Best retro game consoles: Step into nostalgia and revisit childhood classics with the top 7 models
Dive into nostalgia with our top pick for retro game consoles! Featuring classic games and an easy setup, it's the perfect choice for gamers seeking a trip down memory lane.
In a world where all the games look the same, old-school classic games offer a nostalgic escape into the simpler and pixelated past. Both young and old gamers loved these classic games. They're special because they have games that people still love to play, and they introduce new and exciting ways to play. The retro consoles evoke images of vintage controllers, cartridge-based games, and the sound of 8-bit music.
What makes these consoles truly remarkable is their ability to transcend generations, bridging the gap between the gaming experiences of the old and the modern era. For many, owning a retro game console is not just about playing games; it's about owning a piece of gaming history, a tangible connection to the golden age of video games.
In this guide, we explore the world of retro game consoles, delving into the best features, value for money, and overall best products on the market. These include the ones you can connect to your TV and enjoy with your family. The handheld ones are also available to carry in your pocket or backpack and enjoy games on the go.
The VGRASSP Handheld Video Game Console offers a nostalgic gaming experience with its 400 classic games. Its compact size makes it portable and easy to carry. The console is designed in a retro style, appealing to both kids and adults. It comes with a rechargeable battery that provides up to 3-4 hours of gameplay. Additionally, it can be connected to a TV for a larger screen experience. This console is a perfect gift for children, retro game enthusiasts, and collectors.
Specifications of VGRASSP Handheld Video Game Console
Size: Small
Colour: Retro Mini Game
Brand: VGRASSP
Theme: Retro Games
Number of Players: 1
Battery Life: Up to 3-4 hours
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Compact and portable | Limited to 1 player |
| Built-in 400 classic games | Design and colour may vary |
The New World SUP Handheld Game Console is a delightful throwback to classic gaming, offering 400 built-in retro games like Red Fortress, Contra, and Tetris. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for on-the-go gaming. The console features a colourful LCD screen and a rechargeable lithium battery, providing up to 4 hours of continuous gameplay on a single charge. Whether you're reliving your childhood memories or introducing classic games to a new generation, this handheld console is a fantastic toy gift for kids.
Specifications of New World SUP Handheld Game Console
Games: 400 classic retro games
Battery: Built-in 800mAh lithium battery, rechargeable via USB
Charging Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Gameplay Time: Up to 4 hours of continuous gameplay
Display: Colorful LCD screen
Included: 1 handheld game console, 1 USB cable, 1 AV cable, 1 user manual
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Brings back childhood memories | The screen may be small |
| Lightweight and easy to carry | Limited to pre-installed games |
The GSH USB Wireless Console Game Stick is a compact yet powerful gaming console that offers a nostalgic retro gaming experience. With its built-in 3000 classic games and 8-bit mini retro controller, it brings back the joy of old-school gaming. The console supports dual players and features HDMI output for 4K Ultra HD gaming. Its open Linux source code system allows for the addition of more games, providing endless entertainment. Whether you're a solo gamer or want to challenge a friend, this console offers a wide range of games to enjoy.
Specifications of GSH USB Wireless Console Game Stick
Colour: Black
Brand: GSH
Theme: Retro Games
Number of Players: 1
Product Dimensions: 26L x 13W x 7H Centimeters
Special Features: Built-in 3000 Classic Games, 8 Bit Mini Retro Controller, HDMI Output, Dual Player Support, 4K Ultra HD Game Stick
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| 3000 built-in classic games | A limited number of players |
| HDMI output for 4K Ultra HD gaming | Small sizes may not be ergonomic |
The GSH Plug and Play Wireless HD 1080p TV Video Game for Kids offers a nostalgic gaming experience with its built-in 8-bit retro games. It's a fun and portable way to enjoy classic games with family and friends. This gaming console is a perfect gift for kids and adults, ideal for Christmas or birthdays, providing a trip down memory lane to childhood favourites. Simply connect it to your TV's HDMI port and start playing. Please note that the package doesn't include batteries, and each wireless controller requires 2 AAA batteries. Enjoy hours of gaming fun with this easy-to-use game stick dongle.
Specifications of GSH Plug and Play Wireless HD 1080p TV Video Game
Type: Wireless game console
Colour: Black
Material: Plastic and metal
Plug: USB
Joystick type: Wireless
Output: HDMI Game controller
Size: About 5.4 x 4.2 x 2.2 inches
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Portable and easy to use | Batteries not included |
| Hundreds of classic games built-in | Limited to 8-bit graphics |
Also read: Best gaming laptops under ₹70000: Top 8 options to level up your game without draining your wallet
The New World Old Arcade Classic Retro Game Console is a fun plug-and-play wireless video game console perfect for kids and nostalgic adults alike. With its 8-bit graphics and TV AV output interface, it offers a classic gaming experience. It comes with 620 built-in games, ensuring hours of entertainment for two players.
