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Atari 2600

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Atari 2600

Top queries about Atari 2600 history

When was Atari 2600 released?

The Atari 2600 launched in North America in late 1977, Europe in 1978, France in 1982, Brazil in September 1983, and Japan as Atari 2800 in October 1983. It was initially called the Atari Video Computer System or VCS.

What CPU powers Atari 2600?

It uses an 8-bit MOS Technology 6507 microprocessor running at 1.19 MHz, a cost-reduced version of the 6502 with fewer address pins, limiting addressable memory to 4 KB without bank switching.

How much RAM in Atari 2600?

The console has 128 bytes of RAM for game state, scratch space, and call stack, with no framebuffer, requiring programmers to generate graphics in real-time synchronized to the TV scanline.

What was bundled with launch?

Initial bundles included two joystick controllers, a pair of paddle controllers, and a Combat cartridge; later bundles switched to Pac-Man. Sears sold it as Tele-Games Video Arcade.

Why did video game crash happen?

Poorly received games like Pac-Man and E.T., oversaturation with third-party shovelware, and market glut contributed to the 1983 crash, ending Atari's dominance and leading to massive losses.

What is bank switching?

Bank switching allowed cartridges larger than 4 KB by swapping ROM segments into the limited address space, first used in Asteroids in 1980, enabling more complex games like Pitfall!.

Quick Facts

Key Takeaway Atari 2600 popularized home cartridge gaming, dominating until the 1983 crash despite hardware limits.