10 Best Retro Video Game Consoles 2025 in the United States

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 Sega Genesis Mini is a charming throwback to the iconic console of the early '90s. It comes pre-loaded with 42 classic games, which is quite an extensive library and should delight fans of retro gaming. Notable titles include Sonic the Hedgehog, Ecco the Dolphin, and Streets of Rage 2, offering a good mix of genres and famous titles that defined the era.

The inclusion of two wired controllers is a great feature for those who want to share the nostalgic experience with a friend, though the wired design might feel a bit restrictive compared to modern wireless options. Connectivity is straightforward with an HDMI output, making it easy to plug and play on most modern TVs. The console's save features are robust, allowing players to save their progress within games, which is a significant improvement over the original hardware.

The build quality of the Sega Genesis Mini is solid, with a design that faithfully replicates the look of the original console in a more compact form. It feels durable and well-made. One additional feature worth mentioning is the inclusion of a power cable and USB adapter, which adds convenience for setup. However, the lack of wireless controllers and the necessity for a lithium-ion battery can be seen as minor drawbacks. This mini console is especially appealing to those who cherish the nostalgia of retro gaming or those new to the Sega Genesis experience wanting to explore its classic titles.

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.