Atari VCS Retro Console Pre-Order Guide: Release Date, Editions, And More

Atari is taking another stab at the console business this year with a new retro-style system called the Atari VCS. Out March 2020, the VCS will be out in 400 and 800 versions (which have 4GB and 8GB upgradeable RAM, respectively) and work with both a classic joystick controller as well as a more modern-looking pad. If a new retro console sounds appealing to you, make sure you snag a pre-order over at GameStop or Walmart.

VCS stands for Video Computer System, a nod to Atari's 1977 console bearing the same name. Revealed in 2017, it's styled to look like those original Atari consoles, and will come pre-loaded with a selection of classic games you can play, but will also support the ability to download, stream, and play games through a Linux-based operating system, and that includes modern titles. We do not yet have a list of what that content might include, however. Under the hood we know the device will run an AMD Ryzen processor with Radeon graphics technology that supports 4K HDR streaming.

Atari ran a successful campaign for the arcade console throwback through Indiegogo, which has now wrapped up as official retail pre-orders become available. If you're a die-hard Atari fan who missed out on that first round of pre-orders, we're here to help you sort through all of the options so you can get the best deal on the Atari VCS for you.

Everything listed below will ship in March 2020. The All In bundles include an Atari VCS 800 console as well as both the classic joystick and modern controller to accommodate both kinds of gaming fans.