RetroWorld Guide
The best retro consoles to start with in 2026
Getting into retro hardware, whether for playing or collecting, can seem complicated at first: widely varying prices, hardware revisions, cables, controllers, expensive games and multiple console generations.
In this guide, we take a look at some of the most interesting consoles for beginners depending on the type of player you are, your budget and the experience you are looking for.
What should you consider before buying a retro console?
The first thing to decide is whether you simply want to play or whether you are also interested in collecting. If your main goal is playing, you can prioritize a working console, a reliable controller and a good video connection. If you also want to collect, the condition of the box, manuals and original accessories can have a major impact on the price.
It is also worth checking which type of video connection the console uses. Many older systems were designed with CRT televisions in mind and may require adapters or specific solutions to display properly on modern screens.
Our favorite for beginners
Nintendo GameCube
The GameCube has one of Nintendo’s most recognizable libraries and a very distinctive personality. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for local multiplayer, exclusives and a compact console with plenty of charm.
Ideal for
Players looking for Nintendo games, local multiplayer and a console with a highly distinctive library.
Advantages
- ✓ Library packed with well-known exclusives
- ✓ Excellent for local multiplayer
- ✓ Compact and instantly recognizable design
- ✓ Many games are still incredibly fun today
Things to consider
- • Some original games have become quite expensive
- • The original video output may require adapters for modern televisions
Featured games
Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, Super Smash Bros. Melee, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Metroid Prime and Luigi’s Mansion.
The most versatile option
PlayStation 2
The PlayStation 2 is one of the best entry points into retro gaming thanks to its enormous library, which covers virtually every genre.
Ideal for
Anyone who wants a huge amount of variety and an easy console to get started with.
Advantages
- ✓ Enormous game library
- ✓ Wide variety of genres
- ✓ A huge number of second-hand consoles are available
- ✓ It can also play original PlayStation games in many cases
Things to consider
- • There are several hardware revisions, so it is worth knowing which model you are buying
- • Original controllers and accessories may be heavily worn
Featured games
Shadow of the Colossus, Metal Gear Solid 3, Gran Turismo 4, God of War, Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy X.
For multiplayer and classic Nintendo
Nintendo 64
The Nintendo 64 still has a very strong identity. Its controller, cartridges and exclusive library give the original hardware experience plenty of personality.
Ideal for
Nintendo fans, 3D platformer enthusiasts and local gaming sessions with friends.
Advantages
- ✓ Excellent exclusives
- ✓ Durable cartridges
- ✓ Great console for local multiplayer
- ✓ An authentic experience that feels very different from other systems
Things to consider
- • Original games can be expensive
- • Getting a good image on modern displays may require some extra attention
Featured games
Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, GoldenEye 007, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Banjo-Kazooie.
For 2D fans
Super Nintendo
The SNES remains an essential system for anyone who enjoys platformers, RPGs, action games and pixel art.
Ideal for
Anyone who prefers 2D games, straightforward gameplay and a classic visual style.
Advantages
- ✓ Exceptional 2D game library
- ✓ Many games have aged extremely well
- ✓ Simple and comfortable controller
Things to consider
- • Some original cartridges are particularly expensive
- • The condition of older consoles should be checked carefully
Featured games
Super Mario World, Donkey Kong Country, Zelda: A Link to the Past, Super Metroid and Chrono Trigger.
Arcade gaming at home
Mega Drive
The Mega Drive is a great choice for anyone looking for quick gaming sessions, action and a strong arcade identity.
Ideal for
Fans of Sega, Sonic, action games and more immediate gaming experiences.
Advantages
- ✓ Strong arcade-focused library
- ✓ Plenty of iconic games
- ✓ Simple and direct gaming experience
Things to consider
- • Availability and prices vary considerably between games
- • There are many different hardware revisions and accessories
Featured games
Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Streets of Rage 2, Shinobi III, Gunstar Heroes and Castlevania: Bloodlines.
The cult classic
Dreamcast
The Dreamcast had a short commercial life, but it left behind a highly distinctive library and had a major influence on gaming in the early 2000s.
Ideal for
Anyone looking for something different and who particularly enjoys arcade games.
Advantages
- ✓ Loads of personality
- ✓ Excellent arcade conversions
- ✓ A library that feels very different from other consoles
Things to consider
- • Hardware and games are less common
- • Some titles are quite expensive
Featured games
Shenmue, Soulcalibur, Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Power Stone and Sonic Adventure.
Portable retro gaming
Game Boy Advance
The Game Boy Advance is an excellent way to get into retro gaming if you prefer playing on a handheld. Its library combines original titles with new takes on classic games.
Ideal for
Anyone who wants a portable experience and shorter gaming sessions.
Advantages
- ✓ Excellent game library
- ✓ Portable and easy to use
- ✓ Large selection of Nintendo games
Things to consider
- • The screens on the original models can feel limited by modern standards
- • Modified or backlit systems can cost considerably more
Featured games
Metroid Fusion, Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, Advance Wars, Pokémon Emerald and The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap.
Quick comparison
| Console | Ideal for | Ease of getting started | Relative cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| GameCube | Nintendo and multiplayer | Easy | Medium |
| PlayStation 2 | Variety | Very easy | Low |
| Nintendo 64 | Classic Nintendo | Easy | Medium |
| SNES | 2D | Easy | Medium/high |
| Mega Drive | Arcade and action | Easy | Medium |
| Dreamcast | Collecting | Medium | High |
| Game Boy Advance | Portable gaming | Very easy | Medium |
So, which one should you choose?
If you want a straightforward recommendation for getting started, the GameCube combines an excellent library, highly recognizable games and a very distinctive Nintendo experience.
If your priority is having access to as many games as possible, the PlayStation 2 is hard to beat. For 2D games, the SNES remains a benchmark, while the Game Boy Advance is an excellent option if you prefer portable gaming.
The most important thing is to start with a console whose game library genuinely interests you. Buying a system simply because it is popular usually makes less sense than choosing one with five or ten games you genuinely want to play.
Keep exploring
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