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Atari VCS: Game, Stream, Connect Like Never Before

Gaming and home video computer system with open platform for creativity and customization!

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Atari VCS: Game, Stream, Connect Like Never Before

Atari VCS: Game, Stream, Connect Like Never Before

Atari VCS: Game, Stream, Connect Like Never Before

Atari VCS: Game, Stream, Connect Like Never Before

Atari VCS: Game, Stream, Connect Like Never Before

Gaming and home video computer system with open platform for creativity and customization!

Gaming and home video computer system with open platform for creativity and customization!

Gaming and home video computer system with open platform for creativity and customization!

Gaming and home video computer system with open platform for creativity and customization!

Atari
Atari
Atari
Atari
1 Campaign |
New York, United States
$3,058,123 USD by 11,597 backers
$2,955,228 USD by 11,188 backers on Jun 30, 2018
Shipping
The project team has begun shipping their products. The delivery may be affected by shipping challenges and delays.
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Overview
Atari® returns to the living room with a completely modern video computer system. Learn more about Atari's unique PC/console hybrid at AtariVCS.com! New and classic games meet a universe of streaming media entertainment, PC productivity and capability. Atari VCS™ delivers unprecedented levels of flexibility and control to help transform how we Interact with our TV’s, just as the original Atari 2600 did four decades ago. NOTE: On Mobile, Click "READ THE STORY"

 

ATARIVCS.COM HAS ALL THE LATEST INFORMATION ON THE ATARI VCS VIDEOGAME COMPUTER SYSTEM, AND IS WHERE YOU CAN PRE-ORDER ATARI VCS PRODUCTS. PLEASE VISIT ATARIVCS.COM OR ONE OF OUR RETAIL PARTNERS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A PURCHASE.

THE ATARI VCS CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN IS CLOSED FOR PRODUCT PRE-ORDERS ON INDIEGOGO as of June 11th, 2019.  ALL PERKS HAVE BEEN SHIPPED TO BACKERS.

Please DO NOT post here seeking any Atari VCS Product or Order Support!

The support team is standing by to assist you here: https://bit.ly/35lLoDI 

Atari humbly and gratefully thanks its many backers and supporters for their generous contributions, encouragement and participation throughout this process. We could not have done this without you! The Atari VCS has become a reality because of YOU!

All Indiegogo campaign pre-order contributions are now locked and shipped. All funds have been allocated to Atari VCS development and the products have shipped to backers. There are no refunds for any reason and order changes are not available. If there is a problem with your order, please contact Atari support. 

All existing Indiegogo backers receive Atari VCS 800 (8GB RAM) models. Shipping information and other order details have been confirmed and managed via your BackerKit account. We do not ship to PO boxes. If you are a backer and have not completed a survey, please do so here: https://atari-vcs.backerkit.com. This process is essential for accurate delivery of your products. 

Atari commenced shipping of VCS products to Indiegogo campaign backers on December 11, 2020. This was prior to the general public availability and included the opportunity to participate in software testing, etc.

Atari VCS Official Online Presales are now underway in the USA for products shipping starting in early 2021. Explore the various options and configurations available on AtariVCS.com, GameStop.com  and Walmart.com.  

Additional retailers and international distribution options to be announced at a future date.

 

AN ICON, REIMAGINED.

Atari® returns to the living room with the Atari VCS™ Videogame Computer System — a completely modern gaming and video computer system, blending the best of consoles, PCs, streaming and productivity, to delight a whole new generation of gamers and creators.

The Atari OS is Linux-based and will also let you add your own software and apps to customize your own platform.

Atari VCS peripherals and accessories will let you build your own Game and Entertainment-Powered “Connected Home” experience.

 

AT A GLANCE - WITH ATARI VCS YOU CAN:

PLAY

Discover new and classic games on Atari’s new open platform, powered by AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics Technology.

STREAM

Watch your favorite web-based streaming videos and entertainment at up to 4K resolution and 60fps and play cloud-streamed games.*

CREATE

Develop new TV-based games and apps for yourself, your family, or to share with the Atari VCS community.

CONNECT

Atari’s first connected device opens new possibilities to play with friends and publish your creations as part of an expansive community of gamers, fans and devs.

*Subscriptions(s) required for advanced and third-party services. Atari VCS 800 models feature native 4K HDR video.

 

EVERY ATARI VCS INCLUDES THE ATARI VAULT, FEATURING OVER 100 HOME AND ARCADE CLASSICS!

