Atari Unveils Adventure of Samsara: A Metroidvania Tribute to the Classic Adventure for Nintendo Switch

Atari has officially announced Adventure of Samsara, a new metroidvania-style game that pays homage to the legendary Adventure for the Atari 2600.

Revealed over the weekend, Adventure of Samsara is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch and other modern platforms in 2025.

Developed by indie studio Ilex Games, this title stands as a fresh entry inspired by the world of the original 1980 Adventure, but neither serves as a direct sequel nor a remake.

The Adventure franchise holds an important place in video game history.

Released in 1980 for the Atari 2600 and famed for being one of the first action-adventure games, the original Adventure introduced players to a pixelated camelot of dragons, mazes, and what would later become gaming’s first widely recognized Easter egg.

Now, over four decades later, Atari and Ilex Games are bringing that spirit to a new generation with Adventure of Samsara.

According to an official statement from Atari, Adventure of Samsara is “set in the world of Adventure,” but is crafted as its own standalone experience.

The game takes the form of a metroidvania, akin to another recent Atari revival, Yars Rising, which released in 2024.

Players will traverse ten distinct biomes—ranging from frozen wastelands to sprawling industrial labs—each filled with enemies, hazards, and secrets to uncover.

The developers cite classic titles like Prince of Persia (1989) as key touchpoints for gameplay, combining nostalgic 2D pixel art with contemporary design sensibilities. A representative from Atari explained that Adventure of Samsara offers a "deep, interdimensional fantasy world enriched with spiritual lore," ensuring that both new players and longtime fans will find something to appreciate.

Classic Adventure fans can look forward to a variety of hidden references, returning enemies, and cleverly placed Easter eggs that honor the legendary Atari 2600 title.

For those eager to explore, the game features collectible items that enhance health, mana, damage, and upgrade slots, on top of dozens of augments designed to let players personalize their playstyle. Adventure of Samsara’s release window is currently set for 2025, with platforms confirmed to include the Nintendo Switch.

Details about a specific launch date and the presence of the game on Nintendo eShop will be shared as soon as they are available. With this announcement, Atari and Ilex Games continue a recent tradition of reimagining classic IPs for the modern era, blending retro aesthetics with current gameplay trends.

Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for further updates about Adventure of Samsara as the official launch approaches.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Atari Switch Metroidvania Ilex Games Adventure of Samsara Prince of Persia Nintendo eShop Adventure