How to Run Classic Video Games on a New Computer

If you enjoy video games, you are probably aware of the vast number of classics titles available. However, many of these games were only available for console systems. Others were designed to run on older personal computers with outdated operating systems. Running many of these games on modern systems will result in errors or erratic performance, if you can get them to run at all.

The issue is further complicated by data storage formats. Many older games were originally distributed on floppy disks of various sizes. Few modern computers have disk drives that can load such disks. Simply installing the game onto your computer can cause major headaches if your computer doesn't have the required hardware.

Don't despair if you are a fan of classic games. All of these issues can be overcome if you are willing to invest some time setting up your computer.

If you can find a low-end computer, you may have few problems running classic games. Often such computers can be found for a very low price, or even free. Such a setup is optimal if you enjoy playing older DOS or UNIX games. Just plug in the computer, install the files, and start playing. If, however, you find that the games run way to fast, chances are you'll need to take a different route.

Emulators are the classic gamer's best friends. Emulator software allows your computer to act like an older computer or console system. These programs are often available for free, and most older console game systems can now be emulated on a newer computer. If you enjoy classic DOS games, download a DOS emulator. Or, if you want to play the old Apple II games that you enjoyed in your youth, just download the emulator and go. Console systems such as the Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Atari 2600, and Sony Playstation can all be emulated on a newer computer system.