I know there's a lot of folks out there expecting my take on this, so yes, there will be a video made with my thoughts, and I dive into them towards the end of this article, but let's start it off with what transpired...
A New Era for Two Classic Brands
In a groundbreaking move that brings together two of the most iconic names in the history of video gaming, Atari has announced the acquisition of the Intellivision brand and certain games from Intellivision Entertainment LLC. This merger unites two former old-school rivals from the golden age of gaming, making some serious potential exciting new opportunities for fans and the industry alike.
The Announcement and Its Significance
Atari, is on an acquiring rampage since the start of last year and has now taken a bold step by purchasing the Intellivision trademarks and over 200 titles from Intellivision's portfolio. This acquisition allows Atari to expand both digital and physical distribution of classic Intellivision games and potentially develop new titles under the Intellivision brand.
"Uniting Atari and Intellivision after 45 years ends the longest-running console war in history"
~Mike Mika, Studio Head at Digital Eclipse, an Atari-owned game studio.
The Intellivision console, first released by Mattel Electronics in 1979, sold an estimated 5 million units through 1990. It was a significant player in the early console wars, famously pitted against Atari in advertising campaigns that included notable appearances by actor George Plimpton. This acquisition symbolizes not just a business deal but the merging of two legacies that helped shape the gaming industry.
Reactions and Future Plans
Wade Rosen, Chairman and CEO of Atari, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating,
"This was a very rare opportunity to unite former competitors and bring together fans of Atari, Intellivision, and the golden age of gaming."
This sentiment is echoed by Phil Adam, CEO of Intellivision Entertainment, who noted,
"Atari has been a valuable partner and we have every confidence they will be a responsible steward of the storied Intellivision brand."
Intellivision Entertainment will continue its development and distribution of the Amico brand game console, now with a license from Atari to distribute new versions of Intellivision games on the Intellivision Amico platform... If that ever sees the light of day (but hey, at least they have Amico Home, right?). This collaboration promises to breathe new life into the Intellivision brand, potentially bringing a host of new titles to the Amico console and expanding its audience.
To celebrate this union, new Intellivision t-shirts are now available on Atari.com, with more apparel and collectibles to come. This is just the beginning of what both companies hope will be a fruitful partnership, bringing cherished classics and new experiences to gamers everywhere.
Personal Reflections on the Acquisition
As many of you know, I was someone who has been deeply involved with the Intellivision Amico project, this news evokes mixed emotions. On one hand, I'm relieved to see Atari stepping in, which offers hope for the future of Intellivision games that have been in limbo. The potential revitalization of these titles is a positive step forward from the chaos that has plagued Intellivision Entertainment's attempts to launch the Amico console...
But, on the other... I can't help but feel a sense of betrayal and frustration. I invested $10,000 into this project, trusting that the team would deliver a viable product and make sound financial decisions. Instead, it feels like I've been left with nothing to show for my investment. The leadership at Intellivision, from Tommy Tallarico to Nick Richards, Phil Adam, and especially John Alvarado, turned what could have been a promising endeavor into a mess. In my humble opinion, their actions bordered more on the criminal than the professional, and at the end of the day, these crooks are being rewarded for their fleecing of the game community.
I'll expand far more on my personal thoughts on this in a YouTube video. I have a feeling it will be a bit emotional...
This acquisition by Atari offers a glimmer of hope, but it doesn't erase the disappointment and anger I feel toward those who mishandled the Amico project. Here's to hoping that Atari's stewardship will finally bring some justice to the Intellivision brand and its loyal supporters.
~Smash
Source: Global News Wire
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