Breakout, the iconic 1976 arcade game, is getting a modern makeover almost 50 years later! Breakout Beyond, developed by Choice Provisions (creators of the BIT.TRIP series), puts a fresh spin on the classic brick-breaker formula. Instead of the traditional vertical gameplay, Breakout Beyond features a unique horizontal progression, moving players from left to right across the screen.
The core gameplay remains intact: smash bricks with your paddle and ball. However, as your combo meter rises, the visual spectacle intensifies with dazzling lights and effects. Special bricks unleash spectacular power-ups, from explosive blasts to a powerful laser cannon!
Get ready for 72 challenging levels and an unlockable endless mode complete with an online leaderboard to compete for high scores. Prefer some friendly competition? Breakout Beyond also includes local two-player co-op.
Interestingly, Breakout Beyond's journey has been somewhat unconventional. Initially slated as an exclusive title for the Intellivision Amico in 2020, Atari acquired the project and completed its development.
"We're incredibly excited to share this fantastic game with our players," stated Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing. "The team recognized the brilliance of the concept – retaining the essence of Breakout while introducing a completely innovative twist. Breakout Beyond is a truly worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing the amazing combos players will create."
The Intellivision Amico, initially announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 release, remains unreleased, facing numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision branding and intellectual property rights last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond is launching later this year on a wide range of platforms: PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox Series X & S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.
