Get ready to take a trip down memory lane, retro gamers! Inserts 8-bit coin sound effect The best mini consoles of 2024 are here to deliver huge nostalgia in tiny packages. Whether your gaming glory days were spent with a mustachioed Italian plumber or asupersonic hedgehog, there is a mini console that will level up your pixelated nostalgia. Makes Pac-Man waka waka sound For fans of the classic 8-bit home console, a newly released mini-version comes packed with 30 built-in classics, like the iconic platformer with a mustached hero, the fantasy adventure game with a green-clad hero who wields a sword, and the run-and-gun shooter with two commandos fighting aliens.
Feeling nostalgia for the 16-bit home console featuring a certain speedy mammal? The recently updated mini-version and its portable sibling serve up heroic hedgehog hijinks and pixel-pushing graphics power in an itty-bitty format. And don’t forget the mini console packed with old-school frog crossing and insect blasting arcade action! And bringing all your favorite retro titles together in one portable package is a mini handheld system with a crisp 3.5" screen. It serves up hits from multiple classic home consoles like the 16-bit platformer legend, the 32-bit monster collecting phenomenon, and more old-school awesomeness. It makes an 8-bit victory tune. With modern features combined with original buttons and switches, the best mini consoles of 2024 will have you humming chiptune classics in no time!
SNES Nintendo Classic Mini
Relive The Retro Magic!
The SNES Classic is a compact, faithful recreation of Nintendo’s legendary 16-bit console. Preloaded with 21 all-time classics like Star Fox 2, it delivers nostalgia in an adorable, instantly familiar package that connects via HDMI for crisp HD gaming alone or with a friend using the included controllers.
Nintendohit it out of the park with the Super NES Classic Edition! As soon as we saw that cute little console lovingly modeled after the original 90s SNES, it hit with nostalgia. It looks just like the old grey and purple system most of us grew up with, right down to the colorful buttons on the controllers. They packed this tiny console with 21 of the best SNES games ever made. We’re talking beloved classics like Super Mario World, Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Super Metroid. They play just as smooth and vibrant as we remember.
The tech powering this thing is pretty impressive too. It runs on Linux and has enough processing power to cleanly emulate that iconic 16-bit audio and gameplay. HDMI and save state features make reliving these retro games even sweeter. We do wish Nintendo had included the power adapter instead of just an HDMI and micro USB cable. But that’s a minor gripe for such a lovingly crafted trip down memory lane. Any 90s kid would be stoked to find this under a tree. It’s a chance to rediscover why we fell in love with these SNES classics in the first place, and they look and sound better than ever.
Sega Genesis Mini
Relive the Retro Revolution!
The SEGA Genesis Mini is a compact replica of the original console, featuring a sleek black design with functional cartridge doors and a volume slider. It includes 42 preloaded classic games, two full-sized three-button controllers, and connects via HDMI for easy setup on modern TVs. The system supports save states for convenient gameplay.
The SEGA Genesis Mini delivers big nostalgia in a petite package. This compact reimagining of the iconic console captures the sleek design of the original Genesis, right down to the nonfunctional volume slider and decorative cartridge slot. Inside its stylish black shell, the Mini crams an array of top-notch emulation capabilities. It brings 42 classic SEGA arcade conversions, iconic platformers, and RPG epics to life in accurate detail on crisp HD displays.
The included wired controllers sport a familiar three-button layout that handles responsive 2D gameplay with ease. Modern quality-of-life enhancements like save states make longer quests in Phantasy Star IV or Shining Force more pickup-and-play friendly. Dual regional variants for certain games add replay value, while the main menu’s animated icons and neat custom UI elements polish off the nostalgic package. A few missing favorites likeMortal Kombatand slightly off sound emulation prevent a perfect score. But with its outstanding selection of 16-bit masterpieces, from Sonic to Streets of Rage, the Genesis Mini is a retro gamer’s dream.
PlayStation Classic
Retro Gaming Reimagined
Awaken nostalgia with the PlayStation Classic, a mini replica of the ’90s icon, preloaded with 20 legendary titles like Final Fantasy VII and Tekken 3. Relive multiplayer magic with two included controllers. Modern HDMI connectivity lets you easily experience the past on new displays.
’90s kids! The PlayStation Classic is here to shrink your childhood into a palm-sized nostalgia bomb. This mini marvel packs 20 preloaded gems like Final Fantasy VII and Metal Gear Solid into a cute replica of the OG console. With spot-on controllers and that iconicPlayStationlook, it’s ready to transform your living room into a time-warped gaming haven. Some favorites didn’t make the cut, but there’s enough polygonal goodness to keep you button-mashing till dawn. The PlayStation Classic utilizes emulation software to run 20 built-in PS1 games. The included titles offer a solid retrospective of PS1 classics like Final Fantasy VII, Tekken 3, and Metal Gear Solid.
Performance varies from game to game, with some titles suffering from issues like visual blurring and choppy frame rates compared to the original hardware. Still, reliving these defining PS1 experiences oozes nostalgia. The lack of memory card slots for saving games requires relying on save states via reset button, and customization options for display settings or adding new games are non-existent out of the box. Overall, the PlayStation Classic successfully channels PS1 nostalgia, especially for the included games. But some emulation imperfections and a narrow library may disappoint players seeking an authentic and extensive retro experience. Nonetheless, it’s still an enjoyable dose of old-school PlayStation fun.
