I think it’s safe to say that retro games are one of the bigger trends right now, especially with the launch of Gameboy and Gameboy Colour games via Nintendo Switch Online. The nostalgia is real. There’s also been compilations, like PacMan Museum+. Atari Mania is another compilation, at least kind of, and probably one of the bigger ones (if not the biggest) as it features over 150 microgames.
The game collection even had a bit of a plot to it: players must protect the Atari Vault by defeating an onslaught of evil dead pixels that are corrupting Atari characters and games. It features levels, characters, and challenges based on classic Atari games and properties. (And it’s by a Canadian developer, which is also nice for me to see… national pride and such). Expect dozens of easter eggs!
The game is currently available for PC via Steam and Nintendo Switch, but its controls have been completely overhauled for its PlayStation launch. Performance has also been fine-tuned. The developer has improved the controls to make them smoother, more responsive, and more accurate in response to user feedback. There are also revamped microgames and performance improvements. A patch will be released for the Nintendo Switch version, applying the same changes.
The microgames don’t always play as just one classic game. It’s time to fight Centipedes with a Pong paddle! Solve tricky puzzles and use clever tools to progress. The art of Atari 2600-styled, with a soundtrack of retro-inspired tracks. Collect vintage Atari art, posters, and manuals.
Developed by iLLOGIKA and published by Atari, Atari Mania will be released for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 on April 4.
