"Breakout Beyond: A Fresh Twist on Atari's Classic"

The iconic 1976 game Breakout is receiving a fresh update nearly 50 years later with Breakout Beyond, a reimagined take on Atari's classic brick-breaker. Developed by Choice Provisions, the creators behind the BIT.TRIP series, Breakout Beyond introduces a unique horizontal progression, moving players from left to right while maintaining the familiar paddle-and-ball gameplay.

The core objective remains the same—breaking bricks, but now with a twist. As players build combos, the game's lights and effects become more intense. Special bricks trigger spectacular effects, including massive explosions and even a laser cannon, adding excitement to the gameplay. Breakout Beyond is set to feature 72 levels, with an unlockable endless mode that includes an online global leaderboard for competitive play. For those who prefer teamwork, the game also offers a local two-player co-op option.

Originally intended as an exclusive title for the Intellivision Amico in 2020, Breakout Beyond's development took a new turn when Atari acquired and completed the project. Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing, expressed enthusiasm about the game, stating, "We're thrilled to be able to bring this gem to our players. The team thought it was a brilliant concept, preserving the heart of Breakout's gameplay while also giving the formula a completely new spin. Breakout Beyond is a worthy new entry into the Breakout pantheon, and we can't wait to see the insane combos brick-breakers will make."

The Intellivision Amico, announced in 2018 with an anticipated 2020 release, has faced numerous delays and challenges, and has yet to be released. Last year, Atari acquired the branding and rights to Intellivision, but not the Amico itself.

Breakout Beyond is slated for release later this year across multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.