Atari has finally announced the release date of the Atari VCS, after getting delayed, and the console/PC hybrid will be launching on June 15th. The Atari VCS was first showcased at the Game Developers Conference in 2018, but the console/PC hybrid system has still not hit store shelves. This is about to change soon as the release date for the system has finally been revealed.
The Atari VCS will see the re-entry of one of the most iconic gaming console companies. The Atari VCS has a design that is inspired by the Atari 2600. Atari’s aim is to deliver a modern and fully featured multimedia experience across gaming, entertainment, and productivity that will draw the affection of creators and gamers alike with the VCS system.
The Atari VCS’ gaming library features various games from indie developers, with games like Jetboard Joust, Guntech, Boulder Dash Deluxe, and Something Ate My Alien. Atari is also releasing its own game, Missile Command: Recharged, into the catalog.
Each Atari VCS will come with a copy of the Atari VCS Vault too. That includes access to 100 arcade and Atari 2600 games. Atari VCS owners also get access to Antstream Arcade, an on-demand game-streaming service that offers access to a large collection of retro titles.
Atari VCS has options of two game controllers as well, which have been made by PowerA in collaboration with Atari. The first one is modeled after the classic joystick controller from the Atari 2600. The second is the Atari Modern Controller, which is similar to the PlayStation and Xbox console controllers.
However, both the controllers feature rumble, LED lighting, USB charging, and wireless Bluetooth connection to the Atari VCS, PCs, and mobile devices. The Atari VCS also features access to multiple popular streaming services, meaning the VCS provides an all-round multimedia experience.
Users can also use the Atari VCS Companion app from the iOS App Store or Google Play to play media. The VCS also has a built-in Chrome browser, as well as Google’s Workspace apps.
Coming to the hardware, the Atari VCS will be powered by an AMD Ryzen processor, capable of 4K resolution, HDR, and 60 frames per second. It will also feature dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB 3.0 support. Users can also install either Windows or Linux as an alternative operating system and turn your VCS into a mini-PC.
The Atari VCS with Onyx Base System costs $299.99 USD. The All-In system bundles include the Classic Joystick and the Modern Controller costs $399.99 USD and available in Black Walnut or Onyx color. The Controllers can also be bought separately for $59.99 each.
