Like Nintendo Selling a PlayStation: Atari Shocks Fans With New Retro Console
A console war icon returns under the banner of its former enemy, as Atari brings Intellivision back to life with a machine built for modern players.
The first great console rivalry of the early 1980s ends in an unexpected twist. Atari, once locked in a market battle with Intellivision, is now reviving the brand with a machine designed to satisfy nostalgia while embracing modern standards. The Intellivision Sprint aims to deliver the authentic retro experience without the technical frustrations of vintage hardware.
A legendary rivalry reborn for modern players
Atari’s decision to relaunch an Intellivision console is more than a marketing move. It represents the symbolic end of a rivalry that shaped the earliest years of home gaming. The Intellivision Sprint respects the original design while offering essential upgrades for 2025 living rooms.
Thanks to HDMI output, the Sprint avoids the blurry picture and cable challenges of the 1979 model. Players can rediscover classic titles on modern screens with clean visuals and a plug-and-play philosophy. It is a revival made for collectors but also for newcomers curious about gaming’s origins.
Classic look, modern hardware
The signature wood-and-gold design makes its return, but the technology inside has changed dramatically. Gone are the RF cables and tuning knobs. The console now features native HDMI output, enabling crisp visuals instantly.
Its wireless controllers capture the essence of the original models while offering more comfortable handling. They keep the trademark disc and numeric keypad but recharge directly on the console. This small modern convenience reshapes the experience while preserving the console’s vintage personality.
Faithful emulation and a curated selection of 45 games
The Intellivision Sprint does not rely on cartridges. Instead, it uses jzIntv, a respected low-latency emulator known for its accuracy. This approach ensures a faithful experience, even for demanding purists. The console includes 45 preloaded titles. Classics such as Astrosmash and Shark! Shark! return, alongside sports games that helped define Intellivision’s legacy.
A highlight comes from Boulder Dash, now available on an official Intellivision platform for the first time. Retro fans can also enjoy 92 redesigned physical overlays, one of the most iconic features of the original system. A USB port allows owners to add additional games or connect original controllers using an adapter.
Price, availability, and the ideal gift for nostalgic players
At the end of November 2025, Atari confirmed that shipments are scheduled to arrive on December 23. The timing is clearly aimed at holiday shoppers looking for a distinctive retro gift. The official price is 139.99€, with some retailers offering it at 119.99€.
This strategy positions the Sprint as an accessible doorway into the world of classic gaming. It offers nostalgia without technical frustration, making it suitable for collectors, curious newcomers, and families wanting a simple retro experience.
For its 45th anniversary, the Intellivision Sprint brings 45 of its best games back to living rooms!
⚫ Boulder Dash ⚾ Baseball Shark! Shark! ☄️ Astrosmash & MORE! Learn more: https://t.co/vMSm7xQyQn pic.twitter.com/I8C6kRzvU7 — Atari (@atari) October 27, 2025
In Conclusion: A celebration of the classic Atari experience
The revival of Intellivision also reflects a growing cultural trend: modern gamers increasingly seek authenticity, simplicity, and the tactile charm of vintage hardware. In an era of digital storefronts and complex ecosystems. With this release, Atari closes a symbolic chapter in gaming history. The company that once fought Intellivision now carries its legacy forward.
Is this revival a true tribute to the past, or a new beginning for retro gaming? Let us know in the comment section below!
A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !
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