Atari has just unveiled Breakout Beyond, their modern twist on the classic arcade game, Breakout. This new version introduces fresh gameplay mechanics, eye-catching visuals, and mesmerizing effects. Gaming fans can look forward to 72 levels, a two-player co-op mode, and an unlockable endless mode among other exciting features. Mark your calendars for March 2025 when Breakout Beyond will be available on PC, Atari VCS, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Back in the day, Breakout, released in 1976, took the world by storm, lighting up arcades everywhere and raking in profits both stateside and in Japan. Quickly transitioning from arcade to the Atari 2600, and inspiring its sequel, Super Breakout, by 1978, this game’s legacy is intertwined with tech legends like Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, who worked on its arcade cabinets before founding Apple. Fast forward nearly five decades, and Breakout is about to be flipped on its head with this innovative reimagination.
Breakout Beyond, developed in collaboration with Choice Provisions, the team behind the Bit.Trip series, reshapes the iconic Breakout experience with a splash of vibrant neon. This reimagined game doesn’t just stick to smashing bricks; it boasts a gameplay evolution where players build staggering combos to break through walls. Achieving high scores not only brings a sense of accomplishment but is visually rewarded with the game’s unique procedural audio and visual effects.
Moreover, special blocks unlock surprising in-game powers — think along the lines of protective shields or laser canons. Adding another twist, this game shifts the gameplay direction from vertical to horizontal, providing a fresh perspective. In Breakout Beyond, expect action-packed challenges across 72 levels, two-player co-op capability, and endless mode access, plus a competitive edge via an online global leaderboard. Perfecting your play is facilitated by a newly introduced focus mode, allowing gamers to slow time and take precise shots.
Although initially slated as an Amico Intellivision exclusive, Atari eventually took over Breakout Beyond’s production. Ethan Stearns, Atari’s Senior Director of Games Publishing, shared his enthusiasm: “Bringing this gem to our players is thrilling for us. The team embraced a brilliant concept that both honors Breakout’s original spirit and injects fresh, exciting elements. We’re eager to witness the outstanding combos players will achieve.”
Atari is certainly not new to reviving its iconic titles; Centipede: Recharged made its comeback in 2021, followed by Yars Rising in 2024. Moreover, Atari has been busy merging with industry veterans and making significant acquisitions. The May 2024 acquisition of Intellivision, bringing together two titans of the gaming world, was celebrated for its positive impact on preserving video game history. Earlier in 2024, Atari looked to the arcade market once more, forming a collaboration with coin-op manufacturer Alan-1, marking its return to this sector after a 25-year hiatus.
The Atari journey began in 1972, anchoring itself in the arcade games, home consoles, and computer scene of the ’70s and ’80s with classics like Pong and platforms like the Atari 2600. Despite challenges like the 1983 video game crash that led to corporate restructuring, bankruptcy, and various changes in ownership, Atari has consistently tried to reinvent itself. The company has kept moving forward with endeavors such as the modern Atari VCS console and has even expanded into developing hotels.
Atari’s story continues to evolve as it blends nostalgia with innovation, aiming to captivate both loyal longtime fans and the new generation of gamers alike.
