PS1, PS2, Super Nintendo, Mega Drive or Wii: choose your first retro console based on your favorite games, your budget and your TV.

Are you looking to revisit the games of your childhood or discover the classics of video gaming? The best retro console to start with is the one that has the games you want to play, with a setup that fits your budget.

This guide covers original consoles and physical games. Modern emulation machines and mini consoles meet other needs. Before choosing a brand or generation, make a list of five games that appeal to you: it will help you avoid a purchase motivated solely by the machine's appearance.

Choose a console based on the games, not just nostalgia

These suggestions are starting points. Each machine has exceptions, expensive games, and more affordable titles. Always compare the cost of your actual selection.

Super Nintendo or Mega Drive to discover 2D classics

The Super Nintendo is a good choice for those who want to explore Super Mario World, Donkey Kong Country, or The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. The Mega Drive is a natural choice for Sonic, action games, and arcade-like experiences.

Cartridges are easy to handle, but you still need to check the contacts, authenticity, and, for some games, the save file. Complete boxed copies can significantly affect the budget: start with cartridges only if your priority is to play.

Our used Super Nintendo game buying guide details the points to check before putting together your first selection.

PlayStation or Nintendo 64 to revisit 1990s 3D

The original PlayStation lets you revisit the adventures, racing, fighting, and role-playing games that defined the era. The Nintendo 64 will particularly appeal to fans of Super Mario 64 and local multiplayer games.

Try watching a gameplay clip before buying: the camera, pace, and controls may differ from your memories. For the Nintendo 64, the condition of the stick matters a lot; some titles also require a specific accessory. On PlayStation, plan for a compatible memory card for games that use one.

The PlayStation 2 for a variety of genres

The PS2 is an interesting option if you want to switch from a racing game to an adventure game, sports game, or RPG. Its catalog offers many possibilities, but that does not make all its titles affordable.

Compare the model, included accessories, and the cost of the desired games. A console on its own often requires adding a controller, memory card, and cables. For a used purchase, check the drive's functionality and the condition of the hardware.

Consult our guide to starting a PS2 collection and the PlayStation 2 games offered in the catalog.

The Wii for multiplayer

The Wii is worth considering for game nights with accessible games and motion controls. The budget must include the accessories needed for each player: not all games use the same combination of controls.

Be aware of backward compatibility: RVL-001 Wii consoles can use GameCube games and accessories, while RVL-101 and Wii mini consoles cannot. Do not choose a machine based solely on its color. Check the model number and ports, according to the model differences specified by Nintendo.

A handheld for a simpler setup

A handheld avoids having to adapt the video output to a modern television. It is well suited for short sessions and limited spaces. In return, the condition of the screen, buttons, hinges, and battery deserves special attention.

For a DS, examine both screens and the touch screen. For a PSP or PS Vita, check the power supply and storage requirements. A console sold without a charger is not necessarily ready to use upon receipt.

Calculate the full budget before ordering

Add up the console, its cables, power supply, controllers, save accessories, first games, and any video converter. Set aside a portion of the budget for essential items rather than a console box if you are primarily looking to play.

Check your TV's inputs before buying. An old analog output does not become HDMI with a simple change of plug: you need a suitable conversion device. For an imported console, also check the game regions and power supply specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest retro console?

There is no single answer that applies to all purchases. The price of the machine alone is not enough: an inexpensive console can become less appealing if the desired games and accessories are expensive.

Should I buy a console in a box?

The box is mainly of interest to collectors. To play, choose a functional set with the appropriate accessories and an accurate description.

Can I start with a single console?

Yes, and it is often easier to manage. A few carefully chosen and actually used games are better than accumulating incomplete machines.

Discover the retro consoles offered by Retromania

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Consoles rétro Retrogaming

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