November 10, 2024

Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration Expanded Edition Review – A Love Letter to Gaming History

More Retro, More Games, More Love.

By
Steve Potter

What’s New in Atari 50? More Games, More Fun

The Atari 50 Expanded Edition cranks up the nostalgia with 39 more games across consoles like the 2600, 5200, 7800, Jaguar, and Lynx. Some classic games are still missing due to licensing issues, but the additions like Aquaventure, Saboteur, and Desert Falcon are a sweet bonus. If you loved the original, this edition is worth the extra space on your shelf.

The Old-School Charm Is Real... However

It’s not about modern graphics here—it’s about keeping the retro charm alive. Whether you’re revisiting the Atari 8-bit era or embracing the quirks of the Jaguar, the smooth emulation ensures every game feels just like it did decades ago. And let’s be honest—playing Jaguar games without that ancient controller? It’s a small victory for humanity. That said, while the nostalgia is real, it’s worth noting that sometimes our “sugar-coated memories” might be more charming than the actual gameplay. Sure, the games run like they used to, but that doesn’t always mean they’re fun like they used to be.

A Retro Feast for the Eyes

Now, the visuals—let's just say they won’t have you gasping in awe, but that’s the beauty of it. It’s all about the pixelated magic and low-res charm that make these games stand out. Sure, the graphics might be stuck in the ‘80s, but there’s something undeniably satisfying about revisiting these classic visuals. It’s gaming history served in its original, glorious form. So go ahead—embrace the low-res and let the nostalgia take over.

What Works & What Doesn’t

✅ 39 more Atari games across multiple consoles
✅ Fresh interviews and deep dives into Atari’s history
✅ Flawless emulation and smooth gameplay

❌ Some classic games still missing due to licensing
❌ Not every retro game has aged well

The Expended Steelbook Edition came with soooo many goodies!

Is Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration Expanded Edition Worth Playing?

If you love retro gaming and video game history, Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration – Expanded Edition is a must-own. The extra games and deeper historical content make this the definitive way to experience Atari’s legacy.

Score: ⭐⭐⭐ – A Must-Have for Retro Gaming Fans
Steve Potter
Geek, gaymer, all round nerd