Atari is set to launch Breakout Beyond, the latest iteration of the timeless arcade game, Breakout, now imbued with fresh mechanics, vibrant visuals, and exciting effects. This new rendition promises an array of thrilling features, including 72 levels, a two-player cooperative mode, and an unlockable endless option. Gamers can look forward to diving into this reinvented classic in March 2025, available on multiple platforms including PC, Atari VCS, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Bringing back memories of its 1976 debut, Breakout captivated audiences worldwide, becoming a standout hit in arcades across the U.S. and Japan. It wasn’t long before it made a transition to the Atari 2600 console, followed by its successor, Super Breakout, in 1978. Fun fact for tech enthusiasts: before they founded Apple, Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs worked on the logic chips for the original arcade machines. Now, almost half a century later, Atari is flipping the script on this legendary series, offering players a completely new way to enjoy the classic game.
What sets Breakout Beyond apart is its unique twist on brick-breaking gameplay. Players aren’t just knocking down bricks anymore; they’re attempting to crash through walls with skillful combos that lead to spectacular effects. The game’s stunning audio and visual show is enhanced as players score higher. New special blocks add layers of strategy, unlocking everything from defensive barriers to laser cannons. The gameplay also has an interesting twist, with players progressing sideways instead of vertically. Players can enjoy 72 engaging levels and team up with a friend in co-op mode. Plus, there’s an endless mode to unlock, complete with a global online leaderboard. A new focus mode allows gamers to slow down time, perfect for lining up that critical shot.
Initially, Breakout Beyond was slated to be exclusive to the Amico Intellivision; however, Atari secured the rights and went on to finish its development. “We’re delighted to deliver this treasure to our audience,” expressed Ethan Stearns, Atari’s Senior Director of Games Publishing. “Our team loved the concept, keeping the essence of Breakout while giving it a whole new twist. We’re eager to see the incredible combos gamers will pull off.” Classic titles from Atari’s archive have been getting fresh updates lately, with Centipede: Recharged launching in 2021 and Yars Rising debuting in September 2024.
Atari has been on a buying spree recently, securing some notable acquisitions. Their move to acquire Intellivision in May 2024 brought together two iconic names in gaming, a decision that was well-received by the gaming community, particularly for its focus on preserving classic games. Earlier in 2024, Atari revealed its plan to make a comeback in the arcade space, collaborating with Alan-1, a coin-operated machine maker, marking its return to arcades after a 25-year hiatus.
Atari, founded back in 1972, quickly made a name for itself with arcade hits like Pong and home consoles like the Atari 2600. Despite a challenging history marked by the video game crash of 1983 and several ownership changes, Atari has continued to evolve. Their journey included a merger with IESA in 2008 and navigating through Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2013. Embracing a new direction, Atari has ventured into new products, software development, and even the hospitality industry, highlighted by the launch of the Atari VCS console.
