Colecovision vs. Atari 5200
Which Super System Should You Buy?
by Mark Brownstein
[Appeared in the August/September 1983 issue of "Video Games Player"]

        The ads read "Special Sale on Atari's Super Game system." Elsewhere
in the same ad, equally large letters announce, "ColecoVision: State of
the Art Video System. Bring the Arcade Experience Home." Both systems
carry the same price tag. Which of the "best" is the best? Over the past few
months other magazines have reviewed the ColecoVision and the Atari 5200, but
none have had the guts to stand up and give a head-to-head comparison.
That's where we come in. We've turned these machines inside out to find
out which does what best. Here are our results. . .

Cosmetics

        Both units are black with silver accents. ColecoVision is smaller 
than the 5200, with the cartridge port at the middle of the top right half 
of the unit. The left half has recessed spaces for controllers. At the front 
of the ColecoVision is a door for expansion devices. 
        The 5200 is BIG. It is about the same width as ColecoVision, but four 
inches deeper. The unit has storage wells for the controllers under a flip-up 
cover at the rear of the unit. In the middle is the game cartridge port 
(which is also larger than that for ColecoVision). At the front of the unit 
are four connections for joysticks. On the bottom, at the back of the unit, 
is a pry-out plastic piece covering the 5200's expansion access. The size of 
the 5200 may be a consideration, all other things being equal, because you 
may not have enough space to store it.
        The on-off switch on both units is on top. The 5200 has a small light 
bulb and extremely sensitive touch switch, while ColecoVision's is the 
sliding variety, with no light. Two cords run from ColecoVision to the TV set 
(power and signal cords). On the 5200, one fat cord is enough to handle both 
functions. Atari has also, very kindly, provided a space at the bottom of the 
5200 to wrap excess cord, reducing the mess that comes with most home video 
games.

Hookup

        ColecoVision, using a large clunky transformer, has two plugs in its 
back: one for power, and one for the signal to the set. The other end of the 
signal cord attaches to a switch box near your TV set. 
        The 5200 has a hookup which has received mixed reviews. One cord 
travels between the 5200 and the switch box. The switching is automatic; when 
you turn on the 5200, the TV antenna is disconnected, bringing the game 
signal to the set. Turn the 5200 off, and the TV antenna signal (regular 
programming) is reconnected. This means no more trips to the back of the set 
before you can play the game.
        There are some disadvantages to this type of set-up. If you want to 
play your old 2600, or use your video cassette recorder or videodisc machine, 
this hookup poses problem which may take a while to figure out (you may need 
an A/B switch). As long as you remcmber that the 5200 hook-up functions like 
a break in the antenna line to the set, you should be alright.

Controllers
  
        Both units have Intellivision-type (appearing) controllers, which
consist of twelve button keypads, a joystick, and fire buttons on either side. 
But there are major differences between them.
        The Coleco controller fits into the palm of most hands, has a 
self-centeringjoystick (when you take your hand off, it returns to the 
center), and a single fire button on either side. It's the kind you are 
probably already used to. The number buttons are recessed under the plastic 
cover, and can be somewhat unresponsive. In terms of game play, joystick 
movement may be almost too precise. In Donkey Kong, for example, you have 
to be in a certain exact spot to climb the ladder. Considerable practice is 
required to steer Mario to the spot.
        The Coleco controller has the nine-pin Atari-type plug. This allows 
you to use your favorite controller to play on the ColecoVision. If you do 
that, in order to start the games, you will have to use the keypad to select 
an option. There are numerous Y-adapters available to allow you to hook up
both the Coleco controller (for keypad functions) and your add-on controller.
        The 5200 joystick is a major departure from anyone else's. The 
numeric buttons are raised rubber buttons. On either side is a pair of fire 
buttons which, in some games, perform different functions. The 5200 could 
allow for four different shooting functions, although this would probably 
cause more confusion and cramped hands than it's worth. The fire buttons are,
to a lot of people, too small and hard to reach.
        At the top of the 5200 controller are three buttons: Start, Pause, 
and Reset. If you are in the middle of a game and the phone rings (or nature 
calls), a quick touch of the Pause button allows you to stop the game. When 
you return, touching the pause button allows you to pick up where you left 
off. My only criticism about this set-up is that the Pause and Reset are too
close together--in your attempt to save a super game, you may reset a super 
game.
        The 5200 stick is non-centering: the stick stays where you left it, 
rather than returning to center. This takes some getting used to. It is also 
slower to respond than the Coleco stick, and more difficult to make very 
quick, short movements. You may find it hard to operate on games that require 
such action.
        But in some games, the joystick is superb. Centipede was designed to 
accept Atari's trak-ball controller. Unless you're really hooked on the 
coin-op game, you don't need the Trak-ball. The 5200 controller lets you move 
your bug anywhere in the allowed space. It's kind of like a trak-ball with a 
handle. On-screen response is very fast, and after a little practice, very
accurate. Added to all this, there is very little resistance to movement of 
the joystick--it goes where you want it to without fighting back. If you 
expect to play for hours at a time, the 5200 stick should prove less tiring, 
though Coleco's provides better action.

Graphics
  
        The basic measure of graphic quality is the degree of resolution 
(how many picture elements, or pixels, can be displayed on the screen). Atari 
wins this contest, 320 to 256. The difference in resolution between the units 
is really minor. Both provide very good on-screen images. What really makes 
the difference is how those numbers are used.
        So far, Coleco seems to have an edge. In ColecoVision, the screen is 
usually filled with color and detail, as in Zaxxon and Smurf. Atari seems, in 
their first batch, to be content to program games with shadow and outline. It 
will be interesting to see how colorful games like Kangaroo and Jungle Hunt
will look on the 5200. Both systems show 256 colors.
        Besides resolution, one of the key elements of game play relates to
the number of items (sprites) that can be moved on the screen independently 
and simultaneously. In the VCS, the limit was three, which accounted for the 
blinking of the ghosts in Pac-Man. ColecoVision is capable of handling 32 
sprites at one time and Atari claims to be able to handle even more. Their 
ability to handle many sprites was demonstrated by their excellent 
interpretation of Centipede. The fact that there were multiple mushrooms with 
well-defined mushroom shape tends to support Atari's claim. With similar 
degrees of resolution and sprite-handling capacity, it is difficult to decide 
which system provides better graphics unless you look at the games themselves.

Software

        Okay, we know how they look and feel. How do they play? In both 
cases, the answer is (with exceptions) very well. Compared to the granddaddy 
2600, both systems represent a major step forward.
        Atari has an edge in one area--they don't have to compete for 
licenses to Atari arcade games. Thus, Centipede was unavailable to Coleco, 
since it was already owned and developed by Atari. Similarly, Pole Position, 
and Xevious won't make it onto ColecoVision. Coleco has fought back with 
arcade licenses of its own--Zaxxon, Donkey Kong, Turbo and Mousetrap. See
the box to find out who owns rights to your favorite arcade games. Both 
companies are selling their cartridges for $30-35, so if you prefer the Atari 
licensed games, maybe the 5200 is for you. Likewise for Coleco. Confused? Go 
to your local arcade and play these games. The Atari and Coleco versions will 
be very close to the originals. You'll find Coleco has licensed more arcade 
games, though some of them, like Looping and Pepper II, were not what you'd 
call blockbusters.
        If you remember back to the early days of the Atari 2600, for the 
first few years Atari was the only manufacturer of VCS software. VCS owners 
had to be content with what they got, since there wasn't anyone else making 
new games. It wasn't until Activision and Intellivision shocked the world by 
bringing out games with improved graphics and game play that Atari had to 
come out with great game cartridges.
        The 5200 is in a position that is roughly comparable to that. 
ColecoVision got a jump on it, so there aren't as many 5200s out there. And 
Atari has to develop software for four different systems: arcade games, the 
VCS, the 400/800 computers and, finally, the 5200. Actual commitment to 
development of software will probably proceed in the above order. Even for a 
giant like Atari, that's spreading yourself thin.
        Coleco sources report that, among others, Fox, Parker Brothers, 
Imagic and Sirius Software are developing games for ColecoVision. It would be 
safe to assume that in the short run, the Coleco system will have more 
available software than the Atari system.

