Atari seems to be at its best when it digs in its collection of classic games, and Atari Classics Evolved is no exception. In this compilation, you'll find eleven arcade favorites from the late 70s and early 80s. These include space shoot 'em ups Asteroids and Tempest; the virtual tank simulation game Battlezone; the bug blasters Centipede and Millipede; the classic paddle game Pong; and five various others.

These Classics are available in two formats. Purists will enjoy the original arcade modes, while those seeking something new should find the Evolved editions somewhat pleasing. Not all the games are winners, however. Lunar Lander is an acquired taste, requiring utmost precision and patience as you try to land an incoming space vessel on a landing pad. No need to worry, however – there's something here for everyone.

Atari Classics Evolved effectively copies the look and sound of old-school arcade games. All of these games emulate rather well, although the controls are occasionally stiff. Playing Super Breakout or Tempest with the PSP's digital pad just isn't the same as using an old-school "spinner" knob. (It doesn't help that the only way you can play them is by holding the system vertically.) In addition, some of the Enhanced games also look laughable when compared to the original designs. The "present-day" Missile Command is unimaginative, adding color to the sky when it isn't necessary. (Pitch black works better here, as it's easier to see your targeting reticule.)

Although Classics doesn't support Game Sharing, it does feature AdHoc multiplayer with certain games. You can challenge a friend to a wall-bashing match of Warlords or hunt each other down in Battlezone's virtual tanks. Although it lacks online scoreboards and Infrastructure play, it's still worth a go if you're looking for something to pass the time with.

What's really cool about Evolved is the Award system. There are over forty Achievement-like rewards to unlock. Most of them are very hard to acquire, forcing you to reach a certain level or obtain a ridiculously high score. You'll unlock fifty-plus Atari 2600 games, restored in all their 4-bit glory. Such games as Combat, Adventure (a favorite amongst the 2600 lovers, as it's one of the first RPGs), Yars' Revenge, Demons To Diamonds, and many more are available.

Atari Classics Evolved is ideal at $20 – even if you don't attempt to unlock all of the 2600 games. However, there aren't gaping amounts of extras that delve into the history of the company. There's also no sign of the retrospective interview clips with Atari founder Nolan Bushnell that made their way into previous collections.

Overall, you'll definitely get your money's worth out of Evolved, especially if you grew up with Atari. For the rest of you, this is one heck of a history lesson. Don't miss your chance to enroll, especially with tuition this cheap.

Our Final ScoreGood

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