>>11798558
The emulators run like lightning because it's so simple, but it has a bunch of buttons and switches on the console and it's pretty weird for a beginner to get into, so I recommend something that lets you see and access the switches easily such as the Greatest Hits DS collection or another emulator that shows the switch positions like Javatari.
Original 2600s let you use a Sega Genesis controller so it's not really cheating to play with a modern dpad instead of an original joystick.
>>11798765
>retrocheevos make it way more enjoyable unironically
This is actually true, you'll only get the most out of these games if you are trying to achieve something, most of them don't try to hook you or guide you like newer games. Activision games (which are some of the best the 2600 has to offer) usually have scores like pic related in the manuals (which you should read) that originally were minimum scores to mail in so they would send you a badge, but they're basically challenges that will test your skill and knowledge of the game and could be considered the equivalent of beating the game.
>>11798571
>2600 was not meant to be played alone in a dark room like modern video games
Yes it is, but instead of using shitty isolating gaming headphones that block out noise, you turn on a music stream or a comedy audio or something, or even just open your window for some crickets or rain, and get comfy.