Atari and Playmaji Announce Strategic Collaboration for Retro Hardware and Software Innovation
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Published on: July 06, 2023
Description
Atari and Playmaji, Inc.
– the developer behind the innovative modular Polymega console – have announced a significant strategic partnership aimed at advancing the retro gaming landscape.
This collaboration promises to bring new retro hardware and software initiatives to both the Polymega and Atari VCS platforms, paving the way for expanded compatibility and a richer library of classic gaming content.
Polymega, known for its modular design that allows users to play a wide range of classic games across different hardware generations, is set to unlock new possibilities for owners of the Atari VCS system.
Through this agreement, the upcoming Polymega App and Polymega Remix add-on will become accessible on Atari VCS hardware.
According to the official press release, this integration will "effectively provide all the functionality of a Polymega console to Atari VCS owners," offering an extensive boost to the platform’s capabilities.
In return, Playmaji will develop a new 'Element Module' for Polymega, introducing support for physical cartridges from iconic Atari systems such as the Atari 2600 and Atari 7800.
This long-requested module enables Polymega users to play and digitally archive their classic Atari collections directly through the console.
Further enhancing the Polymega ecosystem, Atari-owned titles will soon be available for purchase in Polymega's upcoming digital storefront, providing a legal and accessible way for fans to expand their retro libraries.
Adding to the momentum of this collaboration, Atari has also made a minority investment in Playmaji, with financial disclosures confirming a sum of $5,441,999, as first reported by @PowerDubs.
This move underscores Atari’s growing commitment to preserving and innovating within the retro gaming market.
Wade Rosen, Chairman and CEO of Atari, commented on the agreement, stating that Polymega’s innovative approach aligns closely with Atari’s own ambitions in the retro gaming sector.
Rosen noted that the partnership will "greatly expand the capabilities of the Atari VCS while also making the Polymega platform itself more compelling," emphasizing the benefits to fans eager for new ways to access classic content.
He also highlighted Polymega’s contribution to legally making retro titles available while respecting intellectual property rights.
Playmaji CEO Bryan Bernal remarked that the partnership serves as a strong endorsement of Polymega and will "expand our audience and add compatibility support for one of the industry’s most important brands in retro gaming." Bernal signaled the deal as an important step forward for Polymega’s growth and retro innovation.
Both the Atari VCS and Polymega platforms have experienced challenges since launch, with the VCS facing hurdles in gaining widespread adoption since its 2021 release, and the Polymega encountering extended production delays.
Addressing concerns from the early adopter community, Playmaji assured that remaining pre-orders for Polymega consoles, bundles, and modules are set to be fulfilled in the near future, and the previous lengthy wait times have been effectively resolved.
In parallel with these developments, Playmaji continues work on the Polymega App and an N64 Element Module, further reinforcing its commitment to expanding retro gaming compatibility.
As Atari and Playmaji join forces, retro gaming enthusiasts on platforms like Nintendo Switch and eShop can look forward to a reinvigorated ecosystem that honors classic titles while leveraging modern technology for a new generation of players.
