10 Best Retro Video Game Consoles 2025 in the United States

The Nintendo NES Classic Mini EU Console is a nostalgic treat for fans of retro gaming. It comes pre-loaded with 30 classic games, including beloved titles like Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda, and Pac-Man. This extensive game library is a significant strength, offering hours of entertainment with some of the best games from the original NES era.

The console features a single classic NES controller, which is comfortable and authentic but can be limiting if you want to play two-player games since only one controller is included. You can, however, use compatible Wii controllers for multiplayer experiences. The connectivity options are straightforward, with an HDMI cable for modern TVs and a USB power cable. However, it does not include the AC adapter needed to plug the USB into a wall socket, which is an added expense.

The save features on this mini console are a great improvement over the original NES, allowing you to save your progress in any game, which is incredibly convenient. The build quality is solid, with a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to set up and store. While the console replicates the classic NES design well, it lacks modern features beyond the save functionality and doesn’t support any additional games beyond the pre-installed ones. This console is perfect for those looking to relive their childhood memories or introduce classic games to a new generation. The absence of additional features and the need for an extra purchase for the AC adapter are minor drawbacks, but the experience is highly enjoyable for retro gaming enthusiasts.

The Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio HD Plus is an appealing option for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering compatibility with a wide range of original NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis games. With three dedicated cartridge slots, it allows you to play your old favorites without the need for multiple consoles. The ability to experience these classics in 720P HD clarity through its HDMI connectivity is a significant strength, enhancing the visual quality on modern TVs.

Game library compatibility is a major highlight, with the console being well-regarded for its ability to run original cartridges reliably. Additionally, it supports original accessories, meaning you can use your well-loved controllers and peripherals seamlessly. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The console does not mention any built-in save features, which could be a downside for games that require saving progress. While the build quality seems solid, some users might find the design slightly bulky compared to more modern compact consoles.

Finally, while the console is highly rated, it should be noted that it's mainly suitable for those who already own or can acquire original game cartridges and accessories. If you’re looking for a straightforward way to revisit retro gaming without compromising on game compatibility and visual quality, the Super Retro Trio HD Plus is a strong contender.

The Hyperkin RetroN 3 HD is a solid choice for retro gaming fans who want to play original NES, Super Famicom/SNES, and Sega Genesis/Mega Drive cartridges on modern TVs. One of its biggest strengths is the wide compatibility across three popular classic systems, making it convenient if you own games from multiple consoles. It outputs video and audio in HD (720p) with options for 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratios, which helps games look better on newer screens compared to standard definition. The build quality feels sturdy enough for casual to moderate use, and the console’s weight and size are manageable for a dedicated gaming setup.

The console supports NTSC and PAL cartridges, but some users may find the lack of built-in save states or memory backups a drawback since you must rely on the original game saves. Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI output, but it doesn’t include modern wireless controller options out of the box, so you’ll likely use wired controllers or original ones. The controller design depends on original hardware since the console plays physical cartridges, so the feel will be authentic but not upgraded.

Additional features are minimal, focusing mostly on delivering a faithful multi-console retro experience without extras like downloadable games or online play. This model is ideal for gamers who want a plug-and-play way to enjoy their classic game collections on HDTVs without fussing with emulation or adapters.