Atari 2600 vs PlayStation Portable (PSP)

The Atari 2600, released in 1977, revolutionized the gaming industry with its simple yet addictive games. On the other hand, the PlayStation Portable (PSP), released in 2005, offered advanced graphics and multimedia capabilities in a portable package.

General information

Atari 2600
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Introduction :
The Atari 2600, released in 1977, is a pioneering games console that helped shape the video game industry. It was immensely popular in North America and became a classic among gamers. The console is known for its iconic joystick controller and a library of games that includes classics like Pac-Man and Space Invaders. Today, the Atari 2600 is considered a collectible item among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Introduction :
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was released by Sony in 2004 and quickly became a popular handheld gaming console worldwide. Known for its impressive graphics and extensive game library, the PSP was a classic among gamers. While it may not be as widely used today due to advancements in technology, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many gaming enthusiasts and collectors.
Advantages :
  • Wide selection of classic games available for nostalgic gaming experiences.
  • Simple and intuitive controller design for easy gameplay for all ages.
  • Affordable pricing for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget.
  • Compact size makes it easy to store and set up in any living space.
  • Iconic design and historical significance as one of the first home gaming consoles.
Advantages :
  • Portable and lightweight, perfect for gaming on the go.
  • Wide variety of games available for all types of gamers.
  • Affordable price compared to newer gaming consoles.
  • Easy to mod and customize with homebrew software.
  • Ability to play retro games through emulation.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
  • Outdated technology may not appeal to younger gamers.
  • Lack of modern features such as HD graphics and streaming services.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to newer consoles.
  • Small screen size may not be ideal for all gamers.
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles.
  • Battery life may be shorter compared to newer models.
  • Lack of online multiplayer support for some games.
Year launched : 1977
The Atari 2600 was launched in 1977, revolutionizing the gaming industry with its cartridge-based system. It paved the way for future consoles and remains a classic favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Year launched : 2004
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was launched in 2004, offering a portable gaming experience with impressive graphics and a wide range of games for gamers on the go.
Manufacturer : Atari
Atari was the manufacturer of the Atari 2600, a pioneering games console in the early days of the video game industry. Known for classic titles like Pac-Man and Space Invaders.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony is the manufacturer of the PlayStation Portable (PSP), a handheld gaming console that was popular for its portability and extensive game library. Sony is known for its innovative gaming technology.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Atari 2600 was a popular console in the late 1970s and early 1980s, selling millions of units. However, its market share has decreased over time with the emergence of newer consoles.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) had a decent level of popularity during its time, with a significant number of units sold. However, it did not dominate the market like some other consoles, resulting in an average level of popularity.
Form factor : Home console.
The Atari 2600 is a home console designed to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not meant to be portable and is best enjoyed in a living room setting.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is designed as a portable gaming console, allowing users to enjoy gaming on-the-go. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around.
Official website : https://www.atari.com/


Market and availability

Atari 2600
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Console markets :
Console markets :
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and other regions. It was a popular handheld gaming console with a global presence.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Atari 2600 is highly sought after by collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts. Its iconic status and nostalgic appeal make it a valuable addition to any collection.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is now considered retro and collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its unique library of games and portable design have increased its value in the market.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Atari 2600 is still relatively easy to find on the secondhand market, but prices can vary depending on the condition and included games. It is a popular choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is moderately available in the secondhand market, with a decent selection of used consoles and games. However, finding brand new PSP consoles may be more challenging.
๐ŸŸข Console cost : Low.
The Atari 2600 is considered a low-cost option for retro gaming enthusiasts due to its availability in the second-hand market and the relatively low demand compared to newer consoles.
๐ŸŸข Console cost : Low.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is considered a low-cost option compared to newer consoles due to its age and discontinued production. However, prices may vary depending on availability and condition in the second-hand market.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Atari 2600 are moderately available through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to find due to their age, but a decent selection is still accessible.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
While new PSP games are no longer being produced, there is still a decent selection available through online retailers, secondhand markets, and digital downloads. Collectible and rare games can be harder to find.
๐ŸŸข Game costs : Low.
Atari 2600 games are relatively inexpensive due to their age and availability in the second-hand market. Collectors may pay more for rare titles, but overall, games for this console are affordable.
๐ŸŸข Game costs : Low.
Games for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) are relatively inexpensive due to the console being older and games being readily available in the second-hand market. This makes it a budget-friendly option for gamers.


