Exclusive: Atari Unveils Breakout Beyond

Atari is all set to roll out Breakout Beyond, a fresh twist on the classic arcade game Breakout. Bringing a vibrant new look and gameplay, this release is a collaboration with Choice Provisions, the creative team behind the Bit.Trip series. This adds yet another gem to Atari’s extensive lineup, following the 2022 revamp, Breakout: Recharged.

Breakout made its debut in 1976, quickly taking the gaming world by storm and becoming a hit in game centers across the globe. With its popularity, it was ported to the Atari 2600, and by 1978, its sequel, Super Breakout, hit the arcades, leaving a distinct mark on gaming history. Fun fact: tech pioneers Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs were involved in developing the logic chips for the original game, before famously founding Apple. Now, Atari is prepping to flip the series on its head, offering fans a brand new experience.

Breakout Beyond promises to shake things up with a neon aesthetic and modern gameplay designed to captivate today’s players. The goal isn’t just to destroy bricks—players must strategically create combos, unlocking special effects that range from protective barriers to laser cannons. This twist injects fresh, exciting energy into the original formula. The game boasts 72 engaging levels, featuring options for two-player co-op, an endless mode, and a global online leaderboard. A unique focus mode allows players to slow down time, making it easier to aim with precision for those high scores.

Fans eagerly waiting can mark their calendars for March 2025 when Breakout Beyond becomes available on PC, Atari VCS, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.

Originally, Breakout Beyond was exclusive to the Amico Intellivision, but Atari stepped in to own and finish the game. Ethan Stearns, Atari’s Senior Director of Games Publishing, expressed excitement about the release, highlighting its innovative gameplay while staying true to the heart of the original. Atari is making waves, breathing new life into classic titles like Centipede: Recharged (2021) and Yars Rising (2024).

Atari has been on a growth trajectory, making strategic acquisitions, including Intellivision in May 2024, bringing two iconic gaming brands under one roof. This move was welcomed by the gaming community, emphasizing the importance of preserving gaming history. Earlier in 2024, Atari announced its return to the arcade scene after a 25-year hiatus, in partnership with Alan-1, a coin-op specialist.

Atari, originally established in 1972, has a storied history famous for arcade games and home consoles like Pong and the Atari 2600. Despite facing challenges, including the 1983 video game crash and financial setbacks, Atari has reinvented itself multiple times. Now, with new ventures, including the Atari VCS and innovative game releases, they continue to carve their path, bridging nostalgia with modern gaming dynamics.