Atari's iconic 1976 game, Breakout, is getting a modern makeover with "Breakout Beyond," a fresh take on the classic brick-breaker. Nearly 50 years later, this reimagining, developed by Choice Provisions (creators of the BIT.TRIP series), retains the core paddle-and-ball mechanics but introduces a unique sideways scrolling perspective.
Players progress horizontally, left to right, smashing bricks to achieve increasingly impressive combo scores that trigger dazzling light and visual effects. Special bricks unlock spectacular power-ups, from devastating explosions to a powerful laser cannon. Breakout Beyond boasts 72 levels, plus an unlockable endless mode with online leaderboards for competitive play. For those who prefer collaborative gameplay, a local two-player co-op mode is included.
Initially planned as an Intellivision Amico exclusive in 2020, Atari acquired the project and completed its development.
"We're excited to share this fantastic game with our players," stated Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing. "The team recognized the brilliant concept—maintaining Breakout's core gameplay while completely reinventing its presentation. Breakout Beyond is a worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate the incredible combos players will achieve."
The Intellivision Amico, initially announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 launch, remains unreleased, having faced numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision brand and intellectual property last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond is set to launch later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox Series X & S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.
