Nearly 50 years after its debut, the iconic 1976 arcade game Breakout is getting a fresh, exciting makeover. Breakout Beyond, developed by Choice Provisions (the minds behind the acclaimed BIT.TRIP series), puts a unique spin on the classic brick-breaker formula. Instead of the traditional vertical gameplay, Breakout Beyond introduces a sideways scrolling perspective, sending players on a left-to-right adventure.
The core objective remains the same: smash bricks! But Breakout Beyond amps up the excitement with escalating combos that trigger dazzling light and effects. Special bricks unleash spectacular visual flourishes, from massive explosions to a powerful laser cannon. Prepare for a thrilling challenge with 72 levels planned, plus an unlockable endless mode featuring an online global leaderboard to test your skills against players worldwide. And if you prefer some friendly competition, Breakout Beyond also offers local two-player co-op.
Initially slated as an exclusive title for the Intellivision Amico in 2020, *Breakout Beyond*'s development journey took an unexpected turn. Atari acquired the project and completed its development."We're thrilled to bring this gem to our players," shared Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing. "The team saw a brilliant concept—preserving the core Breakout gameplay while completely reinventing its presentation. Breakout Beyond is a worthy addition to the Breakout legacy, and we eagerly anticipate the incredible combos players will create."
The Intellivision Amico, announced in 2018 with a projected 2020 release, remains unreleased, facing numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision branding and rights last year, but not the Amico console itself.
Breakout Beyond launches later this year on PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS.