Breakout, the 1976 arcade classic, is getting a modern makeover nearly 50 years later. Breakout Beyond, developed by Choice Provisions (creators of the BIT.TRIP series), puts a fresh spin on the iconic brick-breaker formula. While retaining the core paddle-and-ball mechanics, the game introduces a unique sideways scrolling progression, moving players from left to right across the screen.
The objective remains the same: break bricks! As players chain together combos, the visual spectacle intensifies with dazzling lights and effects. Special bricks trigger spectacular events, from massive explosions to the deployment of a laser cannon! Breakout Beyond boasts 72 levels in its main campaign, plus an unlockable endless mode featuring a global online leaderboard. For those who prefer cooperative gameplay, local two-player co-op is also available.
Initially slated as an Intellivision Amico exclusive in 2020, Breakout Beyond's development was ultimately completed by Atari after acquiring the rights."We're thrilled to bring this gem to our players," stated Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing. "The team recognized the brilliance of preserving Breakout's core 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 achieve."
The Intellivision Amico, announced in 2018 with a planned 2020 release, remains unreleased, having faced numerous setbacks and delays over the years. Atari acquired the Intellivision branding and intellectual property last year, though 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 Atari VCS.
