Will Atari make a new console?

Yes, Atari is attempting to make a comeback in the gaming hardware market, though their efforts have been somewhat niche and less mainstream compared to other giants like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo.

Atari’s Recent Consoles

Atari has already released a new console in recent years, called the Atari VCS. Here's an overview of this effort and its future:

1. Atari VCS (2020)

The Atari VCS is a modernized version of the classic Atari 2600, which was first released in 1977. The Atari VCS combines retro gaming with modern technology, allowing users to play classic Atari games while also supporting modern games through downloadable content.

• Design and Features:

  • The Atari VCS features a retro-inspired design but with modern hardware, including a custom AMD processor, capable of running modern games and streaming media.
  • It comes with built-in games from Atari’s classic library, such as Asteroids, Centipede, Breakout, and more.
  • The console has a Linux-based OS, allowing users to install additional software and apps. It also has support for 4K resolution and HDR for a modern experience.

• Launch and Reception:

  • The Atari VCS was crowdfunded in 2018, with the console launching in 2020 after a long period of development.
  • While it was well-received by retro gaming fans, the console has struggled to capture mainstream attention due to competition from larger companies and its niche appeal.
  • Critics praised the console’s ability to run both retro and modern games but felt it didn’t offer anything truly groundbreaking in terms of new gaming experiences.

• Expansion:

  • The Atari VCS also allows access to the Atari Vault, which gives players access to hundreds of classic Atari games through a subscription-based service.
  • The console is designed to be a multimedia device as well, offering features like streaming services (Netflix, YouTube) and the ability to connect to modern PC peripherals.

Atari VCS Product Page

2. Future of Atari and New Consoles

Atari is known for its retro gaming legacy and has largely focused on nostalgia-driven products. As of now, Atari has not announced any new console plans beyond the VCS, but here are a few things we can expect:

• Cloud Gaming: Atari has shown interest in cloud gaming and has partnered with VCS platforms like Antstream Arcade to offer cloud-based gaming options. This suggests that they could lean more into cloud gaming or streaming services for future consoles or products.

• Atari’s Commitment to Nostalgia: Atari has continually leaned into its classic catalog of games, and it’s possible that future efforts will focus on further enhancing the retro gaming experience with updated hardware or services.

• Collaborations with Other Companies: Atari has sometimes partnered with other brands to release hardware products. For example, they’ve collaborated with Atari Flashback mini consoles (miniaturized versions of older systems) and may continue to explore partnerships for new hardware or limited-edition products.

Will Atari Make a New Console?

Given their historical focus on retro gaming, limited resources, and the competitive landscape, it seems unlikely that Atari will release a mainstream console to directly compete with PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo. However, the company may continue to target niche markets with retro-inspired consoles or hardware that appeals to collectors, nostalgic gamers, and fans of Atari’s legacy.

That said, Atari could still surprise the gaming community with a new retro console or next-gen ideas. Their past efforts, like the Atari VCS, have shown that they are not completely finished with console hardware. For now, the VCS appears to be their main focus.

Atari's Legacy and Current Position in Gaming

Atari, though not a major player in today’s competitive gaming market, has a rich history and continues to maintain an influence in the gaming world. The company’s ongoing efforts in retro gaming hardware, its legacy games, and new products like the Atari VCS ensure that Atari remains a part of gaming culture, albeit in a smaller niche.

Atari Official Website

Conclusion: Will Atari Make a New Console?

While Atari’s future consoles will likely continue to center on nostalgia and retro gaming, there may still be potential for innovative hardware in the future, but don’t expect them to challenge the likes of Sony or Microsoft. For now, the Atari VCS remains their flagship hardware, but it’s unclear if Atari will attempt to launch a completely new console in the coming years.