Atari Looks Strong Heading into 2024! Will it Continue?

Today we talk about the strong end to 2023 that Atari had with things like the licensed products by My Arcade (the mini and micro arcade player, the Atari 50th handheld and the Gamestation Pro) and the 2600 Plus along with their line of XP cartridges. But how can they follow up the end of 2023 with more success in 2024 and what Pitfalls (by Activision!) await them! Well lets watch and find out!
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3. Preserve the history of Atari in the video game hobby so that it survives long after us
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[@derekdash2179]

It’s nice that Atari shifted their focus when the new CEO came along. Previously there was talk about Atari hotels, crypto currrency, online casinos, etc. Stuff that nobody really was asking for.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

Yeah they were headed down a road of silly ventures and failure. I'm glad they're updating their classic IPs and moving forward with the fans that appreciate them!

[@2crude2crudeofficialband3]

Now if only the could get their shit together with the VCS, they’d be in terrific shape!

[@jayo1212]

@@2crude2crudeofficialband3I feel like the money used to buy stakes in those companies and IP's would have been better spent towards that, but we'll see what Atari does with them... And maybe I would be willing to forgive them if they actually made a good Rollercoaster Tycoon entry...

[@2crude2crudeofficialband3]

@@jayo1212 Yeah man, the biggest problem with the VCS is that there simply isn’t any terribly great software for it, or at least no great software that wasn’t already on something else. For example, the Atari 50 collection was a really good title, chock-full of great games, videos of the people who made Atari what it was, and other unlockables. It came out on EVERYTHING ELSE before Atari finally put it out on VCS as an afterthought. They had a golden opportunity to have a (temporarily) exclusive first-party title on their own system before releasing it on other platforms, and they even screwed that up.

[@pierregareau6590]

I'm a fan of rtero gaming in general, the only thing I can say is that Atari had a great year and a great revival, the best of the old console, They should have a good 2024 year if they continue in the same direction, I will be curious to know how many Gamestation pro and 2600 + would have been sold, thanks for the video

[@joshx9746]

I know i am enjoying this. I just picked up both the vcs and the 2600+ in the last month and have been having such a blast playing them both. I was real little when i first played atari games, and i really grew up more in the 8 bit nes age, so im just now starting to explore and appreciate their whole catalog, so many to play and try, good times 👍

[@thatredmanguy]

What Atari really needs to make is "plus" versions of the 8-Bit series and the ST family of computers. The fact that Atari is forgetting about its microcomputers from the 1980s makes the revival feels like its missing something. Those two computers are really big ones to miss, especially the ST as it's favored by many musicians. Edit: They actually are making a "plus" version of the 8-Bit series called the 400Mini which plays 400, 800, XL, XE, and even 5200 games and programs, so I hope it works out for them.

[@tamazonx]

I have to admit I have nostalgia for the 7800 -- which was the first console my family ever gifted me. I'd love to see Atari come out with a 7800+ bundled with the Euro-style 2 button gamepads, even if nothing internal was different.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

You know I bet they could do a special edition with the 7800 case. That's not a half bad idea, I hope Atari reads your comment!

[@douglasvanbeynen6825]

Euro pads are coming out. Hopefully the 1st quarter. The 2600+ can play 7800 carts so you'll have to use the 2600+ with the re-released Euro pads.

[@thatredmanguy]

Not a bad idea, the only thing is a 7800+ IS the 2600+. Maybe they could make a facelift version that is based on the 7800 and 2600 Jr case moldings since both have the same design languages.

[@jayo1212]

@@thatredmanguyas well as the 7800's European style controllers...

[@wackyworldofwindios3476]

Bring on the new Jagwire. I have 36 games but no console. I would definitely by one just so I could play my ( some worth a lot of money ) games.

[@whatspeedlimits]

Some VERY important things you missed- in 2023 Atari acquired 5% of Antstream, 7.5% of tinyBuild, 53% undiluted of Playmaji- the maker of the Polymega, 100% of Nightdive Studios, 100% of Digital Eclipse- as well as adding hundreds of IP for games purchased from various companies. For those paying attention- Atari's U.S. ticker is $PONGF and they are also traded in Paris, London, and Germany under other tickers.

[@jayo1212]

That money might have been better put towards improving the VCS, but we'll see what they do with them...

