Atari has announced the Atari 2600+, which will be a modern-day version of the iconic Atari 2600
Prior to the 1983 video game market collapse and Nintendo’s subsequent dominance with the NES, the Atari 2600 stood as the reigning console champion. Atari revolutionized the gaming industry with its iconic Atari 2600, which boasted an extensive lineup of games that served as a beacon of light for many game developers for generations to come. Atari has announced the Atari 2600+, which will be a modern-day tribute to the legendary console.
An Icon Returns… Introducing the #Atari2600+🕹️
Learn more at: https://t.co/6C5Rk5rCOp pic.twitter.com/CFkX6HTzhp— Atari (@atari) August 22, 2023
Atari 2600+ Features
Credit: @Atari
Atari and Plaion have introduced the 2600+, a contemporary reimagining of the four-switch model that emerged in 1980. While maintaining the distinctive woodgrain visuals and metal switches, the console incorporates contemporary touches like HDMI output, a USB port, and the ability to accommodate different screen resolutions. Bundled with the console is the CX40+ joystick, reminiscent of the original design and designed for two-player engagement.
Is Atari 2600+ Backward Compatible?
Atari has confirmed its compatibility with both Atari 2600 and later Atari 7800 game cartridges, ensuring a wide range of gaming options. The console also seamlessly integrates with the original joystick and paddle controllers.
What’s Powering Atari 2600+?
Running on a Rockchip 3128 System-on-Chip (SoC), the Atari 2600 Plus is equipped with a low-power quad-core processor that, although aging, is more than capable of handling classic Atari games.
What Games Are Coming With The Atari 2600+?
Coming one cartridge, the games include Realsports Volleyball, Video Pinball, Combat, Haunted House, Dodge ‘Em, Adventure, Maze Craze, Surround, Missile Command, and Yars’ Revenge.
Atari 2600+ Promises To Recreate The Magic Of Atari 2600
The minds behind the Atari 2600+ project took it upon themselves to deliver an authentic recreation of the original console. This dedication guarantees that fans can expect the same tactile sensations when using the joystick, the metal switches will evoke the familiar feel, and the console’s iconic woodgrain front panel will be faithfully replicated.
“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,” Atari Chairman and CEO Wade Rosen said in his statement. “PLAION’s approach to a quality recreation of iconic Atari hardware made them the perfect partner to bring the Atari 2600+ to market.”
Atari 2600+ Pricing
Launching on November 17th, the Atari 2600+ will carry a price tag of $129.99. Those interested can reserve their unit ahead of time via pre-orders on Atari’s official website. Separately, CX40 joysticks will also be available for purchase at $24.99 each. Furthermore, Atari and Plaion are gearing up for the release of the CX-30 Paddle Controller bundle, which will encompass the paddle accessory and a 4-in-1 game cartridge, offered at a price of $39.99.