Subj : Re: Atari 400; meh.
To   : hollowone
From : Darklord
Date : Thu Jul 27 2023 13:10:36

It's interesting to me to watch criticims of some retro computer
platforms. To be honest, you have to approach it with the idea of, "but
what did it mean then?". Trying to view it through a modern lens is mostly
pointless, IMHO.

Let me give an example. I got my first Atari 520ST in like late 1985,
early 1986 (don't remember exactly). I got the SC1224 color monitor, 3.5"
floppy drive, 520ST, and some software thrown in for under a $1000. When
the Amiga came out just a few months later, it was $1500 just for the
base unit alone. Mac? PC? Forget it - I would have had to rob a bank or
something similar to be able to afford one, and then, they were *way*
underpowered compared to the Amiga and Atari at that time.

So sure...PC's eventually caught up and bypassed both machines. It took a
while though and I still *loathe* Windows to this day. I use Kubuntu
Linux primarily, with one Win10 box for a few games that underperform
with Wine.

Bear in mind that Tramiel and Atari managed to design and release for
sale, a modern computer within a -6- month time period. Has that ever
been done before or since?  Something to think about.

As far as looks. I've not seen one PC ever that could rival the looks of
my Atari Mega ST, Mega STe or STacy. I'd state the same thing about the
original Amiga A1000 - I think it's a beautiful machine.

I'd still rather fire up one of my Atari's than sit and look at a Windows
box. No heart...no spirit...no soul. Microsoft made sure of that.  :)

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