Neo Geo Mini Arcade International Version
Pocket Arcade
This nostalgic mini-arcade machine puts a legendary library in the palm of your hand. 40 SNK classics like Metal Slug and King of Fighters are at your fingertips on the built-in display. With clicky joystick controls modeled after Neo Geo cabinets, it authentically replicates fierce arcade clashes anywhere there’s a power outlet. Hook it up to a TV, and it becomes a living room time capsule of ‘90s fighting glory.
A nostalgic joyride with the Neo Geo Mini, a time capsule of arcade greatness squeezed into your palm. This tiny titan resurrects SNK’s legendary ’90s gaming prowess, serving up iconic titles in an irresistibly compact format. It’s not just a mini console; it’s a pocket-sized portal to the golden age of arcades, ready to transport you back to the thrills of quarter-munching classics. Sporting charming proportions akin to a classic Neo Geo cab sawed in half, the Mini packs a surprisingly premium build into its 5-inch square frame. Its subtle texture, slick finish and crisp decals capture that old-school industrial vibe, while the bundled decorative sticker sheet lets you customize it with your own artistic flair.
The 3.5-inch LCD pops with vibrant colors and inky contrasts. Pixel-perfect ports of Metal Slug and Fatal Fury look sensationally sharp, although the HDMI output disappointingly muddies their definition. 40 classics live inside this tiny chassis, running just like their coin-op ancestors. The clicky joystick and snappy buttons handle combos with aplomb, albeit feeling slightly askew for 2D fare. It may be mini, but this loveable retro machine overdelivers on charm and history. With a generous game selection and the ability to save progress anytime, the Neo Geo Mini squeezes new convenience into a nostalgic vessel, proudly putting this iconic hardware’s glory days within reach. Just bring your own batteries if you want to take its magic on the road. At around $130, it’s the perfect centerpiece for anyone’s old-school gaming shrine.
Retro Atari Flashback 8 Gold HD
Classic Games, Modern Fun!
This pint-sized piece of gaming history packs 120 built-in Atari classics into a slick modern HDMI-ready form factor. With save states, rewind features and wireless controllers, the Atari Flashback 8 Gold HD faithfully resurrects the iconic 2600 vibe while letting you relive retro gaming glory in crisp 720p.
Dive back into gaming history with the Atari Flashback 8 Gold. This compact console brings you 120 built-in Atari 2600 classics, from Adventure to Pitfall, and Space Invaders, all ready for instant nostalgia. It’s a great way to spend some time enjoying those retro hits without digging out your old system. Atari put care into the console’s design, evident the moment you unwrap this retro treasure overflowing with childhood favorites waiting to be re-discovered and enjoyed all over again. They miniaturized the iconic Atari 2600 look into a slick little package that fits perfectly under your TV. The colored buttons on the front panel add a nice pop of pizzazz.
But this console is more than just rainbow buttons and a cute shape, it can connect to your big screen TV in crisp 720p HD quality. And the wireless controllers mean no more accidentally yanking cords out at the worst moments! The gameplay is smooth, as can be, thanks to that Monkey King processor doing its magic behind the scenes. With save states, rewind features, and scanline options, the Atari Flashback 8 Gold has all the bells and whistles to make your nostalgic gaming dreams come true. Just be prepared to shell out a bit more for those iconic paddle controllers separately. But once you start playing those classics, you’ll be transported right back to the golden age of gaming. Cowabunga people!
C64 Mini USA Version
Miniature Magic
Meet the C64 Mini: a compact powerhouse reimagining the iconic Commodore 64. This sleek gadget boasts 64 built-in classics like California Games and Impossible Mission, plus a cool joystick. Connect via HDMI for instant retro gaming, with USB ports for extra controllers and keyboard support. Nostalgia never looked so good!
The C64 Mini: a pocket-sized portal to the past that packs a pixelated punch! This miniature marvel shrinks the iconic Commodore 64 into a bite-sized beige beauty, complete with 64 preloaded games ready to transport players back to the 80s faster than a DeLorean. While the non-functional keyboard might raise eyebrows, the real star of the show is the custom Linux OS, serving up classic titles with a side of 720p HDMI goodness. Save states add a modern twist, letting gamers pause their nostalgia trip at will.
But beware, retro warriors! While the somewhat rigid joystick might evoke nostalgia for the precise controls of yesteryear, it’s a minor hiccup in an otherwise delightful package. Budding BASIC enthusiasts should note that to fully explore their programming potential, connecting a USB keyboard is essential. Quirks aside, the C64 Mini stands as an enchanting portal to the past. This clever fusion of gaming history and contemporary convenience serves as a vibrant spark for the imagination.
FAQ
What are mini consoles?
Mini-consoles are small, modern versions of classic gaming systems that come preloaded with popular retro games.
Can mini consoles connect to modern TVs?
Yes, most mini-consoles use HDMI cables to connect easily to modern TVs for high-definition gaming.
Do mini-consoles come with controllers?
Usually, yes. Most mini-consoles include one or two controllers that resemble the original system’s controllers.
Can you add more games to mini consoles?
Generally, no. Most mini-consoles come with a fixed set of pre-installed games and don’t allow you to
