
Atari’s Breakout is Getting a Side-Scrolling Reboot
In a move that will likely divide retro gaming enthusiasts, Atari has announced a reboot of its 1976 classic, Breakout. The new game, titled Breakout Beyond, takes the original formula and gives it a modern twist by introducing side-scrolling gameplay, auto-scrolling levels, and a plethora of power-ups.
For those who may not be familiar with the original game, Breakout was a simple yet addictive title that involved moving a paddle to bounce a ball against bricks. The goal was to smash all the bricks on the screen, and it’s a formula that has been iterated upon many times since its release. However, Atari’s latest take on the classic adds a few key features that aim to breathe new life into the series.
The most notable change is the shift from top-down to side-scrolling gameplay. Gone are the days of simply moving left and right; instead, players will have to navigate through levels while constantly moving forward. This change may be jarring for some fans of the original, but it’s clear that Atari is aiming to appeal to a new generation of gamers.
In addition to the changed perspective, Breakout Beyond also introduces auto-scrolling levels. Players will no longer be able to pause and take their time to strategize; they’ll have to adapt quickly to the changing landscape as bricks and obstacles whizz by. This added layer of complexity should provide a fresh challenge for those who are familiar with the original.
One of the most exciting additions, however, is the inclusion of power-ups. Players will be able to unlock bombs that clear out entire sections of bricks, force fields that protect them from harm, and even a laser cannon that allows them to blast through tough levels. It’s these kinds of features that could potentially make Breakout Beyond appealing to gamers who may have written off the series as a relic of the past.
In addition to single-player action, Breakout Beyond will also feature local co-op multiplayer for two players. This is a great move by Atari, as it will not only provide an added layer of replayability but also offer a fun experience for friends and family to enjoy together.
Breakout Beyond will be available later this year on PC, Switch, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One, PlayStation 5/4, and the Atari VCS console. While no pricing information has been announced just yet, it’s clear that this reboot aims to bring a fresh take on an old classic.
Will Breakout Beyond be able to win over fans of the original, or will it alienate those who are loyal to the retro experience? Only time will tell, but for now, we’re excited to see what Atari has in store for us.
Source: http://www.engadget.com