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This week at CES 2025, I’ve encountered numerous handheld gaming devices, many of which share similar functionalities. However, the Atari Gamestation Go stands out as a distinct and exciting option. This retro handheld console boasts over 200 preloaded Atari games, including three variations of Pac-Man. In essence, it serves as a portable version of the Atari Gamestation Pro, a compact home console—but it surpasses it in many ways.
Before diving deeper, it’s essential to clarify that although “Atari” is featured in the product name, both the Gamestation Go and Pro are produced by a company named My Arcade. My Arcade specializes in delivering the nostalgic experience of playing retro arcade games, and this is evident in their latest offerings showcased at the event. The Atari Gamestation Pro includes a 7-inch 16:9 display, which provides an enjoyable gaming experience. The handheld device is lightweight and comfortable to hold.
What really makes this device special are the controls. While it’s easy for anyone to simply load retro games onto a handheld, the Gamestation Go takes it a step further by recreating the essence of these games beautifully. It features a joystick, D-pad, trackball, four buttons, and a number pad, offering a versatile control scheme where some options are game-specific.
For instance, the number pad is tailored for Atari5200 games, while the trackball is essential for playing Millipede. When you select an Atari5200 game, the number pad will light up, and the trackball illuminates for Millipede. This thoughtful design caters to both seasoned fans and newcomers who may not recognize every title in the extensive library, enhancing the overall nostalgic experience.
The Gamestation Go also includes a microSD card slot and built-in storage, although the exact capacity has not yet been disclosed. For multiplayer action, it features two USB-C ports for connecting wired controllers, whether they’re from Xbox or PlayStation, or My Arcade’s retro options. Additionally, it offers HDMI output and comes with a built-in kickstand for easily connecting to larger displays.
While My Arcade didn’t provide details about battery life, it’s worth noting that some of the software was still in development, meaning not all games were accessible during my brief experience. Nevertheless, I genuinely enjoyed playing a quick round of Asteroids.
The Atari Gamestation Go is slated for release in the third quarter of 2025, with a price tag of $150.
My Arcade has also unveiled the Gamestation Retro, which I had the chance to see, although it was not operational as it was still a prototype.
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