How Many Joystick Ports Were on the Rear of the Atari ST?

This article provides a definitive answer regarding the game controller connectivity found on the classic Atari ST computer series. It outlines the specific number of joystick ports located on the rear panel, details the connector type used for these inputs, and explains their compatibility with popular controllers of the 1980s. Readers will gain a clear understanding of the hardware layout that facilitated multiplayer gaming on this 16-bit system.

The standard Atari ST models, including the 520ST, 1040ST, and later STE variants, were equipped with two joystick ports. These ports were situated on the rear of the machine, grouped alongside other input and output interfaces such as the MIDI IN/OUT, floppy disk drive connector, and monitor port. Placing the joystick ports on the back was a distinct design choice compared to home consoles of the era, which typically featured front-facing controller connections for easier access during gameplay.

Each of the two ports utilized a 9-pin D-sub connector, which was the industry standard for Atari-compatible controllers at the time. This design ensured broad compatibility with digital joysticks made for the Atari 2600 and Atari 7800. Users could plug in standard Atari-style sticks to navigate desktop environments or play games, allowing for two-player simultaneous action in supported titles without the need for additional adapters or hardware modifications.

Having two ports on the rear panel defined the multiplayer capabilities of the system out of the box. While the placement required cables to run along the desk to reach the player, it kept the front profile of the computer clean and minimized accidental disconnections during intense gaming sessions. This configuration remained consistent across the majority of the Atari ST lineup, cementing the dual-port setup as a standard feature for owners of the hardware.