News about the so-called “Atari VCS/Ataribox” have been sparse at best since it’s initial announcement and teasing, there have been several updates but nothing so major about when it is actually coming out. Not until today, where the company “Atari” has announced new details about the Atari VCS’s features, accessories, funding and when it’s initially shipping.
They mentioned that the “hardware platform” will be powered by a custom Linux OS, specialized AMD chipset with support for support for 4K resolution, HDR and 60FPS content, onboard and expandable storage options, dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0, as well as USB 3.0 support. The ONYX edition of the console will be available for early bird buyers starting at $199 USD, more options will be revealed at the campaign launch.
In addition, the peripherals (Joystick and Controller) will be available with the console and can be purchased standalone as well in partnership with Power A and will let you play classic Atari video games dubbed “Atari Vault” and new titles as alongside other apps. You can check out the list of classic titles in the press release.
Preorders begin May 30 on Indiegogo but initial shipments won’t come until Spring 2019.
Source: Atari PR – Indiegogo
Author’s take: I am not sure if somebody is really willing to spend money on such a piece of hardware from a company that is a former shell of itself, especially after what happened with the OUYA.