As a powerful icon of a bygone era (the 1980s) the Atari 2600 game console is now a much-sought-after item. So many of us cut our gaming teeth on the simple block-graphics action games of Atari, the images are seared into our collective consciousness: Space Invaders, Asteroids, Pong. Getting your hands on an Atari 2600 can be a journey back in time.
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Difficulty:
Challenging
Instructions
1
Stalk the yard sale. As a unique low-dollar item with a lot of sentimental value, the Atari 2600 is not likely to hang around yard sales; the console will probably be among the first objects sold. Still, you might get lucky.
2
Search larger flea or junk markets. It's still challenging, but back in the piles of merchandise in some of the bigger used-stuff venues, you might find a working Atari 2600. The key word, though, is "working."
3
Check out online vendors. When you get tired of the street search, specialty vendors are on hand to provide you a hassle-free way of buying an old Atari 2600. Try the AtariGuide Store, which offers the gaming console in several styles. Beware: many of the models start at OVER $100.
4
Talk to other collectors. A friend or neighbor might know the cheapest way to an Atari 2600. Compare notes on your searches. The bottom line: it's not the '80s anymore, and an Atari 2600 is selling for more than it was back then.
5
Try eBay. The online retail giant sells just about anything. You might find an Atari 2600 console at auction for less than the usual asking price.
Tips & Warnings
If you want all the fun of the original Atari 2600 without the high price tag, consider a console-less joystick. These new "vintage" toys are available at many chain pharmacies like CVS and Rite-Aid in the toy aisle. The joystick includes the technology for playing Atari games on your television and is priced as low as around $20.
