Here you will find a comparison between the Atari 7800 and the Atari XEGS. We have divided the comparison into three different areas: Basics, Specs, Gaming und some History.
Atari 7800 vs Atari XEGS: The Basics
| Specification | Atari 7800 | Atari XEGS |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 1986 | 1987 |
| Production End Year | 1992 (officially discontinued) | 1992 (officially discontinued) |
| Original Price | Around $140 USD (console only) | Around $200 USD (console only) |
| Inflation-adjusted in 2024 | Approximately $344 USD | Approximately $504 USD |
| Backward Compatibility | No | Yes (Atari 8-bit computer software) |
| Target Audience | Home console gamers | Home computer and console gamers |
| Home-Computer or Game Console | Game console | Hybrid (Combination of a home computer and game console) |
| Modular | Yes (Cartridge-based system) | Yes (Cartridge-based system) |
| Supported Players | Up to 2 players | Up to 2 players |
| Available Variants | Atari 7800 ProSystem (Various design revisions) | Atari XE Game System (XEGS) |
| Market Success | Faced challenges due to the video game market crash | Limited success, niche market appeal |
Atari 7800 vs Atari XEGS: Specs
| Specification | Atari 7800 | Atari XEGS |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | MOS 6502C | Custom Atari 8-bit (6502 compatible) |
| CPU Speed | 1.79 MHz | 1.79 MHz |
| Graphics | MARIA graphics chip | Custom graphics (ANTIC and GTIA) |
| Video Resolution | 320×200 pixels | 320×192 pixels (Graphics 8 mode) |
| Colors | 256 | 256 |
| Sound | POKEY sound chip | POKEY sound chip |
| Controllers | Joystick and ProLine Trak-Ball | Joystick and Light Gun (XG-1) |
| Cartridge Slot | Yes | Yes |
| Backward Compatibility | No | Yes (Atari 8-bit computer software) |
| Memory | 4 KB RAM | 64 KB RAM |
| Controllers (Original) | Joystick | Joystick and Light Gun (XG-1) |
| Expansion Modules | None | None |
| Storage Medium | Cartridges (Up to 48 KB) | Cartridges (Up to 64 KB) |
| Graphics Modes | Multiple, including player-missile graphics | Various graphics modes on Atari 8-bit |
| Display Palette | 256 colors (out of 4,096) | 256 colors (ANTIC and GTIA) |
| Screen Rotation | No | No |
| Hardware Scaling | No | No |
| Screen Size | Dependent on TV size | Dependent on TV size |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3 | 4:3 |
| Sound Channels | 4 (3 square wave, 1 white noise) | 4 (POKEY sound channels) |
| Audio Output | Mono | Mono |
| Peripheral Support | Various peripherals and accessories | Light Gun (XG-1), Keyboard (CX-52) |
Atari 7800 vs Atari XEGS: Gaming
| Specification | Atari 7800 | Atari XEGS |
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Enhanced graphics, backward compatibility with 2600 games | Combination of home computer and console, backward compatibility with Atari 8-bit software |
| Key Games | Ms. Pac-Man, Asteroids, Ninja Golf | Ballblazer, Rescue on Fractalus!, Eastern Front (1941) |
| Number of Games | Around 60 officially released | Over 100 officially released |
| Availability for Collectors Today | Active collector’s market, some titles sought after | Active collector’s market, some titles sought after |
| Games Sold Worldwide | Over 3 million | Less than 1 million |
| Modularity | Yes (Cartridge-based system) | Yes (Cartridge-based system) with compatibility with Atari 8-bit peripherals |
| Supported Players | Up to 2 players | Up to 2 players |
| Input options for users | Joystick, ProLine Trak-Ball | Joystick, Light Gun (XG-1), and compatibility with Atari 8-bit computer peripherals |
Why people find the Atari XEGS better and prefer to buy it
The decision to buy an Atari XEGS or an Atari 7800 depends on individual preferences and priorities. Here are some considerations that might influence a choice in favor of the Atari XEGS:
- Hybrid Functionality: The Atari XEGS serves as both a game console and a home computer. If you are interested in exploring both gaming and basic computing functions, the XEGS offers a dual-purpose system.
- Atari 8-bit Compatibility: The Atari XEGS is compatible with the extensive library of Atari 8-bit computer software. If you have a preference for or already own Atari 8-bit computer games, this compatibility can be an advantage.
- Peripherals and Accessories: The Atari XEGS supports peripherals and accessories designed for the Atari 8-bit computer line. This includes input devices like light guns and additional controllers, providing a diverse gaming experience.
