The Atari VCS (now known as the Atari 2600) was one of many first cartridge-based dwelling online game consoles in historical past and was the best-selling console of its period. However that was the late Nineteen Seventies and the know-how was in its infancy. Saying that the graphics have been rudimentary could be a dramatic understatement — immediately’s kids would contemplate them unusable. That’s why it was so shocking to seek out this MovieCart that’s able to taking part in full-length, full-color films on totally authentic Atari 2600 {hardware}.
This doesn’t look like it needs to be potential, however the venture may be very actual. In fact, it requires cheap expectations. In keeping with the data offered by creator lodefmode, it will possibly solely show films at a paltry 80×192 pixel decision with a severely restricted coloration palette and poor sound high quality. It does, nonetheless, run at a really regular 30 frames per second. Storage is affordable and considerable nowadays, in order that isn’t a difficulty. However the Atari 2600’s video capabilities are very restrictive. Even this video and sound high quality is unbelievably spectacular and necessitated some intelligent hacks.
It’s potential to load any movie onto the MovieCart’s SD card, as a result of lodefmode created a utility to transform normal MP4 information into the customized MVC format. One demonstration lodefmode made is the basic film Westworld—sure, children, it was a film lengthy earlier than it was a TV present. The transformed film doesn’t look nice, however Yul Brynner’s cheerful visage is clearly recognizable.
MovieCart 2600 is an open-source venture, so that you’re free to construct your individual utilizing the information offered by lodefmode. Or you should buy one from the Tindie retailer for $24.99 (although, sadly, they’re presently out of inventory). If you buy one, it can even include an SD card loaded up with a full-length coloration film from the general public area!
Whether or not you construct your individual or buy a MovieCart 2600, you’ll want a few different issues to get going. First, you’ll want the software program and lodefmode’s plugin to transform the video information. You’ll additionally seemingly desire a cartridge enclosure, as a result of that is simply the populated PCB. It suits in Fight-style cartridges shells. And, in fact, you’ll want a working Atari 2600, in addition to a joystick to regulate playback.
However that can all be worthwhile while you amaze your folks by taking part in the most recent Marvel movie in your almost five-decade-old Atari.