Last July the Ataribox, Atari’s new venture in the console race, got confirmed. This new piece of hardware aims to bring back gaming veterans but also plunge into a much younger, and possibly more demanding, audience. How would they join together both worlds and generations? Is there any space out there for another console system?
General manager Feargal Mac has given some specifics in an exclusive interview with VentureBeat, where he has delved into the Ataribox’s release and prince windows plus some technical specifics.
First things first: Feargal Mac has confirmed that Atari is starting a crowdfunding campaign via Indiegogo this fall. Their aim is to launch the console in the spring of 2018. Moreover, the Ataribox will run Linux on an Advanced Micro Devices processor (AMD) and it’s looking like it will be a purchase between $250 and $300.
Ataribox is Closing the Gap Between Classic and New
Atari wants to bring together both classic video game lovers as well as those who crave for more modern experiences. In that sense, the new console is much more than a nostalgia box or a commercial revival. Yes, its case certainly brings echoes from the Atari 2600 and yes, there’s something vintage about it. But let’s don’t judge a hardware by its looks just yet.
“Ataribox is an open system,” Feargal Mac has explained, “and while our user interface will be easy to use, people will also be free to access and customize the underlying OS.” In that sense, the Ataribox is sort of uniting the flexibility of the PC with a connected TV device setup.
Feargal Mac has also confirmed that the console will run the majority of mid-range PC games. Crazy AAA blockbusters don’t seem to be much of a possibility here though… On top of that, the Ataribox will support streaming, running apps, web browsing and music playing. In terms of concrete titles, Atari games and content will be available as well as content from other providers.
Last but not least, Atari is certainly sharing more information about their hardware proposal in the future. We’ll make sure you are in the loop about it although you can also sign up on their website to know more.
What about you, Fanatics? Are you interested in acquiring the Ataribox? Did you own an original Atari system and are looking forward to this awakening? Let the discussion begin in the comment section down below!
