Chris Inglis[Editor’s note: The Atari 2600+ can be pre-ordered locally through EB Games for AUD$189.95.]
Every now and then I get a news of a particular game or piece of hardware that gets the heart going and nostalgia pangs left and right. Today is one of those days as PLAION and Atari have announced the launch date for the Atari 2600+! This is a modern-day faithful recreation of the pioneering console that first appeared in 1980 and is said to be launching worldwide on November 17, 2023. At the time of writing this article, the Atari website states the Atari 2600+ and associated accessories are for sale in the United States only. Hopefully we’ll get some news on an ANZ launch soon.
Last year I had the privilege of reviewing the A500 Mini Retro console and that was a whole heap of fun, not only unboxing the unit and getting to feel the mini version of the Amiga 500, but to also take a look back in time at games I played as a kid. Now we will be able to do have those same experiences but this time, a chance to relive the glory days of the Atari 2600. Whether the nostalgia and shine wear off quickly or not, time will tell, but it’s exciting if this was one of your first gaming experiences in simpler times.
Launching with ten of the most recognized video games in Atari’s history, including Adventure® and Missile Command®, the Atari 2600+ has been created using modern technology to authentically replicate the original 4-switch Atari 2600 Video Game System. For those looking to relive the gameplay experiences of the ‘70s and ’80s, included with the Atari 2600+ is the CX40+ Joystick Controller, recreated with the same size and layout as the original 2600 Joystick Controller for that added touch of nostalgia.
“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,” said Atari Chairman and CEO, Wade Rosen. “PLAION’s approach to a quality recreation of iconic Atari hardware made them the perfect partner to bring the Atari 2600+ to market.”
“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.”
Key features include:
- BUILDING ON THE LEGACY: The new Atari 2600+ builds on the original machine with modern quality of life features such as HDMI output, USB power and multiple screen resolutions and includes a faithful replica of the original CX40+ Joystick.
- GO BACK IN TIME: The cartridge slot is backwards compatible with hundreds of original Atari 2600 and 7800 games. The Atari 2600+ launches with a 10 Games in 1 Cartridge which includes iconic games such as Adventure®, Combat®, Dodge ‘Em™, Haunted House®, Maze Craze™, Missile Command®, Realsports® Volleyball, Surround™, Video Pinball™, Yars’ Revenge®
- LOOK AND FEEL OF THE 1980’s: The Atari 2600+ has been lovingly crafted using modern technology from the movement of the joystick to the feel of the metal switches to the authentic woodgrain front panel.
PLAION and Atari also announce the availability of the CX-30 Paddle Controller with 4-in-1 multi game cartridge that will retail for US39.99. A standalone CX-40 Joystick will retail for US24.99. Additional launch titles, including cartridges for Berzerk Enhanced Edition and Mr. Run and Jump, will also be available for the Atari 2600+ for US29.99. The Atari 2600+ will be available at Atari.com worldwide (currently US only) at major retailers for US129.99 from November 17, 2023.
At the time of writing this article, the website states the Atari 2600+ and associated accessories are for sale in the United States only. Hopefully we’ll get some news on an ANZ launch soon. For more information on Atari 2600+ visit the official website. The Atari 2600+ can be pre-ordered locally through EB Games for AUD$189.95.
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