Atari 2600 Quick Question

[tholly]

I have a quick question that I'm sure some people would laugh at and I'm sure it has been answered before.

I bought that DP Xmas Atari 2600 game, but I don't have a 2600. I have been looking for a cheap 2600 with hook-ups and 1 controller, but I was wondering if I find a cheap 5200 or 7800 should I get it. I was wondering this because I was also wonering if the Atari systems were backwards compatable, or do I need a 2600 to play 2600 games?

[AB Positive]

7800 can play 2600 flat out.

5200 sort of can, it requires an add-on, which is also recommended to only get it for the 2-controller port model. The 4-port model has been known to fry with the add on

-AG

[punkoffgirl]

You can also get a Colecovision and the expansion module to play 2600 games.

[rolenta]

You could also get an Intellivsion with a System Changer.

[Ze_ro]

I should probably point out that the 2600 itself is a LOT more common than any of these adaptors... so if you just want to play 2600 games, then buying a ColecoVision or 5200 is probably a bad idea, since finding that adaptor will take longer than finding an actual 2600 (and will probably cost more too).

However, if you find a 7800, then by all means, go for it.

--Zero

[tholly]

Yea, the reason I ask is that the last time i was in the local video game store (doesnt sell any new games really) had an atari, but i dont remeber what it was i think it was a 7800, and if it is im gonna pick it up tomorrow when i go...if it is a 2600 ill probably pick it up if it is still there, but i wanted to make sure if it wasnt a 2600 that it would play the game that i wanted it for...

thanks for all you info and help