Expansion
 
        Both systems are great for playing games now. But what of the future? 
Atari will be producing a keyboard for the 5200, but has offered few 
specifics. Here is our best guess...
        In many ways, the 5200 is an Atari 400 computer without a keyboard. 
Therefore, the 5200 keyboard should allow access to the 16K of memory, and 
have BASIC language programming built-in. It appears doubtful, according to 
Atari sources, that this keyboard will accept software already developed for 
the 400 or 800 computers. Atari's approach seems to be intended more as an 
introduction to computing than it is to provide a device that can be used as
a stand-alone computer.
        Coleco describes ColecoVision as a "high-powered computer whose full
potential will be realized in June." The design of the unit itself, with an 
expansion port in front, indicates that enhancement was one of the key 
objectives. The Coleco add-on is promised to include "all the peripherals 
needed to make it a functioning computer when you take it out of the box." My 
guess is that the "under $150" unit will consist of a keyboard, a thermal
printer, and probably an Input/Output device. The operating system will 
probably be BASIC, and provide access to the internal 16K memory, The screen 
will display up to 24 lines of 40 characters in two colors.
        Both Coleco and Atari will support their computer keyboards with 
extensive software. ColecoVision uses the Z80A microprocessor unit, which is 
the heart of many computer systems (TRS-80 and others), and a video processor 
almost identical to the TI 99/4A computer. This will make writing programs 
for both TI and ColecoVision relatively similar, and would also simplify 
modification of existing Z80 programs. A great deal of software may be 
developed rather rapidly to support the ColecoVision Computer.
        Both systems have an Atari VCS expansion module, so you can play 
2600 compatible games. As of this writing, Coleco and Atari were fighting 
over Coleco's right to sell its module, although sales continue to be made.
        Both Coleco and Atari have a Trak-Ball device (Coleco's version is 
called Roller Controller). Both work well and enhance specially designed 
games. The Coleco controller carries a suggested price of $70 and includes a 
Slither cartridge. Atari's Trak-Ball retails for $79.95 and does not include
a cartridge. Coleco will also be releasing its Super Action Controller, made 
to enhance play of srveral games. Two controllers, plus the Super Action 
Baseball cartridge, retail for under $70.
        A driving module is also sold for ColecoVision, which includes an 
accelerator pedal and a steering wheel. This controller retails for $80 and
includes the Turbo cartridge. Demolition Derby will follow. Atari is 
developing many unique controllers, although they have not released any
details regarding them. By the time you read this, there may be a driving 
controller to support Pole Position. 
        Atari will introduce a voice module at the end of the year, with 
software designed to make use of voice (and possibly voice recognition). 
Although Coleco announced a voice module a while back, whcn asked about the 
voice for their unit, they were speechless.
        Finally, we have what Coleco calls its Supergame Module. This will 
allow you to play a game with up to 100 screens. For example, you could play 
an "exact" version of Donkey Kong, complete with opening scene of Kong 
climbing the ladders. The module will not improve lhe graphics, but it will 
tremendously increase the availahle memory for game data.
        On the whole, Coleco seems to be more active in pursuing expansion 
capabilities of their system.

But What Should You Buy?
 
        Now it's time for you to make your decision. Both of these systems 
are good. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. 
        Cosmetically, they are both good-looking. Atari takes up more space.
        Atari is a little easier to hook up and providcs less wires to mess 
up your living room.
        While I prefer the Atari controllers, most people I know like 
Coleco's much better. You should test them both.
        The graphic capability of the two is about the same. So far, Coleco 
has put prettier pictures on the screen while Atari owns the licenses to the 
arcade "classics." See the box for Atari and Coleco's future games. Right 
now, four other companies are making games for ColecoVision, but only Parker 
Brothers has announced releases for the 5200.
        If you're interested in computing, Coleco seems more intent on 
turning their system into a full-function computer than Atari. However, you 
might just want to buy a full-function computer.
        Atari is concentrating on voice modules, while Coleco is coming out 
with hand controller and added-memory modules.
        Now--have you made up your mind?

[Scanned and edited by Dennis Brown -- dgbrown (at) pixesthesia (dot) com]