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 horizontal, left-to-right progression.
The core gameplay remains the same – using a paddle to bounce a ball and break bricks. However, as players build combos, the visual spectacle intensifies with vibrant lights and effects. Special bricks trigger spectacular effects, from massive explosions to a powerful laser cannon!
Prepare for 72 challenging levels, plus an unlockable endless mode with an online leaderboard to compete for high scores. Prefer some friendly competition? Breakout Beyond also offers local two-player cooperative mode.
Interestingly, Breakout Beyond's journey is as unique as its gameplay. Initially planned as an Intellivision Amico exclusive 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 – maintaining the essence of Breakout while introducing a completely innovative approach. Breakout Beyond is a truly worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing the amazing combos players will achieve."
The Intellivision Amico, initially announced in 2018 with a targeted 2020 release, remains unreleased, facing numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision brand and intellectual property last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond is launching later this year on a wide array of platforms: PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.
