Breakout Beyond Revives Atari Classic for Nintendo Switch and Modern Platforms

Atari’s Breakout, the iconic 1976 brick-busting arcade game, is set to launch in a new form as Breakout Beyond.

Developed by Choice Provisions—the veteran studio behind Runner3—this latest reinvention promises to bring fresh energy and features to a beloved classic on modern hardware, including the Nintendo Switch, PC, and other major consoles. Breakout Beyond marks a significant update to the familiar formula.

Revealed in Atari’s latest official announcement, the remake flips the classic’s vertical orientation horizontally.

Unlike the original, where the paddle moved along the bottom edge, the updated version positions paddle controls on the left side of the screen, allowing vertical movement up and down as players guide shots toward bricks and advance toward the goal.

Scrolling action, enhanced visuals, and modern effects inject new excitement, while a two-player cooperative mode introduces additional layers of chaos and fun. The development journey for Breakout Beyond has been notable.

Originally announced as an exclusive for the Amico Intellivision console, Atari finalized an agreement in 2024 to acquire and complete the game’s development.

This came after the company’s purchase of the Intellivision brand in May 2024, signaling a renewed strategy for acquiring and reviving classic game IP. According to official press materials, Breakout Beyond will feature: - An unlockable endless mode with a global online leaderboard for high-score chasers - 72 uniquely designed levels to challenge players’ reflexes and strategies - Competitive and cooperative two-player action for shared arcade fun - Procedurally generated audio and visual effects that scale up with intense combos This latest release continues Atari’s recent efforts to revisit and modernize its back catalog.

Following Dreams Incorporated’s successful return of Lunar Lander in 2024 as Lunar Lander Beyond, and the launch of Breakout Recharged on Switch in 2022, Atari has demonstrated a clear dedication to honoring gaming history while leveraging current technology and trends.

The company’s strategic acquisitions and revived development pipeline have responded to past criticisms of low-quality releases and branding missteps, with tangible improvements for both long-time fans and new audiences. While the side-scrolling take on Breakout is a departure from tradition, industry observers and players alike will be watching closely to see if these innovations resonate.

Features such as online leaderboards, couch co-op, and escalating audiovisual effects could establish Breakout Beyond as a highlight among retro revivals on Nintendo Switch and other platforms.

There’s also anticipation around possible mode options, like a TATE mode for vertical screen alignment, that would further honor arcade origins. Breakout Beyond is set for release later this year across Nintendo Switch, PC, and consoles.

As Atari and Choice Provisions continue their collaboration, the game stands as the latest example of classic gaming revitalized for the modern era.

Nintendo Atari PC Switch Choice Provisions Breakout Beyond consoles Nintendo Switch