[@Jolt7800]

I join the Atari Network in welcoming new fans of the Atari as well as those who have a renewed interest in this iconic company. I know that in some Atari Facebook groups; there are a few members who are not so welcoming. I am definitely happy to see Atari getting stronger as well. And the more the merrier. Loved the New Year celebration at the end!

[@TheAtariNetwork]

Thank you. I didn't really do a Thanksgiving or Christmas video so this is my take on a new years video that will hopefully stay relevant for a few months lol I don't understand gate keeping in some hobbies. It seems like it would be negative to what you like and keep your hobby from gaining any traction or growing. So I invite everybody who is interested! Like you said the more the merrier!

[@ronpaynter7054]

Been an Atari Fan since the early 80's. I miss my old Atari 8 bit pc. Hopefully some day I can buy an old one someday.

[@thumpersquid]

HUGE Atari fan here!!!

[@TheAtariNetwork]

My kind of people!

[@socrates0603]

Great video, Jon. I have to admit that the current Atari has me slowly coming around to embrace it. I mean, I’ve always been an Atari fanboy - the company from the 70s and 80s. The company traded hands more than once, and as you mentioned, when the new owners mostly focused on new IP like Alone In the Dark and such, it lost me. I never embraced anything after the early 90s as “true” Atari. However, this current ownership has really done things right, or try to at the least, by embracing the past. I finally caved and bought the VCS 800 last May when it was on sale because it just looked too good. The design aesthetic-I just had to have one even if it was only going to be for shelf display. I am still on the fence about the 2600+ since if I want to play Atari games on the 4K TV, I am content to buy and play 2600 and 7800 games on the VCS. If it’s on sale later this year, maybe I’ll bite. As for the XP limited releases, I am not a fan, but then again, they always sell out so fast 😂 It’s obvious that I’m not the intended audience. So more power to Atari for tapping into that audience segment. As far as new games are concerned, I’m a big fan of the Recharged games. I hope we will see more.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

Great comment! This new iteration of Atari seems to be better and healthier than any since, well let's be honest the 80s. It's an exciting time!

[@madmax2069]

I would really love to see Atari focus more on their arcade systems, i mean they have a pretty extensive line up. I'd love for atari to bring out the ole arcade version of APB with paddle style controller (think of an indy 500 paddle but with a RC car controller grip with an analog trigger for throttle and a few extra buttons). Or Hard Drivin'/Race Drivin' on the VCS with the ability to plug in any old USB steering wheel (or even force feedback steering wheels). But i do wish that Atari would make a game with more substance than just arcade games tho, and not really rely on nostalgia. And definitely fix the VCS once and for all.

[@ethacade]

As an Atari shareholder I’m happy with their performance during 2023 I think this year 2024 they’ve already started off strong with QOMP 2 as well As the Atari Presents line of retro rereleases on Steam I also think it’s awesome that Digital Eclipse and Night Dive have already released some great games this year I’m hopeful that this year we see Atari continue to grow its library of games (both new IPs and retro classics) as well as seeing Atari expand its offerings on the VCS and 2600+ I also think Atari is in the phase of a huge comeback and will surprise people in 2024

[@TheAtariNetwork]

Thanks for the input!

[@chriskutz7144]

They'll be another Tramiel/ Warner Brothers era Atari and Piko Interactive .all bad arcades .Atari 2600 VCS and Nintendo NES crap nobody wants to buy/ play with.

[@ObsidianContraption]

I agree on your point that they seem to be shoving the history lesson in every new game that comes out. Haunted House cartridge collection, Neosprint has all the logos, Food Fight, with the broken arcade. They should just splash nostalgia here and there, but try and just make a good game

[@TheAtariNetwork]

Yeah it's a soft touch not a slap to the face. It gets to be too much and loses that wow factor quickly. Good point @obsidiancontraption

[@ObsidianContraption]

@@TheAtariNetwork all 3 of those games need some work, but they're all great games

[@TheAtariNetwork]

@@ObsidianContraption agree with that too

[@jayo1212]

"They should just splash nostalgia here and there, but try and just make a good game..." That's how Nintendo does it, for the most part...

