Despite being first announced in 2017, the Atari VCS is yet to ship to anyone who didn’t back the Indiegogo project. But that is about to change with news that preorders of the erstwhile Ataribox are shipping, with the device order to buy later this month.
There has been some concern over the past four years as to whether the project would ever see the light of day. Particularly early on, Ataribox was considered a huge joke.
But with a thrilling game launch video (above) to feast your eyes on, the VCS might yet surprise. Included titles include Boulder Dash Deluxe, Danger Scavenger, Guntech, Tailgunner, and Missile Command: Recharged (a title available on Android, along with the VCS Companion App). However, there is also access to 100 Atari 2600 games in the Atari Vault, which will no doubt interest retro gaming fans far more.
https://twitter.com/TheAtari_VCS/status/1400185303374077955
The Atari VCS has a classic Atari mode and a PC mode, shipping with a custom Debian-based Linux OS preinstalled but capable of running Windows. With 8GB of RAM and an AMD Raven Ridge R1606G APU, Ryzen GPU, and 32GB fixed internal storage the hardware is upgradeable with slots for more RAM and M.2 SSD.
The revived walnut-or-onyx console has Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4/5GHz, four USB 3.1 ports (two front, two rear), HDMI 2.0 with 4K, Gigabit Ethernet, and measures 11.6 x 5.9 x 1.9 inches while weighing 3lbs. As well as running Linux, Windows 10, and Chrome OS, the Atari VCS can handle media streaming.
At the time of writing, the VCS base system and black walnut all-in bundle are both set to be listed for sale on Tuesday, June 15th. Find out more at atarivcs.com, where you might even get to learn about a full release for this elusive (shortlived cryptocurrency pivot, anyone?) console/PC hybrid with an Atari badge…
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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.