Specifications of New World Old Arcade Classic Retro Game Console
Interface: TV AV Output
Graphics: 8-Bit
Players: 2
Games: 620 Built-in
Connectivity: Wireless
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Classic retro gaming experience | Limited game library |
| Easy plug-and-play setup | Graphics may be outdated for some |
The GSH G11 Game Box HD 4k Super Console is a powerful gaming console that brings back the nostalgia of classic games with its support for 10+ emulators and over 10000 retro games. With a high-performance G31 GPU, it can handle large-scale 3D games like God of War and Saturn simulator. The console supports 30 major simulators, including PSP, PS1-3, and FCN64, and allows for downloading of wifi network games. It comes with a dual joystick gamepad for precise control and supports thousands of two-player games for classic cooperative play. The upgraded system architecture ensures error-free game storage and read/write functions.
Specifications of GSH G11 Game Box HD 4k Super Console
Performance: Powerful GAMEBOX with G31 GPU.
Games: Supports 30 major simulators, including PSP, PS1-3, N64.
Controller: Dual joystick gamepad with 2.7 meters long-distance transmission.
Games Library: 10,000+ games available for download.
Multiplayer: Thousands of two-player games for classic cooperation and battle.
System: Android 9.0 system with searchable game archive.
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Powerful G31 GPU | Limited official support |
| Supports 30 major simulators | Requires internet for some features |
The Like Star G5 500 in 1 Retro Game Box is a handheld gaming device that brings back the nostalgia of classic games. With 500 built-in games like Contra, Tank, and Bomber Man, it offers hours of entertainment for both boys and girls. The console is slim, portable, and trendy, with a 3-inch high-definition digital display screen and a backlit function for gameplay in any environment. It comes with a 600mAh rechargeable lithium battery that supports up to 3 hours of continuous gameplay. Easily connect it to your TV system using the included AV cable for a bigger gaming experience.
Specifications of Like Star G5 500 in 1 Retro Game Box
Colour: Pink Blue
Brand: Like Star
Theme: Action
Number of Players: 1
Product Dimensions: 8L x 5W x 3H Centimeters
Battery Life: Up to 3 hours
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| 500 built-in classic games | Limited to 1 player |
| Slim, portable design | Small screen size |
Top 3 features of best retro game console
| Retro game console | Number of Games | Connectivity | Features |
| VGRASSP Handheld Video Game Console | 400 classic | TV | Compact, portable |
| New World SUP Handheld Game Console | 400 retro | USB | Colourful LCD screen, lightweight |
| GSH USB Wireless Console Game Stick | 3000 classic | HDMI | Built-in games, dual player support |
| GSH Plug and Play Wireless HD 1080p TV Video Game | 8-bit retro | HDMI | Portable, hundreds of classic games built-in |
| New World Old Arcade Classic Retro Game Console | 620 built-in | Wireless | Classic gaming experience, easy plug-and-play setup |
| GSH G11 Game Box HD 4k Super Console | 10,000+ retro | Wireless | Powerful G31 GPU, supports 30+ major simulators |
| Like Star G5 500 in 1 Retro Game Box | 500 classic | AV | Slim, portable design, 3-inch high-definition display |
Best value for money retro game console: New World Old Arcade Classic Retro Game Console
The New World Old Arcade Classic Retro Game Console offers exceptional value for money, providing a vast library of 620 built-in games and wireless connectivity for two players. Its easy plug-and-play setup, coupled with the classic gaming experience it offers, makes it a fantastic choice for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget. Despite its affordability, it doesn't compromise on quality or entertainment value, making it a top contender in the retro gaming console market.
Best overall retro game console: VGRASSP Handheld Video Game Console
The VGRASSP Handheld Video Game Console is the epitome of the best retro game console. With a rich selection of 400 classic games, its compact and portable design makes it ideal for gaming on the go. The console's rechargeable battery ensures hours of uninterrupted gameplay, while its ability to connect to a TV provides a larger screen experience. Its appeal spans across generations, making it a perfect choice for both kids and adults looking to relive the nostalgia of retro gaming.
How to buy the best retro game console?
When purchasing a retro game console, consider several factors to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. Begin by examining the console's game library, ensuring it includes a variety of titles that appeal to you. Next, evaluate the console's connectivity options, such as HDMI or AV outputs, to connect to modern displays. Portability is also important; choose a console that fits your lifestyle, whether you prefer handheld or TV-connected consoles. Finally, read reviews and compare prices to make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.
At Livemint, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Mint has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act of 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
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FAQs
A: Some consoles, like the GSH USB Wireless Console Game Stick and GSH G11 Game Box, support adding more games through their open-source systems.
A: Yes, most of the consoles mentioned come with built-in controllers or include wireless controllers.
A: Yes, these consoles offer a variety of classic games that are suitable for kids and adults alike.
A: Some consoles, like the GSH Plug and Play Wireless HD 1080p TV Video Game, require batteries for the wireless controllers.
A: Yes, most of the consoles can be connected to modern TVs through HDMI or AV cables included with the consoles.
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First Published:24 Apr 2024, 07:17 PM IST
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