Tag: Atari

  • Cozy Repair Sim: Fix Retro Tech in 2000s Akihabara

    Cozy Repair Sim: Fix Retro Tech in 2000s Akihabara

    Key Takeaway

    – New demo for *ReStory: Chill Electronic Repairs* available on Steam
    – Set in mid-2000s Tokyo, repairing retro electronics like PSP, DS, and phones
    – Features collaboration with Atari, including classic consoles like Lynx and 2600
    – Core gameplay: disassemble, clean, solder, and reassemble devices
    – New demo includes airbrush customization, bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements

    tinyBuild and the developer Mandragora has dropped a fresh demo for a relaxing repair sim called ReStory: Chill Electronic Repairs. You get to fix a Nintendo DS and a PSP, which is pretty neat if you like old tech.

    The setting of this game is in Tokyo

    It lets players step into the shoes of a average electronics repair shop owner in Tokyo in the mid-2000s. The game guides you through relaxing, hands-on repairs of gaming consoles, mobile phones, and peripherals, alongside managing the repair shop and a branching story driven by how well you treat and serve your customers.

    Akihabara is the backdrop

    The game is set against the backdrop of Akihabara, and your suppose to calmly fix devices ranging from flip phones to gadgets you may have seen in the 2000s. Furthermore, a collaberation with Atari brings the company’s classic console lineup to the repair bench as well.

    Steam Next Fest demo is out

    The updated demo is already available as part of Steam Next Fest and further fleshes out the gameplay with new tools and quality-of-life improvements based on player feedback. tinyBuild stated on Steam, “The demo offers an expanded look at the pre-release version of the game and introduces new gadgets like the Atari Lynx (as part of the collaboration with Atari) and the Patento BS, which draws inspiration (but not too much inspiration) from one of the most iconic gaming handhelds. Another addition to the demo compared to the playtest build is the airbrush drawing tool, which allows players to visually customize devices—some of the community creations can be seen in the latest trailer.”

    Bug fixes and visual polish

    The demo has also been patched with some bug fixes, visual polish, and better controls to help the cozy repair sim feel more complete. As expected, the core loop of the game requires you to carefully disassemble various Y2K and 2000s-era pieces of tech like the PSP, DS, mobile phones, music players, and more.

    What you do in the game

    The gameplay involves opening up the devices, cleaning out dust and debris, replacing faulty components, soldering connections, and reassembling everything. Furthermore, the collaberation with Atari means you’ll get to work on 1:1 recreations of the company’s iconic lineup of retro consoles, including the Atari Lynx, Atari 2600, and Jaguar.

    Full release is coming soon

    The full version of ReStory: Chill Electronic Repairs is slated to launch on PC via Steam later on and will be playable in English. For now, the demo is free to download on Steam, giving players a chance to tinker with older hardware and see how a Japanese repair shop in Akihabara thrived in the mid-2000s.

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  • Atari Acquires Implicit Conversions to Revive Retro Games on PS1 and More

    Atari Acquires Implicit Conversions to Revive Retro Games on PS1 and More

    Key Takeaway

    1. Atari is actively rebuilding its presence in the retro gaming industry through acquisitions and partnerships, notably acquiring Implicit Conversions and collaborating with Digital Eclipse.
    2. Implicit Conversions specializes in emulating classic games using its proprietary Syrup engine, supporting multiple legacy systems, with plans to expand to PlayStation 2 and beyond.
    3. Atari’s strategy includes leveraging a suite of proprietary emulation tools to expand its catalog of retro titles and license its brand across various gaming ventures.

    Atari’s Comeback and Strategic Moves in Retro Gaming

    Atari is really making moves to get back into the limelight in the world of old school video games. They just bought Implicit Conversions, a studio based in Delaware that is all about emulating and bringing back games from the 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit days to modern gadgets and consoles. This move seems like a serious effort to capitalize on the current love for retro games.

    Innovative Emulation and Future Plans

    Implicit Conversions is pretty famous for its special Syrup engine. This is an advanced tool that helps them port old games onto new devices, even without having the original source code of those games. They support multiple classic gaming systems, including the PlayStation and PlayStation 2, which they are still developing support for. It’s clear they got big dreams for expanding beyond the current systems.

