Second Generation Game Consoles: A Guide to Retro Gaming Classics
The Consoles That Shaped Retro Gaming
A Brief History of Second Generation Game Consoles
Welcome to the world of Second Generation game consoles, where innovation and competition drove the industry forward in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This era saw the rise of iconic brands like Atari, Coleco, and Fairchild, each vying for dominance with unique console designs and library of games. From the pioneering efforts of Fairchild Channel F to the Atari 26oo’s attempt to reclaim its market lead, this period was marked by creative experimentation and fierce competition.
On this page, we’ll explore the key consoles that defined Second Generation gaming, including Bally Astrocade, Magnavox Odyssey 2, Intellivision, Emerson Arcadia 2001, ColecoVision, Atari 5200, and Vectrex. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or just looking to learn more about this pivotal era in gaming history, we’ve got you covered
Our comparison of Second Generation Game Consoles will help you understand the differences between various models, enabling you to make informed decisions when adding to your retro gaming collection
Fairchild Channel F
|
Atari 2600
|
Bally Astrocade
|
Magnavox Odyssey 2
|
|
Manufacturer |
Fairchild Semiconductor | Atari | Bally Technologies | Magnavox |
Year released |
1976 | 1977 | 1977 | 1978 |
Media Type |
Cartridge | Cartridge and Cassette (Cassette available via special 3rd party attachment) | Cartridge and cassette/Floppy, available with ZGRASS unit | Cartridge |
CPU |
1.79 Mhz Fairchild F8 | 1.19 Mhz MOS Technology 6507 | 1.789 Mhz Zilog z80 | 1.79 Mhz Intel 8048 8 bit microcontroller |
Library Count |
30 | 523 | 49 | 107 |
Audio |
Mono audio | Mono 2 channel | Mono- vibration effect | Mono |
Price |
Check Ebay! | Check Ebay! | Check Ebay! | Check Ebay! |
Intellivision
|
Emerson Arcadia 2001
|
Colecovision
|
Atari 5200
|
|
Manufacturer |
Mattel | Emerson Radio Corporation | Coleco | Atari |
Year released |
1980 | 1982 | 1982 | 1982 |
Media Type |
Cartridge | Cartridge | Cartridge and Cassette, available with Expansion | Cartridge |
CPU |
2 Mhz General Instrument CP1610 | 3.58 Mhz Signetics 2650 | 3.58 Mhz Zilog Z80A | 1.79 Mhz Custom MOS 6502C |
Library Count |
132 | 47 | 155 | 69 |
Audio |
Mono 3 channel | Mono 2 channel | Mono 4 channel | Mono 4 channel |
Price |
Check Ebay! | Check Ebay! | Check Ebay! | Check Ebay! |
Vectrex
|
|
Manufacturer |
Milton Bradley |
Year released |
1982 |
Media Type |
Cartridge |
CPU |
1.5 Mhz Motorola 68A09 |
Library Count |
39 |
Audio |
Mono 3 channel |
Price |
Check Ebay! |
For detailed information on each individual console, check out our dedicated sub-pages. We’ve curated high-quality information on first generation game consoles that highlight their unique features and specifications, as well as providing you with an opportunity to search for and buy your favorite console.
Join us on this journey down memory lane as we rediscover the charm of second generation game consoles!
Fairchild Channel F
Atari 2600
Bally Astrocade
Magnavox Odyssey 2
Intellivision
Emerson Arcadia 2001
Colecovision
Atari 5200
Vectrex
Fairchild Channel F: A Pioneer in Portable GamingÂ
The Fairchild Channel F, released in 1976, was one of the first consoles to bring gaming into homes. This pioneering console introduced cartridge-based gameplay, allowing users to enjoy a variety of games without needing a new console purchase. Although it struggled to gain significant market share, the Channel F laid groundwork for future consoles. We’ll take a closer look at this early console’s features and legacy.
Atari 26oo: A Legendary Console RebornÂ
Released in 1977, the Atari 26oo was a groundbreaking console that brought beloved games like Pong and Asteroids into homes, cementing its place in gaming history. This iconic console helped establish Atari as a major player in the industry, paving the way for future innovations.
Bally Astrocade: A Cosmic Console with a Unique TwistÂ
Released in 1977, the Bally Astrocade was an innovative console that combined space-themed games with a unique controller featuring a trackball. This unusual design allowed players to control games in a more precise and intuitive way. The Astrocade boasted a library of classic arcade titles and home-exclusive games, making it a must-have for collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
Odyssey 2: A Sequel with a TwistÂ
Released in 1978, the Magnavox Odyssey 2 was the successor to the original Odyssey, offering a more refined and feature-rich gaming experience. This console featured improved graphics, additional controllers, and a wider range of games, including exclusive titles like Chess and Checkers. Although it didn’t achieve mainstream success, the Odyssey 2 remains a beloved piece of retro gaming history.
Intellivision: A Console that Shaped Gaming HistoryÂ
Released in 1979, Intellivision revolutionized home gaming with its innovative controller and iconic games like Astrosmash and Night Stalker. This console boasted a wide range of titles, including sports, action, and puzzle games, making it a major competitor to Atari’s dominance in the market.
Emerson Arcadia 2001: A Forgotten Gem of Retro GamingÂ
Released in 1982, the Emerson Arcadia 2001 was an underdog console that attempted to challenge Atari’s dominance. This console featured simple yet addictive games like Checkers and Chess, as well as a few original titles. Although it never gained significant traction, the Arcadia 2001 remains a nostalgic gem for retro gaming enthusiasts.
ColecoVision: A Challenger to Atari’s ThroneÂ
Released in 1982, ColecoVision was a powerful console that aimed to dethrone Atari from its position as market leader. With its impressive graphics and addictive games like Donkey Kong and Q*bert, ColecoVision gave gamers an alternative to the dominant Atari 2600. This iconic console remains a beloved piece of retro gaming history.
Atari 5200: The Challenger in the Console WarsÂ
Released in 1982, the Atari 5200 was an ambitious attempt to recapture the magic that made Atari a household name. This console aimed to revitalize the company’s fortunes and give gamers a reason to choose it over the rising competition from companies like ColecoVision. With its impressive graphics capabilities and addictive game titles like Pac-Man and Centipede, the Atari 5200 offered an enticing alternative to the dominant Intellivision and other consoles of the time. As a retro gaming icon, the Atari 5200 remains a fascinating chapter in the history of home console development.
Vectrex: A Pioneer in Digital Vector Graphics GamingÂ
Released in 1982, the Vectrex was a pioneering console that brought digital vector graphics gaming to the masses. As part of the Second Generation Game Consoles, it offered a unique visual experience that set it apart from its competitors. With its built-in monitor and innovative graphics capabilities, the Vectrex allowed gamers to enjoy a distinct gaming landscape. Its impressive game library, including titles like Pole Position and Scramble, further solidified its place in retro gaming history. As one of the earliest digital vector consoles, the Vectrex remains an intriguing piece of gaming nostalgia.