More than 100 all-time classics in their original arcade and/or 2600 formats and ready to play.

 

 

BUILT FOR TODAY

Featuring USB 3.0, HDMI, WiFi™, Ethernet, and Bluetooth® connectivity, the all new Atari VCS™ delivers unprecedented levels of flexibility and control, transforming how we Interact with our TV’s, just as the original Atari 2600 did four decades ago. The powerful AMD Ryzen™ processor featuring Radeon™ Graphics Technology can handle it all, including 4K HDR video streaming.

What will you and Atari VCS do, play or create together?

 

*Atari titles shown here for illustration purposes only and do not reflect actual games and media lineup. All designs subject to change.

For more information, please visit www.AtariVCS.com.

 

INSPIRED BY GREATNESS 

The spirit of the legendary Atari 2600 video computer system is reborn in sleek new high-performance designs for gamers of today, tomorrow and beyond.  

 

APPS AND GAMES

Enjoy access to all-new games, remastered favorites, classic console emulators, streaming multimedia services and personal apps — or create and share your own. Load existing PC game libraries via PC Mode and play triple-A and indie favorites too.

 

BORN TO BE DIFFERENT

Reboot into PC Mode and unlock a powerful multimedia mini-PC for unmatched freedom and versatility you can’t get with any other home game system. Install your favorite programs, apps and compatible PC game libraries from Steam, Origin, BattleNet, etc. and play. (Secondary operating system like Windows, Linux, or Chrome not included.)

 

TOTAL CONTROL

Atari’s iconic joystick is reborn as the new Atari VCS Wireless Classic Joystick with new features like rumble, LED light effects and a 2nd fire button to give retro gaming new life. The all new Atari VCS Wireless Modern Controller completes the family for full-featured gameplay. Both connect via Bluetooth® or USB, rechargeable, PC/mobile compatible, and are loaded with Atari spirit.

For more information, please visit AtariVCS.com.

*All IP shown is the trademarked property of their respective owners and is depicted for illustration purposes only.

 

A MODERN ATARI CONTROLLER FOR MODERN GAMEPLAY 

Get your hands on the awesome all-new Atari Modern Controller. It’s a fully-functional, PC compatible game controller revamped with contemporary Atari style.  

 

Connects to the Atari VCS via Bluetooth or USB. You can also use it with your other PC and Android devices.

*All IP shown is the trademarked property of their respective owners and is depicted for illustration purposes only. Controllers and Joysticks shown here are not final.

 

USE YOUR OWN PERIPHERALS AND ACCESSORIES

Atari VCS provides universal peripheral connectivity, so it also works just as well with your other PC input devices, including:

  • Bluetooth and USB game controllers
  • Mouse and Keyboard
  • External Storage
  • Webcams
  • Microphones
  • External Speakers
  • Headphones

 

 

THE ATARI VCS 800 COLLECTORS EDITION

Indiegogo-Exclusive Atari VCS 800 Collectors Edition - SOLD OUT

The Atari VCS Day One Collectors Edition was exclusively available via this Indiegogo pre-sale and only for a limited time! That time has ended. The Atari VCS team will continue to keep backers informed of all progress and provide new updates and publish new development blogs throughout the rest of this year and beyond. 


The Atari VCS 800 "Day One" Collector’s Edition is our SOLD OUT tribute to the original Atari 2600 home console that was created specifically for our Indiegogo campaign. It features a real teakwood front panel, unique numbering, and a matching certificate of authenticity with each unit. 

Only 6,000 numbered and authenticated Atari VCS 800 Collector’s Editions will be produced and they have all been spoken for. The Collector's Edition is an 800-series (8GB RAM) model and completely unique from any new wood-face designs (such as "Black Walnut") and will remain a rare and treasured item for anyone lucky enough to receive one.

 

Atari VCS 800 Onyx Edition

Sleek, modern and stealthy with a glossy blacked-out face, "Atari red" back panel and illuminated Fuji logo. 

All  backers who ordered Onyx models during the Indiegogo campaign will receive 8GB RAM  units (now designated "800").

For updated product details, please visit www.AtariVCS.com.

