It seems that we’re at a point in time where handheld gaming has taken off in a technologically-rapid manner, with devices such as the Lenovo Legion Go 2, Nintendo Switch 2 and even ASUS’ upcoming Xbox handheld making big strides within the industry. Even smaller niche brands have shown off some pretty impressive hardware, and it’s understandable why a growing number of manufacturers want in on the action.
CHECK OUT: The Lenovo Legion Go 2 is Official, and it Packs some Pretty Nifty Upgrades
This now brings us to Atari. Once counted among the biggest gaming companies in North America (and throughout the world), Atari competed with other giants such as Nintendo, although it’s since mostly stuck to game development save for some low-key hardware launches throughout the years. It looks like Atari’s looking to get back into the game though (no pun intended) with the announcement of its new Gamestation Go handheld.
Unlike most other modern handhelds though, Atari isn’t targeting hardcore performance hunters with the Gamestation Go—instead, it’s offering a retro-gaming experience that aims to replicate the wonder years of gaming eras gone by, with a hardware setup that’s made to do just that. While it does feature a “standard” controller setup with action buttons, a D-pad and even analogue sticks, Atari says that the Gamestation Go will also work with additional controls including a paddle, trak-ball and keypad.
As for its design, the Gamestation Go comes with a look that blends modern aesthetics with a quirky colour scheme, with lively angular hues all across the handheld. It also comes with a built-in kickstand, which should come in handy for tabletop gaming sessions.
The device also comes with a 7-inch display with HD resolution, and will also support an HDMI-port so users can play their games on larger screens if needed. Atari adds that the Gamestation Go comes with “SmartGlow” technology, which illuminates specific buttons depending on which game you’re currently playing. Other features include built in WiFi connectivity for software updates, and a battery which will be able to last for up to five hours.
CHECK OUT: You Better Start Saving Up for ASUS’ Xbox-series Ally Handhelds
Scheduled to launch in October for $179.99, the Gamestation Go will come with 200 games pre-loaded, which should be a treat for fans of older games. Sure, it’s not exactly a rival powerhouse to more advanced handhelds on the market, but we imagine it should find an audience given how popular retro gaming has become in recent years.
