APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) vs Atari Jaguar

The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) was released in the late 1970s, while the Atari Jaguar came out in the mid-1990s. The APF MP1000 was a basic microcomputer system with limited capabilities, while the Atari Jaguar was a more advanced gaming console with 64-bit graphics and CD-ROM support.

General information

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Atari Jaguar
Introduction :
The APF Microcomputer System, also known as the APF MP1000, was released in 1978 as one of the first microcomputer systems that could also play video games. It gained popularity in the US market for its unique combination of computer and gaming capabilities. While not as well-known as other consoles from the same era, the APF MP1000 has become a classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors.
Introduction :
The Atari Jaguar was released in 1993 as the first 64-bit gaming console, boasting impressive graphics and sound capabilities. Despite its innovative technology, the Jaguar struggled to compete with other consoles of the era, such as the Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis. While it did not achieve great commercial success, the Atari Jaguar has since become a sought-after collectible among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Retro gaming experience
  • Affordable price point
  • Compact and portable design
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Compatible with a variety of game cartridges
Advantages :
  • Powerful 64-bit processor for impressive graphics and gameplay.
  • CD-ROM drive allows for larger game storage capacity.
  • Unique controller with number pad for innovative gameplay mechanics.
  • Backwards compatibility with Atari Lynx games for added nostalgia.
  • Wide variety of game genres available for diverse gaming experiences.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library, lacks popular titles from other consoles.
  • Outdated graphics and sound capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves and downloads.
  • Lack of online multiplayer capabilities for modern gaming experiences.
  • Limited availability of accessories and support for repairs or upgrades.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library with mostly mediocre titles.
  • Poor third-party support compared to other consoles.
  • Complex controller design can be uncomfortable to use.
  • Lack of popular franchises and exclusive titles.
  • Limited multimedia capabilities compared to newer consoles.
Year launched : 1978
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) was launched in 1978, offering early gamers a range of cartridge-based games and basic computer functions in a compact system.
Year launched : 1993
The Atari Jaguar was launched in 1993, making it one of the early contenders in the gaming console market. It boasted 64-bit technology, aiming to provide cutting-edge gaming experiences to players.
Manufacturer : APF Electronics Inc.
APF Electronics Inc. was the manufacturer of the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) gaming console. The company was known for producing a variety of electronic products during the 1970s and 1980s.
Manufacturer : Atari
Atari, a prominent video game company, manufactured the Atari Jaguar games console. Known for its advanced technology at the time, the Jaguar was released in the mid-1990s to compete with other gaming systems.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is considered to have low relative popularity among games consoles. It had limited sales and market penetration compared to other consoles of its time.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Atari Jaguar had low popularity compared to other consoles. It struggled to compete with more established brands and only sold around 250,000 units. It has a niche following among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Form factor : Home console.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is designed as a home console, meant to be used in a stationary setting for gaming and computing purposes.
Form factor : Home console.
The Atari Jaguar is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not intended to be easily portable like handheld consoles.
Official website : https://www.atari.com/


Market and availability

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Atari Jaguar
Console markets :
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) was primarily available in the United States and Canada during the 1970s. It was not widely distributed in other regions.
Console markets :
The Atari Jaguar was available in North America, Europe, and Japan. It was not widely available in other regions and had limited distribution compared to other consoles of its time.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is now considered retro and collectible. Its unique design and limited availability have increased its value among retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Atari Jaguar is considered retro and collectible due to its limited production, unique design, and nostalgic appeal for fans of classic gaming. It has a dedicated following in the retro gaming community.
⚪ Console availability : Unknown.
The availability of the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) in the current market is uncertain. It may be challenging to find both new and secondhand units due to its age and limited production.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Atari Jaguar is moderately available on the secondhand market. While not as common as other retro consoles, it can still be found with some searching, especially for collectors or enthusiasts.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is considered low in cost due to its limited availability and lack of popularity compared to other retro gaming consoles. It can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The Atari Jaguar is considered to have an average relative cost compared to other games consoles. While it can be found on the second-hand market, prices can vary depending on availability and condition.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the APF Microcomputer System are somewhat available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. However, the selection may be limited compared to more popular consoles from the same era.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Atari Jaguar can be found on the secondhand market, but availability may vary. Some titles are rare and sought after by collectors, while others are more common and easier to find.
⚪ Game costs : Unknown.
The relative cost of games for the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is unknown due to limited availability and information on pricing in the current market. It may vary depending on rarity and demand.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
Atari Jaguar games can vary in cost, with some being more affordable due to their availability in the second-hand market. However, rare or sought-after titles can be more expensive to acquire.


