Atari Jaguar Classic Atari Karts Returns: Songbird Productions Announces New Print Run with Wormhole 2000 and SpideX

Songbird Productions has announced the highly anticipated reprint of three beloved Atari Jaguar titles, headlined by the cult-classic racer Atari Karts.

Joining the lineup are the acclaimed homebrew releases Wormhole 2000 and SpideX, delivering a much-needed boost to retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors looking to expand their physical Jaguar libraries. Originally developed by Miracle Designs and published by Atari Corporation, Atari Karts first launched in North America in 1995, later reaching European gamers in 1996.

The title is best known as a kart-racing experience inspired by Nintendo's Super Mario Kart, boasting similar arcade-style mechanics and a creative rendering mode reminiscent of the SNES’s Mode 7 graphics.

Players race as Bentley Bear, the star from Crystal Castles, through vibrant tracks that channel the energy and charm of classic kart racers. Since its initial release, Atari Karts has gained renewed visibility as part of Digital Eclipse’s "Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration," released in 2022.

Despite this digital reissue, the original cartridge has retained its status as a collector’s item, frequently commanding prices in the hundreds of dollars due to its limited print run and enduring rarity.

Songbird Productions’ new release aims to make the game accessible once again, allowing fans to secure an authentic physical copy without the barrier of prohibitive secondary market costs. Songbird Productions’ announcement doesn’t stop at Atari Karts.

The latest reprint wave includes two notable homebrew titles by developer Phoboz: Wormhole 2000 and SpideX.

Wormhole 2000, which debuted in 2020, is a dynamic space shoot 'em up praised for its energetic gameplay and original design.

SpideX, meanwhile, represents a Jaguar conversion of the developer’s earlier 2019 title for the Vectrex, offering platforming action in a unique retro package. In a statement summarizing their goals, Songbird Productions emphasized the importance of preserving access to both official releases and community-developed games.

These new print runs mark a commitment to sustaining the legacy of the Atari Jaguar, offering both long-time fans and new players a fresh opportunity to experience these rare titles. Pre-orders for Atari Karts, Wormhole 2000, and SpideX open on January 30, available exclusively through the Songbird Productions website.

Retro collectors and fans of vintage gaming hardware should act swiftly, as demand for these reprints is expected to be significant given the enduring popularity and rarity of these titles in the Jaguar community.

Atari Atari Jaguar Jaguar retro gaming Songbird Productions Atari Karts Miracle Designs Phoboz Wormhole 2000 SpideX Atari Corporation Digital Eclipse