Super Pac-Man: 5200 or 7800?

[Aswald]

So far, I have the following versions of Pac-Man: 2600, 5200, CV (Opcode).

Ms. Pac-Man: 2600, 5200, 7800, CV (Opcode).

Pac-Man Plus: CV (Opcode).

So, of the "original four," that leaves Super Pac-Man.

Since nobody intends to produce a CV version (as far as I know), the only way I can complete that collection is to either get a 5200 or the 7800 version. I can afford one or the other, but not both.

So- overall, based on graphics, sound, quality of programming (no bugs, glitches, etc.), difficulty, availability, cost, etc., which is the better one?

This is mostly for those who have at least played both.

Thanks.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

While I haven't played either version, I am a Super Pac-Man fan so I'll throw my 2 cents in.

Super Pac is my favorite entry in the Pac-series and I can NOT imagine playing it on the 5200 analog style joysticks.

I think a twitch-responsive rigid digital joystick is key to the speed required for turning corners with the super speed button pressed.

I'd probably go with the 7800 version.

[Atarileaf]

I'd second that. Having not played either I'd choose the 7800 version. Use a regular stock cx-40 stick or, personally, I love the boss sticks.

[Greg2600]

At this time, the sites selling Super Pac-Man 5200 (carts made from original Atari completed prototype) are:

http://www.gooddealgames.com/inventory/Atari%205200.html
http://8bitclassics.com/Atari/5200/Homebrew/View-all-products.html

Right now, the only one who has the 7800 version is:
http://www.gooddealgames.com/inventory/Atari%207800.html

Note the 7800 version is a homebrew based on Ms. Pac-Man, by Bob De Crescenzo, who also did Pac-Man Collection and Jr. Pac-Man for the 7800. His versions are incredibly good, and are far and away better than the CV/5200 versions, as the 7800 was a more advanced console. Also, the 5200 prototype I think contains some bugs.

PS: Super Pac-Man Arcade was part of one of the Namco plug and play controllers.

[opcode]

I challenge you to play test the CV, 7800 and MAME (original) versions of Pac-Man, Ms Pac-Man and Pac-Man Plus side by side and then decide which version, CV or 7800, is the best... :)
We can do that in the next NAVA meeting, you bring the 7800, I bring the CV version and MAME.
The 7800 Pac-Man Collection is a hack. The CV version is a true "port", it is the closest to emulation that you will get from a classic console.
BTW, also in the next NAVA meeting (August) Donkey Kong Arcade, the new port of DK for the CV.

Eduardo


At this time, the sites selling Super Pac-Man 5200 (carts made from original Atari completed prototype) are:

http://www.gooddealgames.com/inventory/Atari%205200.html
http://8bitclassics.com/Atari/5200/Homebrew/View-all-products.html

Right now, the only one who has the 7800 version is:
http://www.gooddealgames.com/inventory/Atari%207800.html

Note the 7800 version is a homebrew based on Ms. Pac-Man, by Bob De Crescenzo, who also did Pac-Man Collection and Jr. Pac-Man for the 7800. His versions are incredibly good, and are far and away better than the CV/5200 versions, as the 7800 was a more advanced console. Also, the 5200 prototype I think contains some bugs.

PS: Super Pac-Man Arcade was part of one of the Namco plug and play controllers.

[Greg2600]

Bahhhh, no need for that Eduardo, what the hell was I talking about? That's called write half a post, surf the web for an hour, and go and finish the post without reading it. Your Colecovision PMC is definitely better (graphics and all) than the 7800 version, even when taking into account my nemesis, the CV controller!

Anyway for the original poster, Aswald, the 7800 versions of Jr. and Super Pac-Man are outstanding, and while the 5200 versions are also terrific games, if I had to choose, I'd pick the 7800 versions.

[opcode]

Bahhhh, no need for that Eduardo, what the hell was I talking about? That's called write half a post, surf the web for an hour, and go and finish the post without reading it. Your Colecovision PMC is definitely better (graphics and all) than the 7800 version, even when taking into account my nemesis, the CV controller!

Anyway for the original poster, Aswald, the 7800 versions of Jr. and Super Pac-Man are outstanding, and while the 5200 versions are also terrific games, if I had to choose, I'd pick the 7800 versions.

Indeed, between the 5200 and 7800 I would go with the 7800 no matter the game. The poor 7800 just didn't have the chance it deserved in the 80s. I suppose it is up to homebrewers now to prove the machine.
About the controller, there is always the 2600 joystick, the best controller ever. :)
BTW, are you planning to attend next NAVA? I still haven't decided if I am going this month or next...

[Aswald]

While I haven't played either version, I am a Super Pac-Man fan so I'll throw my 2 cents in.

Super Pac is my favorite entry in the Pac-series and I can NOT imagine playing it on the 5200 analog style joysticks.

I think a twitch-responsive rigid digital joystick is key to the speed required for turning corners with the super speed button pressed.

I'd probably go with the 7800 version.


Well, I have a digital 5200 controller- the one I built. So the controller itself is not a real factor any longer.

In fact, with adapter module one- the passive one- I can use a 7800 stick with the 5200!

To be honest, unless there are flaws to the 5200 version, I would be inclined to go with that one. But I want to be sure I'm not getting a bug-ridden version that will malfunction too many times.

[Aswald]

Oh, MAN!

I had no idea so many games were available for the 5200! Now look what you've done- I have no idea which one to buy next!

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Well, I have a digital 5200 controller- the one I built. So the controller itself is not a real factor any longer.

In fact, with adapter module one- the passive one- I can use a 7800 stick with the 5200!

To be honest, unless there are flaws to the 5200 version, I would be inclined to go with that one. But I want to be sure I'm not getting a bug-ridden version that will malfunction too many times.

Oh yeah ... I forgot you made that.

If a digital stick is an option for your 5200 I'd say go for it if that's the one you want. I just can't imagine "speed cornering" as Super Pac Man with that 5200 stick.