    Reviving Classic Titles and Collaborations

    Over the past few years, the studio has brought back over a hundred beloved games, like Sly Cooper, Tomb Raider: Legend, and Fear Effect. They’ve done this work for consoles like PS5, PS4, Switch, and personal computers. Their collaboration with Atari’s subsidiary Digital Eclipse has also opened up new projects, showing their growing influence. Digital Eclipse recently worked on some original PlayStation titles, notably in collections like Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection and Rayman’s 30th Anniversary Edition.

    Historical Context and Company Resurgence

    Atari’s journey from its massive failure in 1984, during the North American video game crash, has been dramatic. In 1983, they lost over $536 million, which led to their split and sale in 1984. Fast forward to 2026, and Atari is back with a focus on nostalgic games. Earlier this year, they bought Digital Eclipse for $20 million, valuing their expertise in emulating older games and their collaboration with Nightdive Studios.

    Leadership and Future Expansion

    Wade Rosen, the CEO of Atari, explained their strategy, saying that Implicit Conversions’ ability to handle 32-bit games enhances what they already do with 8-bit and 16-bit games. With tools like the Bakesale and Kex Engines, plus their talented engineering team, they are aiming to grow their catalog and support their partners’ backlists. This approach seems designed to keep Atari relevant and innovative in the ongoing retro gaming revival.

    Brand Expansion and Licensing Efforts

    Recently, Atari has been very active in licensing their game library and brand name, riding on the wave of positive public perception. They’ve launched portable game consoles under their brand, emphasizing their nostalgic appeal while exploring new ventures to keep their name alive among gamers today.

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  • Atari Remakes Mattel’s Intellivision Console – Pre-Order for $149.99

    Atari Remakes Mattel’s Intellivision Console – Pre-Order for $149.99

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Intellivision Sprint is a new retro gaming console celebrating the 45th anniversary of the original Intellivision from 1979.
    2. The console features a vintage design with modern updates, including a wooden trim and gold plates.
    3. It includes wireless, rechargeable disc controllers that charge automatically when placed in the console dock.
    4. The Intellivision Sprint supports HDMI connectivity and has USB-A ports for connecting original Intellivision controllers.
    5. Pre-orders are available for $149.99, with shipping expected by December 2025, including two controllers, 48 overlays, a USB power adapter, and an HDMI cable.

    Atari has revealed a new retro gaming console that holds a special place in gaming history, as it was created to compete with the Atari 2600. This console is called the Intellivision Sprint, and it serves as a contemporary version of the 1979 Intellivision made by Mattel Electronics.

    Celebrating 45 Years

    The introduction of the Intellivision Sprint aligns with the 45th anniversary of the original device. While the new console will keep many design elements from the past, it incorporates updated features. Notably, it will showcase a wooden trim on the front and gold plates adorning the top.

    Modern Features

    The console will come equipped with receiver-style disc controllers, but unlike their predecessors, these will be wireless and run on rechargeable batteries. When placed in the console dock, the controllers will begin to charge automatically. Atari plans to include 48 double-sided overlays to accompany the 45 pre-installed games.

    Connectivity Options

    Atari has stated that the Intellivision Sprint will support an HDMI port for easy connection to TVs or monitors. Additionally, there will be USB-A ports that will allow users to connect original Intellivision I and II controllers through an adapter.

    The Intellivision Sprint can be pre-ordered now for $149.99, with shipping expected to start by December 2025. The package will include the console, two controllers, 48 overlays, a USB power adapter, and an HDMI cable. For now, pre-orders are exclusively available through Atari’s website, in contrast to the Atari GameStation Go, which can be ordered on Amazon for $179.99 ahead of its October 31 release.

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  • Atari CEO Wants to Remaster Panzer Dragoon Saga and Snatcher

    Atari CEO Wants to Remaster Panzer Dragoon Saga and Snatcher

    Key Takeaways

    1. Atari’s CEO, Wade Rosen, wishes to see remastered versions of Panzer Dragoon Saga, Ogre Battle, and Snatcher, despite potential sales risks.
    2. Atari is focusing on reviving classic titles, resulting in a significant revenue increase of 63.7% by March 31, 2025.
    3. Panzer Dragoon Saga has a cult following but faced serious development issues and limited initial release.
    4. The Ogre Battle series rights are now with Square Enix, which has already remastered it as Tactics Ogre: Reborn in 2022.
    5. Rosen highlights the need to balance passion and profitability in business, promoting collaboration within the team for project decisions.