- Exclusive Games: While both systems have their unique game libraries, some exclusive titles may be available on the Atari XEGS, particularly those that leverage its hybrid computer functionality.
- Personal Computing Features: If you have an interest in early personal computing, the Atari XEGS allows for basic programming and educational software, adding an extra dimension to its capabilities.
On the other hand, if your primary focus is on a dedicated gaming console with a larger library of dedicated game titles, the Atari 7800 might be a better choice. It has enhanced graphics, backward compatibility with Atari 2600 games, and a solid library of games optimized for the system.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific preferences, whether you value a hybrid system with computing capabilities or a dedicated gaming console.
Why the Atari XEGS is less well known than the Atari 7800
The Atari XEGS is less well-known than the Atari 7800 for several reasons:
- Marketing and Branding: The marketing and branding of the Atari XEGS were not as robust as those of the Atari 7800. The Atari 7800 was positioned as a dedicated game console with backward compatibility for the popular Atari 2600, which helped it gain recognition among gamers. In contrast, the XEGS’s dual functionality as a gaming console and home computer may have led to a more niche market positioning.
- Competition in the Market: During the same period, there was intense competition in the video game market, with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) dominating. The Atari 7800 faced direct competition with the NES, contributing to more visibility, while the XEGS had to contend with a shifting market landscape.
- Focus on Gaming: The Atari 7800 had a more focused approach on gaming, boasting enhanced graphics and a substantial library of games. It catered to the growing demand for dedicated gaming consoles. In contrast, the Atari XEGS, being a hybrid system with computing capabilities, may have struggled to establish a clear identity in a market that was increasingly leaning toward dedicated gaming consoles.
- Limited Game Library: The game library for the Atari XEGS, while including some exclusive titles, was not as extensive or well-known as the libraries of other popular gaming systems of the time. A limited selection of high-profile games can contribute to lower visibility in the market.
- Timing and Market Dynamics: The release timing of the Atari XEGS coincided with a period of transition in the gaming industry. The rise of 16-bit gaming consoles and evolving consumer preferences may have overshadowed the XEGS’s entry into the market.
- Distribution and Availability: The distribution and availability of the Atari XEGS may have been limited compared to other gaming consoles. Factors such as retail partnerships, pricing strategies, and region-specific releases can influence how widely a console is known.
Overall, a combination of marketing strategies, competition, focus on gaming, game library, and market dynamics likely contributed to the relative obscurity of the Atari XEGS compared to the Atari 7800.
Why the Atari XEGS is interesting for video game collectors…
The Atari XEGS (Atari XE Game System) is interesting for video game collectors for several reasons:
- Hybrid Functionality: The XEGS is a hybrid system that combines features of a gaming console and a home computer. This dual functionality makes it a unique addition to a collection, offering not only a diverse gaming experience but also the ability to run Atari 8-bit computer software.
- Atari 8-bit Compatibility: The XEGS is fully compatible with the extensive library of Atari 8-bit computer software. For collectors who appreciate the Atari 8-bit computer line, the XEGS provides access to a wide range of games and applications from that era.
- Cartridge-Based System: Like many classic gaming consoles, the XEGS uses cartridges as the primary game format. Collectors often value cartridge-based systems for their simplicity, durability, and the nostalgic feel of physical game media.
- Exclusive Games: While the XEGS shares some games with the Atari 8-bit computer line, it also has exclusive titles designed to take advantage of its hybrid functionality. Collectors may be interested in acquiring these exclusive games for a comprehensive collection.
- Peripheral Support: The XEGS supports peripherals and accessories designed for the Atari 8-bit computer line. This includes input devices like the Atari XG-1 Light Gun and various controllers, providing collectors with additional options for gameplay.
- Niche Appeal: The XEGS has a niche appeal due to its dual nature as a gaming console and home computer. Collectors who appreciate the convergence of gaming and computing in a single system may find the XEGS particularly interesting.
- Boxed and Complete Sets: Collectors often seek boxed and complete sets, and the XEGS, when found in such condition, can be a valuable addition to a collection. This includes having the original packaging, manuals, and any included accessories.
- Rarity and Limited Availability: While not as well-known as some other gaming consoles of its era, the Atari XEGS has a certain level of rarity and limited availability. Collectors may find satisfaction in acquiring a piece of gaming history that is less common than mainstream consoles.
Overall, the Atari XEGS appeals to collectors who appreciate its unique features, compatibility with Atari 8-bit software, and the distinctiveness of being a hybrid gaming system from the late 1980s.