For better or worse, I’ve long been intrigued by the plug-and-play format of video games– primarily because I’m often pleasantly surprised. Over the years, I’ve replaced my large classic pre-NES game consoles for the space-saving convenience of various throwback plug-and-play consoles. So when I found this Namco Plug and Play at a garage sale for a buck, it was a no-brainer.
It includes: Pac-Man, Dig Dug, Galaxian, Rally-X and Bosconian. The design of the controller is fantastic. It has a nice heft that suggests that it’s made of quality material. It requires AA batteries and plugs directly into the TV with AV cables. I wasn’t exactly blown away by the quality of this console, but I was impressed by the simplicity and the overall responsiveness.
Pros:
- Great choice of classic arcade games that are still endlessly fun
- Requires no set up or installation– just plug it in and you’re ready to play
- Controller design if appropriately nostalgic
- Graphically similar if not identical to the original arcade games
- Cheaper and more reliable than playing these games on certain older consoles
Cons:
- Two player requires taking turns (not really two-player)
- Requires four batteries instead of plugging into a power socket
- No options to configure the game settings
- The sound is a little off
- After a while, controller feels awkward; would have felt better if it were shaped like an NES Advantage controller
Consensus: For fans, of plug-and-play consoles, this is a great one to have. It feels very similar to the arcade experience, but the sometimes glitchy homescreen and sound effects diminishes the overall gaming experience. I wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to acquire it, but if you happen to find it at a garage sale or thrift store for cheap, it’s a fun piece to have.