Remember I, Robot? Not the Will Smith movie, or even thr Isaac Asimov tale. No, we mean the 1984 arcade game where you played a rebellious robot taking on a surveillance state.Â
Well, it’s back, and it’s bringing some serious visual firepower, thanks to games industry legend Jeff Minter. This isn’t just a straight port, though. This reimagining for modern platforms looks to inject the classic gameplay with a dose of modern psychedelia.
The core of I, Robot was always its unique gameplay. Navigating those grids, dodging enemies, and ultimately taking down the ever-watchful “Big Brother” eye was a distinct experience. This new version promises to build on that foundation, offering challenging grids that will test players’ reflexes and strategic thinking.
What really sets this apart is the collaboration with Jeff Minter. His name is legendary in the world of visually stunning and often mind-bending games, utilizing vibrant colors, abstract shapes, and a pulsating, almost hypnotic, aesthetic. It’s a perfect match for I, Robot‘s frenetic action, promising a visual experience that’s as engaging as the gameplay itself. Imagine the classic grid-based action amplified by Minter’s signature style.
The original I, Robot was developed as an Atari arcade machine by Dave Theurer, and released in the UK in 1985. It never had an official port, so this news is welcome.
The game’s developers are promising wave after wave of enemies, so expect a challenge. It’s not just going to be a pretty light show; you’ll need to bring your A-game to survive. Whether you’re a veteran of the original or a newcomer to the world of I, Robot, this looks like a fascinating revival.
Keep an eye out for I, Robot‘s release on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series, Nintendo Switch, Steam/PC, and Atari VCS. It’s a chance to revisit a classic, reimagined for a modern audience with a distinct visual flair. Will it capture the magic of the retro game it is based on, while forging its own identity? That remains to be seen, but it’s certainly one to watch. Learn more on the Atari website.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
We collect the most important retro gaming news and articles and send them to you weekly, absolutely free.
