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 intact: smash bricks with a paddle and ball. However, as combo multipliers increase, the visual effects become increasingly spectacular. Special bricks trigger exciting effects, from massive explosions to a powerful laser cannon.
Breakout Beyond boasts 72 levels and an unlockable endless mode with online leaderboards for competitive play. For those who prefer teamwork, local two-player co-op is also available.
Interestingly, Breakout Beyond's journey is as captivating as its gameplay. Initially slated as an exclusive title for the Intellivision Amico in 2020, Atari acquired the project and oversaw its completion.
"We're excited to bring this fantastic game to our players," stated Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing. "The team recognized the brilliance of the concept – retaining the essence of Breakout while completely reinventing its style. Breakout Beyond is a worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing the incredible combos players will achieve."
The Intellivision Amico, initially announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 release, remains unreleased, facing numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision branding and intellectual property last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond is set to launch later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox Series X & S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Atari VCS.
