Atari XEGS
Atari XEGS
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| Manufacturer | Atari Corporation |
|---|---|
| Type | Home video game console/personal computer |
| Generation | Third generation (8-bit era) |
| Release date | 1987 |
| Introductory price | US$199 (equivalent to $419.51 in 2016) |
| Discontinued | 1992 |
| Media | ROM cartridge |
| CPU | MOS Technology 6502C |
| Memory | 64KB RAM |
| Display | 384 x 240 (overscan) 256 color palette |
| Backward compatibility |
Atari 8-bit computers |
| Predecessor | Atari 7800 |
| Successor | Atari Jaguar |
The Atari XE Game System (Atari XEGS) is a home video game console released by Atari Corporation in 1987. Based on Atari's 8-bit 65XE computer, the XEGS is compatible with the existing Atari 8-bit computer software library. Additionally, it is able to operate as either a stand-alone console or full computer with the addition of its specially designed keyboard. In computer mode, it may utilize the majority of peripherals released for Atari's 8-bit computer line. Atari packaged the XEGS as a basic set consisting of only the console and joystick, and as a deluxe set consisting of the console, keyboard, joystick and light gun.
The XEGS was supported by new titles, such as Barnyard Blaster and Bug Hunt, plus cartridge ports of older games, such as Fight Night (Accolade, 1985), Lode Runner (Brøderbund, 1983), Necromancer (Synapse Software, 1982), and Ballblazer (Lucasfilm Games, 1985).
Under the auspices of Jack Tramiel, Atari re-released two game consoles in 1986: the Atari 7800, which had previously been released in a brief test run in 1984; and the Atari 2600 Jr., an updated version of the Atari VCS/2600. The XEGS followed, building on Atari's 8-bit computer line which had started with the Atari 400 and 800. In practice the XEGS is a repackaged Atari 65XE, in a move not unlike that taken for the Atari 5200, which is a repackaged Atari 400/800 computer. While the 5200 has slightly modified internals, the XEGS is compatible with the existing range of Atari 8-bit computer software and peripherals, and thus could function as a home computer.
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