Atari is all set to bring back the old memories with their all-new Atari VCS that will hit the retail markets on June 15, 2021, with a price tag of $300 for the base console. You can also get the complete bundle for $400, which comes with the Classic Joystick (the one you remember from childhood) and an Xbox-like modern controller.
The Atari VCS is not merely a console to evoke nostalgic feelings, but it is a full gaming PC that can play 100+ Atari classic games, stream videos in 4K, and run any operating system of your choice. Michael Arzt, COO of Atari VCS, said that the console offers “something different” over PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Atari claims that their new console is “built for today,” – and its powerful AMD Ryzen processor with Radeon graphics and the 4K video support seems to validate the claim to some extent. However, the Atari VCS has only 32GB of built-in storage, while extra storage can be added with an external drive).
You can buy the Atari VCS on its launch date from retailers including GameStop, Best Buy, and Micro Center. You can also get it from the official Atari VCS website.
Atari Blockchain Division
Atari already has a blockchain division dedicated to exploring new opportunities in blockchain-enabled games and cryptocurrency.
The ATRI token has already launched in October last year. The Ethereum-based ERC-20 token is designed to be used in video games and esports betting.
At the center of Atari’s blockchain ambitions is the VCS console. The Atari VCS is equipped to run online blockchain games. Moreover, it will allow users to use the ATRI token to purchase games from Ultra’s Blockchain Gaming Store.
Atari has struck partnership deals with some big names in the blockchain world like The Sandbox, Arkane Network, and Enjin, and they are expected to broaden their horizons in the future.
“Our goal is first and foremost to be on the blockchain, to offer as many games and interactive experiences as we can,” Fred Chesnais, the CEO of Atari, said in an interview with Yahoo Finance.
In addition to that, Atari has licensed Animoca Brands with a non-exclusive distribution agreement for the Atari VCS in Asia. In December 2018, Atari announced to bring RollerCoaster Tycoon Touch and Goon Squad on the blockchain, but none of them is ready.