Breakout, the iconic 1976 arcade game, is getting a modern makeover nearly 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 progression, moving players from left to right.
The core gameplay remains: break bricks using a paddle and ball. However, as combos build, the visual effects become increasingly spectacular. Special bricks unleash amazing effects, from powerful explosions to a laser cannon!
Breakout Beyond boasts 72 levels and an unlockable endless mode with online leaderboards. For those who prefer cooperative gameplay, local two-player co-op is also available.
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 excited to bring this fantastic game to our players," stated Atari's senior director of games publishing, Ethan Stearns. "It brilliantly preserves the core Breakout experience while introducing a completely innovative approach. Breakout Beyond is a worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate the incredible combos players will create."
The Intellivision Amico, initially announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 release, remains unreleased, plagued by various setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision branding and rights last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond will launch later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox Series X & S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Atari VCS.
