Breakout Beyond is Now a Brick-Breaking Horizontal Schmup Coming Out This March

Recently, Atari has been churning out updated versions of its timeless games, each with intriguing contemporary twists that cater to all gamers. Yars’ Revenge, for instance, was a refreshing spin on the classic shooter, enriched by Metroidvania-style elements. Now, we’re anticipating Breakout Beyond from Atari, which introduces vibrant neon aesthetics and such fast-paced gameplay that it appears more like a shmup (shoot ’em up).

The newly unveiled trailer reveals that the contemporary adaptation of the iconic Atari game is set for launch on March 25, compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Steam, Switch, and the Atari VCS. It’s pleasing to learn that the game will also be available on Nintendo Switch, as many had anticipated it might debut as a title for the rumored Switch 2. Furthermore, it’s reassuring to know that this versatile handheld device continues to thrive.

As a devoted gamer, I must admit it’s quite peculiar that Breakout Beyond, a game I’ve grown fond of, has undergone a significant change in its gameplay perspective. Unlike the traditional vertical format where we control a ball from above, breaking blocks as it bounces, the new trailer shows us that Breakout Beyond is now horizontally oriented. This means we’ll be bouncing multiple balls to break bricks and keep the game going!

It will test the reflexes of gamers, and that’s what many old-school gamers like.

I’ve always been a fan of how Bandai Namco mixes things up with the iconic Pac-Man. Beyond just re-releasing his games, they’ve taken it to another level by incorporating vibrant neon aesthetics and quick-tempo gameplay in the celebrated Pac-Man: Championship Edition series.

They even de-made that game to critical acclaim, making it look like something from the NES.

Time will reveal whether Breakout Beyond follows in the footsteps of Atari’s past successes, given its promising potential. Yars Rising, a popular choice among gamers, demonstrates the exceptional quality that these Atari remakes are capable of delivering.

Redesigning Beyond as a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up brick breaker may elicit varying responses, but it’s hard to claim the company is being lazy with this latest production.

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2025-02-26 14:42