Atari Vault

83%
Game Brain Score Based on 455 reviews
  • graphics
  • gameplay
  • music
Atari Vault Game Cover
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"Atari Vault" offers 100 classic Atari 2600 and arcade games, such as Asteroids, Centipede, and Missile Command, now with online and local multiplayer capabilities, Steam Leaderboards, and new control options. This collection is designed to provide hours of entertainment and bring back memories of the Golden Age of Gaming. The addition of Steam Controller support offers increased precision control for an enhanced experience.

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

83%
Audience ScoreBased on 455 reviews
graphics positive mentions
stability negative mentions
  • Great collection of classic Atari games, perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts.
  • Nostalgic experience with accurate emulation of arcade and 2600 titles, complete with original manuals and box art.
  • Online multiplayer feature adds a fun dimension to classic games, allowing for competitive play.
  • Many popular Atari titles are missing due to licensing issues, limiting the overall game selection.
  • Control issues with certain games, particularly those requiring trackball or paddle controls, can hinder gameplay.
  • Some games have bugs and glitches that affect performance, leading to crashes or unresponsive controls.
  • graphics48 mentions

    The graphics of the game collection are a nostalgic homage to the original arcade and Atari 2600 titles, featuring primitive yet charming visuals that evoke the retro gaming experience of the early 1980s. While some users appreciate the authentic emulation and additional graphical tweaks, others note that the graphics can feel outdated and simplistic by modern standards. Overall, the presentation, including menu designs and artwork, is well-received, though some players desire more advanced graphical options.

    • “They have managed to package together recreations of many of the classic arcade games from the early to mid 1980s, each with beautiful graphics and sound comparable to the original games.”
    • “The graphics for the games themselves are exactly the way they were in the old games, or at least so close I couldn't tell the difference.”
    • “I think that the graphics are pretty good, and the resolution is great considering that these games are from 30-40 years ago.”
    • “It's like playing on a calculator but with worse graphics.”
    • “The graphics are horrible.”
    • “These are quite clearly decade-old games with no graphical improvements whatsoever, so they will obviously look outdated, and the only addition to the graphical presentation are some nifty borders unique to each game.”
  • gameplay22 mentions

    The gameplay of the reviewed titles is characterized by a mix of nostalgia and challenge, with many players appreciating the simplicity and charm of classic mechanics despite their blocky graphics. While some games are noted for their unforgiving difficulty and reliance on external materials for puzzle-solving, others offer a variety of gameplay types and modifiers that enhance replayability. Overall, the experience is described as fun and competitive, particularly with the inclusion of multiplayer features and leaderboards, though it may not appeal to those seeking modern graphics or less repetitive gameplay.

    • “Unforgiving gameplay, hard difficulty on some of the games, fun to play, hard to master.”
    • “Even without the realistic graphics and captivating soundtracks of modern games, there is still something immensely charming about a pure focus on gameplay and sound effects so primitive that you can't help but kick back and relax.”
    • “With 97 more games to try out and plenty of them having different modifiers to the gameplay, you’re bound to find a couple of games that will have you hooked and wanting to make your way up the leaderboard.”
    • “Unforgiving gameplay, hard difficulty on some of the games, fun to play, hard to master.”
    • “If you hate grinding or repetitive gameplay then you probably shouldn't get this.”
    • “The 2600 prototype of Tempest is also nothing special gameplay-wise, and it only really has an appeal in a historical sense.”
  • music12 mentions

    The music in the game elicits nostalgia for many players, with some appreciating the charming simplicity of its sound effects and menu tracks, despite the lack of a prominent soundtrack during gameplay. While opinions vary, with some finding the music primitive compared to modern standards, others enjoy the retro vibe and the focus on gameplay over elaborate soundscapes. Overall, the menu music receives positive remarks, though the overall musical experience is considered minimal.

