like the 1979 version, using modern tech to replicate the aesthetic and tactile experience.

Furthermore, the 400 Mini is also versatile in its capabilities, offering HD TV output via HDMI, rewind, and save functions for games. It includes five USB ports for peripheral devices such as keyboards and extra joysticks. Owners can also side-load their own games using a USB stick, supporting a range of ROM formats. The CXSTICK joystick is available separately for those who wish to purchase it at $29.99, adding value to this nostalgic gaming experience.

Will the 400 Mini be compatible with modern TVs and monitors?

Yes, the 400 Mini includes HD TV output via HDMI, ensuring compatibility with modern TVs and monitors, both at 50 and 60Hz.

The Atari 400, originally released in 1979, was influential in the proliferation of personal computing and home video gaming. It along with its sister model, the Atari 800 was one of the first gaming consoles noted for its keyboard, which helped popularize computer games that required more user interaction than joystick-only systems. The 400 Mini aims to tap into the nostalgia of this golden era of home computing and gaming while providing the conveniences of modern technology.