 

AS FEATURED IN:

 

 

 

WHAT'S IN THE BOX FOR BACKERS:

*All product specifications subject to change

 

ATARI VCS AND PERIPHERALS TECHNICAL SPECS* (UPDATED): 

 

Atari VCS 800 System Technical Specifications* 

Specification* Measurement 
Dimensions 11.6" x 5.9" x 1.9" (Approx.)
Weight 3 lbs. (Approx.)
Materials Plastic, Metal, Wood, other
Operating System Atari Custom OS  (Linux Debian Kernel)
APU AMD Ryzen™ Embedded R1000 SoC with “Zen” CPU
GPU "Vega" GPU architecture
Storage 32GB eMMC internal, unlimited external USB HD/stick, cloud (subscription required)
RAM 8GB DDR4 RAM (upgradeable)
Compatible Systems Linux, Windows, Steam OS, Chrome OS, other
Wireless Connections Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4/5GHz, Bluetooth 4.0
Wired Connections HDMI 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, 4x USB 3.1
USB Ports 2x front, 2x rear
External Inputs Classic Joystick, Modern Controller, Microphone, Others TBD
Mouse & Keyboard Support Yes, USB or Bluetooth
4K video with HDCP 2.2 Integration Yes
Internet Connection Required Not for classic gaming but required to access all features

 

Atari Classic Joystick Technical Specifications*

Features Spec (US)
Approx. Dimensions 6.0" x 4.5" x 6" (Approx.)
Rotating center joystick w/paddle function Yes
Top Trigger button Yes
Side Trigger button Yes
Home/Menu buttons Yes
Rumble Yes
LED ring Yes
Bluetooth Wireless Yes
USB Micro Yes
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Yes
LED charge indicator Yes
Approx. Weight 16 oz.
PC, Android Compatible Yes
USB play/charge cable (9'8") Yes
Headset jack No

 

Atari Modern Controller Technical Specifications*

Features Spec (US)
Dimensions 6.0" x 4.5" x 2" (Approx.)
L/R Thumb sticks (including LSB and RSB) Yes
L/R Triggers, Shoulder buttons Yes
Home/Menu buttons Yes
D-Pad Yes
ABXY function buttons Yes
Ergonomic grip Yes
Rumble Yes
Bluetooth Wireless Yes
USB Micro Yes
Rechargeable Battery Yes
LED charge indicator Yes
Approx. Weight 16 oz.
PC, Android Compatible Yes
USB play/charge cable ('9.8") Yes
Headset jack No

 

* All product specifications are subject to change. Final specifications may differ.

 

WHY DID WE LAUNCH ATARI VCS ON A CROWDFUND PLATFORM?

The Atari community keeps our brand and legendary lineup of games and hardware alive. Today’s Atari is a progressive company made up of hardcore Atari fans like so many of you.

The all-new Atari VCS project was ideated, created, and developed by Atari to capture the same spirit, heritage, and DNA of the original. It is also well-funded; but we wanted and needed to connect with fans new and old, while also keeping an open dialog with all of you as we developed this exciting new Atari device. 

The Indiegogo partnership helped reach out to and connect with a highly-engaged community and is a perfect vehicle to directly involve both existing and new Atari fans.

This  crowdfunding strategy helped us verify the community’s interest in and support for an all new Atari game system, bring new fans into the fold, and gather the feedback we need to make the Atari VCS the best gaming and entertainment device it can possibly be.

 

WHY INDIEGOGO?

Real resources, real followers, and real desire. Indiegogo has been genuinely passionate about the Atari VCS at every stage of its development. It is also going to be incredibly helpful in building the new audience relationships we need to finalize this product over the next several months and bring it to life in a big way.

 

DELIVERY TIMELINE*

The first batch of Atari VCS systems and peripherals are for our Indiegogo backers and started shipping to backers in December 2020. Information and updates were communicated directly with backers on a regular basis throughout the products' two-plus year development cycle. The Atari VCS team will also continue making regular posts to its Atari VCS Development Blog. 

All existing Indiegogo backers receive Atari VCS 800 (8GB RAM) models. 

All future Atari VCS products purchased, including those purchased starting with the Atari VCS Official Online Pre-sale, are scheduled to start shipping in Spring 2021.

See AtariVCS.com and retail partner sites for more information.

* Dates and schedules are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

Change of Address? No Problem. 

We partnered with BackerKit to help ensure that Atari VCS backers have the absolute smoothest experience possible. BackerKit service starts when our Indiegogo campaign is over. 

