Atari Reveals a New Console for the First Time in 24 Years
- Aug 8, 2017
- 2 min read
Software and program developer Atari has been around for 45 years to date; original started as an engineering firm, Syzygy Engineering, the company had humble beginnings in creating arcade versions of available home video games before becoming most known for their Atari VCS (Video Computer System) 2600, which debuted in 1977. Since then, they have released numerous other consoles and games, but the last in recent history was the Atari Jaguar, which debuted in 1993. While Atari has gone through branding and ownership changes, its legacy as one of the most notable game developers in America is unchanged.
On June 8th of this year, Atari announced they will be releasing a new piece of hardware, aptly named “Ataribox”. Ataribox is shown to be designed in resemblance of the original 2600 design – ribbed top, rise at the back, and a wood veneer front on one version (the other will have be red and black with a glass front). The console is set to have HDMI, 4 USB, and SD card connectivity and will support classic and currently available games.
While Atari has hyped the masses with nostalgia vibes from the design to the game compatibility, they’ve remained silent on the internal specs intentionally, apparently in an effort to ensure community feedback is heard and things are done right with this system. As for a price and official release date, that is yet to be determined.
While many remain optimistic (however cautiously) about the release, there are doubts. In the past, Atari has had failures with certain consoles (namely the Lynx and Jaguar), several lawsuits tarnished and ultimately pushed Atari from the market in the 1990s. While many Atari fans are likely well into their golden years, this comeback may prove successful if they price the console right for its hardware and software. All we can do is watch Atari’s slow reveals of their progress as they go.
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