[@ezedilu07]

I love that Atari is back on form :) I still couldn´t buy an Atari 2600+ but I really want one. I always wanted an Atari console and now seems like the perfect time :D I do have the 50th anniversary for the Switch though, I bought it specially for the Jaguar/Lynx games (I always wanted to try Cybermorph) and I´m glad that they are planning to add more games with updates :) I will also buy Chip´s Challenge (Lynx edition) for the Switch which releases at the end of this month :D

[@TheAtariNetwork]

The fun is back yes sir re, it's the 2600 plus from Atari! You're right there has never been a better time!

[@paul329]

They need to release an Atari Panther cartidge based mini console to compete with Evercade.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

That would be different but I think the 2600 plus mostly falls into that category. They release new carts for it plus the old work but I don't think releasing a console with new proprietary cartridges is something they're interested in. And from an interview I heard it sounds like a Jaguar plus wouldn't be likely but they didn't outright say never. Thanks for the thoughts and input and thanks for watching!

[@paul329]

@@TheAtariNetwork I would love a Jaguar plus, that would be amazing. I have a ton of carts, and new games for that would be great.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

@@paul329 it would be cool!

[@jollywankerproductions774]

Its always been about the games. I enjoy the new VCS even tho it has some issues, but I like it! Down the line I hope that they make a new Bubsy game and market the hell out of the character! I know its probably not popular opinion but I would love to see a remake of Cybermorph something like the original; a bright fast shooter...maybe get Jeff Minter to work on it!❤

[@dougoonk5480]

I would preorder a Jaguar mini if that happened

[@johneygd]

Atari should just leave the past and move forward,we have seen enough 2600 stuff.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

I agree to an extent but let's be honest, if the 2600 compilations and flashbacks didn't sell well there wouldn't be so many of them. I think Atari needs to lean on its past but in more creative ways. Atari 50th was a playable documentary and was something unlike what was seen before. I mean we had compilations with little facts and stuff but not to this extent. And Atari Mania was a smart use of the Atari properties even if it wasn't perfect. But now I think they need to figure out how to bring these classic games to the modern age without them feeling cheap or poorly implemented. And to do so they'll have to really think outside of the box. But that's just my opinion, there are tons of brilliant ideas floating around that are completely contrary to what I just said. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@lucian2701]

I guess I'm a 3rd gen onward Atari fan (or 'the Tramiel era'.. so 2nd gen? - I started with the ST, then Lynx, Jag, Falcon) and, credit to the newer Atari, they're now (hopefully) doing well insofar as they've finally got their head around being nice to their historic fans. And yes as someone has already said, an ST+ would be yummy but as it wasn't a big hit in the US I doubt it'll happen and in a way I think that's a good thing... BUT if they do I hope they keep those sexy Function keys that you could swipe your fingers across so smoothly. :)

[@JohnWindberg]

They need to release a spinner controller for Tempest on the VCS, the 2600+, and the GameStation, and then more properly support controllers that differ from modern day. Paddle controller and Trackball support on the VCS is a crime. One of the things that really differentiates old school Atari from the modern world is the variety of controllers.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

I do agree with that. It would be great for tempest and authenticity but I'm not sure how profitable it would be. Regardless I want it!

[@derekdash2179]

you do know that the classic controller functions as a spinner, right?

[@Toemuncher611]

I join the Atari fandom about soon to be 1 year old ago ( July 2023 ) I have finally gotten some Atari 2600 games and 5200 cartridge the game that I favor is Crystal Castle and space invaders. I do hope to get the Either the Atari 2600 plus or the original since I have 12 games for Atari console Edit: I just now realized Atari should renew the Atari karts for the Jaguar I feel like It been 29 years they can add or redraw some background and improve from what the technology that may stop Atari karts in mid 90s also they can more character like Mr run and jump and bring some homebrew character.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

I think I agree with you on Atari Karts. They have been building up their characters quite a bit and I think this new iteration could do a cart racing game much better. But outside of the characters and new levels they would probably have to add a new gimmick of some sort too. It would be fun to see regardless, good idea!

[@DummyThiccOwO]

Do you believe they will ever make a modern JagDuo? There is certainly demand from older fans and newer fans who have seen the hundreds of home brew games. To my knowledge they have access to the molds and boards for it, so I don’t see why they have not done it. Thanks for your answer in advance!

[@esperago]

If Atari released a Jaguar Mini, it'd be a day one purchase, hands down.

