Atari and Plaion have introduced that they’ll be following up on their Atari 2600+ console with one other re-issue from their traditional line. This one is the Atari 7800+, primarily based on the 1986(ish) console.

Now, in case you’re like me, you’re most likely questioning what the purpose is. In spite of everything, the Atari 2600+ already performs Atari 7800 video games. Whereas the Atari 7800+ comes with a wi-fi model of the CX78 gamepad, it doesn’t appear BlueTooth is a function of the console. The controller connects to a wi-fi DB9 adapter, which implies it additionally works with Atari 2600+ and even unique {hardware} (and presumably different platforms that use DB9, such because the Commodore 64 and Sega Grasp System, however this isn’t confirmed). There have been solely 59 video games launched through the console’s unique lifespan, and it isn’t practically as ubiquitous because the Atari 2600. The very best I can let you know is, why not?

If there’s one factor I’ve realized about Atari, it’s that it has a really passionate and devoted fanbase. Tapping into and energizing that might repay in increasing that scene and subculture.

Alongside the 7800+, Atari can also be releasing a lineup of cartridge video games. Reasonably than simply reissues, these are largely homebrew ports by prolific developer Robert DeCrescenzo, together with Asteroids Deluxe, Bounty Bob Strikes Again, Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest, Area Duel, Frenzy, and Berzerk. They’re additionally releasing an extra 2600 video games, Caverns of Mars, Epyx Sport Assortment, M Community Assortment, and Realsports Assortment.

It’s onerous to not really feel enthusiastic about this. I imply, if I used to be wealthy and in control of an organization with an extended historical past, I’d undoubtedly revive their previous platforms. Like, if I one way or the other landed as CEO of Smith Engineering or whoever now owns the Vectrex and had the pockets to do no matter I needed, I’d completely make a brand new Vectrex launch occur.

Alternatively, this is likely to be a tricky promote for anybody who purchased the Atari 2600+. If there are any variations apart from aesthetics, I can’t actually find them inside the press data. Nevertheless, it does include the CX78 wi-fi gamepad and Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest. New cartridges are $29.99, whereas the controller is $34.99. The 7800+ itself is $129.99. So, in case you needed Bentley Bear’s Crystal Quest and a CX78 anyway, then the console itself is simply roughly $65. Sorry, I’m simply attempting to justify this to myself prematurely. I don’t actually pull in “remake the Vectrex” cash over right here.

The Atari 7800+ shall be obtainable someday in Winter 2024. Whether or not or not Atari can have the center to re-release the Atari Jaguar or Lynx stays to be confirmed.