Do retro consoles come with games?

When buying a retro console, it’s important to know whether games are included or need to be purchased separately.

🔹 1. Original Retro Consoles

These are consoles from the 70s, 80s, or 90s, like the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, or Game Boy.

Typically: They do not come with games unless you buy a bundle.

Games: You usually need to buy cartridges or discs separately, unless it’s a special edition or collector’s bundle.

Example: A used NES console may come with a single cartridge like Super Mario Bros. if it’s a bundle.

🔹 2. Modern Retro Consoles / Plug-and-Play Systems

These are new consoles made to emulate retro games, like the AtGames Legends Ultimate, RetroN series, or Atari Flashback consoles.

Typically: They come with built-in games.

Examples:

AtGames Legends Ultimate: Comes with 350+ built-in games like Pac-Man, Galaga, and Donkey Kong.

Atari Flashback: Usually comes with 80–120 classic Atari games built-in.

NES Classic Edition / SNES Classic Edition: Comes with 30–50 preloaded titles.

Pros: Instant gaming out of the box, no need to hunt for cartridges.

Cons: Limited game selection; usually can’t add more official games (some models support adding ROMs via USB or SD card, but legality is a factor).

🔹 3. Bundles & Special Editions

Some modern retro consoles or re-releases may include cartridges or discs:

Examples:

Sega Genesis Mini: Preloaded with 42 classic games.

Neo Geo Mini: Built-in library of 40+ games.

Some modern retro consoles also have cartridge slots to play original games.

🔹 Key Takeaways

✅ Conclusion

If you buy a true vintage console, you’ll likely need to purchase games separately. But if you go for a modern retro console or a classic edition, it usually comes with built-in games, so you can start playing immediately.