Technology

Atari 2600
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Atari 2600 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the early 1980s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to modern consoles.
Architecture : 32-bit.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) uses a 32-bit architecture, allowing for impressive graphics and gameplay capabilities. This architecture was common among handheld consoles during its release, providing a solid gaming experience.
CPU : MOS Technology 6507
The Atari 2600 uses the MOS Technology 6507 CPU, a variant of the 6502 processor. It has a clock speed of 1.19 MHz and was specifically designed for cost savings in the console.
CPU : MIPS R4000
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) uses a MIPS R4000 CPU, which was a popular choice for portable gaming devices at the time of its release. It provided sufficient performance for gaming on the go.
Memory : 2 Kb
The Atari 2600 has a memory capacity of 2 Kb, which was considered impressive for its time in the late 1970s. This limited memory size influenced the design and complexity of games for the console.
Memory : 32 Mb
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) has 32 Mb of memory, allowing for storage of games, saves, and other data. While limited compared to modern consoles, it was sufficient for its time.
Video output : RF
The Atari 2600 primarily uses an RF connection for video output, which may require an RF to HDMI converter to connect to modern TVs that do not have RF inputs.
Video output : Composite
The PSP has composite video output connections, which can be used to connect to older TVs or with the help of a composite to HDMI converter, to modern TVs for gaming on a larger screen.
โšช Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Atari 2600 was released in 1977 and technical details about its GPU are not well-documented. It is unclear if it had a dedicated GPU or relied on integrated graphics for its gameplay.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) features a dedicated GPU, the Sony CXD2962GG Graphics Processing Unit, which enhances graphics performance and allows for more visually impressive games to be played on the console.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Atari 2600 is not internet connected as it was released in 1977, long before internet connectivity became a standard feature in gaming consoles. It does not have Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities.
๐ŸŸข Internet connected : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is internet connected through Wi-Fi, allowing players to access online multiplayer, download games, browse the web, and more. It does not have an Ethernet port.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Atari 2600 is cartridge-based. Games are loaded into the console using cartridges that contain the game data, allowing for easy swapping and playing.
Game media format : .
The primary game format for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) is the Universal Media Disc (UMD), a proprietary optical disc format specifically designed for the PSP system.


Gaming

Atari 2600
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Controllers : 2 controllers
The Atari 2600 supports up to 2 wired controllers for multiplayer gaming. Players can enjoy classic games together on this retro console, making it a great option for social gaming sessions.
Controllers : 4 controllers / players
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 players using multiple controllers. This allows for exciting multiplayer experiences on the handheld console.
โšช Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Atari 2600 was not designed for online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be unofficial ways to enable multiplayer online play through modifications or emulators.
๐ŸŸข Online multiplayer : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) allows multiplayer online gaming through its Wi-Fi capabilities. However, the availability of online multiplayer may vary depending on the game and server support.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Atari 2600 were released in physical cartridges, which are still relatively easy to find in the secondhand market. Some titles are considered collectible, but overall availability varies.
๐ŸŸข Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the PlayStation Portable were released physically on UMD discs and digitally on the PlayStation Store. The console had a strong library of games with many popular titles available.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Atari 2600 has several exclusive and iconic games such as Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Pitfall!, which are considered classics in the gaming industry and are synonymous with the console.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) has several exclusive and iconic games such as 'God of War: Chains of Olympus', 'Patapon', and 'Monster Hunter Freedom Unite', making it a standout handheld console for gaming enthusiasts.


While the Atari 2600 holds nostalgic value and classic games, the PSP provides a more modern gaming experience with superior graphics and versatility. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether you prefer retro gaming charm or cutting-edge technology on the go.