In a move that tugs at the heartstrings of gaming enthusiasts and nostalgia-seekers alike, Atari, in collaboration with PLAION, has revealed plans to reintroduce the iconic Atari 2600 console to the modern world.
The upcoming release, aptly named the Atari 2600+, aims to recapture the magic of the late '70s and early '80s gaming era while combining modern conveniences and features. With a slated global launch on November 17, the console is already available for pre-order at a price point of $129.99.
Drawing inspiration from the classic four-switch CX2600-A model from 1980, the Atari 2600+ arrives with an authentic wood paneling frontage, paying homage to the original design that sparked a gaming revolution. This modern iteration aims to strike a chord with purists by including a recreated CX40+ joystick controller that emulates the look and feel of the original 2600 Joystick Controller, adding a layer of nostalgia to the gaming experience.
You still have the old cartridges? That is amazing because the Atari 2600+ is backward compatible with both Atari 2600 and 7800 game cartridges, allowing gamers to dive back into their vintage gaming collections and relive the classics that defined an era.
The new console offers a selection of ten launch games, meticulously crafted using modern technology to capture the essence of the original Atari 2600 gaming experience. The launch titles include iconic names such as Adventure, Combat, Dodge 'Em, Haunted House, Maze Craze, Missile Command, Realsports Volleyball, Surround, Video Pinball, and Yars' Revenge.
Image Credit: Atari
As part of its modernization, the Atari 2600+ incorporates a range of features aimed at enhancing user experience. These include an HDMI output for seamless connectivity to modern displays, USB power for convenient powering options, and support for multiple screen resolutions, adapting to various display setups.
“We’re excited to be working with Atari to bring back the Atari 2600 and help meet the growing consumer demand for retro hardware,” said Commercial Director of Retro at PLAION, Ben Jones. “For gamers who remember the thrill of playing arcade games at home for the very first time, the Atari 2600+ will take you right back. For everyone else, the offer is one of timeless fun and the chance to experience a golden age of video games in a way that could only come from Atari.”
Additionally, PLAION has replicated the twisty CX-30 Paddle Controller, offering users an opportunity to engage with classic games using the same controllers that captured the imagination of gamers decades ago. The paddle controller is available for purchase separately or as a bundle with a four-in-one multi-game cartridge.
Atari's CEO and chairman, Wade Rosen, emphasized the company's commitment to preserving classic games by bringing the Atari 2600+ to the market. The collaboration with PLAION, renowned for its quality recreation of iconic hardware, solidified the decision to breathe new life into this beloved gaming relic.
“Preserving classic games is a priority for Atari, and the release of the Atari 2600+ will make the hundreds of Atari 2600 and 7800 games that have been released over the last 50 years universally accessible,” Wade Rosen said. “PLAION’s approach to a quality recreation of iconic Atari hardware made them the perfect partner to bring the Atari 2600+ to market.”
The Atari 2600+ launch is marked by a sense of rekindling the past while embracing the convenience of modern technology. Its faithful recreation of the classic console, complete with wood paneling and iconic joystick, caters to both long-time fans and newcomers seeking to experience the golden age of video gaming.
With the promise of accessibility to hundreds of original Atari 2600 and 7800 games, the Atari 2600+ might very well bridge the gap between generations, offering a taste of gaming history in a contemporary package. As November approaches, anticipation for the revival of this gaming legend continues to build among gamers of all ages.
