Key Takeaways
- Atari is bringing back the 800XL, an 8-bit personal computer from 1984.
- The new 800XL is a faithful recreation and is available for preorder.
- Priced at $219.99, it is set to ship in April 2027.
Atari, the iconic video game company, is set to revive one of its earliest 8-bit home computers, the 800XL, which originally debuted 43 years ago. This retro device is being brought back through a collaboration with game developer and publisher Plaion.
The 800XL is designed to appeal to both retro enthusiasts and those interested in coding their own games and applications using Atari BASIC, thanks to its built-in mechanical keyboard.
While the primary use for most retro enthusiasts will likely be gaming, the 800XL offers a unique opportunity for users to engage in programming and software development, much like its predecessor.
Preorders for the 800XL are now open, with a price tag of $219.99. Those interested can secure their own piece of gaming history, with shipping expected to begin in April 2027.
The 800XL is a faithful recreation of the original, ensuring that users can experience the same nostalgic computing environment as the first generation of 8-bit PC users.
For those who remember the early days of personal computing, the 800XL offers a chance to relive the excitement of coding and gaming on a classic machine.
The collaboration between Atari and Plaion aims to bridge the gap between nostalgia and modern technology, providing a unique blend of retro computing and contemporary gaming.
With the 800XL, Atari is not only honoring its legacy but also offering a new generation of tech enthusiasts a chance to experience the early days of personal computing.
The 800XL is set to bring back the joy of coding and gaming on a classic machine, making it a must-have for retro gaming and computing aficionados.
