Atari, a name once known as a pioneer in the gaming industry and one of the world's most iconic consumer retro video game brands, recently announced the acquisition of more than 100 PC and console titles from the 1980s and 1990s. The collection includes notable games from the Bubsy, Hardball, Demolition Racer series, as well as the 1942: Pacific Air War, F-117A, and F-14 air combat series. This huge acquisition aims to expand digital and physical distribution of these classic titles, create new games based on the intellectual properties, and explore brand and merchandising collaborations. This move has the potential to greatly impact Atari's future prospects in the game industry. While not all these acquired titles are killer-apps (by any stretch), they DO hold some name-recognition. Something that is harder and harder to gain this day in age in the game industry.
The acquired collection features groundbreaking and award-winning titles from esteemed game developers such as Infogrames, and Microprose. Atari CEO Wade Rosen shared his excitement for the acquisition, stating, "This is a deep catalog that includes groundbreaking and award-winning titles from Accolade, Infogrames and Microprose."
The acquisition also includes the trademark rights to the Accolade and GTI brands. Accolade was a well-respected US-based video game developer and publisher that operated from 1984 until 2000. This acquisition further strengthens Atari's position in the gaming industry, adding even more depth to their portfolio and offering a solid foundation for future growth.
Atari's acquisition of these classic game titles could greatly impact the company's future prospects in the gaming industry in several ways.
Let's break it down:
Revitalizing Classic Games: Atari's plans to expand the distribution of these classic titles, both digitally and physically, could introduce a new generation of gamers to the nostalgic charm of these iconic games. By revitalizing and reintroducing these classics, Atari has the opportunity to capture the interest of both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
New Game Development: The acquisition of these IPs provides Atari with the opportunity to create new games based on these classic titles. This could result in innovative game concepts that build on the established brand recognition of the original games, opening up new revenue streams for the company.
Brand and Merchandising Collaborations: Atari's exploration of brand and merchandising collaborations could lead to a wide range of licensing opportunities, further increasing the company's reach and generating additional revenue. This move could also help build excitement and anticipation for the re-released games and any new titles Atari develops.
Reinforcing Atari's Legacy: By acquiring these classic titles, Atari reinforces its reputation as a trailblazer in the gaming industry. This move could help the company maintain its iconic status and increase its influence in an ever-evolving market.
Atari's acquisition of over 100 classic game titles and associated brands has the potential to significantly impact the company's future prospects in the gaming industry. By revitalizing and reintroducing these games, creating new titles based on the acquired IPs, and exploring brand and merchandising collaborations, Atari is well-positioned to maintain its status as an influential force in the world of gaming.
Now if only Intellivision could do something...
~Smash
