Retro gaming is alive and well, and Atari is here to remind everyone why it became a household name. Atari is back with a new expansion for Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration—and this isn’t just another batch of old-school games. It’s The Wider World of Atari, and it takes things a step further, blending gaming history with gameplay in a way that’s sure to captivate anyone who grew up with an Atari joystick in hand.
But this isn’t just about reliving the past—The Wider World of Atari introduces 19 classic games that span everything from arcade hits to lesser-known gems. If you’re a fan of games like Frenzy, Berzerk, or Sky Diver, then this DLC is going to hit you right in the nostalgia. And if you’re new to these games? Well, this is the perfect entry point into a pivotal time in gaming history.
What’s Inside The Wider World of Atari?
This DLC is packed with features, but let’s get to what everyone’s really here for—the games. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included:
Game Title | Original Release | Genre |
---|---|---|
Frenzy | 1982 | Shooter |
Berzerk | 1980 | Shooter/Action |
Sky Diver | 1978 | Action |
Atari Football | 1978 | Sports |
Super Breakout | 1978 | Action/Arcade |
Canyon Bomber | 1977 | Arcade/Action |
Avalanche | 1978 | Action/Arcade |
Steeplechase | 1975 | Sports/Racing |
Tempest | 1981 | Shooter/Arcade |
Maze Invaders | 1981 | Puzzle/Arcade |
Fire Truck | 1978 | Simulation/Racing |
Gravitar | 1982 | Shooter/Strategy |
Atari Basketball | 1979 | Sports |
Star Raiders | 1979 | Simulation/Strategy |
Demolition Derby | 1984 | Racing/Action |
Liberator | 1982 | Shooter/Arcade |
Red Baron | 1980 | Shooter/Simulation |
Swordquest: Waterworld | 1984 (Prototype) | Adventure/Puzzle |
Quadrun | 1983 | Action/Shooter |
But that’s just a handful. The real magic of this expansion is how it captures the full spectrum of Atari’s influence on gaming. Alongside these titles, The Wider World of Atari includes games that never made it to the market—unreleased prototypes—and an in-depth look at Atari’s homebrew community, where fans and developers alike have been keeping the brand alive with fresh content and ideas.
Why This Expansion Matters
Yes, that’s why this DLC is such a big deal. It’s not just a re-release of old games; it’s a celebration of how far the gaming industry has come, with Atari as one of its most pivotal players. If you’ve ever been curious about the history of gaming or what it was like to be at the forefront of the arcade revolution, this expansion gives you that context through interviews, videos, and never-before-seen artifacts.
One standout feature is the interactive timeline, which guides you through Atari’s golden years. You’ll hear directly from legends like Al Alcorn, the man behind Pong, as they discuss the creation of games like Breakout. These aren’t just stories you’ve heard before; they’re behind-the-scenes looks that offer fresh insight into how Atari revolutionized the industry.
Why Gamers Are Talking About This Expansion
- 19 Classic Games – The obvious draw is the extra games, from timeless arcade hits to underappreciated titles.
- Exclusive Content – Gamers are especially excited about the unreleased prototypes and the deep cuts into Atari’s catalog. This DLC gives you access to games that never made it to store shelves, offering a unique glimpse into what could have been.
- Never-Before-Seen Interviews – With exclusive interviews, the developers give fans a personal look at how some of the most iconic games were created, and the struggles they faced in bringing these concepts to life.
- Homebrew Community – The inclusion of Atari’s homebrew scene is a love letter to fans who have spent decades keeping the Atari brand alive. It’s a great reminder of the community-driven passion that still surrounds these classic titles.
FAQs About The Wider World of Atari
1. What platforms is The Wider World of Atari available on?
It’s available for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
2. How much does it cost?
This expansion is priced at $7.99, making it an affordable way to dive back into Atari’s rich gaming catalog.
3. Does this include more than just games?
Yes! This isn’t just a game pack. The expansion includes an interactive timeline filled with exclusive interviews, unseen footage, and unreleased prototypes.
4. Is there a physical edition?
Yes, the Atari 50 Expanded Edition will be released physically on November 8. Perfect for collectors!
5. Why is this expansion important for gaming history?
This DLC goes beyond just gameplay—it’s a comprehensive look at how Atari helped shape the gaming industry, featuring interviews and behind-the-scenes stories that give context to these iconic games.
The Final Word
The Wider World of Atari is more than just a collection of games. It’s a journey through one of the most influential periods in gaming history, offering something for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or discovering these classics for the first time, this expansion is a must-have.
AK Lochib is a passionate gaming news researcher and graduate who brings years of expertise to GameOnTrend. With a keen eye for trends and an unrelenting drive to uncover the latest in gaming culture, Lochib delivers insightful articles and breaking news that resonate with gamers of all backgrounds. His dedication to exploring the evolving gaming landscape ensures readers are always a step ahead. When not researching or writing, Lochib enjoys exploring immersive RPGs, testing new gaming hardware, and connecting with the vibrant gaming community.