Technology

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Atari Jaguar
Architecture : 8-bit.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for consoles of its era. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to newer consoles.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Atari Jaguar uses a 64-bit architecture, making it one of the first consoles to do so. This allowed for more advanced graphics and gameplay compared to its predecessors.
CPU : MOS 6502
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) uses the MOS 6502 CPU, a popular 8-bit microprocessor known for its use in various gaming consoles and home computers during the 1970s and 1980s.
CPU : 68000 processor
The Atari Jaguar uses a 68000 processor, which was a popular CPU in many gaming consoles during the 1990s. It provided decent performance for its time and allowed for a variety of games to be played.
Memory : 2 Kb
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) has 2 Kb of memory, which was standard for gaming consoles of that era. This limited memory capacity influenced the types of games that could be developed.
Memory : 2 MB
The Atari Jaguar has 2 MB of memory, which was considered impressive for its time in the early 1990s. This allowed for more advanced graphics and gameplay compared to other consoles of that era.
Video output : RF
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) has RF video output connection, which may require an RF modulator to connect to modern TVs.
Video output : Composite
The Atari Jaguar has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI inputs.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) does not have clear information available regarding a dedicated GPU. Further research may be needed to determine its graphics processing capabilities.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Atari Jaguar features a dedicated GPU, the Tom & Jerry chip, which was revolutionary for its time in providing advanced graphics capabilities. This allowed for more detailed and immersive gaming experiences.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is an older console and it is unclear if it has internet connectivity capabilities such as ethernet or wifi. Further research may be needed.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The Atari Jaguar was released in the mid-90s and did not have built-in internet connectivity. It relied on physical game cartridges for gameplay, without any notable internet capabilities.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is cartridge-based. Games are played by inserting cartridges into the console for gameplay.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Atari Jaguar is cartridge-based. Games are loaded and played directly from cartridges inserted into the console, providing a quick and seamless gaming experience.


Gaming

APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000)
Atari Jaguar
Controllers : 2
The APF MP1000 supports two wired controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for two players to enjoy games together on the console.
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Atari Jaguar supports up to 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences on the console. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay together.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) is primarily a single-player console with limited information on multiplayer capabilities. Further research is needed to determine if online multiplayer is supported.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Atari Jaguar was released in the 1990s and did not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. There may be unofficial methods to enable online play, but it is not a standard feature.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the APF Microcomputer System were released in a fairly average manner, with a decent selection available. However, finding these games today may be a bit challenging due to the console's rarity.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Atari Jaguar were released in an average manner. While some popular titles are sought after by collectors, the overall availability of games for this console is decent in the secondhand market.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The APF Microcomputer System (APF MP1000) has exclusive games such as Space Destroyers, Blackjack, and Pinball. These titles are iconic for the console and offer unique gameplay experiences.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Atari Jaguar has several exclusive and notable games such as Alien vs Predator, Tempest 2000, and Rayman. These games are iconic for the console and offer unique gaming experiences.


When choosing between the APF MP1000 and the Atari Jaguar, it ultimately comes down to your preference for gaming experience. If you are looking for a more modern and advanced console with better graphics and game options, the Atari Jaguar would be the better choice. However, if you appreciate retro gaming and simplicity, the APF MP1000 could still offer some nostalgic fun.