Atari Details New Console System

NORTH AMERICA—Atari has released new details about its upcoming gaming console, Ataribox, leading up to its release in spring 2018.

April 6, 2018

The classic gaming brand’s return to the market will feature modern updates such as live streaming and social integrations.

Among the highlights:

The console will launch with a large back-catalog of Atari classic games, and current titles from a range of other studios.
It will also include streaming, applications, social, browsing and music.
Ataribox will run a Linux OS, with a user interface customized for the TV. Given the open nature of the OS, players will also be able to access and play compatible games from other content platforms.
Ataribox will be powered by an AMD-customized processor with Radeon Graphics technology, and offer games and more.

“With Ataribox, we wanted to create an open system, a killer product where people can game, stream and browse with as much freedom as possible. Atari games and content will be available as well as games and content from other providers,” says Fred Chesnais, chief executive officer, Atari. “We also wanted to launch Ataribox with our community, and reward our fans with exclusive early access, special editions, and include them as active participants in the product rollout.”

Ataribox will first be made available via the Indiegogo this fall, with a targeted global launch in spring 2018. The expected price range is from $249 to $299, per specific editions and memory configurations.

Additional details on content and partnerships will be released at a later date.

“People are used to the flexibility of a PC, but most connected TV devices have closed

systems and content stores,” says Feargal Mac, General Manager, Ataribox. “Ataribox is an open system, and while our user interface will be easy to use, people will also be free to access and customize the underlying OS. We've chosen to launch Ataribox with Indiegogo given their focus on delivering technology products, and their strong international presence in over 200 countries, allowing us to reach and involve as many Atari fans around the world as possible."