Breakout Beyond Puts a New Angle on Atari's Classic Brick-Breaker

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. Developed by Choice Provisions (creators of the BIT.TRIP series), this iteration retains the core paddle-and-ball mechanics but introduces a unique sideways scrolling perspective, moving players from left to right across the screen.

The objective remains the same: break bricks! As players build combos, the visual spectacle intensifies with dazzling lights and effects. Special bricks trigger spectacular events, from massive explosions to a powerful laser cannon. Breakout Beyond boasts 72 levels, plus an unlockable endless mode with an online leaderboard for competitive play. For those who prefer a collaborative experience, local two-player co-op is also available.

Initially planned as an Intellivision Amico exclusive in 2020, Atari has since acquired the project and completed its development.

"We're excited to bring this fantastic game to our players," stated Atari's senior director of games publishing, Ethan Stearns. "The team recognized the brilliance of the concept – preserving the essence of Breakout while completely reinventing its formula. Breakout Beyond is a worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate the incredible combos players will create."

The Amico console, initially announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 release, remains unreleased, facing numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision brand and intellectual property last year, but not the Amico itself.

Breakout Beyond is set to launch later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.