Are retro gaming consoles worth it? What to know before buying one

What if you could revisit the past? Retro gaming consoles take you back to the era of classic favorites like Super Mario Bros™, The Legend of Zelda™, and Sonic the Hedgehog®.

But before buying one, you need to understand the type of console you’re getting and its downsides. You should also consider how it compares to other methods of playing old-school games to choose the option that’s truly worth it for you.

At Asurion, we're no strangers to beloved past tech. Whether you’re looking for classic retro devices, the best gaming consoles, or unique retro tech gift ideas, we offer guidance you can trust. Here’s what you should know before buying a retro gaming console.

Understand what retro gaming consoles are

Retro gaming systems fall into two categories: original or modern retro consoles.

Original retro gaming consoles are the actual hardware from the era of old-school games. Because they are no longer in production, you can’t buy them directly from the developers. But they’re often available through second-hand sellers on platforms like eBay®. Popular examples of original consoles include:

• Nintendo Entertainment System® (NES)
• Sega Genesis™
• Super Nintendo Entertainment System® (SNES)

Modern retro gaming consoles, on the other hand, are redesigned versions of the original retro consoles. Think of them as miniaturized replicas, with minor hardware adjustments for convenience. For instance, they are usually plug-and-play, which means no complicated setup. You can easily connect them to a digital screen and then pick your favorite game from multiple pre-installed options and start playing. The original game content remains unchanged.

Examples of modern retro gaming consoles include:

• Sega Genesis Mini (modern version of the Sega Genesis)
• Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (modern version of SNES)

Why buy a retro gaming system?

Even with today’s advanced consoles, many people choose retro systems to re-experience their childhood games or explore classics from before their time. The best retro gaming consoles offer authentic gameplay without online distractions.

Some support local multiplayer, perfect for offline family fun. Extra controllers and a few rounds of Super Mario Kart racing can make for memorable moments.

Know the features and limitations

Understanding the difference between original and modern retro consoles will help you choose the most suitable:

Despite the differences, original and modern retro gaming consoles share several limitations. Both come with short controller cords, which can limit where you can sit while playing.

Most of these consoles also lack online features—no cloud saves, updates, or over-the-internet multiplayer matchmaking. Plus, their game libraries are limited by either the number of pre-installed titles or the number of physical game discs you own that the console can play.

Retro consoles compared to emulator-style experiences

Console emulators are software programs that mimic the hardware of retro gaming systems, allowing you to play classic games on a laptop or phone. Besides eliminating the need to buy a console, they usually support more old-school games and offer extra customizations compared to retro gaming systems. However, you need to download each game and install it in the emulator. Doing so without authorization from the game owner may raise copyright issues. Choosing between emulators and retro consoles often comes down to convenience, reliability, and the authentic feel you want from the gaming experience.

How to decide if a retro gaming console is worth it for you

Deciding whether a retro console is worth your time and money starts with knowing your goal. Are you looking to play classic games, or are you interested in collecting rare retro gaming systems?

If your goal is playing, consider these key factors to consider before choosing the best retro gaming console:

• Authentic gameplay
• Simple, family-friendly gaming experience
• Cost and difficulty of finding the console and its game titles

Remember, retro gaming systems won’t match the graphics, sound quality, and overall experience of modern consoles. But that’s part of their charm, right?

Just make sure you have everything necessary to set up the retro console, such as the right cables and a compatible display. Once you get your favorite retro system, you can protect it with an extended warranty for a gaming console.

If you’re a collector, look at how rare the console is and its condition (especially whether it’s still sealed) before making a purchase.