    Atari’s CEO Wade Rosen has recently shared his personal list of games he’d love to see remastered. He mentioned three titles: Panzer Dragoon Saga, Ogre Battle, and Hideo Kojima’s 1988 creation Snatcher. Despite the potential risks to sales, Rosen expressed his strong desire to see these games refreshed.

    A Personal Touch

    In a discussion with VGC, Rosen explained his motivation behind these choices:

    “Life’s too short, you know? I have my own favorites too, right? If we ever got the chance to dive into Panzer Dragoon Saga, Ogre Battle, or Snatcher, that would be amazing…

    Oh, Snatcher is my ultimate wish. Right? I mean. I’m not sure it would succeed, but I would probably push for it and ensure we went ahead with it, just because I’d love to work on something like that.

    However, we need to maintain a balance. If Atari turned into ‘what game does Wade want to develop?’ we wouldn’t last very long.”

    Atari’s Retro Focus

    Lately, Atari has been concentrating on reviving older titles, having acquired studios like Digital Eclipse and Nightdive to enhance and compile classic games. This strategy has proved quite effective for the company. Atari saw a 25% rise in revenue year-over-year in 2024, which spiked to 63.7% by March 31, 2025.

    Panzer Dragoon Saga, which hit the shelves in 1998 on the Sega Saturn, marked a major shift for the franchise from rail shooter gameplay to turn-based RPG battles and open-world exploration. Despite only 30,000 copies being released globally, the game has achieved cult status.

    Development Challenges

    Unfortunately, the game faced serious internal development issues, and two team members sadly passed away due to stress, as noted by Yukio Futatsugi.

    The Ogre Battle series started in 1993 with the SNES game Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen. This series combined five tactical RPGs with real-time strategy elements. However, the rights to the franchise now belong to Square Enix, which has already remastered it as Tactics Ogre: Reborn in 2022.

    Snatcher, a graphic adventure game with a cyberpunk theme, was written by a young Hideo Kojima during his early days at Konami in 1988. It’s clear that his work on this title influenced themes later seen in his successful Metal Gear Solid series. The game has been ported to various systems like MSX2, PC Engine, and Sega CD, yet it hasn’t had a modern remaster despite fan interest and Rosen’s enthusiasm.

    Balancing Passion and Business

    Rosen emphasized the importance of balancing passion and profitability at Atari. He concluded the interview with some insightful remarks:

    “The aim is to achieve both. At the very least, that’s part of the give-and-take in any business. If you lean too far one way—if you are only focused on numbers—it can stifle the company’s spirit. Conversely, if you’re only driven by passion, you may struggle to keep the business afloat.

    We’re observing a lot of both extremes in the industry today, and we try to find a middle ground. However, we always encourage the team to choose together… you know, we collaborate to decide what projects to pursue.”

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  • Atari Expands Gaming Portfolio by Acquiring 5 Ubisoft IPs

    Atari Expands Gaming Portfolio by Acquiring 5 Ubisoft IPs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Atari has acquired the intellectual property rights for five game titles from Ubisoft, paving the way for re-releases and potential sequels.
    2. Notable titles in the agreement include Cold Fear, Child of Eden, I Am Alive, and Grow Home, which have been inactive for a long time.
    3. The deal aims to revive these games, expanding their availability on different platforms and reaching new audiences.
    4. Atari has recently acquired Nightdive Studios and Digital Eclipse, enhancing its capabilities in remastering classic titles.
    5. Ubisoft reported €2.32 billion in net bookings for its 2023-2024 fiscal year, maintaining a strong portfolio with popular franchises.

    Atari and Ubisoft have made a significant deal that allows Atari to take over the intellectual property rights for five game titles from Ubisoft, setting the stage for their modern re-releases and possibly new sequels in the future.

    Ubisoft’s Enthusiasm

    Deborah Papernik, Vice President of New Business at Ubisoft, expressed her excitement in a statement:

    “Millions of players have experienced these worlds over the years, and this will open the door for long-time players to revisit those memories while inviting new audiences to discover them for the first time.”

    Notable Titles Included

    One of the titles included in this agreement is Cold Fear, a survival horror game developed by Darkworks. Players take on the role of Tom Hansen, a US Coast Guard Officer who investigates a mysterious Russian whaling ship.

