How to Buy an Atari 2600

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.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

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.