Breakout Beyond Puts a New Angle on Atari's Classic Brick-Breaker

Atari's classic 1976 game, Breakout, 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 iconic brick-breaker formula. Instead of the traditional vertical gameplay, Breakout Beyond features a horizontal progression, moving players from left to right.

The core gameplay remains intact: break bricks using a paddle and ball. However, as combo chains build, the visual spectacle intensifies with dazzling lights and effects. Special bricks trigger spectacular visual effects, from massive explosions to a powerful laser cannon.

Breakout Beyond boasts 72 planned levels, plus an unlockable endless mode complete with an online global leaderboard. For those who prefer collaborative brick-breaking, local two-player co-op is also available.

Initially slated as an Intellivision Amico exclusive in 2020, Atari acquired the project and oversaw its completion.

"We're delighted to bring this fantastic title to our players," stated Atari's senior director of games publishing, Ethan Stearns. "The team recognized the brilliance of this concept – preserving the essence of Breakout's gameplay while introducing a completely novel approach. Breakout Beyond is a truly worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing the incredible combos players will achieve."

The Amico console, initially announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 launch, remains unreleased, having faced 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 set to launch later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Atari VCS.