    Another title is Child of Eden, which came out in 2011 as a rhythm-based rail shooter. Directed by Tetsuya Mizuguchi, who is known for Rez, Lumines, and Tetris Effect, the game utilized the Kinect sensor on Xbox 360 and the PlayStation Move controller on PS3, while still supporting standard controllers.

    In addition, I Am Alive, released in 2012 for Xbox 360, PS3, and PC, is a post-apocalyptic survival game where a father searches for his lost family in a ruined hometown.

    Reviving Old Favorites

    The platforming game Grow Home, which debuted in 2015, follows a robot named B.U.D. as he climbs and nurtures a Star Plant to sustain his planet. Its sequel, Grow Up, was released in 2016.

    These games have been inactive for a long time, primarily associated with the Xbox 360 and PS3 period, and none have previously been available on Nintendo systems. Atari aims to reintroduce these titles under its publishing label, potentially adding new content and expanding platform availability to reach a larger gaming audience.

    Atari has also recently acquired Nightdive Studios and Digital Eclipse, both renowned for remastering classic titles. A recent project, Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, comprises 11 games from the series, including versions for arcade, console, and portable systems.

    Expanding Atari’s Portfolio

    Furthermore, Atari has become a major stakeholder in Thunderful Group, known for the SteamWorld series, purchased rights to Transport Tycoon, and has even acquired its former competitor Intellivision.

    On the other side, Ubisoft reported net bookings of €2.32 billion for its 2023-2024 fiscal year. The company continues to have a robust portfolio of franchises, including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six, and Ghost Recon.

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  • Atari Acquires 82.6% of Thunderful Group for €4.5M

    Atari Acquires 82.6% of Thunderful Group for €4.5M

    Key Takeaways

    1. Atari has invested €4.5 million to acquire an 82.6% stake in Thunderful Group, making it the majority owner.
    2. The investment involves a share issue of 333,333,334 new ordinary shares, priced at SEK 0.15 each.
    3. Thunderful has faced financial challenges, including disappointing sales and a 20% workforce reduction in 2024.
    4. A restructuring plan is set to cut costs by SEK 6 to 8 million in late 2025 and SEK 40 to 45 million in 2026, with further layoffs expected.
    5. Atari reported significant growth, with 2025 revenues reaching €33.6 million, up 63% from the previous year, as it shifts focus to PC and console gaming.

    Atari has revealed a significant investment of €4.5 million to obtain an 82.6% ownership in Thunderful Group, the Swedish company known for titles like Islanders, Lost in Random, and the SteamWorld series.

    Investment Details

    According to GlobeNewswire, the transaction will involve a directed share issue of 333,333,334 new ordinary shares priced at SEK 0.15 each, bringing the total investment to SEK 50 million or €4.5 million.

    This acquisition makes Atari the majority stakeholder in Thunderful. The deal has received full backing from the board of Thunderful, as well as from two major shareholders, Brjann Sigurgeirsson and Owe Bergsten, who together control 29.9% of the voting rights and have agreed to the deal.

    Streamlined Process

    Atari was able to simplify the investment process after receiving an exemption from the Swedish Securities Council. Wade Rosen, CEO of Atari, referred to this acquisition as a “milestone” in enhancing the company’s European publishing and development capabilities. In a statement, Rosen expressed:

    “Thunderful is known for publishing and making critically praised games, and with the announced transformation plan alongside the talent and dedication of Thunderful’s teams, we trust that Thunderful will be back on a profitable growth track.”

    Financial Overview

    Thunderful reported revenue of SEK 292 million or €25 million for 2024. The company manages five development studios and has a portfolio that includes over 20 intellectual properties, ranging from SteamWorld: Dig to Lost in Random.

    However, Thunderful has encountered financial difficulties due to disappointing sales from recent titles like Lost in Random: The Eternal Die. The company has also let go of 20% of its workforce in 2024.

    Future Restructuring

    More layoffs are anticipated at Thunderful as the company implements a restructuring plan aimed at cutting costs by SEK 6 to 8 million in the latter half of 2025, and SEK 40 to 45 million in 2026.

    These cost-reduction strategies will likely necessitate further staff reductions in both game development and publishing areas. During this transition, CEO Martin Walfisz is expected to resign by December 31, 2025.

    In contrast, Atari has seen robust growth, with revenues for 2025 reaching €33.6 million, a 63% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting its shift towards PC and console gaming, including upcoming titles like Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection and the 25th Anniversary Remaster of System Shock 2.

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