10 Best Retro Video Game Consoles 2025 in the United States

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 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 Sony Playstation Classic Console offers a nostalgic experience for retro gaming fans and newcomers eager to explore the origins of PlayStation. Featuring 20 pre-installed classic games, including titles like Final Fantasy VII, Grand Theft Auto, and Resident Evil Director's Cut, the game library is robust, although some may feel the selection is limited compared to the original PlayStation's expansive catalog.

Controller design mirrors the original with two wired controllers included, maintaining the retro feel but may lack the comfort and functionality of modern controllers. The connectivity options are straightforward with an HDMI cable for easy TV connection, but the absence of a USB AC adapter might require users to source their own, which could be inconvenient.

While the build quality is solid and the console mimics the original design, its reduced size (45% smaller) may appeal to those looking for a compact system. Save features are present but minimal, relying on in-game save points rather than advanced save functionalities seen in more modern consoles. Additional features are sparse, with the focus remaining on delivering a pure retro experience rather than offering new capabilities. This console is best suited for nostalgic gamers or collectors who value the historical significance of these classic titles.