The iconic 1976 game Breakout is receiving a fresh update nearly half a century later with the introduction of Breakout Beyond. This new iteration, developed by Choice Provisions, the creators of the BIT.TRIP series, brings a unique twist to Atari's classic brick-breaker. While maintaining the familiar paddle-and-ball mechanics, Breakout Beyond shifts the gameplay to a horizontal progression, moving players from left to right as they smash through bricks.

The core objective remains the same—breaking bricks—but the game enhances the experience with escalating combos that trigger dazzling light and visual effects. Special bricks introduce spectacular features such as massive explosions and even a laser cannon, adding layers of excitement to the gameplay. Breakout Beyond is set to include 72 meticulously crafted levels, along with an unlockable endless mode featuring a global leaderboard for competitive players. For those who prefer not to play solo, the game also offers a local two-player co-op mode.

Originally intended as an exclusive title for the Intellivision Amico back in 2020, Breakout Beyond's development path shifted when Atari acquired and took over its completion. Ethan Stearns, Atari's senior director of games publishing, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "We're thrilled to be able to bring this gem to our players. The team thought it was a brilliant concept, preserving the heart of Breakout's gameplay while also giving the formula a completely new spin. Breakout Beyond is a worthy new entry into the Breakout pantheon, and we can't wait to see the insane combos brick-breakers will make."

The Intellivision Amico, announced in 2018 with an anticipated 2020 release, has yet to launch due to numerous setbacks and delays. Last year, Atari stepped in to acquire the Intellivision branding and rights, though this did not include the Amico console itself.

Breakout Beyond is slated to launch later this year across multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and the Atari VCS. This widespread availability ensures that fans of the original Breakout and newcomers alike can enjoy this innovative take on a timeless classic.