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Atari’s new Ataribox console will be like an NES Classic

Atari’s new Ataribox console will be like an NES Classic

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Atari started teasing its Ataribox at E3 this year, promising a “brand new Atari product.” While we saw a 20-second YouTube teaser that hinted the Ataribox would be housed in wood like the 2600, the video game maker has not provided many details about the console until today. Atari is now teasing more, including what the Ataribox looks like.

In an email to Atari fans, the company reveals “our objective is to create something new, that stays true to our heritage, while appealing to both old and new fans of Atari.” The new Ataribox is clearly inspired by the classic wood found on the Atari 2600, and the new console features ribbed lines, a raised back, and a front panel that can either be glass or wood. Indicator lights glow through these materials, and Atari is including SD card support, a HDMI port, and four USB ports on the Ataribox. Two versions of the Ataribox will be released, one in wood, and one in black / red.

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Atari plans to deliver classic games in the Ataribox, alongside “current content.” It’s not clear if that current content involves simply republishing Rollercoaster Tycoon, but it appears that the Ataribox will be similar to the NES and SNES Classic in providing access to old titles in modern retro hardware. While Atari has licensed its brand recently, the company is involved in the creation of the Ataribox. Hopefully that doesn’t mean Atari is just licensing its brand again for a partner to create and manage the hardware.

Atari isn’t providing any more information on pricing, release dates, game content, or even full specs right now. “We know you are hungry for more details; on specs, games, pricing, timing,” reads an Atari statement. “We’re not teasing you intentionally; we want to get this right, so we’ve opted to share things step by step as we bring this to life, and to listen closely to the Atari community feedback as we do so.”