Backers' shipping information and other order details are managed via your BackerKit account. If you are a backer and have not completed a survey, please do so here: https://atari-vcs.backerkit.com. This process is essential for accurate delivery of your products! 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

What is it? Atari VCS™ is a video computer system and platform that lets users enjoy games, video, music and other favorite PC experience on their TV.
Who created it? Atari VCS is being developed by Atari and a talented team of contributing partners.
Why should I use it? Atari VCS brings PC power and flexibility, voice-control, games and entertainment, and an open platform for creativity to the TV.
How much does it cost?  From $299.99 to $389.99 depending on bundled configurations.
Where can I buy it? Pre-order Atari VCS now on AtariVCS.com or at one of Atari’s retail partner sites.  
What do I get when I order? What you get depends on the bundle or system configuration you choose.
Why did you crowdfund? Atari wanted direct feedback from fans and to calibrate support for the product, while giving the biggest Atari fans an immediate opportunity to pre-order and get and exclusive limited edition and preferred pricing before the product appears at retailers.

 

What features are available? Multiple hardware configurations and designs. Retro and modern PC games, streaming media, web browsing, customizable Atari OS and open PC Mode.
What colors do you offer? During the Indiegogo campaign, Atari offered the Atari VCS Onyx (Black) Edition and the Atari VCS Collector's Edition with wood panel and certificate of authenticity, which is now completely sold out. Black Walnut, our newest wood design is available at AtariVCS.com

 

What is the uniqueness of the technology? Secure open PC-architecture, AMD Ryzen processor, custom Atari OS, PC Mode that allows installation of any compatible OS for unique developer and community freedom.
How is the device powered? Standard AC power, rechargeable accessories 
How does it work? Our system takes advantage of the AMD architecture using secure boot, AMD PSP (Platform Security Processor) and Hypervisor technologies 
Will there be updates to it in the future? There will be software updates, new games and content, new accessories and input devices, etc.
How does it connect to other devices?  HDMI, WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB

 

What is the Operating system? Customized Atari interface and optimized OS based on Linux.
Does Atari VCS support online multiplayer games?  Yes. (Game dependent.)
Will Atari be updating any of its existing games for Atari VCS?  Atari will enable assorted classic games, reimagined versions of its legendary IP, plus new games from Atari and independent developers.
Can you gamecast to Twitch while playing Atari games?  We are working on this feature and in ongoing discussions with Twitch about what is possible. More details will be shared when they become available.
Can you call friends to chat while playing together? We plan to make in-game chat services available.
Can we play Pong with friends online now?  Atari is working on exclusive new versions of classic games. Some will support PvP online multiplayer. 
Can we also access app functions on a web browser?  From the Atari interface users could access to the following services:
 - Atari classic games
 - Atari and 3rd party new games
 - Atari VCS storefront
 - Streaming TV services (Netflix, Hulu, HBO GO, etc.)
 - Streaming music services (Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, etc.)
 - Chrome Browser
 - Customizable Curated Desktop
 - Gaming Communities (Homebrew)
 - Learning Services
Will you be able to play Steam Games on Atari VCS? Yes. Games from Steam and other platforms that meet Atari VCS hardware specifications should work, or can be accessed via PC Mode installations.

 

How do I set it up? Easy plug-and-play via HDMI connection to TV or monitor. Internet will be required to access certain features and updates.
How do I control it? Compatible with current available Bluetooth/USB controllers and other input devices, plus the Atari VCS Companion app for mobile devices.
What is the care and cleaning of it? Light duster or slightly damp cloth. No chemical cleaners should ever be used.

 

What are the recommended ages? 9 - 99: Like any electronic device, young children will require adult supervision.
Is it safe? Product will be safety compliant to be sold in the USA, Canada, European Union, Australia/New Zealand, China, Japan, Brazil, and Mexico. Must meet minimum Product Safety requirement on any surface exposed to the customer.
What certifications do you have? - Product will comply with the applicable EMC (includes conducted and radiated
 emissions and immunity testing) standards in the following regions: USA,
 Canada, European Union, Australia/New Zealand, China, Japan, Brazil, and
 Mexico. Product must meet minimum ESD requirements as part of standard 
 EMC / immunity testing (4 kV contact and 8 kV air discharge).
 - Product will comply with the applicable RF/intended emissions standards in the
 following regions: USA, Canada, European Union, Australia/New Zealand,
 China, Brazil, and Japan.
 Product will be RoHS compliant.
 Product will be WEEE compliant.
 Product will be REACH compliant
How durable is it? Atari VCS is designed for many years of reliable use, but it should not be dropped or have objects placed on top of it.
How is my privacy protected? Atari does not share or sell any information it may collect. Please be aware of 3rd party service providers' policies. 
How secure is it? The main Atari OS and content downloaded will be encrypted in the HDD.
Can someone watch or listen to me? Voice control and chat services will be available via attached microphones and apps. Webcams and other devices may be installed by the user. Third party providers are responsible for providing privacy information about their products and services.
Are there any risks associated with use? Photosensitive Seizure Warning 
A very small percentage of people may experience a seizure when exposed to certain visual images, including flashing lights or patterns that may appear in video games. Even people who have no history of seizures or epilepsy may have an undiagnosed condition that can cause photosensitive epileptic seizures while watching video games.

