How to Buy an Atari Lynx

The Atari Lynx is the only handheld video game console ever produced by the company. Released in 1989, it had the distinction of being the world's first handheld unit, but it took a beating by the Nintendo Game Boy which was released that same year. The Lynx was discontinued, but new games are still being made by homebrew programmers. Finding a used Atari Lynx isn't too difficult, but purchasing a new version can be a bit more challenging.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide what condition you want. You can still find new, boxed Atari Lynx handheld games, but, they are higher priced. You can also find used and/or reconditioned units for sale at reduced rates.

2. Shop at vintage gaming stores. There are online stores dedicated to buying, selling and trading all types of vintage video game consoles and game cartridges. By finding one of these businesses, you not only increase your odds of finding a Lynx handheld system, but also opportunities to buy, sell and trade Lynx games. Try Best Electronics, AtariAge and eStarland (see Resources below).

3. Buy it on eBay. Like many harder to find items, you can usually find a few of the Lynx handhelds up for auction on eBay. By doing a simple search for the Atari Lynx, you'll learn what's currently available with many listings not only including the handheld console, but also a few games to go along with it. Try eBay Express for newer models.

4. Test the system. Anytime you're buying a used Lynx unit in person, ask to test the device, especially if there's no guarantee or return policy. The handheld system runs on standard AA batteries with the optional battery pack requiring D batteries, so when shopping around, it's not a bad idea to bring your own batteries to help ensure a test run prior to purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• The Atari Lynx was re-launched in 1991 as the Lynx II, with somewhat improved hardware and a new marketing campaign, packaging, and sleek look, and a much lower price tag in hopes of besting the Game Boy, but it didn't succeed.
• Atari began focusing on the Jaguar system in 1994 and basically forgot about the Lynx and by 1996 had quit manufacturing games for the handheld system, but outside companies and homebrew programmers still continue to release new titles.
• eBay is also a good source to find a number of the 100+ original titles, but for the newer homebrew titles, you'll most likely have to go directly to the manufacturer and purchase a new copy.

Resources

• Buy Lynx machines & games from eStarland.
• Buy Lynx machines & games from Best Electronics.
• Lynx game rarity from AtariAge.