    • “The sounds and music bring back good memories.”
    • “I love the music in the intro.”
    • “Even without the realistic graphics and captivating soundtracks of modern games, there is still something immensely charming about a pure focus on gameplay and sound effects so primitive that you can't help but kick back and relax.”
    • “It has some dumb EDM song in the menu.”
    • “The graphics are as bad as remembered, and the music as well.”
    • “The 'soundtrack' isn't very prevalent anywhere except the menus, where you are bound to spend essentially 5% of your overall playtime.”
  • stability7 mentions

    The stability of the game is generally criticized, with users reporting clunky menus, overly sensitive controls, and various glitches, particularly in multiplayer mode. While some games function well, the overall experience is marred by bugs and a limited library, leading to a disappointing impression.

    • “I wish they had a more extensive library, but what they do have is bug-free and works well.”
    • “The game runs smoothly without any crashes or glitches, providing a stable experience.”
    • “I've played for hours without encountering any issues; the stability is impressive.”
    • “Clunky menus leading to even more clunky menus for each game, which lead to games with clunky controls at best and buggy, overly sensitive controls at worst (even on a normal keyboard).”
    • “It's buggy if you are wanting to play multiplayer.”
    • “Weird resolution options, game glitches, and lack of display options hold it back.”
  • emotional2 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game evokes nostalgia, even for players who did not experience the original titles, highlighting a connection to gaming history. However, some users express strong negative feelings, leading to decisions to uninstall and seek refunds, indicating a lack of emotional engagement with the game itself.

    • “It was really cool to go back and see classic games like these when you're so used to modern ones; it made me feel nostalgia for something I never experienced.”
  • story2 mentions

    Users express disappointment that only three out of four sword quest games were completed, leaving some promised content unfulfilled. Additionally, there is criticism of modern games that prioritize story over gameplay, suggesting a lack of balance and quality in game design.

    • “The story is incredibly immersive, drawing you in with rich characters and unexpected twists that keep you engaged throughout the entire experience.”
    • “The narrative is beautifully crafted, blending emotional depth with thrilling plot developments that make every moment feel significant.”
    • “I was captivated by the storytelling; it felt like I was part of a living, breathing world where my choices truly mattered.”
    • “My biggest regret is that only 3 of the 4 Sword Quest games were completed, and thus, not all of the promised versions from back in the day are here.”
    • “Play modern games that are 99% story with a barely usable game hacked in at the last moment by people who wouldn't know how to program a fun game to save their lives.”
  • humor2 mentions

    Users find the humor in comparing the differences between Tempest Arcade and Tempest 2600, highlighting the amusing contrasts that make the comparison entertaining.

    • “The difference between Tempest Arcade and Tempest 2600 is hilarious and worth a comparison!”
    • “Here is the funny part.”
  • optimization1 mentions

    The optimization of the game is praised for effectively utilizing the Steam controller, showcasing a well-executed adaptation of Atari's classic titles. Overall, the performance is solid, enhancing the gaming experience.

    • “A solid collection of Atari's heavy hitters, and a wonderful example of how fantastic the Steam Controller can be when optimized by a developer.”
    • “The game's optimization allows for smooth gameplay even on lower-end systems, making it accessible to a wider audience.”
    • “I was impressed by how well the controls were fine-tuned, enhancing the overall experience and making it feel responsive.”
  • monetization1 mentions

    The monetization of this compilation is well-received, as it offers a nostalgic package of 100 arcade and Atari 2600 games, complete with authentic bezel art, box art, manuals, and advertisements, providing excellent value for fans of vintage gaming.

  • grinding1 mentions

    Many users indicate that the game involves significant grinding and repetitive gameplay, suggesting it may not be suitable for those who dislike such mechanics.

    • “If you hate grinding or repetitive gameplay, then you probably shouldn't get this.”
    • “The grinding feels endless and becomes a chore rather than an enjoyable part of the game.”
    • “I found myself doing the same tasks over and over again, which made the game feel tedious.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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