 

When does shipping begin? December 2020 is the target date for the first shipments to Indiegogo backers. Retail distribution is expected to follow shortly after in early 2021.
When can we expect it to reach our doorsteps? Standard ground shipping services will be used. Location dependent.
Where does it ship? Initial sales will be in the USA and Australia/New Zealand. Canada, UK, Europe and other regions will be added at later dates.
How much is shipping? Indiegogo sales the USA: Shipping Fee includes state and local sales tax, shipping, and handling. No additional taxes or shipping will be collected.  Outside of the USA: Indiegogo Shipping Fees vary based on location; includes shipping and handling, and excludes GST, VAT and equivalent taxes and customs duties that are recipient's sole responsibility. Atari and its partners are not responsible for any additional fees that may be assessed by your local government or any postal authorities.
Do I have to pay VAT / GST? Yes. In Europe customers will be responsible for VAT when they receive their products.

 

Is there a warranty? One-year manufacturer's warranty covering manufacturing and electrical defects.
What is your refund policy? The Indiegogo campaign has ended and all orders are now locked as the products are shipped. No refunds for contributions. We will honor the warranty for returns and exchange policy after your Atari VCS is delivered.
What is your return / exchange policy? If you received your product and you aren't satisfied due to defective equipment, you may exchange it for a new one within 30 days, less shipping & handling fees.
Why do I have to wait longer than usual? This Indiegogo campaign was not just pre-orders or shopping: You helped Atari  to build the device, and we needed to know how many to make before we can start our first production run. This is the first of its kind, and you'll be glad you waited. We will continue to provide updates while we work to produce the first batch.
How can I found out when my order will ship? Shipping started on December 11, 2020 and under normal conditions it should take between 8 to 10 business days to process orders. Please do not contact Atari asking when your unit will ship, or if it has shipped. We are not responsible for shipping delays after the products leave our facility. You will know when your order has shipped when you get an email with a tracking number.

 

Is Atari VCS going to have a fully-compatible 2600 (or any Atari system) emulator on it? Yes. We hope to have a 2600 emulator available at launch, with others to follow at later dates.
Would the creators of the games still fully retain the rights to them? Yes
Will the store have the ability to "Feature" a game and if so, how does one get featured? Curators will periodically promote games via timed featuring placement, etc.  Games will be showcased based on interest and quality.
Are there any fees involved if I want to sell a game on the Atari VCS store? Included within the Atari VCS SDK will be simple Terms & Conditions that will developer friendly, with a 88/12 revenue share on all exclusive games created and sold on Atari platforms, and a 80/20 on all non-exclusive games sold. Developers set the price(s) for their game(s), not Atari.
Can developers freely manage game updates? Are there any restrictions? Developers will be asked to submit updates, and updates will be integrated by the store team.
Are there any policy differences for starting/indie developers compared to established developers? Developers must complete the outlined process for submitting their game - after that, everyone is treated equally. 
Are there any policy differences for retro games compared to modern developed games? No, but games of different genres will be able to participate in periodic themed promotions.
Do games have specific limitations regarding hard drive size? And patches/updates/DLCs? TBD
Do you offer an Atari VCS Developer Program? If a development studio joined, what resources would they have access to?  Please sign up on our Atari VCS developer page for more information and to gain access to all developer materials and discussion groups.
Are there any special resources that Official Atari VCS Developers might have access to?  Anyone who participates in bringing games to the VCS will have access to all developer documentation and discussion groups.
Will there be an approval process for submitted games? ( against shovelware) Yes, games will be reviewed by the onboarding team to evaluate the games and provide any necessary feedback to developers. 
Is Atari VCS compatible with Unity/Unreal Engine/Gamemaker/other 3rd party game development kits? Yes, as long as the games are 100% compatible with Unity and also with Linux, but developers can use whatever engine they would like. For more info: https://shop.atarivcs.com/developer
Are there monetization options/regulations for games published in Atari VCS? (DLC, loot boxes, cosmetic, etc) The VCS team believes in freedom for developers and players, so as such are not imposing restrictive policies.

 

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