re: PlayStation 1 console

Yeah but he would also need all the individual games, and controllers, and PS1 memory cards too. None of them are expensive individually, but they would all add up, especially with shipping. I'm assuming you'd have to buy most of it piecemeal on ebay, unless there is a retro game store in your area.

The classic is a good option for someone who just wants a simple one time purchase and is content with just the games it comes with.

If you see yourself as getting more into the retro gaming scene, you definitely do want to go with the original hardware and accessories though.