[@2crude2crudeofficialband3]

If Atari sold a Jaguar retro console for $130 sell I’m pretty sure it would fly off the shelves. For $100 it would be an instant hit. Of course, that’s assuming they do it RIGHT. Good build quality, a decent OS, smooth emulation, at least 20 built-in games and the inclusion of Alien Vs. Predator.

[@mrp4242]

We broke out the 2600+ with my my old 7800/2600 carts from the 80s (about 15 of each). However, about 1/2 of the carts had an error--I think it’s because they are dirty. This includes old favorites like Ms PAC Man and Food Fight for the 7800. Anyone have a good suggestion of what they used to clean it?

[@TheAtariNetwork]

If I'm in a hurry or being lazy I use alcohol and q-tips, but what works best for me is deoxit or circuit board contact cleaner. Opening them makes it easier but you could damage the labels. I had a lot of errors too but a good cleaning should fix it. Start with the alcohol if you have some and if that doesn't work order the cleaner. But someone else might have better advice...

[@mrp4242]

@@TheAtariNetworkthanks. I appreciate the insight!

[@KoolKatDave]

They are doing great things for sure, but I’d like them to ensure that product is ready for market before releasing it. I have the 2600+, but I don’t think I should have to update firmware after I paid a lot for the system. It should arrive updated and ready to go without glitches.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

I can see your point and I guess it could be taken as a negative. A lot of it depends on the ease of updating at the official update time too in my opinion.

[@KoolKatDave]

@@TheAtariNetwork right, I just feel like it’s not cool to make me an unpaid “programmer” in order get a new item working like it should before it gets to me.

[@PitfallHarry72]

The GSP joystick has TERRIBLE placement for the B and C buttons. It makes it unwieldy and difficult to use on games that require the use of all three. It's fine for games that only use the A button.

[@Sammy-be5dc]

Hope they redo all the games on cartridge.

[@2beJT]

They have 1 trick. That was their trick.

[@mixedhairless]

Maybe Atari should release the Intellivision Amico.. 😂

[@thatredmanguy]

Since they got the M Network games lineup as well as Amico games moving to the VCS, maybe they should, but they should leave the baggage of though... and the system itself.

[@bumpnscore]

VCS 800?

[@lessons9745]

The controllers need to be better. They can be janky, glitchy and laggy.

[@genblob]

Atari absolutely needs to explore their back catalog. Release 7800 games, the jaguar mini, and finally give their computers some attention. Atari's computers and other consoles is what made me such a massive Atari fan. I'm hopeful they will do all of these in the future.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

I agree. Your icon is awesome btw

[@genblob]

@@TheAtariNetwork Thanks!

[@PryorTravis]

It appears you can't download additions to the 2600+? If that's the case, it's pretty much useless because it only comes with 10 games and I've only heard of two of them. Extremely disappointed. My well-meaning son got it for me as a birthday present, but I don't even want to hook it up if the only decent games are Missile Command and Yars Revenge.

[@derekdash2179]

Well the idea is to use old and new Atari carts to expand your game library.

[@jayo1212]

Maybe see if you can get a copy of Custer's Revenge...

[@robertm8380]

Get raspberry pi 5 its better than game station

[@Lifesizemortal]

for me it's the fact that they keep putting out some new junk box every 6 months. I'd be confident in their vision if they had confidence in their own company, but it's like they're just looking for the new cash grab again and again and I can't justify that.

[@TheAtariNetwork]

Yeah it's an uphill battle to regain consumer trust after so many years of questionable activity, but they're heading in the right direction. Some fans they'll get back, some they won't and some new ones will come along as well.

[@Kilroy_5150]

It's not really "Atari" that's going strong but other companies using Atari's name for "retro" sales. The Atari 2600+ is the only item that's close to being "real" on Atari. The Gamestation Pro is an over-glorified emulator box with the name "Atari". The so-called "VCS" was a SHAMELESS cash-grab at people's nostalic pull. Atari needs to become "Atari" again and do something impressive and original.

[@whatspeedlimits]

Atari was formed in 1972 and SOLD to Warner in 1976- before the original VCS / 2600 was ever even launched. What 99.9% of people *think* was 'real' Atari- wasn't. The modern VCS is great- it is attractive, versatile, and well built. Your comments are ignorant and stupid.

[@chriskutz7144]

Oh What's so great about them ?!? They're not competing with Microsoft and Nintendo and Sony, let alone They're not even selling anything at Walmart and other places I shop at. GET REAL People and Bots.